Roller Skating Business Magazine Volume 26 Issue 2

VOLUME 26 / ISSUE 2

Roller Skating A ROLLER SKATING ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION

Business Magazine

RENOVATION

REPLAY PLUS...

EXPERT TIPS on Merchandising Your Redemption Counter

e h t t a s y a d i l o H k n i R g n i t a Sk

HR Updates and New Employer Responsibilities How to Create a Show Stopping Birthday Party The Power of Music Section Meeting Photos Is Party Planning Software Right for Your Rink?

Official Wristband Supplier to the RSA

WRISTBANDS RSA Me

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m Special Pr ber icing

RSA Redemption Tickets

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Front of ticket features Roo, Kooky & Koala; back features the RSA logo.

per 100,000 tickets Minimum order of 300,000

Call National Ticket Company at (800)829-0829 to order today!

Available to RSA members only. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted.

P.O. Box 547 Shamokin, PA 17872 USA P: 800.829.0829 or 570.672.2900 F: 800.829.0888 or 570.672.2999

ticket@nationalticket.com www.nationalticket.com

NEWS & COMMENTARY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynette Rowland, Lori Lovely, Jeff Couey, Keith Loria, Jay Walerstein, Sara Hodon, Brandon Willey

COVER PROVIDED BY Chanel Bellotto. Businesses are welcome to submit photos

PRESIDENT Jeff Couey, Atlanta, GA

VICE PRESIDENT Cort Wahlig, Newark, DE

TREASURER Brian Molony, Kalamazoo, MI

for consideration for editorial use to editor@rollerskating. com. Must be 350 DPI or greater.

COPYRIGHT RSB is published throughout the year by Roller Skating Association International. Copyright 2018 by Roller Skating Association International. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DISCLAIMER

Dianne Braun, San Antonio, TX

Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the

Mark Christianson, La Crosse, WI

authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part

Rob Gould, Wilbraham, MA

of the directors, officers or members of RSA. RSA does not

Jeanne Sincavage, Reading, PA

endorse, represent or warrant the accuracy or reliability of

Chris Finley, Panama City, FL

any of the information, content, advertisements or other

Chanel Bellotto, Sumter, SC

materials contained herein.

Ed Hughes, Liberty, MO Shane Locklear, Richmond, VA Brian Molony, Kalamazoo, MI Gary Englund, Burlington, WA Joe Smith, Hermitage, PA

SUBMISSIONS RSB welcomes stories, art and photo contributions. All such material must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope in order to be returned.

Jeanne Housholder, Savoy, IL

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Jeff Warrenburg, Antioch, CA

Please contact Lynette Rowland at 317-347-2626 Ext. 107

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jim McMahon

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER Lynette Rowland

PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE Brian Molony, Kalamazoo, MI, Chairman Cort Wahlig, Newark, DE Jeanne Housholder, Savoy, IL Jeanne Sincavage, Reading, PA

or email editor@rollerskating.com to request a media kit and rate card. Advertising discounts available for all RSM Affiliate members.

POSTMASTER Send address changes to: 6905 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278, Phone: 317-347-2626 or Fax: 317-3472636. Presorted standard at Indianapolis, IN. Subscription is part of membership in Roller Skating Association International. Subscription rate for non-members is $45.

Canada: $55. International: $75 MEMBER / SUPPORTER / PARTNER

RSA STAFF Jim McMahon, Executive Director Tonya Crenshaw, Accountant Lynette Rowland, Director of Communications Stacy Thomas, Director of Convention & Retail Sharon McMahon, Director of Membership Services / Achievement Program / Pepsi Programming

4 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2

www.rollerskating.org

NEWS & COMMENTARY

IN THIS ISSUE

VOLUME 26 ISSUE 2

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

22

News & Commentary President’s Update..............................................................6 Editor’s Note.......................................................................8 In Memoriam......................................................................9 Important Dates............................................................... 10 Products............................................................................ 10 Roller Skating Buzz......................................................... 12

Business Owner’s Guide to Employer Responsibilities in 2018

28

Section Meeting Photos.................................................. 48 SRSTA Teacher of the Year........................................... 52 JBL Trinity Inspections................................................... 54 ICEE National Contract................................................. 62 Convention Sponsorships Form.................................... 70 National Museum of Roller Skating............................. 71

Rink Life Sk8land Highlight........................................................... 19

Renovation Replay - Skating Rink Remodels

Technology Collecting Customer Data.............................................. 72

32 Holidays at the Rink

36

Connections RSA Affiliate Listings..................................................... 74 Classifieds......................................................................... 78

FORMS AND CONTRACTS Memorial Opportunities Form...................................... 14 Scholarship Application.................................................. 17

The Power of Music in Your Rink

Honors Nominations...................................................... 57 Grant Application............................................................ 60 ICEE Contract................................................................. 63

42

66

Museum Membership Form.......................................... 71

Join us online today.

How to Create a Show Stopping Birthday Party

www.rollerskating.org

Expert Tips on Merchandising Your Redemption Counter Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 5

NEWS & COMMENTARY

President’s Update Serving as your Association president for going on two years has been an adventure that numerous successful individuals before me have embarked upon and I’m so honored to be among so many great people who work diligently for the roller skating industry.

Those of you reading this have worked tirelessly for our industry; you have put your blood, sweat, tears, time and money into making sure that roller skating stays alive and well. You sacrifice your time and energy as association members, as active board members, as staff members, as committee members and past presidents. You’re only as good as the company you keep, and I’m so thankful to be a part of such an amazing industry of professionals.

That being said, we’ve been able to make inroads this year in a number of areas, which you can read about in the chairmen’s and staff reports in the Board Book found on the RSA website.

• Our convention was a huge success and brought the Association more money than in previous years to help with the goals of the Association.

• Ameritrust (formerly Meadowbrook) announced that a 3% dividend will be paid to qualifying eligible policyholders who are RSA members for their exceptional performance in 2016-2017.

The dividend period had 155 members qualify for dividends. The RSA loss ratio adjusted on this basis is 51.5%.

• The audit went off without a hitch and information on the state of the Association are available in the 2017 Fall Semiannual Board Book found on the RSA website.

• We helped to raise over $4000 for the Roller Skating Foundation through hog hunts on Sparkles plantation.

• Association members donated in excess of $5000 to help victims of the hurricanes this summer.

Advantage. This will provide customers with a free pass when they reach purchasing milestones. Members are encouraged to accept these passes as it continues to bring customers into our skating centers.

• Multiple events are scheduled in 2018 through the PTO Expo, including in Columbus, Ohio; Pasadena, California; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Boston, Massachusetts.

• A new Pepsi calendar is now out. Members can use this year round to help create new promotional ideas throughout the year.

• Free commercials through American Media Distribution were recreated for members to download and edit or have altered by AMD for each rink’s specifications.

• In addition, we’ve successfully transitioned the Kids Skate Free admin program so that members can bring in extra money and protect customers with the added insurance provided by JBL’s Medpay option that each child receives as a member of Kids Skate Free.

• We successfully brought on the new MySkateRepair software to assist customers with their liability.

We have developed a number of new partnerships with the following organizations:

• The committees are completing their goals, as established, with new TRCo promotions with American Family Insurance and Active 6 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2

• Schwans: For operators who own their own ice cream machine, Schwan’s will give a $12.80 allowance on each case of ice cream. Operators will receive a set amount off of each case of product and/or a reduced case rate. Local Schwan’s distributors will provide you with the agreement information and sell the product at a reduced rate to members, a reduced rate right at the time of sale or a rebate on specific products. To sign up for the partnership, members simply need to contact Nicole Downs to get started.

• ICEE: The RSA and ICEE have established a partnership that includes national pricing with new customers receiving a new machine. This new partnership is open to both new customers and existing customers who wish to switch to the national contract to save money.

Information on the program, including contracts, machine specs and profit analysis sheet are all available on the RSA Website.

Because your committee chairmen and staff have taken the time to outline their accomplishments, I encourage you to take the time to read their reports and see the progress they have made. Again, I am so proud of all of the hard work that all of you in this office have made and continue to make on behalf of the Association and the industry. Your success is our future and I am blessed to be part of such a wonderful organization and industry.

This issue of Roller Skating Business Magazine promises to be one that you won’t want to put down. From tips on holiday promotions to rink remodels, you’re sure to find something in this issue that you can put to practice or just garner new ideas to put into place.

Jeff Couey RSA President

www.rollerskating.org

NEWS & COMMENTARY

TM

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$4 administrative fee for each child per year to help administer program. $.50 from each child registered will be returned to the skating center. The remainder of the admin fee will go back into program which now provides $5000 in medpay insurance to each child registered.

brand new low price!

one time $49.95 fee to become a ksf rink! register at tinyurl.com/RegisterKSF

www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 7

NEWS & COMMENTARY

Editor’s Note This issue of Roller Skating Business Magazine is jam packed full of articles that I know you’ll love. That being said, it was a labor of love. One of the things that we run into is that rink owners often don’t want to take the time to talk to our writers so that we can share your stories. Your input, your passion, your work is important to us and we want to share it, so I hope that when you get a phone call from one of our amazing writers (such as those seen to the right) that you’ll schedule a time to speak with them about whatever topic it is that we have going on for the month.

IN THIS ISSUE: Lori Lovely’s article on expert tips on merchandising your redemption counter covers a variety of areas that members need to be cognizant of when designing and displaying their novelty items. Everything from displaying product to making sure dusty items are tended to. Jim Weigl said it correctly when he stated that when you go to a carnival, it looks like a “cluttered sloppy mess. It looks like a thrift shop - and because of that, you think the value of the merchandise is lower.” Image is everything, so read more about how to keep this part of your business in tip top shape.

Holidays at the rink get a highlight in this issue as Lori shares what some rink owners do during the holidays to drum up business and increase foot traffic.

The importance of music in the rink, of course, can not be understated.

Keith Loria spoke with several rink and business owners on the subject of music and how to improve play quality and equipment.

Lori Lovely dug deep for new information on hiring practices and employer responsibilities for 2018 that many members need to keep informed about. She covers requirements of the Department of Labor, changes that are to take place and some of the healthcare topics that are currently in question.

Sara Hodon reached out to a few rink owners and software providers on how to create a show stopping birthday party and the importance of utilizing software with your website to help customers book parties at your facility whether you’re in the office or not.

Many of you have made incredible updates to your rinks this year, including both cosmetic and structural, and we like to highlight those throughout the year. Keith interviewed Easley Skate Center, Moonlight Rollerway, Dimond Skateland, Skate Tiffany’s and more on some of the improvements they’ve made and why. It’s a great way for you to get ideas on how to enhance your skating center and what new trends are taking place.

FEATURE AUTHORS LORI LOVELY Lori is an award-winning syndicated writer, editor and photographer whose byline has appeared in a wide range of local, national international publications. A recipient of the 1999 AIDServe Superstar Award, Lovely is a long-standing PETA member and was a 25-year member of CARA Charities. In addition, she runs Montrose Farms where she raises alpacas and chickens. Lori can be reached at lori@montrosefarms.com

KEITH LORIA Keith is a freelance writer with more than 15 years experience writing for everything from the Bowling Center Management Magazine to Billiards Association of America. He’s met and interviewed celebrities from William Shatner and Kristen Chenowith to heart surgeon pioneer Marc Dedomenico and Pez Candy CEO Joe Vittoria. He can be reached at freelancekeith@gmail.com.

SARA HODON Sara Hodon is a freelance writer based in northeast Pennsylvania, where she lives with her family, including two very spoiled Labrador retrievers. Her work has appeared in G.I. Jobs, Pet Business, History, Souvenirs, Gifts, and Novelties, and Tourist Attractions & Parks, among others. She received her English degree from Lebanon Valley College, Annville, Pennsylvania. Besides writing, she is an avid reader, music lover/concert goer, and traveler. Growing up, she spent many Saturday afternoons at the roller rink.

Did you know...

You can read every issue of this magazine on your mobile devices?

Go to www.rollerskating.com/RSB to click to read!

And finally, Sara took the opportunity to interview Michael and Victoria Ruiz of Sk8land in Corpus Christi, Texas. They’re new members of the RSA who have been around roller skating for most of their lives and finally wanted to make their dreams come true - and that they did!

I hope you enjoy this issue of Roller Skating Business magazine, because we certainly had a wonderful time putting it together for you!

Keep Rolling!

Lynette Rowland Editor/Publisher

8 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2

www.rollerskating.org

NEWS & COMMENTARY

IN MEMORIAM In every weekly issue of Roller Skating Today newsletter, we publish up-to-date information from members of those we have lost in the roller skating community. If you have information you would like to share here or in the newsletter, please email to editor@ rollerskating.com for inclusion. The following are those posted between August - December.

ROBERT “BOBBY” BRAUN Robert (Bobby/Bob) Braun of San Antonio, Texas, age 71, beloved husband and best friend of Dianne Braun, passed away at his home on December 13, 2017 surrounded by the ones he laughed with, lived for and loved on.

Bobby was born on February 15, 1946 in San Antonio Texas to Arthur and Grace. He was preceded in death by both of his parents. Bobby married Dianne (as Bobby would say, “the war department”) on April 6, 1973, it was 44 years of wedding bliss. Together they had one daughter Megan.

During his pre-teen years he grew to have a passion for the sport of Roller Skating. Bobby took lessons and skated competitively during his teen years at Rollercade under the influence of Carl and Velma Forsyth while working part-time for the Forsyth’s. Bobby went to work as an Assistant Manager for Sear’s Parts Distribution Center in San Antonio and then moved to Austin, Texas to take a manager’s position within the company. One year after moving to Austin, TX, Carl Forsyth offered Bobby a management position at one of his Roller Skating Facility in San Antonio, Bobby accepted the offer and began his career in the Roller Skating Business.

Bobby and Dianne were multi-rink operators, however, Skateland West

PETER VAN ORNUM Peter William VanOrnum passed away Saturday night November 11th. Pete was born March 26, 1945 in New Jersey. He was the owner of Lynden Skateway and Bowl and now just Lynden Skateway.

Pete was a member of the Roller Skating Association International for 41 years. He is survived by his wife, Brenda, children, Cindi (Mark) Maas, Nikki (Tony) Callero, Terri (Mark) Johnson, six grandchildren

HENRY A. “MR. GEE BEE” HAFFKE Henry A. “Mr. Gee Bee” Haffke, 90, died peacefully on Oct. 12, 2017 at the Wesley Community in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Henry was born in Springfield, Mass., the son of Henry and Gladys ( Jennison) Haffke.

Henry graduated from Orange, Mass. high school and enlisted in the Navy during WWII where he was an instructor in naval aircraft ordnance equipment, and was a qualified aircraft crewman and aerial gunner.

After the Navy, most of his career was spent as a professional roller skater, coaching many skaters (including his children and sister Sylvia) to the state, regional, national and world championship level. Then, he combined his love of model aviation as a designer with the Coverite corporation in Pennsylvania before moving with his wife, Lee, to purchase and manage a motel in Londonderry, Vt. Lee and Henry then retired and moved to the Saratoga Springs, N.Y. area.

Survivors include his children Karen Hart, Gary and Raymond Haffke, and his sister Sylvia Haffke. Henry was predeceased by his wife Lorraine “Lee” (Edgerly), of 57 years, a son Richard K. Haffke, and brothers Harry-Dana, Raymond (Rocky), and Gerald ( Jake).

In addition to roller skating (Henry began coaching in 1956 and a judge in 1976), he was also an avid water skier, snow skier, and participated in www.rollerskating.org

was always home. He mentored many young people during his career and never hesitated to remind them if they had time to lean they had time to clean. Bobby was a big teaser, he could take it as well as give it.

Bobby found pleasure in sharing his roller rink experiences with new and existing operators and never hesitated to lend a hand to assist a fellow operator. Bobby loved his involvement in the Roller Skating Association International for over 40 years. He served on the Roller Skating Association International Board of Directors, as the Treasurer and then was elected as the Vice President and President. During his involvement in the Association he was awarded numerous honors with the highest being the Life Member Award.

Visitation will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the recitation of the rosary at 7 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2017 at Porter Loring North Funeral Chapel; 2012 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at St. Anthony Mary Claret, 6150 Roft Road, San Antonio, TX, 78253.

In honor of the life of Bobby, memorial donations may be made to the National Museum of Roller Skating; 4730 South Street, Lincoln, NE 68506 or Heart to Heart Hospice; 1000 Central Parkway North, Suite #110, San Antonio, TX.

and four great grandchildren and his sister, Judy Hoof. A Celebration of Life service was held on Sunday, November 26th, 2017 from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Lynden Skateway 421 Judson St, Lynden, WA 98264. Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle and leave your condolences for the family at www.JernsFH.com

several other sports. But his real passion was aircraft. In his early years, his father would take him down to the Springfield airport to watch the planes taking off and landing as “cheap entertainment.” In his teens, he started building model airplanes and obtained his pilot’s license at 16.

Although he built and flew many types of planes, his real love was designing, building, and flying competitive scale models, including the ‘Golden Era’ Gee Bees that he had watched flying at the Springfield airport.

Henry’s model airplane designs were regularly published in national and international model aviation publications. He performed extensive research on the Gee Bee planes and in 1989 wrote and published a book “Gee Bee, the Real Story of the Granville Brothers and their Marvelous Airplanes.” More recently, he was honored for his life’s work by the National Aeronautic Association and inducted into the Academy of Model Aeronautics’ Hall of Fame.

Most importantly, all of the above took a backseat to his devotion and dedication to his family including trips to roller skating competitions, Christmas skiing vacations, and providing all of the love and support he could, to his family. Relatives and friends were invited to gather at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 18 at the May Funeral Home, 85 Nichols St., Norwood, MA, followed by a celebration of his life with remembrance sharing at 12:30 p.m. Interment followed in the Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton, MA, with full military honors.

To sign guestbook, please visit website at www.folsomfuneral.com.

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 9

2018

NEWS & COMMENTARY

IMPORTANT DATES

SECTION MEETINGS & ASSOCIATION EVENTS Event

Date

Description

Event Location

Section 6 Meeting

January 22, 2018

January 22 at Allskate Fun Center in Jaskson, MI with officer and director elections to be held.

Contact Mark Oliver at Allskate Fun Center, 517-937-9957 or email mark@allskate.net

Allskate Fun Center

All event data, registration links, hotel links and more can be found at www.rollerskating.com/sectionmeetings then click on specific section meeting.

TRADE SHOWS & NATIONAL EVENTS Event

Date

Contact or Registration Information

Event Location

RSA Convention and Trade Show

May 13 - 17, 2018

Visit the RSA Website for details on the RSA Convention to be held in Las Vegas, NV at the Southpoint Hotel and Casino the week of May 13, 2018.

Southpoint Hotel, Casino and Spa 9777 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89183

*All information provided here, along with flyers and forms for download are available at www.rollerskating.com under EVENTS for each section meeting or trade show.

NEW PRODUCTS

Products from the RSA

Kooky and Friends Folders Roller Skating Folders (#Folders)

Neon Pencils for Your School

We’re bringing Kooky and Friends licensed characters back with these fun and colorful folders complete with roller skating facts.

Includes business card slot on the right hand side. Pack of 25 folders.

Fluorescent “Everything Fun Rolled Into One” Pencils (#PENC13) These pencils each say “Everything Fun Rolled Into One” and come in fluorescent colors. Each box contains 142 pencils and are great for school trips, trade shows, or just getting the word out about roller skating.

Cost: $20

C

M

Y

CM

MY

Cost: $21

CY

CMY

K

Earn Your Patches Embroidered Roller Skating Patches (#N103) Help your local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts earn their roller skating patch! These embroidered patches come in packs of 50.

Cost: $22 for a pack of 50

Spread the word Kids Skate Free Roll Up Banner (#KSFBAN2) Promote KSF signup info with this colorful roll up banner. Use it throughout your rink, at local events, or during school field trips and parties. Each roll up banner stands 83” tall x 33.5” wide and is attached to a sturdy, silver metal base and pulls out. Comes with a black carrying case for secure transporting and storage.

Cost: $80

Fill ‘er up!

12 ounce Styrofoam Roller Skating Cups Save time and money with these disposable roller skating Styrofoam cups. Each cup is 12 ounces and includes a fun roller skating image for kids to enjoy. 1000 cups per case.

Cost: $74 for 1000 cups per case

*Full design

10 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

NEWS & COMMENTARY

RSA Applauds Their 2017 SRSTA & SCA Coaches on Their U.S. National Champions The RSA operators are proud and appreciative of the hard work and effort of their coaches to be honored by receiving the coveted “Sissy Pin.” This pin has a 75+ year old tradition of excellence in coaching and a record is maintained of the many iconic coaches who have contributed to this proud history.

Congratulations goes to following SRSTA & SCA coaches who trained their skaters to achieve the honor of being a U.S. National Champion.

SRSTA

Name

SCA

Appellusa Fleming-McGlyn Linda Gyenese-DeFilippo Joyce Allen Rene Johnson Richard Manns Barbara Collins Christy Baerg Ron Galletta Dawn Gonzales Melody Neill Monica Delvy Vickie Bateman Gail Easton Kelly Curran Childs Diane Savickas Karyn Cormier Name

Mark Muse Patricia Leazier Jeffrey Foster

# Sissy Pins

Name

4 8 9 2 14 1 8 8 1 6 5 14 1 1 2 5

# Sissy Pins Name

Kathryn Nave Donna Turner Catherine Carmack Robert Wilson Heidi Permatteo Anthony Daponte Margaret Bargmann Fitzgerald Robert Hopkins Mary Margaret Campbell John Harris Dan Briner Mary Nylin Diane Brown Steven Hinkle Diann Tanney Scott Bartell # Sissy Pins

4 1 1

2 1 7 7 7 11 11 2 10 7 1 3 6 8 1 3

Name

Cory Allen Lisa Dunham

# Sissy Pins

Fred Smith Tiffany McKinnon Susan McElhiney Karlene Justice Beth Corley Cindy Schrader Steven Forstner Terri Johnson Hazel Inman Crystal Hild-Cook Judith Smith L. Shane Locklear Jodee Viola Amber Burgess David Adamy II

10 3 1 3 4 4 3 1 1 12 19 2 5 4 1

# Sissy Pins

1 5

For more information on the SRSTA, feel free to contact Sharon McMahon at achievement@rollerskating.com or call 317-347-2626 Ext. 108 Roller Skating Association International • 6905 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278 Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / • P: 317-347-2626 • F: 317-347-2636 • www.rollerskating.org

www.rollerskating.org

11

NEWS & COMMENTARY

Roller Skating news, videos, celebrities & more

buzz

Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Strap on Skates at Moonlight The couple that is as adorable as they are funny had an evening out with friends at Moonlight Rollerway in Glendale, California. Kristen’s former Veronica Mars co-star, Ryan Hansen, joined the fun.

Roller Skating on Thanksgiving, Chicago Style Everyone knows that Thanksgiving usually results in lots of food and sitting around letting the carbs do their thing. This group of skaters had another idea as hundreds of customers showed up to Glenwood Roller Rink at 10:30 pm on Thanksgiving. A decadelong tradition, skaters come from as far as Indiana and Wisconsin to show off their moves, some of whom are decked out in ‘70s attire.

Adidas Creates Roller Skating Inspired Shoes If you can believe it, Blazers’ Damian Lillard is releasing his newest Adidas shoe called the Glow in the Park Adidas Dame 4. Lillard, who is an active roller skater who honed his skills at skating rinks throughout Oakland, was inspired to create a shoe that has a glow-in-the-dark outsole, a dark gray upper and a burgundy/neon blue midsole. To kick it off, Lillard will be wearing them at Oaks Park Roller Rink at some point and you could win a chance to skate with him. Just follow him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ damianlillard.

Pattinis Offers New Roller Skating Rink and Restaurant Concept There’s a new roller skating concept on the market that opened in August in Tampa, Florida that offers a sushi restaurant, cocktail bar and a roller skating rink. With an upscale vibe, craft beer, full arcade and a food menu that has customers raving, this skating center is giving visitors a new and upscale feel. For more info, visit http://pattinis.com.

American Legion Opens Doors with Roller Skating Rink Mindy Ryan, GM of the Greenport American Legion’s Burton Potter Post 185, has big goals for the venue once is opens.

With services to veterans, Ryan wants to use the facility as a safe haven for kids where community members can attend concerts and plays, host weddings and, yes, go roller skating. The skating rink will be named after George D. Costello Sr., who led the facility restoration after Superstorm Sandy. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/ GreeportAL.

12 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

MEMORIAL OPPORTUNITIES with the Roller Skating Association Your friends and family have made a lasting

CHOOSE FROM:

impact in the roller skating industry and in

▶

RSA Member Memorial Plaque Plate & Memorial Book Listing

your lives. Now is your opportunity to

▶ ▶

Friends and Family Memorial Plaque Plate

housed within the Roller Skating Association

remember them by purchasing a memorial plate on one of the two memorial plaques offices.

Donation to the Roller Skating Foundation

QUESTIONS: Contact Tonya Crenshaw at honors@rollerskating.com or call 317-347-2626 Ext. 111.

COMPLETE FORM ON FOLLOWING PAGE www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 13

MEMORIAL OPPORTUNITIES FORM Remember family and friends in the roller skating industry with a donation to the Roller Skating Foundation; a plaque in their memory; or a commemorative sheet in the RSA Memorial Album. These are meaningful ways to celebrate someone important to you, as well as celebrate their accomplishments while supporting the Roller Skating Association.

MEMORIAL TYPE (CHOOSE ONE) ______ RSA Member Memorial Plaque Plate & Memorial Book Listing: $100 This option is available to RSA Members and includes both a memorial plaque plate and a page in the memorial book.

(Information for book will need to be supplied separately and assembled by donor. This can include a photo and one page of written information. Any material submitted will be reviewed by the Honors Committee for appropriateness prior to inclusion to the book.)

Name of individual memorialized: __________________________________________________________________ Name and information for plaque plate: (Three to five lines. 30 characters or spaces per line.) ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______ Friends and Family Memorial Plaque Plate: $100 This option is available to non-RSA members to memorialize friends or family of the roller skating industry.

Name of individual memorialized: __________________________________________________________________ Name and information for plaque plate: (Three to five lines. 30 characters or spaces per line.) ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______ Donation to the Roller Skating Foundation: $_________________ The RSA will send an acknowledgement of the gift to the family memorialized. Please let us know where you would like this sent and the name/names to be used, as well as your information.

Send to (name of family): _________________________________________________________________________ In memory of: __________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________________ State: ________________ Zip: ___________________________ Individual making donation: _______________________________________________________________________ Your mailing address: ____________________________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________________ State: ________________ Zip: ___________________________ Phone: ____________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________ PAYMENT INFORMATION _______ Credit Card _______ Check # ___________ Credit Card: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Expiration Date: _________ Security Code: _________ Name on Card: _____________________________________ Billing Address on Card: ___________________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________ State: ________________ Zip: __________________________ Thank you for your donation. Please remit to: Roller Skating Association, 6905 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278. Phone: 317-347-2626. Email: honors@rollerskating.com

14 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

destination time month

day

departure time

year

month

may13, 2018

day

year

may17, 2018

LAS VEGAS

www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 15

K ROLLE

N

RS

FO U N D AT I

O

ING T A

SCHOLARSHIPS $4000 AVAILABLE $2000

AC

LA

RS

H I PS

Deadline: February 28, 2018

AD

E M IC S

CH

O

OTHER INFORMATION SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBILITY A $4000 first place academic scholarship and a $2000 second place academic scholarship will be awarded to the high school seniors who: • Can be certified to be a child of an owner or an employee of an RSA skating center or a child or employee of an RSA affiliated member.

• Completes and timely submits the scholarship application form in its entirety.

• Must have at least a 3.2 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

• ACT/SAT scores must be submitted with scholarship application and will be taken into consideration when considering potential scholarship awards.

• Who most exceeds the performance measurement criteria established by the Roller Skating Foundation Board of Directors.

• Application should be submitted for the fall semester.

• Applicants must meet the criteria to be considered for this scholarship.

• Completed applications must be received at the Roller Skating Foundation by February 28, 2018.

• Application must be submitted the year in which you plan to attend college.

• Award will be announced in March 2018. Winner will be posted on www.rollerskating.com/scholarships.

HOW TO APPLY & DEADLINE Deadline for submissions is February 28, 2018. Visit http://www.rollerskating.com/scholarships to download PDF application.

When complete, mail to Roller Skating Foundation, c/o Scholarships, 6905 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278 or email all documents to foundation@rollerskating.com.

ROLLER SKATING FOUNDATION

Scholarship Application SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

A $4000 first place academic scholarship and a $2000 second place academic scholarship will be awarded to the high school seniors who:

7. Must include complete high school transcripts.

8. Must include a 500- to 700-word personal essay explaining how roller skating has influenced your life, your goals for the future, and how this scholarship would help you achieve those goals.

1. Can be certified to be a child of an owner or an employee of an RSA skating center or a child or employee of an RSA affiliated OTHER INFORMATION member.

1. Application should be submitted for the fall semester.

2. Completes and timely submits the scholarship application 2. Applicants must meet the criteria to be considered for this form in its entirety. scholarship.

3. Must have at least a 3.2 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

3. Completed applications must be received at the Roller Skating 4. ACT/SAT scores must be submitted with scholarship Foundation by February 28, 2018. application and will be taken into consideration when 4. Application must be submitted the year in which you plan to considering potential scholarship awards. attend college.

5. Who most exceeds the performance measurement criteria 5. Award will be announced in March 2018. Winner will be established by the Roller Skating Foundation Board of posted on www.rollerskating.com.

Directors.

6. Must have three (3) letters of reference, one from each of the DEADLINE following: RSA member/affiliate member; guidance counselor; Deadline for submissions is February 28, 2018 teacher.

RETURN TO

Mail application with essay, transcript, and three letters of reference from RSA member/affiliate member, guidance counselor or teacher to: Roller Skating Foundation, Attn: Scholarship, 6905 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278 or email all necessary documents to foundation@rollerskating.com. Questions? Call 317-347-2626 Ext. 107.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (Last Name) (First Name) (Middle Name) Home Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

(Street) (City) (State) (Zip) E-mail Address: _______________________________________________Telephone Number: ____________________________ Check One: __Child of rink owner __ Employee of rink owner __ Child of Affiliate Member __ Employee of Affiliate Member Name of PERSON who is an RSA member or affiliate member: ___________________________ Membership ID: ___________ EDUCATION BACKGROUND

School now attending: _______________________________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Street) (City) (State) (Zip) 1. GPA: __________ Out of: __________ 2. ACT Composite Score: __________ SAT Verbal Score: __________ SAT Math Score: __________ 3. College you plan to attend: __________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Street) (City) (State) (Zip)

Has application been made?

__YES

4. Have you declared a major? __YES

www.rollerskating.org

__NO

Accepted?

__YES

__NO

__NO If so, in which major?__________________________________________________

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

List volunteer positions, employment, honors, memberships, leadership positions, skills, accomplishments and community service.

Activity or Organization Position and/or Responsibilities ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ESSAY

Write and attach a 500- to 700-word personal essay explaining how roller skating has influenced your life, your goals for the future, and how this scholarship would help you achieve those goals.

REFERENCES

Submit a letter of reference each from: 1. Your Roller Skating Association (RSA) member rink owner/operator or affiliate member 2. Your Guidance Counselor 3. One Teacher TRANSCRIPT

You must include a current high school transcript and proof of your SAT/ACT score to complete your application. Note: Please black out your social security number.

AGREEMENT

The information on this application is complete and correct to the best of my knowledge.

_____________________________________________ _________________________________________ (Applicant’s Signature) (Date)

APPLICATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN FEBRUARY 28, 2018

Questions about the form?

6905 Corporate Drive • Indianapolis, IN 46278 Phone: 317-347-2626 Ext. 107 foundation@rollerskating.com • www.rollerskating.com

Call Lynette Rowland at the Roller Skating Foundation at 317-347-2626 Ext. 107 or e-mail foundation@rollerskating.com.

18 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

RINK LIFE

SPOTLIGHT

Sk8land Owners Have Lifelong Roots in Skating

A

sk most rink owners how long they’ve been skating and most will reply, “My whole life.” Michael Ruiz, co-owner with his wife Victoria of Sk8land in Corpus Christi, Texas, is no exception. He traveled the world as a recording artist, but his professional path eventually led him back to his first love—skating. “I grew up with it. It was always my dream to own a skating rink,” he says. “I’m super passionate about roller skating. I just love it.” He adds that even when he was on tour, he never stopped skating. “I would always take my skates with me. If I had a day off and there was a rink in town, I was skating,” he says.

Written by: Sara Hodon

Most people would envy his career as a recording artist, but he says that in a way, he still gets to pursue that dream, too. “I still lead worship at a megachurch, and that’s kind of like doing a concert,” he says. He’s also found ways to incorporate elements of his live performances into the programming at Sk8land and others are now seeking out his advice. “We’ve been members of the RSA for about a year. We were at a regional meeting and one of the rink owners we were sitting with looked up our rink on Facebook. They asked us if the photos on our page were real. They couldn’t believe all the people,” he says.

When Michael and Victoria purchased Sk8land, it was literally a homecoming. “I’ve hung out at this rink since 1984. A new owner bought it in 1985 and I worked for him from 1985 until 1990. I was the DJ, and I brought a lot of girls to the rink!” he laughs, adding that the owner, Eugene Hightower, became a father figure and professional mentor, and the two are close to this day.

Ruiz worked for another rink in Corpus Christi for a few years, then signed a recording contract and focused on his music for seven years until he got out of his contract. Then he returned to the rink full-time. In 2000, Mr. Hightower recruited him to return to Sk8land (then called Roller Jam) to help run it. “I had all of these ideas. I come from doing concerts, so I wanted to add some of the elements of a live performance to the rink,” he explains. “Mr. Hightower was older, and I had some ideas to improve the rink. Mr. Hightower and his wife took me and my wife out for dinner, and Mr. Hightower basically handed me the rink on a platinum platter. He encouraged me to do my ideas the way I wanted to do them.” He started implementing his ideas right away. From Retro Nights that became a trademark event to exciting birthday parties, the crowds loved the improved atmosphere—they were pulling in 1,200-1,500 people every weekend.

By 2014, Mr. Hightower was ready to retire; Ruiz, who had been managing the rink, bought it from him outright a year later and started remodeling the venue. “For the skating floor, I wanted to keep the ‘old school’ feel but incorporate modern technology. So, we kept the globe lights and disco ball that have been here since the 1970s, but we also installed LED lighting to light up the perimeter of the floor, and put in black light carpeting. We have a hardwood maple floor that was installed in the 70s and it’s still in good shape.” Ruiz says he and Victoria and their team basically overhauled the building. “The first thing we did was paint the exterior a two-tone gray. We tiled our party area with black and neon tile, and we checkerboarded our snack bar. The whole area

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RINK LIFE were so nasty.” He’s excited about their next big project, “We’re getting a huge sign for our building that will have our logo on it.

There hasn’t been a sign on the building since the ‘70s.” There are some additional renovation projects planned for the near future, including a complete overhaul of the restrooms. He’s also looking at expanding the physical building. “We have a 15,000 square foot rink, and there is 85 feet of slab that is still behind this building, which is encouraging. That’s our three- to five-year plan,” he says.

He notes that the rink has been in continuous operation for 44 years and is a landmark in the state of Texas.

Sk8land’s customers aren’t the only ones who’ve noticed the changes. The skating industry has taken note of what the Ruiz family has done, and Sk8land has become a model for others.

“RSA’s president is very impressed with what we’ve done here.

He said a lot of modern rink owners don’t utilize technology. We don’t advertise much—no billboards or TV. We’re at capacity already.” Their Facebook page received 11,000 likes in one year.

There have been many changes at Sk8land, but most can be replicated at other rinks to fit their customer base. “The lighting and the smoke enhances what we’re already doing,” he says. “It adds a whole other layer of ‘wow’! Many rinks are boring—they leave the lights on, the DJ plays his music off his iPod…you’ve got to make it interesting. You’ve got to change with the times and try new things.”

Sk8land has been so successful, both Michael and Victoria have given up their other jobs to work at the rink full-time.

Victoria formerly worked in the medical field and Michael worked in sales. “I was going seven days a week. I did it for as long as I could. After about a year, my doctor said I had to give something up,” he says. It was time to focus on skating. As any business owner will agree, balancing the business and family life isn’t always easy, but the Ruiz family makes it work. Three of their four children—son Mikey and daughters Lexi and Savannah—have all skated competitively (Mikey placed second in nationals in only his second year of skating in 2007). Youngest daughter Felicity is getting ready to start competing. Ruiz says his son shares his passion for skating. “He is our best employee—he watches everything that goes on here,” he says. “When my wife and I are ready to retire, I can see passing the torch to him.” He says his daughters enjoy it but have other career ambitions. Like any family with two working parents, they juggle their children’s sports schedules and other obligations with whatever is going on at the rink. “We do everything together,” Ruiz says, adding his is not the only family to have this common bond. “This sounds cliché, but from personal experience, I can tell you that the family that skates together, stays together,” he says. “I’ve seen families grow up on skates. If parents spend time with their kids doing something fun, it’s good. The kids feel like their parents are taking the time to do something with them.”

was painted concrete. It would chip and it looked really bad.” He says that when he and his wife bought the building, they spent three solid weeks cleaning the entire facility. “The response from the community has been amazing. We heard many compliments from customers saying how nice the place looked. Some customers stopped coming because the bathrooms

While some rinks are content with maintaining the status quo, Sk8land is one venue that is constantly innovating and creating new ways to generate excitement. Ruiz has been successful in business yet remains humble. “The best advice I received was from Mr. Hightower, who said ‘Go do you the way you do you,’” he says. “We have a good business reputation, and that comes from how I live my life, how I was raised and how we raise our family. I am blessed and grateful for everything we have.

I will forever be grateful to Mr. Hightower for giving me the opportunity to be a business owner. I would not be the success I am today without him.”

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TECHNOLOGY

www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 21

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o t e d i u G s ’ r e n w O s s e usin

The B

EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITIES in 2018 Written by: Lori Lovely

A

n important aspect of business success is finding – and keeping – good employees. Whatever your method of attracting, screening, hiring and retaining employees is, every business owner must comply with federal, state and sometimes local regulations regarding reporting.

Keeping up with the paperwork and changing requirements can be overwhelming, but remaining in compliance will prevent fines.

New hires

It’s hard enough to find good help, but the paperwork required for new hires can be almost as daunting as interviewing prospective employees.

Because of the complicated navigation involved in processing the appropriate federal and state forms, some rink owners like David Jacques at Roller King Skating Center outsource to payroll companies that handle everything. “I am finding more and

more value in outsourcing payroll as the process becomes more complicated,” he says. “In addition to all the normal EDD filings and payroll paperwork, California has also added mandatory paid sick leave. Outsourcing saves me time every week that I can devote to more profitable endeavors.”

For other rink owners, a checklist of all the steps and forms can help guide them through the new-hire process. According to federal law, all employers must report all new hires to the appropriate state agency, which forwards the information to a national directory maintained by the Department of Health and Human Services. The information is used to prevent unemployment compensation fraud and to track parents who owe child support. Employers must register new employees with their state’s new hire notification system to allow the state to collect child support payments from these employees.

Employers must report the employee’s name, address and Social Security Number, along with

your business’s name, address and federal Employer ID Number. Additional required information includes the date of hire.

If you have employees, you must have an Employer ID Number. The EIN is a unique federal identifier for businesses and can be easily obtained online or by phone or fax by filling out the SS-4 application.

Next, register as an employer with the IRS and with your state’s Department of Revenue. Find out how and when to report your employees’ state income tax withholdings. Since 2011, employers have been required to use the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System to make payroll tax deposits and file payroll tax reports. Sign up online.

Employers must also sign up for unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. In addition, employers must sign up for the State New Hire Registration System in order to register new hires with their state.

www.rollerskating.org

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IN GOOD FORM

provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. The employer must document this proof, keeping it on file (instead of sending it to the government).

Employers with large numbers of employees can use the E-Verify system to check eligibility of new employees. *For a list of acceptable documents, see sidebar.

The U.S. Department of Labor requires employers to keep payroll and personnel records on all employees. Some of those forms include: •

•

•

•

JOB APPLICATION. Each employee must complete a job application form, even if a resume has already been submitted.

The application collects information that can be verified, such as previous employers, education, degrees, references, qualifications and contact information (phone and address). By signing the application, the employee gives permission to perform reference and background checks.

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER. Many employers keep a photo copy of the employee’s SS card in their file. If an employee does not have a Social Security number, they should get one. An employer should not accept an individual taxpayer identification number for aliens in place of an SSN for employee identification.

An ITIN is only available to resident and non-resident aliens who are not eligible to work in the U.S. but need identification for other purposes. An ITIN is a ninedigit number beginning with 9 and a 7 or 8 as the fourth digit.

FORM W-4, FEDERAL WITHHOLDING ALLOWANCE CERTIFICATE. All new hires must fill out a W-4 before they receive their first paycheck. The form asks for information such as marital status, number of dependents and additional withholding amounts selected by the employee. Employees may change their designations at any time and as often as they want. The existing W-4 remains in effect until an employee changes it.

FORM I-9, EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION. Each employee must

•

FORM W-2. An employer must complete this Wage and Tax Statement at the end of the year to report wages, tips and other compensation (such as bonuses) paid to the employee. It must be given to the employee no later than January 31st and sent to the Social Security Administration.

•

NOTICE OF COVERAGE OPTIONS (HEALTH INSURANCE EXCHANGE NOTICE). The Fair Labor Standards Act requires employers to provide each employee with written notice of information about the Health Insurance Exchange (the Marketplace).

APPLICABLE CHANGES Employers should note significant changes that have been or should be made to some forms, such as the job application. All questions related to date of birth and age should be removed from the application, advises Ashley Toth, associate attorney for Marshall, Dennehey, Warner, Coleman & Goggin. Social Security numbers should not be collected on the application either.

One recent change on the application is the “Ban the Box” legislation that went into effect in January this year in 36 states. For companies with five or more employees, it prohibits limiting applicants based on their criminal history.

Specifically, before an employer offers an applicant the job, the employer may not ask any question pursuant of disclosure about the applicant’s conviction history.

“It’s a move away from the criminal history

question,” Toth explains, “to ensure that applicants have a fair chance to get a face-to-face interview.”

The question can be asked at that time and a criminal conviction background check can be conducted after a job offer is made.’

Joyce Brinkley, personal assistant to David Ripp, says Skates US, Inc., is aware of the changes on job applications, thanks to their payroll service and the IRS website, but they are still researching the new rules for providing information about Marketplace insurance. “We are not really sure yet how much of a hassle it will be to deal with the new forms,” she says, adding that she hopes their research will provide a better understanding and dispel confusion. However, she points out, with only a small staff and no HR department, “it does seem like the changes will be putting a burden on someone here to add to their workload to now oversee these new processes.”

HEALTHCARE Healthcare is so complicated, it almost seems as if it needs a full-time employee just to oversee this one aspect of employment. Healthcare reform in 2014 mandated that health care coverage be made available for employees of small businesses through state health insurance exchanges (the Health Insurance Marketplace). The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act amended the federal Fair Labor Standards Act to require employers to provide all employees with written notice about the existence of the exchanges.

Notice is not limited to full-time employees or those enrolled in a group health plan.

Tax filing for 2018 will be the first time that the IRS will not accept electronically filed tax returns unless the taxpayer has reported health care coverage pursuant to the individual shared responsibility provision of the ACA. Returns filed on paper may also be suspended if that information is missing.

In October 2017, the IRS published the final

Free for Every RSA Member HR360 (www.hr360.com) is the one attorney-reviewed website you need to guide your company through hiring, managing and terminating employees with easy-to-use tools and forms. From supervising employees and staying current with Health Care Reform, to complying with federal and state labor laws - HR360 stays with you every step of the way.

To sign up for your free $395 value member login, email membership@rollerskating.com with your member ID number. You will then have access to 500+ documents and unlimited information for your business.

24 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

version of forms and instructions employers need for reporting on health coverage offered to their employees. These forms must be distributed to employees and filed with the IRS in early 2018 to comply with the Affordable Care Act’s reporting requirements.

•

FORM 1095-B, HEALTH COVERAGE. Form 1095-B is used to report certain information to the IRS and to taxpayers about individuals who are covered by minimum essential coverage and therefore are not liable for the individual shared responsibility payment. Form 1095-B provides information needed to report on your income tax return that you, your spouse (if you file a joint return), and individuals you claim as dependents had qualifying health coverage (referred to as “minimum essential coverage”) for some or all months during the year.

Individuals who don’t have minimum essential coverage and don’t qualify for an exemption from this requirement may be liable for the individual shared responsibility payment. Minimum essential coverage includes governmentsponsored programs, eligible employersponsored plans, individual market plans, and other coverage the Department of Health and Human Services designates as

minimum essential coverage.

•

•

•

FORM 1094-B, TRANSMITTAL FORM ACCOMPANYING FORM 1095-B INFORMATION RETURNS. This is the transmittal form that must be filed with the Form 1095-B. FORM 1095-C, EMPLOYER-PROVIDED HEALTH INSURANCE OFFER AND COVERAGE. Form 1095-C is filed and furnished to any employee of an Applicable Large Employers member who is a full-time employee for one or more months of the calendar. ALE members must report that information for all twelve months of the calendar year for each employee.

FORM 1094-C, TRANSMITTAL FORM THAT MUST BE FILED WITH FORM 1095-C INFORMATION RETURNS. Under Code sections 6055 and 6056, Applicable Large Employers must use Form 1094C to report required information about whether or not the employer offered affordable minimum essential health coverage and enrollment in minimum essential health coverage for eligible employees. Form 1094-C transmits forms 1095-C to the IRS.

Failure to file complete and accurate Forms

1094-C by the deadline can result in penalties equal to $250 per form, not to exceed $3 million per year. Failure to file and furnish correct information on Form 1095-C could result in a $500 per form penalty for employers.

It’s important to note that employers are no longer able to use the “good-faith efforts” standard to protect themselves from filing inaccurate or incorrect information.

Some employers have the option to file their ACA reporting by paper or electronically.

However, any ALE filing more than 250 of any type of form must file ACA information returns electronically. If you will be filing less than 250 forms, you may file by paper, though the IRS encourages electronic filing.

SMALL CHANGES Another advantage of being a small business is the difference in pay structure. “In California, we are making the march towards $15.00 minimum wage,” Jacques says, “so every January, minimum wages goes up – this year to $11.00 – but because we are a small employer (25 or fewer employees), we get to lag behind everyone else by one year.”

With fewer than 25 employees, Roller King will be required to pay a minimum wage of only $10.50 per hour.

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 25

“Once we go over 25 employees, we forever lose our small business benefits and will have to immediately increase wages to the current minimum,” Jacques explains. To remain under that imposed limit, he says they have had to accelerate their evaluation period for new employees. Finding room on the staff roster can be difficult. “Since there is no going back, we have to decide quickly who to keep and who to lose so that we can make new hires when promising prospects come along.”

When promising prospects become new hires, employers need to be aware of changes to the ACA regarding contribution percentages in 2018. Revenue Procedure 2017-36 decreases the requirements from 2017 numbers. For plan years beginning in 2018, employer-sponsored coverage will be considered affordable if the employee’s required contribution for self-only coverage does not exceed: •

9.56 percent of the employee’s household income for the year — a decrease from 9.69 percent in 2017

•

8.05 percent of the employee’s household income for the year — a decrease from 8.16 percent in 2017

These updated percentages are effective for taxable years and plan years beginning after Dec.

31, 2017.

One big issue raised this year by OSHA is in regards to post-accident drug testing, according to Toth. “Employers can still do random drug testing, but they can no longer insist on drug testing after a work accident.” The change came about because of concern that accidents would go unreported if drug testing was mandatory.

Keeping records and files up to date makes compliance easier. Review your employee’s files and make sure all the necessary forms have been filled out and signed.

THE TIME IS NOW Because the 1094 and 1095 forms can require information from multiple sources for annual filing, it’s a good idea for employers to gather information from HR, payroll and other sources now. Waiting until the beginning of 2018 to collect ACA tracking and reporting is risky because there are steep financial penalties for failure to comply by the deadline.

To get ahead of ACA reporting for 2018, first figure out if your business qualifies as an ALE, according to the ACA and Employer Mandate.

Next, make sure the correct systems are in place for accurate ACA reporting and compliance and that you have the right tools for tracking and documenting employee status, benefits eligibility, and benefits enrollment. Finally, review the IRS reporting information page for Form 1094 and Form 1095 instructions and updates.

Acceptable documents for the I-9 Form I-9 establishes an employee’s identity and eligibility to work in the United States. The documents in List A establish both. The documents in List B establish identity, while the documents in List C establish eligibility to work.

Employees must provide a document from List A, or one document from List B and one document from List C.

LIST A: U.S. passport •

Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551)

•

Unexpired foreign passport with a temporary I-551 stamp or temporary I-551 printed notation on a machine-readable immigrant visa

•

•

Unexpired Employment Authorization Document that contains a photograph (Form I-766) Unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired Arrival-Departure record, Form I-94, bearing the same name as the

passport and containing an endorsement of the alien’s nonimmigrant status, if that status authorizes the alien to work for the employer If an employee can’t provide one of the preceding documents, he or she must present a document establishing identity (List B) and another document establishing eligibility to work (List C)

LIST B: •

State-issued driver’s license issued containing a photograph or information such as name, date of birth, gender, height, eye color and address

•

Federal, state or local ID card containing the same information

•

School ID with a photograph

•

Voter’s registration card

•

US military card or a draft card

•

Military dependent’s ID card

•

US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Card

•

Native American tribal document

•

Driver’s license issued by a Canadian governmental authority

•

For those under 18 years of age:

•

School record or report card

•

Clinic, doctor or hospital record

•

Day-care or nursery school record

LIST C: •

Original Social Security card issued by the Social Security Administration

•

Certification of birth abroad issued by the Department of State (Form FS-545 or Form DS-1350)

•

Original or certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a state, county, or municipal authority or US possession bearing an official seal

•

Native American tribal document

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 27

RENOVATION

yalpeRReplay

O

ne of the best ways to attract new patrons and retain your current roller skating clientele is to spoof up some part of the center, whether improving the rink floor, adding new attractions, beefing up the food offerings or simply painting the place to provide a new look.

Here is a look at several RSA members who have made some upgrades or renovations recently and are seeing their ROI improve quickly.

A Little Bit of Everything Easley Skate Center in Easley, S.C., recently replaced the skating floor, updated its restrooms and made some other cosmetic changes around the center. It is also getting ready to replace its roof and gutters, and paint the building before the end of the year.

Travis Smith, who owns the 37-year-old rink, purchased the center at an auction three years ago after its previous owners let things slip away, putting hardly any money into it.

“We’ve done more demos than anything because we just didn’t care for the layout of the facility. We gutted the restrooms and made them modern, we took down some walls and opened space up and we sanded down the asphalt floor, which had a lot of cracks, and it’s a whole lot better than what it was previously,” he says. “We also tore

down some decorative metal that was on the outside of the building and we’re getting ready to replace the roof.”

Smith does the majority of the renovations by himself and the center is shaping up to be a top-quality rink in the state.

Another recent change is he took out a large DJ booth that took up a lot of space and added a fun shop instead to sell novelties, which helps to bring in revenue.

“You don’t need a DJ booth like that in modern times. I put everything in an amp case and have my laptop sitting on top of it for the music,” he says. “We took all the carpet squares up and now have concrete vs. flooring in several places in the center.”

Outside of the cosmetic changes, a lot of renovations are things that skaters can’t see and probably don’t notice. For example, the building was leaking with water on the skate floor, so Smith dug a French drain all around the building. He also upgraded electrical work.

“Our plan in 2018 is to upgrade the snack bar. Right now, it’s a stand-alone snack bar in the middle of the front of the rink, kind of like an island, and we’re going to demo it and put the snack bar in the skate room,” Smith says. “This way we’ll have more room for birthday parties and seating in the concession area.”

A quick view of Yelp reviews shows that customers have been impressed.

Written by: Keith Loria

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Dimond Skateland in Anchorage, Alaska, made numerous changes last summer, including adding bumper cards and laser tag.

Power of Vending Machines Moonlight Rollerway based in Glendale, California, was originally built in 1956 with the current owner, Dominic Cangelosi, taking over in 1985. The rink has never been “updated” because the allure of the place is that it’s meant to look as if people have stepped back in time when they walk through the doors.

Still, that doesn’t mean that Cangelosi and his staff don’t understand the value of making changes to keep things fresh and up to date. For instance, the center just purchased new vending machines for the facility.

“We upgraded our drink and snack machines to newer models with LED lighting and the ability to take credit cards and Apple/Android pay,” says Adrienne Van Houten, manager of the center. “We also decided to add in a frozen ice cream machine, so we could make room in our snack bar for other items.”

The reason for the change was simple: too often parents were refusing to purchase something for their child because they “didn’t have any cash” to use in the machines.

“We feel that now there is no excuse,” Van Houten says. “We are very happy with our decision. Not only can they not use that excuse but they can’t even say I don’t have my credit card. Everyone has their phone on them! It also allows our customers to leave their valuables in their locker and simply keep their phone out to pay for purchases.”

Moonlight Rollerway has been contemplating this change for a while, as they know it makes things easier for guests. However, the rink is used a great deal for TV and film shoots, so it needed to be cognizant of what the studios would appreciate and what fits in with the décor of the rink.

“We found machines that we feel compliment the rink as well as can be integrated into most film sets,” Van Houten says. “So far, the response has been mostly positive. Of course, there are some bugs we are working out—as is the case with most new technology—but everyone has been excited for the upgrade.”

The total cost for three machines, including the credit card integration and installation, was approximately $20,000, and the total process from the final decision being made to a “go” was about three weeks.

“We had to decide which models, place the order, find someone to purchase our old machines (another rink was opening a new facility in our state and they were in need of machines!) and get the credit card integration set up,” Van Houten says. “The process was great.

I highly recommend centers adding in these features to their machines.”

Adding Attractions Ed Caldwell, owner of Dimond Skateland in Anchorage, Alaska, closed down his rink last summer so he could make some big changes to the 36-year-old facility. He cut down his skating floor significantly (going from 80x180 to 70x140), and added some new revenue streams.

“We took that 40 feet of length and 10 feet of width and added laser tag in one corner of the room and bumper cars in the other,” he says. “At the same time, we added another party room and replaced our skating floor and replaced the carpet.”

The time was right for these changes, he says, because things are changing in the way people view roller skating centers.

“Skating is cyclical; you have some good years, then some bad years, and the crowd changes and today it seems like people are looking to do more than just skating,” Caldwell says. “We do a lot of birthday parties and now we can offer additional Moonlight Rollerway added new machines that complimented the rink and packages with the new attractions and it seems to create a lot more could be easily integrated into film sets. excitement.” www.rollerskating.org

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bought the building in September and now I can start doing the upgrades I want.”

Once the lights were complete, Bellinger had the parking lot resurfaced and re-striped, filling in potholes and repainting everything. He also did some new counterwork upgrades in the concession area and is planning on changing out the carpet in the winter. He’s also going to be upgrading his skates.

“You have to change it up because people get tired of the same thing,” Skate Tiffany’s Roller Skating and Fun Center in Puyallup, Washington recently added an outside miniature he says. “People tell us they golf course to their list of attractions. have liked the changes and new people are coming in Since opening in 1981, the rink has seen subtle upgrades, such as the because of them.

If you’re going to have a business and deal with the public addition of new carpeting and painting of the building, but nothing of this and have your name on it, you want things done right.” magnitude. Caldwell admits there were some challenges.

“The main ones were dealing with municipalities for permits,” he says.

“Plus, some odds and ends that popped up that you weren’t expecting them to, like discovering our electrical was damaged when we were trying to connect the bumper cars, and finding out we needed to replace that.”

Since the changes, Dimond Skateland is attracting a lot more families on Friday nights and is experiencing long lines for both laser tag and bumper cars, so Caldwell is happy with what he’s seeing at the rink.

Dennis King Jr., owner of Skate Tiffany’s Roller Skating and Fun Center in Puyallup, Washington, is another big believer in adding on to the attractions, and recently added an outside miniature golf course next to his facility.

“We are extremely happy with the result,” he says. “By continuing to modernize the facility and showing the customer that you’re investing into your skating center, they’re willing to come back and invest in you. As the saying goes, ‘it takes money to make money.’ A little bit will take you a long way.”

Since he and his wife bought the 48-year-old center from his parents 10 years ago, the Kings haven’t stopped renovating, and have painted twice, added new bathrooms, installed a game room, renovated the concessions area, painted the 25,000-square-foot of ceiling tiles, and added new DJ lighting and sound.

“The rink was a well-maintained rink that was clean. It was just dated and needed a refresh,” King says. “Every area of renovation or addition to the rink took many hours to design and redesign in order to make sure that this was exactly what we wanted.”

Lighting it Up This fall, Chris Bellinger, owner of Roller Sports Skating Rink in Taylors, South Carolina, installed new LED lighting in its parking lot and outside the center and it’s so bright, he says it looks like daytime even at closing time.

Until the change, the rink had the same dingy flood lights it’s had since opening in 1969.

“It’s safer for everyone and it’s bringing people in because they can see the building,” he says. “We’ve been renting here for eight years and I finally

Beechmont Rollarena in Cincinnati, Ohio recently installed LED lights at its rink and thanks to rebates with Duke Energy, the cost was $2,500 and its already seen big savings.

“Smart Watt energy did the job and with the rebates, we did not have to pay in advance. The company put the money forward and then kept the money from the rebates,” says Erica Renee Powell, who helps run the center with her mother. “It took two days to complete the entire install. Comparing our September bill of 2016 to 2017 we have seen a savings of $1,800 so the money was well worth it.”

Starting Fresh The Danner family has owned the 57-year-old Reca Roller Rink in Alexandria, Kentucky, for more than 30 years. In February, Kelly Danner’s mother Audrey died and the second-generation owner decided that the center needed to start fresh.

“Kelly wanted to bring some more exciting things to our area, so we began implementing a number of renovations here,” says Chris Morgan, general manager of the center. “We started by tearing up the carpet in the lobby and putting new carpet tiles down. We painted the walls purple and yellow with grey stripes down the middle, and we installed a rubber-safe floor in our party room.”

In September, the center had its wood floor sanded and refinished, and it’s in the process of installing new lights and a heating/air conditioner unit.

“Starting in 2018, we are going to open the event center on the other side of the building, which we will offer for wedding receptions and events,” Morgan says. “It’s important to think about ways to improve what you have.”

While the Reca Roller Rink staff loves hearing from parents that “I used to come here when I was younger,” what they don’t want to hear is, “and it still looks the same.”

“In order to get kids today to come and do something, it has to be fresh, it has to pop, it has to be something their friends are going to want to do,” Morgan says. “The biggest thing we’re trying to do is make it look appealing, happy, cheerful and attract people of all ages.”

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e h t t a s y a d k i l n o i H R g n i t a k S Written by Lori Lovely

T

he holidays: a time when the kids are out of school and families have gathered to spend time together – eating, opening gifts … and driving each other crazy out of boredom. The holidays should offer a multitude of opportunities for roller skating rinks to draw a crowd. But it hasn’t always.

The holidays are traditionally not a good time, and “lately, sales at the movies and other entertainment venues are down,” says Darrin Johnson, co-owner of Broken Arrow Roller Sports in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Even though his rink is open from 12-3 during the Christmas holidays to accommodate daycare groups, he says the busiest times are after the holidays: from New Year’s Eve to May (and from August to Halloween).

“High school football rules here, the state fair is in September and there are haunted houses in October. We can’t compete with seasonal attractions, so we plan ahead and cut back on staff and inventory – especially perishables.”

Even worse, he says, technology has supplanted traditional forms of entertainment. “Kids don’t need social interaction because they all have smart

phones.”

There is competition, Dave Frank, owner of Skate City Bellevue in Bellevue, Nebraska, acknowledges, but he disagrees with the general apathy and isolation theory. October is a tough month, with high school football, homecoming and haunted houses that now open the first Friday of the month, but he’s found success in attracting customers by giving things away for free. In October, it’s free glow sticks and candy for their Frankenstein Friday Bash and a free drink if they come in costume on Saturday.

For Thanksgiving and Christmas nights, it’s free admission from 6 to 9. “We only charge for skate rental,” he explains, calling it “customer appreciation.” He says the crowd averages 150-200, depending on who’s playing football.

“We didn’t used to be open on holidays,” Frank continues, “until I went to the movies with my son at Thanksgiving one year.

They were super busy! I thought I could get a piece of that, so now we’re open on Thanksgiving and Christmas.”

Hard work It’s no longer enough just to open the doors and turn on the lights. Rink owners have to work to attract business.

Because you have to reach customers where they’re more likely to see you, most rinks spread the word on social media: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Johnson’s daughter, now a part-owner of Broken Arrow Roller Sports, does most of their marketing on Facebook and Instagram, he says.

In addition to Facebook, Mason Drew, general manager of Firehouse Skate ‘n Play in Vinton, Virginia, says they send emails and text messages directly to regulars, and hand out flyers to attract new customers.

“We do a lot of in-rink advertising,” says Frank. While he doesn’t pay for radio or TV ads, he is willing to pay a little to advertise holiday hours in the school newspaper, aiming at the target market.

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Special hours and deals Each rink deals with a different clientele that has divergent customs. Understanding your market is the key to sales. For example, Broken Arrow Roller Sports is busy on Turkey Night, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, thanks in part to $2 admission from 6-9. “We promote it as a way to get the kids out of the house during holiday preparations, or a way to keep the house clean,” Johnson says, adding that Thanksgiving doesn’t work as well because stores open that night.

Broken Arrow doesn’t open on Black Friday until the evening. “We thought about an all-day skate while the parents shop, but the stores open too early,” Johnson confesses. As for business, he says they can be busy or dead in the evening. “You never know what to expect.”

Similarly, he says that Small Business Saturday is “just a normal Saturday” even when he partook of the American Express promotion once. “It was no big deal.”

Founded by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday is dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country and is commemorated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The intention is to support local economies and promote vibrant, diverse communities by patronizing small businesses that day.

his special offer, Frank doesn’t just concentrate on Black Friday; he sells all four days: Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Super Sunday and NonCyber Monday. “We offer 10% off single and 15% off double skate orders, plus the first blisters free for skate sales.”

Johnson stretches Broken Arrow’s best sale out a little longer, from Halloween through New Year’s.

When a customer buys a pair of skates, he gives them a “check register” certificate. “Each time they come for a skating session, the cost of admittance is deducted from the balance, so they get the price of the skates back in admissions,” he explains. There’s no expiration and no tax.

“It’s our best sale; the customers like it – and, they still spend money on food and usually bring friends.”

Party time

Sales and specials are great, but there’s something magical about the holidays, and it can be enhanced by the appropriate décor.

Firehouse Skate ‘n Play goes the traditional route with a Christmas tree and lights.

Skate City Bellevue Firehouse Skate N Play offers holiday packages through LocBox available goes a little farther by through FetchRev. decorating for Thanksgiving with turkey and leaf motifs. times – and coupons and specials – during the In December, Frank says they decorate for holidays boosts business. To encourage Black all denominations: Kwanza, Hanukkah and Friday skaters, Firehouse Skate ‘n Play offers free Christmas. skating in January when skates are purchased that day.

Whether you’re naughty or nice, you might see Santa at Skate City Bellevue and Firehouse Skate Using banners and posters to promote Drew believes that offering extra open skate

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‘n’ Play. He might even be on skates in Bellevue.

“I advertise in our classes that I taught Santa to skate,” Frank grins, explaining that his dad dresses up as Santa.

Because Skate City Bellevue doesn’t serve alcohol, Frank believes he loses a lot of party business. “We used to market parties a lot.

I advertised in supermarkets, to the police department … but everyone wants to drink.”

Instead, he now caters to families. “Our focus is to get the parents involved: play, don’t record. No one watches all those home movies anyway. We try to get the parents to participate in activities with their kids. After all, the holidays are family time.”

One way to encourage family participation is by doing “double duty” on New Year’s Eve. Skate City Bellevue stages both a day and a night balloon drop, complete with confetti and prizes.

“Everything’s the same,” Frank insists. The kidfriendly celebrations include $1300 in cash and prizes given away on the last day of the year. “Any kid who didn’t get a balloon with a prize in it gets a free soda and candy; everyone’s a winner.”

He isn’t the only one demonstrating the holiday spirit. Johnson says he doesn’t worry about selling parties because Broken Arrow’s weekends book early, many of them for corporate holiday parties.

But his favorite party isn’t the most lucrative. It’s put on by a local church and the Department of Human Services. “The church provides presents and food; we provide the building and drinks, and DHS brings foster kids,” he explains. “The kids are so thankful for the presents and just to have some fun.” After all, that’s what the holidays – and skating – are all about.

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 33

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 35

THE POWER OF

Music Written by: Keith Loria

I

magine entering a roller skating center and seeing skaters moving along without any music playing— the sound of wheels on your floor coupled with everyone’s conversations amplified and echoing. It’s almost impossible, because anyone involved in the business knows how important music is to create a fun and successful environment.

“Music has power. It can make a skating session fun or completely boring,” says Brad Sprague, manager of Lorain Skate World, Lorain, Ohio.

“The music choice for a roller skating center is what makes or breaks the operation. When you tie skatable music into a good facility, strong staff and good customer service, your business will thrive.”

Music impacts how skaters skate, move and maneuver on the floor, and the tempo and flow of music can not only change mood, but can also increase speed, heart rate and the energy levels of the participants.

Larry Bishop, owner of Skate City in Overland Park, Kansas, says music sets the tone of the customer base, triggering old memories and helping to create new memories.

“It’s very overpowering when your music is fun and happy and uplifting,” he says. “It can also be

“

Skating in a circle for hours on end won’t keep kids entertained anymore, you have to use the music to your advantage to keep them engaged and enjoying themselves.

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Chanel Bellotto points out that you can’t play a song with just 40 beats per minute if you’re trying to get customers excited.

Instead, shoot for a song with 220 beats per minute and keep a strong set of playlists available. nostalgic where it brings back the memories of what it was like to be a kid, feel the wind in your hair and get your roll on. Everyone likes to be in an environment where they can sing along and make lots and noise and have a good time to their favorite song.”

Jamie Cortes, general manager of Fun America at Roll on America, Lancaster, Massachusetts, goes as far as saying that music is almost as important as roller skates!

“Skating in a circle for hours on end won’t keep kids entertained anymore, you have to use the music to your advantage to keep them engaged and enjoying themselves,” Cortes says.

Justin Slanec, DJ/operations manager at Skateland West Family Fun Center in Westland, Michigan, compares a skating rink without great music to a carnival without any rides.

“In our experience, customers are more than willing to quickly let us know if they aren’t happy with whatever music is currently being played,” he says. “A skate rink that doesn’t have something playing in the background will never have a repeat customer.”

Andrew Moss, playlist mixologist at 787 Networks Inc., a London, Ontario-based playlist company, firmly believes that music has the power to effect mood and emotions in a very powerful way.

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“A skater going to the rink can hear music which might instantly transport them back to their youth upon hearing it, or hear a new song that becomes a favorite for years to come,” he says.

“By providing customers with a fun, memorable experience, they’ll always mentally link that positive experience with your rink.”

Knowing What To Play

The right music can keep your customers around longer, which equates to more money and repeat customers. Conversely, if you’re not playing the right music, the crowd can die down, customers will get bored and income can take a hit.

“It’s important to update and change on a weekly basis. If a new, hot song comes out, you want to make sure you are playing it as soon as you can,” Cortes says. “We always try to add in requests throughout the day. We also print the Pop Top 40 weekly and refer to that when making or changing playlists.”

Not all music is right for all sessions. Bishop says that for morning skates, he plays plenty of Disney music and kids’ tunes, and later sessions are geared towards teens and older generations.

“Music of today is very important because it attracts your future skaters and starts to create the experience that will have them coming back over

and over again,” he says. “Google knows all when it comes to music trends—whether it’s a Christian list, country list or Top 40 list, they’re available.

We change our music list week to week and new music is put in once a month.”

Moss says choosing the right music is all about operators understanding what their customers want when they come to the rink.

“A 35-year-old might be there with their whole family and want to introduce their children to the sport in a family-friendly environment, which means playing fun family-friendly music the whole family can feel comfortable with,” he says.

“The same 35-year-old might come into the rink for an adult skate on a girl’s night out, or with a group of couples, and those will necessitate different music. Same person, several different playlist options depending on what environment you’re trying to set.”

And sometimes the skaters can even choose their own songs.

“For private birthday parties, specifically, we market that we will accept the birthday person’s play list/requests and have them ready for the party,” Sprague says. “This ensures that we understand the expectations of the group and gives us time to prepare our product to them.”

Staying current with music might seem intimidating but it couldn’t be easier and if your skate rink has a DJ then they should already be

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on top of staying in the loop with current music hits. As a DJ, Slanec likes to stick to requests as much as he can, and keeps a song-request sheet on a clipboard near the center’s DJ booth and encourages skaters to write down their favorite songs.

“On Saturday and Sunday afternoon sessions, we keep the music family friendly, and I try to only stick to songs that are currently on the radio,” he says. “I try to avoid playing any song that’s overtly suggestive and I always look up the lyrics for any song before playing it.”

Friday nights are a different story, as Slanec plays mainly rap, hip-hop and R&B for the teen crowd the center attracts.

“We always try our best to make it really clear to anyone asking about skate sessions that has younger kids to avoid this one as the music, while it is censored like the radio, can be much too inappropriate for younger crowds just learning to skate,” he says.

Chanel Bellotto, president of Skate World, Lakeland, Fla., says “beats per minute” is what makes a session successful.

“For example, you can’t play a song that only has 40 BPM’s when you’re trying to get your customers excited, you need a song with 220 BPM,” she says. “We play pop, Top 40, country, Christian, gospel, and always take requests. We have over 50 playlists and are changing things up every month.”

It’s one thing to just tell someone to keep an eye on the charts to stay informed on music.

However, what if they haven’t actually heard those songs? What if those songs don’t prove particularly skatable?

Moss says to pay attention to the songs customers are asking for—especially those with multiple requests.

“When it comes to changing your music, I would never recommend that anyone do a complete overhaul of the music that they play,” Moss says. “We always want there to be music that people are comfortable and familiar with, and we want new songs that are great to skate to as well. I believe that it’s better to introduce new music to your playlists over time, with a constant flow of new additions, rather than an overwhelming flood of new music that your skaters may not be as comfortable with.”

Equipment Matters

When deciding on the best speakers for a center, there are a number of variables that need to be considered. How big a space are you trying to play music for? Is your system competing with other sounds? Do you want to be able to play videos? And of course, there’s the all-important question of your budget.

“Luckily, we live in a day and age where you can do extensive research on any product online before you ever even see a system in person,” Moss says. “Doing your due diligence on such an important purchase is essential to making sure you get the best bang for your buck and also get the optimal system for your specific needs.”

Lorain Skate World offers a live DJ and has a vast selection of music, including all the old vinyl records that people love. The center has six amplifiers, two mixer boards, limiters, equalizers and other surge protection devices, and has 13 three-way speakers that are integrated into the building, surrounding the skating floor.

At Skateland West Family Fun Center, Slanec uses a basic PC to run the music software and two projectors play the music videos for skaters that overlook the skate rink floor and can be seen clearly from anywhere in the facility.

“An array of speakers, both old and new, surround the skate rink as well,” he says. “Our newer speakers are Altos and the older ones are large box speakers that have been in place for at least the last 20 years.”

Software Services

Moss notes that software services such as FEC SK8 are important in the level of support they give.

“Running a business is difficult and timeconsuming enough, so if there are any tasks you can delegate to a dedicated service that you trust, all the better,” he says. “For many operators, they may be busy with other important tasks and not be able to DJ a session themselves, but feel comfortable knowing they have a service they can call and have an incredibly detailed and specific session built for them, customized in whatever way they like.”

Alternately, some operators really enjoy and prioritize DJ’ing their sessions themselves, and software services gives them the tools to do so right at their fingertips, in an easy to understand format.

Skateland West Family Fun Center utilizes FEC music at the center, as Slanec says he likes to show music videos of songs currently playing and all of its music is edited to be clean.

“They have some great pre-loaded playlists and announcements for every aspect of the skating session—from special dances to safety rules to closing messages,” he says. “It enhances the DJ and makes managing music during sessions much easier.”

at the center.

Sprague shares that Lorain Skate World utilizes an RPM CD subscription loaded into its network and has a virtual DJ playing the songs.

At Fun America at Roll on America, the center uses Control Play, which has pre-made playlists along with a huge library of songs in every genre.

“We can create custom playlists and reuse them and add requests as necessary or we can create a playlist as we go along,” Cortes says.

Specials and Games

Many centers utilize music in specials and games to amp up the crowds. Fun America at Roll on America, for instance, have specials like backwards skate, speed skate, or a game that doesn’t affect skating like the YMCA. Other games include things like races or the chicken dance which stops the normal flow of skating.

“Couples songs, backwards skates, limbo games, or shuffle skate sessions all have their own needs, and understanding those needs will make those games the best they can be,” Moss says.

Slanec says the rink offers several games and activities throughout skating sessions, with crowd favorites being Red Light Green Light and 4 Corners.

“We always play the same songs both during the games and just before the games when announcing them so our repeat customers know what’s coming before the announcement starts,” he says. “Games and activities, getting skaters involved and interacting with them, seems to be the number one way to ensure that they have a positive experience and want to return.”

Skate World always includes an activity involved with music every 15 minutes along with an announcement about its cafe or upcoming holidays.

“It could involve the Cha Cha Slide, Cupid Shuffle, Big Six, Dead Bug, Strike a Pose or maybe a game like Limbo or Hokey Pokey,” Bellotto says. “No matter what game we’re playing, it involves music which equals fun.”

The skating rink should be a fun, upbeat atmosphere full of smiles and laughter, and whether that means new music, classic tunes, your personal favorites, or customer requests you’ve never heard of, if you see smiling faces in your rink you’re doing something right.

Doug Foval, owner of Skate Galaxy, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, notes FEC is very good at making seasonal playlists and keeping others updated, which keeps that off his to-do list, allowing him time to concentrate on other things

38 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 39

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A E T A E R C O T HOW

Show Stop p i n g Birthday P arty

Written by: Sara Hodon

42 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

B

irthday parties have long been a major staple of skating rinks’ business. From basic packages that include a few hours of skating and a party room to deluxe packages that include a long list of add-ons, rinks have relied on their

be amazing, too.”

Some rinks still reserve parties over the phone, but more are switching to online scheduling. The software can do more than just schedule parties, however; rink owners can use the programs to compile email lists or track other important data.

“Our program, specifically, helps to streamline the scheduling process and helps rink owners get the information they need accurately and quickly,” says Oscar Castillo, sales director and onboard specialist for Partywirks. “It’s bringing a lot of new, unexpected business into rinks—the young parents who want to do everything online.

It can really shorten the sales cycle for rinks.”

Some use online request forms that a customer fills out and submits to the rink; the rink will then call the customer to book the date and plan the party. Others are utilizing programs that allow customers to make all the arrangements through the rink’s website and just require follow-up call to confirm the details.

Fort Walton Skating Center in Fort Walton Beach, Florida takes the “glow party” concept to the extreme with glow-in-the-dark face painting, tableware, glow sticks, and more.

Chris Maganias, owner of Astro Skating Center of Pinellas Park in Tampa, Florida, says the online request form method works best for them. Their form goes directly to their staff member who handles the parties, and she then contacts the customer. “We have her contact them to eliminate any questions. If you do it all online, it gets confusing,” he says. birthday parties to bring new and repeat customers through their doors.

The key to having a successful birthday party business is consistency, whatever that looks like for your rink. It starts from the moment the customer makes the reservation for your party space. “You want to be cookie cutter with flair and offer a consistent experience to customers each time,” says Scott Drummond, president of Party Center Software.

“The rink might provide a ‘good’ experience, but you want to give customers an ‘amazing’ experience. If it goes from ‘amazing’ to ‘good’, that’s a fail. The party starts at the last party the customer attended at your rink because so much of the party business is through referral. If a customer liked one party, their party better

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Jeff Ingrum, owner of several Skate City locations in Colorado, says they prefer speaking directly with the customer to schedule parties. They have an online form available on their site, and Ingrum says they try to keep the process as simple as possible.

“Keep it clean, keep it simple, and be good at what you do,” he says. Using a scheduling program doesn’t necessarily eliminate that personal connection; it simply streamlines the process. “Most rinks are still ‘old school’ and want to talk to their customer. The question is, does the customer want to talk to you? But that doesn’t mean we don’t want rinks to call the customers back—part of the software encourages the rink owner to call the customer back,” Drummond says. “Our system just allows customers the options they want at the time they want to book the party they want. And it allows vendors to boost their sales. The customer

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can book the party themselves; rink can call them back when it’s convenient to confirm and discuss details.”

Although rinks enjoy steady birthday party business, some owners have completely redone their party packages to stay current. Change is a constant for most industries, yet many rinks owners resist changing their offerings and have had the same packages for years. Drummond says he is seeing more rinks change up their party packages and says owners should take a deep look at what they currently offer. “You have to ask yourself ‘what makes us unique?’ ‘How can we make it better?’” he says.

Brett Longo of Fort Walton Skating Center in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, says they recently overhauled their birthday packages from top to bottom, including their scheduling procedures. “We started using Party Center Software about a year ago, and we love it. It was a little expensive but well worth the cost. Just being able to book parties online has been great,” he says.

“Anything we can do to make the process easier for customers is something we want to look into.

Having the software has really helped, and it’s nice to have the customer’s information readily available for reference if we need it. We used to handwrite everything, and that was a disaster,” he adds.

Another option is to create a customized scheduling system in-house, as Neville Roller Drome in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvia, is doing. Owner Jim Park says that the rink’s infrastructure was their main priority for the past few years, but their focus is now on operations, including how they book parties. After reviewing some of the programs available, Park and his staff decided to create their own. “We’ve looked at a lot of systems in the past.

We’re still a Mom and Pop and have only one rink, but we were looking at different options. We had someone come in to look at our system and their program cost $2,500. My son John, who is our manager, and his friend Samson decided to create a program for us using JotFinder and Zapier to build a system using Google Calendar. Now instead of having a program that costs hundreds of dollars a month, it costs $70, and we control everything.

We’re doing human response right now—we have to touch every customer. With the new software, boom, it’s done.”

Park says they are rolling out the new program in three phases: Phase One for scheduling their existing party times on Wednesday evenings and

Saturday afternoons; Phase Two will schedule evening parties for kids 12 and older, and Phase Three will schedule private parties on Saturday and Sunday evenings. “The program may not seem

like much right now, but for us, it’s exciting. We’re not high end yet so we have to find ways to do things economically and automate as best we can.”

Party packages vary widely. The standard offering at most rinks is pizza, soft drinks, ice cream, and use of a party room for a certain amount of time (typically two hours). Parents can bring their own cake, cupcakes, or, at some venues, ice cream. Some rinks like Skate City add their own touch to their party packages. “The birthday child gets to skate free for a month and gets a pair of customized skates as a present,” Ingrum says.

“We cultivate regular customers through the skates that are logoed with the name of our rink. It’s not about the birthday party; it’s about building your business.”

Skate City rinks in Colorado allows the birthday child to skate free for an entire month, plus they also get a pair of customized skates as a present.

Michael Ruiz, owner of Sk8land in Corpus Christi, Texas, has two packages available: a smaller package for a max of 10 guests (the birthday child’s parents can bring cake, cookies, or treat bags) and a second, larger package for a max of 10 guests but has a larger soft drink size and the birthday child’s parents can bring in their own pizza, cake, cookies, and treat bags. He said that they give the birthday child a real experience and help to get the energy up with great music, LED lights, and a smoke machine. Ruiz is also a DJ and that gives him an advantage. “The music really helps to get the party going,” he says.

Park currently sells a basic party package for around $100 that includes admission and skate rental for 10 kids, a party hostess, and half an hour

44 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

in their party room, but says they are working on a strategic plan for 2018 and the party package will be revamped, as needed. “We’ve spent most of the last six years doing major infrastructure.

We’re looking at things like glow parties and other add-ons next,” he says.

Glow parties have been a huge draw for the rinks that have the capabilities for this type of event. Longo says the addition of glow parties has given their party business a tremendous boost. “It kind of felt like skating as a whole has been the same forever, so we wanted to do something different. We have a room with the black lights, and another larger room where we can have multiple parties. Now every party is a glow party—that’s hot right now.” Their party package is now an experience, not just a skating party, complete with a smoke machine, a confetti cannon, and a dance party. “We gather the kids together and they yell ‘Happy Birthday!’ as loud as they can. The song ‘Cha Cha Slide’ will start and the party host will get the kids dancing.

Then the kids will eat and do presents, and go back to the main floor for skating. The whole thing flows much better now.”

They take the “glow party” concept to the extreme at Fort Walton, with glow in the dark face painting, tableware, glow sticks, and more.

“I want every kid to be glowing,” he says with a laugh. “Our party package before was pretty basic and the cheapest package seemed to be the most popular, but I didn’t like how it looked. We went up pretty high on our prices so now our cheapest package is around $200 for 12 kids, but you get quite a bit for that price.” Maganias has had glow parties at his rinks for some time. “We have a glow party package for teens where everyone gets a glow necklace, wristband, and cup, and then there are a ton of other glow products that can be added on to a standard party package,” he says.

to oversee things. “I like to use the same person who did the booking to actually be there for the party,” Maganias says. “The biggest thing we fight is confusion. No matter how many confirmations or checklists we send, there will be confusion. If you have the same person there, that eliminates a lot of it.”

Maganias notes that they can also have their party host or hostess dress in character. They’ve done this for about ten years and he says the kids love it. The host is also responsible for keeping the party moving, both being mindful of time and keeping the energy up. “We have a manager who watches over the parties; each of our parties has its own host. That’s one of the reasons why we went up on the price, so each party would be the best ever—we wanted each party to have a host and make each child feel special. We didn’t want the host going back and forth between parties,” Longo says.

As far as food, pizza is the top choice for just about everyone. “I bought real convection ovens that make six pizzas at a time, and that eliminates all hassles. It’s done faster and we don’t worry about running out,” Maganias says.

Guests can have hot dogs instead of pizza if it’s requested, but he says he doesn’t promote the substitute items.

Typically, parents and party guests enjoy the food included in the package or will buy additional items ala carte. Occasionally, owners work with guests that have special dietary needs, such as food allergies. “We accommodate what the guests need,” Ruiz says. “We want them to be happy—they’re our repeat business.” The rink usually provides the basic paper products

Sk8land in Corpus Christi, Texas, offers package options that include a variety of snacks and allow parents to bring the cake - a common practice with most rinks.

Ala carte items can generate some nice additional revenue and make the party even more special, but not everyone offers them. From special menu items to treat bags, some rink owners have chosen not to have them; others want to give customers more options. Maganias has a full list of ala carte items available—“the glow products, chicken wings, salads, deli trays, cookies.

Sometimes the adults want something a little healthier than pizza. We have a whole menu that the customers can look through.” Park charges an ala carte rate for requests beyond what’s in their standard party package at Neville Roller Drome, as does Ruiz at Sk8land, “Next to the pizza that comes with the package, I’d say hot dogs are our second most popular food.

French fries are also pretty popular, then Frito pie and cheesesteaks.” During the party itself, most rinks assign a staff person www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 45

Party booking software, like Party Center Software and Occasion, let customers check availability of parties, add-ons and pay deposits at any time.

This 24/7 option allows your website to work for you while you’re busy with other things.

for each party. Rink owners say they try to work with local businesses as much as possible; others buy their products in bulk through online or local wholesale vendors.

Most rinks do not have a cap on how many parents can attend the party, although many allow the birthday child’s parents to skate for free. “Usually the birthday child’s parents handle things; some of the other parents might stay to watch their kid skate. If they want to stay to watch their child to make sure they’re safe, there’s no charge. If the guests’ parents want to skate, they’re charged an admission fee and skate rental fee,” Park says. Ingrum does not offer any discounts; even the birthday child does not skate for free.

Rinks will book the occasional double birthday party— for example, for twins or siblings with birthdays in the same month or close to each other. In those instances, each rink has a different policy. Longo charges an additional fee.

Ingrum charges for an extra pair of skates. Park says he tries to take each instance on a case-by-case basis. “One mom booked one time slot and had one party, another family had the second time slot, and then the mom that had the first party booked a third time slot. Each party had its own cake, decorations, et cetera. We try to make it pretty easy on the parents and accommodate as best we can. If we have parents who want more time beyond the time slot of the party, they pay for an extra time slot.”

Schools are a great referral source for both birthday and private parties, and some rinks build on their relationships with area schools to promote their party packages. “Not many rinks in the country do as much with schools as we do,” Maganias says. He also has a bus service with regular routes to his rink from the schools, which he says is a huge boost to his business. “We have skating available three days

a week after school,” he says. “I also put a flier into every child’s hands that talks about the school fundraiser [he holds regular fundraisers where skaters pay around $10 with $4 of that going back to the school] on one side, and the other side mentions the birthday parties.” He says he’s also considering a mail campaign. “Kids love to get mail with their name on it. We’re going to send a letter to our birthday kids that wishes them a happy birthday and talks about having your party at Astro Skate,” he says. Longo also distributes fliers promoting Fort Walton’s party packages at his local school—conveniently, there is a middle school right across from the rink.

Birthday parties can be a huge profit center for rinks, and are one area that owners should constantly reevaluate.

The goal is to please three entities: the birthday child, the parent, and the rink. The birthday child wants to enjoy a fun afternoon with their friends to celebrate their special day; the parent wants to give their child the party of their dreams and organize it as quickly and easily as possible, and the rink will hopefully see return business from that family and gain some referrals for future business. “Rink owners have to focus on what customers want, not just on how they’ve been doing things,” says Aksh Gupta, CEO of Occasion, a party planning software company. Gupta’s company has been part of the RSA for approximately three years and he says he’s seen a dramatic shift in how rink owners approach their party business: “Two major things are happening: rink owners are bringing younger people into their operation as managers or operators, and the younger people are simplifying what the owners are buying.”

Even if rinks are content with the amount of business they are getting from birthday parties, sometimes just making a small change can generate big benefits.

46 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

Is Party Planning Software Right for Your Rink?

T echnology has been great for skating rinks in many ways, but not every new program that comes out is the right fit for every rink.

This is certainly the case for party planning software. Some rinks don’t use it at all; some are slowly integrating it into their operations, and others have embraced it completely. If you’ve been reluctant to invest in a scheduling program, you may want to rethink your position. The customer demographic is changing—there are more younger parents who are very comfortable with technology scheduling parties for their children. Company representatives noted that as much as 80 percent of birthday party bookings at skating rinks were done through a mobile device.

Rink owners that utilize software usually use one of two kinds of programs:

• REQUEST FORM. Many rinks

use a request form that the customer can fill out on the rink website and a staff member will call the customer and make the party arrangements.

The form connects you with the customer, but its capabilities are limited. “The form doesn’t always gather enough information,” says Oscar Castillo, sales director and onboard specialist at Partywirks, who mentions examples of rinks that do other programming besides birthday

www.rollerskating.org

parties and utilize their planning software to compile data for various metrics. Today’s customer is looking for convenience and the assurance that their request will be handled the way they envisioned. “If a customer is trying to book a party package, it’s because they want certainty,” says Aksh Gupta, CEO of GetOccassion. com. “They’ve put down their deposit and they want what they scheduled.

The online form doesn’t always do that.”

As a rink owner, put yourself in your customer’s place. “Ask the company to walk you through how you would book a party using your software,” he says.

• SETUP. Ease of use is critical. “You should work with a company that gives you an amazing onboarding and setup experience,” he says. “If they don’t get you up and running quickly, the software is cumbersome to use. You want to try it and see how it works for a few weeks before you commit.”

• SCHEDULING SOFTWARE.

One of the biggest benefits of scheduling software is that customers can book events at any time of day or night and take the time to really plan out the party they want for their child. “Seventy percent of activity on our system is done through mobile booking, and 40 to 50 percent is done after hours,” says Scott Drummond of Party Center Software. “It allows a rink owner to give customers opportunities.

We’re seeing an increase in revenue for parties that are booked online versus in person—the customer is taking the time to look through add ons.”

• PRICE. As with most things, more

features often equals more expensive, but that doesn’t necessarily make it better. “Cheap isn’t necessarily good, and sometimes ‘more’ is just ‘more expensive’. Focus on what satisfies your basic needs,” he says. In other words, identify what you really need and find a program that meets those needs; you can always upgrade later.

If you are comparing software programs and trying to choose between the various options, Gupta suggests paying special attention to three main features:

• CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE.

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NEWS & COMMENTARY

SECTION MEET

48 48 // Roller Roller Skating Skating Business Business Magazine Magazine // Volume Volume 26 26 -- Issue Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org 2 www.rollerskating.org

TING PHOTOS Fall 2017

www.rollerskating.org www.rollerskating.org

Volume Volume 26 26 -- Issue Issue 22 // Roller Roller Skating Skating Business Business Magazine Magazine // 49 49

NEWS & COMMENTARY

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NEWS & COMMENTARY

Contact Jim McMahon, Executive Director of the Roller Skating Association International at 317-347-2626 Ext. 104 or jmcmahon@rollerskating.com to register your rink! www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 51

NEWS & COMMENTARY

AWARDS

Patricia Leazier Receives SRSTA Teacher of the Year Award Patricia Leazier’s biography is an impressive one.

She has obtained degrees in secondary education, biology and general studies, a masters of science education, a masters in forensic science - all with honors.

She is a biology teacher and the current rink owner/operator at Turner’s Skate Palace and iSkate81.

Patty’s coaching experience ranges from softball and cross country to basketball, roller derby and inline speed skating.

She has coached 12 world team members, three world team alternates, two pro division placements, outdoor champions (60 events), outdoor placements (200 events), indoor champions (100), indoor placements (100), 14 international competitions and much more.

In addition to leading so many individuals to success, she continues to keep up with her professional growth through upgrading her coaching credentials, organizing the Keystone Speed League, certified meet director, level one clinic leader and seven other leadership and seminar roles.

Personally, she holds upwards of 50 speed skating awards, has participated in and won awards in roller derby for more than 10 years.

Patricia skated with Charm City Roller Girls during the 2014-2015 season where she and her teammates qualified and placed 4th at Salt Lake City Regional Championships and was a part of the 2016-2017 Team USA for USARS. She skated with Team Maryland in the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association during the 2014-2015 BOTAS and placed third both years. In addition, she is a National Speed Skating Champion with multiple inline and quad speed skating titles at both indoor and outdoor national championships.

She also is a national record holder for both quad and inline speed skating records indoors and

outdoors.

College.

Patty’s skating experience began when she was just 18 months old. Today, her derby name is Poison Princess and she is also a full time high school science teacher. Her life goal is “to be the best person I can be under any circumstance and be a positive role model for all children, students and athletes,” she tells USARS.

Patricia’s excellence in roller sports and bringing her passion to children about them is what made her the leading nomination for the SRSTA Teacher of the Year award for 2017.

Congratulations, Patricia, for being such an inspiration to kids, skaters and coaches around the world.

Now Accepting Nominations for Teacher of the Year Award Check this issue of RSB Magazine for the awards nomination form or visit www.rollerskating.com/ awards to get started.

Her passion and her drive make Patty both an incredible skater and high school teacher, but also an inspirational coach and teacher to students seeking to get into roller sports.

“As a teacher, I have the ability to encourage underprivileged students and athletes believe in themselves so they can achieve great things in life. I tell them they are in charge of their own destiny and to write their own story,” Leazier says.

Patty continues to pass along her love of sports to kids all year long, including her daughter Piper, who currently competes in inline and quad speed skating and junior roller derby; her son Dylan who was an inline skater for many years and played college basketball for Penn State Altoona; and her other son Yannick who played college basketball for Garrett Community

RSA Executive Director, Jim McMahon, presenting Patricia Leazier with her SRSTA Teacher of the Year Award.

52 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 53

NEWS & COMMENTARY

INSURANCE

JBL Trinity Begins Preventative Inspections of Member Skating Centers

A

s many members know, finding the right insurance company to handle your skating center property and liability insurance is a crucial, important and mandatory part of owning a businesses. Over the last few years, member rinks have had huge losses, which ultimately resulted in the Programs Carrier not wanting to underwrite Skating Rinks in the future, and JBL having to replace our coverages. As a result, Anthony Profaci has worked incredibly hard to obtain a new carrier. A part of this also means assuring the carrier that members are doing their due diligence to reduce claims and liability. This can be done by maintaining the roof and building properly, utilizing cameras effectively, labeling step-up and step-down areas visibly, removing any sort of self-service rack that could cause injury, keeping detailed and meticulous skate maintenance logs, storing and following guidelines of inspection reports, etc.

To assist in ensuring that we reduce claims and to mitigate losses, JBL is utilizing an adjusting firm, out of its own pocket, to inspect 50 rinks at a time to help them determine what property and liability protection changes need to be made.

“This process is not a cheap thing to do.

The adjustors worked with us on the prices for the program, but being that they’re doing the adjusting for us, they gave us an aggressive pricing structure to be able to do this,” Profaci says.

It’s important to note that the results ARE NOT reported to the carrier – this process is completely internal so that JBL can see what’s going on in each of the rinks before it becomes an issue that could potentially be sent to the carrier.

As we are sure you are well aware, when one rink makes a claim it affects not just that specific rink’s premiums, but it ripples to also affect all 500+ members of the insurance program. The goal is to catch a problem before it becomes a costly headache that affects the entire membership taking part in the insurance program.

The vision of this preventative program started with former RSA president, Bobby Bentley.

“Insurance rates climb as a result of more people looking to collect money. Injuries for falls are at an all-time high. I saw this coming, so I sat down with Anthony and asked him how we could combat this. In order for members to get a discount, we have to ensure that skating rinks are doing what they need to be doing in their rinks to prevent claims from occurring. Those of us who do what we need to do are paying the price

for those who don’t always keep up with their facilities or take preventative measures.

If we don’t do something to protect our assets, we’re going to get hammered.

Anthony came up with this solution and it’s something that hospitals have been doing for more than 20 years.”

Loopholes will always be found when you’re working with lawyers. Bentley reminds us that, “even if you’re doing your homework (to ensure that you’re limiting your liability risk) lawyers will always find loopholes. If they’re having an easy time on the rinks that are doing things correctly, imagine how easy it will be to find them on those that aren’t.”

RSA President, Jeff Couey, notes that the Association has talked of doing this for a while now. “I think it’s very healthy and I think what JBL has put together for the Association is going to benefit everyone in the future. This process is simply to give members a heads up and to be aware of potential issues or where lack of documentation may occur in the event of a lawsuit.”

Bentley and Profaci have known Jim Dotson for more than 15 years. He is a third generation adjustor and loves the industry – he has gone to bat for members on a number of occasions.

“Jim is a great guy, genuine and cares about our program. He realizes that we’re not the wealthiest businesses owners, but we love the industry we’re in. His goal is to make sure that our future is there. Unfortunately, for many rink owners, getting hit with one, maybe two large claims is often enough to completely sink a business,” says Bentley. It’s this concern that makes it’s so important for members to participate in this preventative measure.

Rink operators have been disappointed in the past that they were not involved and sometimes not even notified of a settlement. This takes that issue out of the equation. Dianne Braun agrees stating that, “It’s good that they’re going to be out there looking at the rinks” to prevent potential and unnecessary claims that will affect everyone.

Joe Smith, chair of the Insurance Committee, agrees. “These inspections are necessary and imperative for the health of the insurance program. This is also something that we will continue to educate members on at Convention and during section meetings.”

Profaci sees nothing but positive changes in the way this program will function, “We’re an amazing industry as far as making things happen. I’ve seen the numbers (of cameras installed)over the last four years and the immense improvements that members have been making to their rinks to make them safer and more stable. The number of cases that we have been able to beat with cameras and video clips alone has been proof enough.”

The insurance program has been showing a loss on a consistent basis and the industry was lucky to get these new adjustors assigned to the program.

“This was a lot of hard work, me selling that you (the Insurance and Safety and Risk Management Committees) knew the industry and we should be in control of it. To me, this is huge.”

We hope that this helps you understand the purpose and intent of these inspections – they are to protect you and other Association members during a time when obtaining property and liability insurance for your skating centers is so difficult, yet crucial.

If you have any questions at all, please contact Anthony Profaci at 1-800-925-RINK (7465) or email anthonyprofaci@jbltrinity.com or Jim McMahon at 317-347-2626 Ext. 104 or jmcmahon@rollerskating.com

54 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

NEWS & COMMENTARY JBL Trinity has been the longest lasting insurance provider of skating rinks over the past 75 years. We hinge your support on our ability to provide the strongest and broadest coverage you need.

General Liability Policy

OUR COMMITTMENT TO THE ROLLER SKATING ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL INCLUDES: ► Serving as the RSA Endorsed Insurance Provider Sponsor ► Diamond sponsor at each and every Roller Skating Industry Convention and Trade Show ► Kids Skate Free Sponsor ► Roller Skating Manufacturer Associate Member ► Sponsor of local RSA Chapter Meetings ► Roller Skating Museum Sponsor DEDICATED TO THE ROLLER SKATING INDUSTRY: JBL Trinity has a division of underwriting and claims managers dedicated to the roller skating and FEC industry. Thanks to the dedication of these skilled professionals, JBL is at the forefront of the industry. We provide a full menu of insurance coverages to meet your specific needs, including but not limited to: General Liability, Property, Liquor Liability and Workers Compensation.

We hope that you will give JBL Trinity an opportunity to quote your roller skating rink or family entertainment center. Visit us on the web at www.skatinginsurance.com to fill out an application.

50 First Avenue Atlantic Highlands, NJ Phone: 1-800-925-RINK www.rollerskating.org Fax: 732-888-4646

• Teams, Leagues and Roller Derby • Hired and Non-Owned Auto • Boy and Girl Scouts • Special Events • Assault and Battery • $0 Deductible

Property Policy

• HVAC Equipment Breakdown • Replacement Cost • Money - In & Out • Ordinance or Law • Hurricane and Wind • $1000 Deductible

• Sexual Abuse and Molestation • Additional Insureds • Schools & PTAs • Rides and Arcades • Medical Payments

• Computer/EDP Equipment • Crime Coverage • Food Spoilage • All Risk - Special • Garages and Sheds

Refer to the actual policy(s) for complete terms/conditions.

Endorsed Provider for the RSA

These coverages are provided by “A-rated” carriers that understand your business and provide the specialized coverages you need. Our industry-wide expertise and claims assistance completes your insurance protection at a price you can afford.

History of the RSA & JBL

In 1995, the Roller Skating Association International met with our CEO, Mr. Joseph DiMattina and a select group of rink and insurance specialists. They combined their knowledge and years of experience and created what is today the RSA Insurance Program.

JBL Trinity Group was the RSA Endorsed Insurance Provider for a decade after the birth of the program, making us the longest running insurance provider for the Roller Skating Association.

For a short period of time, from 2003 to 2011, there were various other program managers who served in this capacity. In 2011, JBL Trinity was honored with this title once again, along with the task of reconstituting the unity and strength the program once knew.

www.skatinginsurance.com 1-800-925-RINK Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 55

Honors & Awards of the RSA International

The Roller Skating Association International recognizes and honors individuals in the roller skating industry for their various efforts and dedication by presenting these prestigious awards. If you would like to nominate a friend or colleague for one of the awards listed below, fill out the enclosed form and submit that along with proper supportive documentation to the Roller Skating Association International.

Roller Skating Hall of Fame (1955)

This honor is instituted to recognize those individuals who, through the selfless dedication of their skills and talents throughout their lives, have made contributions of a lasting nature to the roller skating industry. This is the highest form of recognition bestowed by the RSA and is not done on an annual basis. Personal accomplishments are not to be considered, not are contributions of material value enough reason for appointment to the Hall of Fame. Only individual contributions of one’s talents & efforts, of lasting nature, through personal sacrifices and endeavor, which continue over a long period of years, are to be considered in awarding this honor. Only and individual who has voluntarily made such outstanding contributions to roller skating, without any intentions of personal reward should be favorably considered.

RSA Life Membership (1951)

It is extended to a living RSA member and not directly to the facility or facilities with which the individual is associated. As with the Hall of Fame, Life Membership is not an annual award. This honor is conferred upon individuals for outstanding contribution to the advancement of the Association. The main reason for awarding an individual this honor is not for the length of his membership, but for the quality of his contributions over a period of time.

RSM Lifetime Achievement Award (1997)

This award is to honor RSM members who have contributed to that organization over many years. It is extended to an RSM member and not directly to the facility of facilities with which the individual is associated. This is not an annual award. Only those individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the improvement of roller skating and/or roller skating equipment and to the advancement of the goals of the RSM, shall be awarded this honor through the Honors Committee of the RSA and with final approval of the RSA Board of Directors.

The Bob Bollinger Lifetime Achievement Award (1997)

This honor shall be awarded to those individuals who have been nominated by their sections and/or individuals. Lifetime achievement awards will be presented to individuals who have been in the roller skating business for a period of 35 or more years and who have contributed significantly over the years to both roller skating in general and their fellow operators in particular and through those contributions have made a marked difference in the roller skating industry. This award recognizes sectional and area prominence, not national prominence

and is for a state and local level. They do not necessarily require that the recipient be a member of the RSA for the full 35 years, only that they have been in business that long or longer.

The Vernon Fowlkes Memorial Award (1974)

This is not an annual award. The award is only conferred when, in the opinion of the Board of Directors of the RSA, someone within the roller skating industry has distinguished themselves as an outstanding contributor to the advancement of roller skating as a sport, a business or as an industry, through their work, involving personal sacrifice without intention of reward during a lifetime of service.

The Victor J. Brown Operator of the Year Award (1961) This is awarded annually and is a symbol of respect and business excellence, bestowed upon individuals whose activities within the roller skating industry go beyond personal business contribution. The honor of Operator of the Year recognizes the individual or individuals who, in the past year, have made an important contribution toward strengthening the position of commercial roller skating, the betterment of the industry and the advancement of the goals of the RSA on a national level.

Heart of the Industry Award (1985)

This award is to be given annually to one of more individuals making an outstanding contribution at the chapter, regional and section level. These working members of the Association will have earned the respect of their community and fellow rink operators by their tireless efforts in serving in whatever area they are needed with time, talent and encouragement at the local level—the Heart of the Industry.

Charlotte Groves Board Citation Award (1988)

This award carries a great deal of esteem and gives the industry a chance to honor an individual or individuals for their special service and contributions to the roller skating industry. It is not necessary for the recipient of the award to be a member of the RSA; rather, it is given on the merit of their contribution. In 2000, this award was changed from the Board of Directors Citation Award to the Charlotte Groves Citation Award.

the RSA Board of Directors, in recognition of the contributions that they have made toward improvements in the roller skating industry, and to encourage increased participation in the Association programs.

This award is presented for specific projects to the industry, over and above the call of duty and for contributions that are exemplary and innovative. The Al Kish Attaway Awards are awarded to those people whose contributions have been of their time, energy and creativity to the RSA and for their longterm support of Association programs.

Bill Carlson Innovative Rink Operator of the Year Award (2007) Given to a rink operator who generates outstanding and innovative ideas throughout the year. This is not necessarily an annual RSA award.

SRSTA Life Membership (1964)

This award is to honor teachers who have contributed to that organization over many years. Only those individuals who have contributed to the improvement of roller skating skills and techniques, research in skating methods and to the advancement of the goals of the SRSTA, without thought of reward over a period of time, shall be awarded this honor.

SCA Life Membership

This award is to honor SCA members who have contributed to that organization over many years. Only those individuals who have contributed to the improvement of roller skating skills and techniques, research in skating methods, and to the advancement of the goals of the SCA, without thought of reward over a period of time, shall be awarded this honor.

SRSTA Teacher of the Year Award (1961)

This award is given annually to the individual member of the SRSTA who has contributed the most during the past year to the advancement of the principles of that organization and to the furthering of teaching skills of roller skating. It is awarded for an individual’s non-competitive contributions to the SRSTA.

The Al Kish Attaway Special Service Award (1988)

This award is to be given to individual RSA members or non-members deemed worthy by the Honors Committee, and approved by

56 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

Seeking Honors Nominations All nominations for any awards to be presented by the association must be made in writing and submitted to the RSA Honors Committee on or before December 31, 2017. SRSTA Teacher of the Year Nominations due by March 1.

Submitted by: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________________________ State: _________________ Zip: _______________ Phone: ________________________________________________ Fax: ___________________________________________ E-mail: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Name of nominee: ____________________________________________________ Section Chapter: ____________________ Title: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________________________________ State: __________________ Zip: _________________ Phone: ________________________________________ E-mail: _________________________________________________ From the detailed listing of awards and qualifications provided, please select your award recommendation ___ Roller Skating Hall of Fame

___ RSA Life Membership

___ RSM Lifetime Achievement Award

___ SRSTA Life Membership

___ SCA Life Membership

___ SRSTA Teacher of the Year Award

___ Bob Bollinger Lifetime Achievement Award

___ Vernon Fowlkes Memorial Award

___ Victor J. Brown Operator of the Year Award

___ Heart of the Industry Award

___ Charlotte Groves BOard Citation Award

___ Al Kish Attaway Special Service Award

___ Bill Carlson Innovative Rink Operator of the Year Award On a separate sheet, write a supporting statement as to why the nominee should be selected as an award recipient. You should also include any supportive documentation to help the committee make their recommendation for the nominee to become an award recipient.

Thank you for participating in this esteemed tradition!

PLEASE SUBMIT NOMINATIONS TO: Roller Skating Association International Attn: Tonya Crenshaw 6905 Corporate Drive • Indianapolis, IN 46278 E-mail: honors@rollerskating.com • Fax: 317-347-2636 Questions: Call 317-347-2626 Ext. 111 www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 57

Supporting Statement Please tell us why you feel that this candidate is deserving of this award from the Roller Skating Association International. Please note that you do not need to be present to win the award. Awards are presented during the RSA Convention General Assembly and the Life Membership Dinner. If recipient is unable to attend, a designated individual may accept the award on their behalf. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

58 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 59

tio a d Roller S in g F o u n kat m Grant progra

GRANT

n

Application

SKATING CENTER INFO: TO BE COMPLETED BY RSA MEMBER SKATING CENTER Skating Center Name

Name of School (Check Payable to)

Owner/Operator Name

School Name

Skating Center Address

Address

City/State/Zip

City/State/Zip

Phone Number

Phone Number

Email Address

Website

Website

Email Applicant’s Name/Title

SEND TO: Return this form and any supporting documentation by email to: grants@rollerskating.com AND to the email address provided on this Non-profit Certification Number form (if applicable) from your local roller skating center . While email is preferred, you may alternatively mail to Roller Skating Foundation, 6905 DEADLINES: January 10, 2018 with decisions made on February 10, 2018.

Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278 or fax to 317-347-2636.

QUESTIONS? Call 317-347-2626 Ext. 107

GRANT REQUEST INFORMATION Project Request Title

Grant Usage: Please provide a brief explanation as to how you intend to use the grant funds and why your school or program should be selected as a recipient. Please attach additional information on project, if available. The following criteria will be used when determining grant recipients: Need, creativity and priority consideration will be given to projects directed towards roller skating, as well as innovative projects aimed at improving physical fitness or education.

Amount Requested

$

(Please note: Amount requested must be specific for application to be processed.)

Have you or your specific department or cause previously applied for or received a grant from the Roller Skating

Yes

No

Foundation?

If yes, please indicate the department or cause.

SIGNATURE Signature of Applicant

Date

Signature of Principal

Date

60 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 61

NEWS & COMMENTARY

ICEE

RSA Signs Agreement with ICEE for National Pricing and Equipment We are thrilled to announce that the RSA has partnered with ICEE on a national contract that will provide new equipment to new customers and discounts on pricing. On the following pages you will find information and contracts to get started. You may also find these details on our website under Members Only and Partners.

Every new customer will receive this machine.

Current ICEE customers may participate in the program but do not receive a new machine.

CUP SIZE CAPACITY WITH DOME LID SERVINGS PER GALLON CUP COST DOME LID COST EST. SYRUP COST STRAW TOTAL COST SUGGESTED RETAIL

12 15 OZ 87 0.065 0.039 0.398 0.021 0.5220 $1.49

ICEE Profit Sharing Program

$0.97

GROSS PROFIT

16 20.5 OZ 63 0.069 0.040 0.543 0.021 0.6728 $1.99

24 30.5 OZ 43 0.076 0.040 0.808 0.021 0.9447 $2.79

$1.32

$1.85

G.P.M. 65.0% 66.2% 66.1% YIELD: APPROX. OZ. OF FINISHED PRODUCT PER GALLON OF SYRUP GROSS PROFIT PER GALLON

32 41.25 OZ Average 32 56 0.098 0.044 1.093 0.021 1.2558 Retail Average $3.69 $2.49 $2.43 66.0% 1300 $139.58

PRICING

SCHEDULE B- RSA MEMBER PRICE STRUCTURE

CUPS

DOME LIDS

ICEE Concentrates $34.45 per Gallon Pepsi Concentrates $39.15 per Gallon Coke Concentrates $38.72 per Gallon 12oz ICEE/AB Cups $156.00 per case 12oz Dome Lids $39.00 per case 16oz ICEE/AB Cups $69.00 per case 16oz Dome Lids $40.01 per case 24oz ICEE/AB Cups $75.90 per case 24oz Dome Lids $40.01 per case 32oz ICEE/AB Cups $47.20 per case 32oz Dome Lids $42.07 per case Wrapped Spoon Straws $73.87 per case *All pricing subject to annual price increase

SPOON STRAWS

ICEE SYRUP

SIZES

EACH

12 16 24 32

$0.07 $0.07 $0.08 $0.10

SIZES

EACH

12 16 24 32

$0.04 $0.04 $0.04 $0.04

EACH

BOX COUNT

$0.02

300

CASE COUNT

CASE PRICE

480

$156.00 $69.00 $75.90 $47.20

CASE COUNT

CASE PRICE

2,400 1,000 1,000

1,000 1,000 1,000 960

$39.01 $40.01 $40.01 $42.07

PER BOX OF

$6.15

PRICE

$34.45

Gallon

Costs to Business

Required Installation of 220 Watt Wall Socket (if Needed) Water and CO2 Accessability (Can be cut into Fountain Soda lines) Purchase of ICEE Syrup, ICEE Cups, Lids, and Straws Profits are estimates based on SRP and may vary ICEE AND ARCTIC BLAST ARE FEDERALLY REGISTERED TRADEMARKS

62 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

The ICEE Company FROZEN CARBONATED BEVERAGE (FCB) MACHINE AGREEMENT - UPCHARGE PROGRAM AGREEMENT, dated) ________________________made by and between The ICEE Company, a Delaware corporation ("ICEE") and _______________________________________________ ("Customer").

Customer has requested ICEE to provide frozen carbonated beverage machine(s) ("Machines"). Upon delivery to Customer of the Machine(s), the following is hereby agreed to by and between ICEE and Customer.

1. Term. The term shall be for a period of Five (5) years from the installation date of each machine as set forth in Schedule “A”. Customer agrees to the ICEE Company being their Sole FCB provider during duration of this agreement.

2. Purchases / Payments. Customer agrees to purchase all FCB syrup, cups, lids and straws only from ICEE or authorized distributor during the term of this Agreement. Customer agrees to purchase the syrup and supplies at the prices set forth on Schedule “B”. Prices are subject to change, and such notice will be provided in writing, thirty (30) days in advance. All payments required under this Agreement shall be made to The ICEE Company at Dept LA 20178, Pasadena, CA 91185-1078. Payment for all syrup and supplies delivered shall be COD pending completion and approval of a credit application.

3. Taxes. Customer shall pay all sales, use, property, excise and other taxes related to the Machines or other services provided by ICEE to Customer.

4. Risk of Loss. The Machines, until returned to ICEE, shall be held at the sole risk of Customer for injury, damage (including damage to third parties and their property) loss, theft or destruction.

5. Machines. The ownership of the Machines shall remain in ICEE, and is and shall remain personal property. The Machines are to be used only to sell ICEE drinks and use only syrup approved by ICEE. Customer shall at its cost, prepare its premises for installation of the Machines. ICEE, at its sole cost, shall during the Term of the Agreement provide service, make repairs and supply replacement parts. No representation as to the machine or any other matter

by ICEE shall in any way affect Customer’s duty to perform its obligations as set forth in this Agreement. In no event shall ICEE be liable for any indirect or consequential damages. Upon the termination of the Term, ICEE shall be entitled to remove the Machines. Any repair or restoration of Customer's premise shall be the responsibility of Customer.

6. Signage. In its sole and exclusive discretion, Customer may utilize ICEE Point-of-sale and merchandising displays which may include window signs, hanging mobiles, or store front banners. Customer agrees to display the FCB machine in a prominent place to aid in the promotion and sales of ICEE products, and to allow ICEE to install point-of-sale material to aid in selling product.

7. Termination Charges. Customer shall have the right to cancel this Agreement prior to the termination date set on Schedule “A” with respect to any particular Machine by giving ICEE at least thirty (30) days written notice of such termination. Such notice shall (1) specify the date of termination, (2) specify the serial number and location of any Machine covered by the notice, and (3 be accompanied by a payment of $500.00 per Machine plus $100.00 per month for each month remaining of the Term of the Agreement for each Machine. All termination charges must be paid within thirty (30) days of termination of the Agreement. Such payment is for liquidated damages for early termination and not a penalty.

In the event of default (see Paragraph 8) the termination charges above shall apply.

8. Default. Events of Default, Remedies, Expenses. In the event that: (1) Customer shall default in the payment of any invoice for FCB syrup or supplies, or (2) If during the term of this Agreement, Customer installs equipment for any competing products (i.e., other FCB or frozen slush products), without the express written consent of ICEE, or (3) Customer shall default in the performance of

1

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 63

any other covenant in this Agreement or under any Schedule "A" or B@ and such default shall continue for a period of fifteen (15) days, or (4) Customer shall dissolve or become insolvent or bankrupt, suspend the transaction of its usual business or an order, judgment, or decree shall be entered against Customer by a court or (5) Customer shall default in the performance of any obligation due to ICEE under any other agreement then, ICEE may, by written notice to Customer, do any or all of the following: (A) immediately terminate this Agreement at its option, and Customer's rights thereunder, or (B) declare immediately due and payable all invoices and the termination charges (see Para. 7) whereupon the same shall forthwith become due and payable as liquidated damages and not as a penalty, or (C ) proceed by appropriate court action either at law or in equity, to enforce performance by Customer of the applicable covenants of this Agreement or to recover damages for the breach thereof, or (D) without necessity of process or other legal action, enter onto the premises of Customer or such other premises as the Machines may then be located and take possession of the Machines, without liability to Customer or any other person arising out of the taking of such action.

No remedy referred to in this Section is intended to be exclusive but each shall be cumulative and in addition to any other remedy referred to above or otherwise available to ICEE at law or in equity. Customer will pay ICEE a reasonable sum of attorneys' fees and all costs and expenses incurred by ICEE in the enforcement of any right or remedy hereunder.

9. Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the Schedule "A(s)" and the Schedule AB(s) @ executed pursuant hereto represent the entire agreement between ICEE and Customer, and may not be altered, amended, changed or terminated without a written agreement signed by an officer of ICEE. 10. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California. The parties hereto waive their rights to a jury trial in connection with any such disputes or claims.

11. Assignment, Binding Effect. Without the prior written consent of ICEE, the Customer shall not (a) assign, transfer, or pledge this Agreement or the Machines or (b) sublet or lend the Machine, or permit the Machines to be used by anyone other than the Customer or the Customer's employees. This Agreement inures to the benefit of, and is binding upon, the heirs, legatees, personal representatives, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year first above written.

THE ICEE COMPANY

CUSTOMER (RSA MEMBER)

SIGNATURE:

SIGNATURE:

TITLE: REGIONAL BRAND MANAGER

PRINTED NAME: TITLE: ADDRESS: CITY/ST/ZIP PHONE:

2

64 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

SCHEDULE A RSA MEMBER ICEE EQUIPMENT AGREEMENT

TRADEMARK LICENSED: ICEE OR ARCTIC BLAST MACHINE INFO: MODEL NUMBER: SERIAL NUMBER: INSTALLATION DATE: TERMINATION DATE: LOCATION OF MACHINE: STORE NAME: TELEPHONE: ADDRESS:

DATE:

RSA MEMBER #:

THE ICEE COMPANY

LOCATION NAME:

SIGNATURE:

SIGNATURE:

TITLE:

TITLE:

3

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Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 65

n o s p i T t r e p x E g n i s i d n a h c r e M Your n o i t p m e Red r e t n Cou Written by: Lori Lovely

66 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

Redemption counters may be a customer’s last stop on their way out of the rink, so they should impart an enduring, dazzling impression intended to entice sales. It’s important to understand that the redemption counter differs from the retail counter: Stock accordingly and invite young customers with tickets in hand to browse. Often, redemption center patrons are children who are making purchasing decisions on their own for the first time. They need time to process the options and understand their choices. Creating an inviting, uncomplicated display helps them navigate the shopping options.

not hand-written.

While some recommend placing high-end items in prominent locations to attract the most attention, others advise arranging merchandise according to ticket value to make it easier for customers to identify. Doyle likes arranging showcase redemption merchandise from low to high order in ticket value, beginning with the

FILL ‘ER UP Rule number one is to keep all showcases and backwall displays full, clean and organized with ticket value cards. “Would you shop at stores whose shelves are sparse with no variety, and with messy and unclean merchandise?” asks Sondra Doyle, marketing coordinator/sales for Sureshot Redemption/Party Supplies. “If your redemption center does not reflect a variety of clean, quality merchandise with good visibility, you are leaving those players whose money goes in your games to take their pockets and play elsewhere. Redeeming for quality toys and novelties is the reward.”

Clean and organized are keys. Simplicity is sophistication, says Jim Weigl, president, Virginia Toy and Novelty. “What you see at a carnival is a cluttered, sloppy mess. It looks like a thrift shop – and because of that, you think the value of the merchandise is lower.” To combat that impression, he advises putting out fewer things, but adding sizzle, flash and lights.

CASING THE JOINT Acrylic bins allow visibility of merchandise and keep it organized. The ticket value cards in each bin should be clearly visible to the customer so there’s no guesswork. All signs should be printed, www.rollerskating.org

are a great way to move merchandise. Placing items at the spot where tickets are turned in relies on impulse buying and line of sight, but it works.

left side of the top shelf of showcase #1 and continuing to each additional showcase, from left to right.

However, it also makes sense to use the bottom of the showcases for larger items.

Another effective method of staging is to organize items by gender, theme, sports or license.

Placing similar items together can give your display bigger visual and emotional impact that draws attention.

Conversely, point-of-purchase displays

Wherever you place the items, lighted glass showcases illuminate the merchandise for the best visibility.

Doyle favors adjustable see-through shelving and says a minimum of two shelves plus the showcase floor provide the best use of showcase display space.

And always keep showcases and bins full!

Doyle says it’s a must.

THE WALL The back wall should do more than merely serve as a backdrop for the display cases. Doyle

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 67

likes to categorize products with ticket values as much as possible, pointing out the importance of featuring merchandise at varying price points.

Mix it up by using baskets and shelves intermingled with hooks to display items.

Don’t forget to make sure it’s full, Doyle reminds. The wall should be restocked at the end of every shift.

TIS THE SEASON It can be risky to offer holiday merchandise because all too often, it sits around, says Jim Weigl, president, Virginia Toy and Novelty. But seasonal or specialty merchandise can bring in additional sales. “Don’t just stick with the same old merchandise because you might miss out on sales. Repeat guests want variety.”

Doyle advises considering a separate showcase for these specialty items: holiday themed, Halloween, Back to School, boys’ or girls’ items, birthday party supply display, custom logo display.

They are not to be combined with everyday redemption merchandise, she says, adding that these items should also be different than regular redemption merchandise. “Variety of merchandise is key.”

Don’t forget to educate your customers to look for “special” items with appropriate signage.

Seasonal merchandise should be purchased at least six weeks prior to the holiday and displayed a few weeks ahead of time – longer for Christmas.

Buy “short” in order to avoid having to store leftover inventory.

HOT, NEW AND TRENDY As a buyer, don’t purchase what you love.

Learn what sells and buy it. In fact, Weigl believes product eclipses display. “Presentation is less of an issue than having the right product. Rather than

have a beautiful display, you need the right products.

If you have a great product, you can sell out of a cardboard box.

Think about fidget spinners; we could sell those out of a truck.”

Educating rink owners about product selection will help them increase sales. First, choose ageappropriate items, keeping in mind that you’ll need to address a range of ages. Next, offer items their parents wouldn’t buy for them – fun things, not educational things.

While it can be beneficial to follow what’s hot in the retail world, keep in mind that trends typically last longer in redemption than in retail.

They have a longer shelf life because children like to expand their collections, according to Karyn Gitler, director of merchandise for CEC Entertainment Concepts (which owns Chuck E. Cheese). Movie-themed characters may pass out of retail outlets quickly, but children who are particularly fond of those characters may hold on to them a long time, and want to add to their collection.

That said, Doyle believes it’s important to keep an eye on the new products on the market too. “Pay attention to new movies and licensed programs. Keep in touch with your vendors for new merchandise trends.”

It’s important to build a relationship with merchandise suppliers, not only to keep abreast of the latest trends, but also to get the best deals and to find out what items are on sale or are closing out. Choosing the right merchandise can be significantly aided by seeking guidance from people who work in the market and stay on top of trends. It’s a safe way to find out what’s selling because, says Weigl, there’s not a lot of variances in trends across the country.

Whatever you do, “don’t order online at night,” Weigl urges. “Call us. We can provide the coolest novelty items; we’re the experts.” He says a lot of customers call, tell them their budget and ask what they should buy.

else. “You’re competing against bowling, inside family centers and other venues. Use redemption merchandise to give them something they can’t get elsewhere.” To do that, he says think of your strength at your venue and add a unique twist.

“We create unique items for our customers,” Weigl explains. Branding is one way to provide a unique product. “You may have fewer products, but they’ll be branded.” That’s like free marketing, he notes.

What are your customers requesting? Doyle guides rink owners to let their customers dictate inventory through requests and suggestions.

Logically, that should result in easy sales.

“Listening and awareness are two important factors when running a successful operation,” she says.

Virginia Toy and Novelty takes a different approach. Although they produce what customers ask them to, they also offer common items like green glow bracelets; popular items such as swords, necklaces, bracelets and wands; and new merchandise, including flashing flower headbands and bracelets, lion bubble gun, orca bubble gun, emoji sword and LED necklaces.

However, Weigl instructs rink owners to create the trend. “You say what’s popular – like radio stations do with music, or restaurants do with specials. They trust you to tell them what’s hot. Just don’t overwhelm them with too many choices.”

REDEMPTION, RETAIL AND REWARDS Put new items in the spotlight, Weigl instructs. Let the customers know you have new merchandise. Have the DJ promote them.

Moving less-popular merchandise to the center of the display can attract attention and help it sell.

If it doesn’t, or if you have non-moving items or leftover holiday merchandise, put them on sale by offering them for reduced ticket values.

Use monthly events and holidays to promote merchandise. Check with vendors for their sales to pass on to your customers and market special prices.

Although some experts believe it’s best to keep retail and redemption separate, adding a few retail items at the redemption ticket counter can lead to extra sales. “Redemption counter should also do sales,” Weigl insists. “Have items at $5, $10 and $20 price points. People will buy them.”

Merchandising goes beyond the KISS principal, although the general idea of keeping it simple still applies. Keep it fresh, keep it organized. Make it unique and make sure it’s visible.

To accelerate revenue, Weigl says to give the customer something they can’t get anywhere

68 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

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FOOD

LAS VEGAS

may 13 -17, 2018

Roller Skating Industry Convention and Trade Show

Sponsorship Opportunities DIAMOND SPONSORSHIP - $10,000 • Co-host the President’s Dinner • Two 10’ x 10’ booths at the Trade Show with priority selection • Diamond Award presented at the General Assembly • Five minutes of presentation time at the General Assembly • Full-page, four color advertisement and promotional article in Roller Skating Business Magazine • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during event • Full page advertisement in event program PLATINUM SPONSORSHIP - $5,000 • Two minutes of speaking time during general assembly • One 10’ x 10’ booth at the Trade Show • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during convention • Full page advertisement in event program BAGS SPONSORSHIP - $4,000 • Your company logo on all delegate bags.

• Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during convention • 3/4 page advertisement in event program RSU EXCLUSIVE SPONSORSHIP - $3,000 • Your company promoted as official RSU sponsor.

• Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during convention • 3/4 page advertisement in event program

GOLD SPONSORSHIP - $2,000 • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during convention • 3/4 page advertisement in event program SILVER SPONSORSHIP - $1,500 • Seminar sponsor (one sponsor per seminar) • Table in back of the seminar room to display your company’s items • Two minutes of presentation time during the seminar • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during convention • 1/2 page advertisement in event program COPPER SPONSORSHIP - $1,250 • Chapter Lunch • Two minutes of presentation time during the Chapter Lunch • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • 1/4 page advertisement in event program GENERAL ASSEMBLY BREAKFAST SPONSORSHIP - $1000 • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Logo with website link in weekly RSA newsletters leading up to event • One minute of speaking time at general assembly • 1/2 page advertisement in event program BRONZE SPONSORSHIP - $750 • Logo on signage located at food station • Your company flyer or product inserted into welcome bags given to all convention attendees (flyer to be provided by sponsor) • Company logo with website link on all social media platforms leading up to and during convention • Recognition in the event program

SPONSORSHIP CONFIRMATION Sponsorship Package ____________________________________ Company Name _________________________________________ Contact Name ___________________________________________ Contact Email ___________________________________________ RETURN TO STACY THOMAS AT CONVENTION@ROLLERSKATING.COM OR CALL 317-347-2626 EXT. 103.

70 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

NEWS & COMMENTARY

MUSEUM

National Museum of Roller Skating Membership It is through the support of the National Museum of Roller Skating members that enables the museum to care for the most complete collection of roller skating artifacts in the world and makes it the source for information on roller skating history. Your membership support is VITAL to the success of the museum going forward. Please consider joining the museum at any membership level. THEY NEED YOU. As a new member, you receive a special 30th anniversary pin, a 10% store discount, and a

year subscription to their partner organization’s collection and maintain communications with magazine, USA Roller Sports. Also, they interested parties. Thank you for your support. established a members-only tab that allows To sign up, fill out and return to the address members to access past skating magazines dating below. back to 1940 and their e-newsletter, with a special user name and password.

Examples of the newsletter can be found on the museum website at http://www. rollerskatingmuseum.com/members/member. html. Members receive two newsletters per month via direct email. These newsletters help share the

Join the National Museum of Roller Skating and Learn the History of Your Business Membership to the National Museum of Roller Skating includes: bi-monthly museum e-newsletter, a 30th anniversary pin, access to the membersonly section of the website, one year subscription to USA Roller Sports magazine, and a 10% discount on store purchases.

Method of Payment: ___ Check ___ Visa ___ Mastercard Check payable to National Museum of Roller Skating Credit Card #: _____________________________________________ Expiry ________ Security Code: _______ Name on Card: _______________________________________ Billing address on card: ____________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______________ Membership Information (Or gift membership from) Name: ________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______________ Phone: _____________________________________ Fax: _______________________ Email: ________________________________________________________________

Membership Level

Gift membership to:

Benefactor

Name: ________________________________________________________________

Patron

Address: _______________________________________________________________

Associate Patron

City: ___________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______________

Donor

Phone: _____________________________________ Fax: _______________________ Email: ________________________________________________________________

1 year 2 years

___ $500 ___ $950 ___ $250 ___ $475 ___ $100 ___ $185

___ $50 ___ $90

Individual/Family ___ $35 ___ $65 Additional Contribution $ _______

Clip and mail to: National Museum of Roller Skating 4730 South Street Suite 2 Lincoln, NE 68506 or call 402-483-7551 ext. 16 for Visa or MasterCard Orders

www.rollerskating.org

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 71

TECHNOLOGY

CUSTOMER DATA

Why Collecting Customer Data is Essential to Your Roller Skating Center Business We are data driven. While the promises of a magical, mind-reading machine may still be more science fiction than fact, utilizing the proper means to collect data is the next best thing to understanding exactly what your customers are looking for—and expecting.

Specifically, data collection represents a seismic shift away from building a marketing strategy revolving around what you think your customers want, and breaks new ground by showcasing exactly what they want—be it stocking stuffer savings at Christmas sent straight to their email, a a bonus to book the best party in town simply on their smartphone, or an automatic discount on their next visit when they sign up to receive texts at the point of sale.

So how do you implement data collection into a marketing strategy strong enough to keep things moving and shaking for the foreseeable future? Let’s take a deep dive into a pool of data collecting options all geared toward getting a leg up on the competition.

1. Survey Old fashioned, yet effective, a survey is the most straightforward approach to gaining insight into your customers, allowing you to capture exactly the information you’re looking for in one fell swoop. The rationale here is that by asking your customers nicely—and promising more tailored messaging—they’ll be happy to share a few details about themselves.

This can be easily accomplished by requesting they answer a short supply of questions after making a purchase or book a visit on your website or mobile app. Prefer a more traditional route? Try including a short paper survey when asking your guests to sign a waiver, or providing a suggestion box at the skate rental return counter.

2. Creating a Birthday Club Everybody loves a birthday. A staple of success for businesses large and small, collecting and offering incentives for your customers’ big day consistently and predictably reaps big rewards.

Offering a discounted birthday party (always a big hit), exclusive savings, or even a free treat with purchase goes beyond good feelings, granting a welcome boost of customer loyalty and revenue.

Utilizing a digital marketing platform to send out a bonafide birthday collector form to your

growing email list or placing a date-collector kiosk in your party rooms are two great options for your first step towards getting the party rolling. While you can expect a fair share of folks to share their big day since they have nothing to lose, adding a small but special gift or discount in return for each date collected provides the proper push to build your birthday bank.

3. Creating a Loyalty Program Frequent flyers. Preferred guests. Gold members. Your most loyal customers—the regular rollers, if you will—want to be treated like VIPs. It’s a simple fact that retaining customers is less expensive than acquiring new ones, which is precisely why developing a program to reward the familiar faces that help make your business what is it today is imperative to the future of tomorrow. Communicating and creating a sense of exclusivity amongst your followers helps keep things fresh by incentivizing their next visit and ensuring repeat business and new customer referrals.

While some will want to kick it old school by flashing a loyalty card physically at the point of sale, be prepared to accommodate today’s generation with mobile check-ins, online redemptions, and social media contests for newer members. Knowing who’s returning to the rink time and time again will help you cater to the most devoted fans of your business.

will simply need to sign in with their email, phone number, or social profile—all viable leads you can use to send targeted marketing messages.

5. Website Popup The most difficult part is over—they’ve already landed on your webpage. Now that you’ve captivated their attention, you have a golden opportunity to capture some of their data.

Install a popup that gives visitors to your site the chance to claim a coupon or sign up to join your birthday club and watch as the leads flow in. By providing their name, contact information, and whatever basic demographics you set up to collect, they will be able to access exclusive specials, giving them even more incentive to visit you in person.

Brandon Willey

Brandon Willey is the CEO of FetchRev and has broad knowledge of the local digital marketing ecosystem 4. WiFi Network with extensive Face it—nobody travels to the skating rink, or experience in email and search marketing, social even the grocery store, without their smartphone media, retargeting, geotargeting, segmentation, in tow. Every trip down the road is an automation, machine learning and more. He opportunity to document a moment worthy of can be reached at brandon@fetchrev.com or by sharing across a variety of social media platforms. calling 855-979-7833.

Savvy business owners can capitalize on the need to be constantly connected by providing customers with a way to plug in—in exchange for basic information.

Installing a WiFi hotspot in your roller skating facility and offering free wireless internet access to guests is an ingenious way to learn more about your visitors while providing a service that makes their lives easier. To connect, a customer

72 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

TECHNOLOGY

For more information and to request a demo: 855-979-7833 demo@fetchrev.com www.rollerskating.org

FetchRev.com/Skate Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 73

CONNECTIONS

2018 RSA Affiliate Member Listings The companies listed below are “RSM” members of the Roller Skating Association International who provide goods and services to the roller skating industry. Company information is updated in each issue of RSB for your reference. If your firm services the roller skating industry and you would like information about becoming a member, or you are a current member needing to update your information, call the Association headquarters at 317-347-2626 Ext. 108. If you would like an additional listing under another RSM category, there is a charge of $125 per additional category. Information below is as provided on 2018 RSM renewals. Changes and category updates must be made with Sharon McMahon at membership@rollerskating.com.

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY FETCHREV Contact: Brandon Willey Mailing Address: 1232 E. Baseline Rd. Floor 2 Tempe, AZ 85283 Phone: 855-979-7833 brandon@fetchrev.com www.fetchrev.com

INTERCARD Mailing Address: 45-B Progress Pkwy St. Louis, MO 63043 Phone 314-275-8066 sales@intercardinc.com www.intercardinc.com

OCCASION

TIMES TWO TECHNOLOGY Contact: Kendall Cabe Mailing Address: 8 W. Campbell St. Suite 200 WA Arlington Heights, IL 60005 Phone: 708-497-9896 kendall.cabe@timestwotechnology.com www.timestwotechnology.com

TRUSTWORKZ, INC. Contact: Wesley Anderson Mailing Address: PO Box 379 1025 Rose Creek Dr. Ste. 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 Phone: 770-615-3275 Fax: 888-624-8767 wesley@trustworkz.com www.TrustWorkz.com

Contact: Aksh Gupta Mailing Address: 321 N. Clark, St. 2550 CONSULTING & RINK Chicago, IL 60654 PLANNING Phone: 312-620-7275 SKATE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS n@occsn.com Contact: Daniel Wortman www.getoccasion.com Mailing Address: 3098 E. Bellflower Drive PARTY CENTER SOFTWARE Gilbert, AZ 85928 Contact: Scott Drummond Mailing Address: 1010 Camerado #206 Phone: 480-748-4191 ozatri@verizon.net Cameron Park, CA 95682 Phone: 888-804-1166 sales@partycentersoftware.com www.partycentersoftware.com

PARTYWIRKS.COM Contact: Larry McLean Mailing Address: 9450 SW Gemini Dr. Suite 30375 Beaverton, OR 97008 Phone: 877-345-4012 larry@partywirks.com www.partywirks.com

SACOA PLAYCARD SYSTEM Contact: Hiara Elias Mailing Address: PO Box 5258, New York NY 10163 Phone: 214-256-3965 helias@sacoa.com www.sacoacard.com

RC SPORTS INC. Contact: Ronald Creten Mailing Address: 1750 W. 98th, Pillar 18-51A, Lenexa, KS 66219 Phone: 414-559-1121 Fax: 913-894-5179 ron@rcsports.com www.rcsports.com

COSTUMES MASK US INC Contact: David Bragg Mailing Address: 3121 Main Street, Suite F Chula Vista, CA 91911 Phone: 619-476-9041 Fax: 619-476-7346 info@maskus.com www.maskus.com

FINANCING/FINANCIAL PLANNING CFG WEALTH MANAGEMENT SERVICES Contact: Michael Puckett Mailing Address: 9840 Westpoint Drive Suite 150 Indianapolis, IN 46256 Phone: 239-784-6861 Fax: 317-579-2440 mpuckett@cfgwms.com www.cfgwms.com

CSA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Contact: David Brewer Mailing Address: 791 Park Manor Drive Smyrna, GA 30082 Phone: 866-400-0272 www.csabusinesssolutions.com dbrewer@csamail.net

MONEY TREE ATM Contact: Wayne Young Mailing Address: PO Box 4247 Fort Walton Beach, FL 32549 Phone: 850-301-0100 Fax: 850-301-0340 www.moneytreeatm.com

VANTIV Contact: Helen Shinn Mailing Address: 4610 S. Ulster St., St. 600 Denver, CO 80237 Phone: 970-335-5333 helen.shinn@vantiv.com www.vantiv.com

FLOOR, MATERIALS AND INSTALLATIONS ASTRO CARPET MILLS Contact: Edward Hurney Mailing Address: PO Box 1483 Chatsworth, GA 30705 Phone: 800-542-4189 Fax: 706-259-9684 ed@astrocarpetmills.com www.astrocarpetmills.com

FINCHUM SPORTS FLOORS Contact: Larry Finchum 2812 Boyd’s Creek Highway Sevierville, TN 37876 Phone: 865-453-3995 larry@finchumsportsfloors.com www.finchumsportsfloors.com

FLAGSHIP CARPETS Contact: Marsha Long Mailing Address: 734 S. River St. Calhoun, GA 30701 Phone: 800-848-4055 Fax: 706-276-0823 marsha@flagshipcarpets.com www.neoncarpets.com

FLOOR SYSTEMS Contact: Kim Wall Mailing Address: 4517 Industrial Road Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Phone: 260-484-7746 Fax: 260-484-7799 kim@floorsystemsinc.com www.floorsystemsinc.com

LSI FLOORS Contact: Rick Moffatt Mailing Address: 5230 Finch Ave. Unit #5 Toronto, Canada M1S4Z9 Phone: 800-449-3916 Fax: 416-229-0269 rmoffatt@lsifloors.com www.lsifloors.com

OMEGA PATTERN WORKS Contact: Kristin Messick Mailing Address: PO Box 1483 Chatsworth, GA 30705 Phone: 800-241-4908 Fax: 866-375-8633 kmessick@cox.net www.omegapatternworks.com

RINK-COTE/ PORT CITY PAINTS Contact: Roy Spencer Mailing Address: 1250 9th Ave Muskegon, MI 49440 Phone: 231-726-5911 Fax: 231-722-4081 muskegon@repcolite.com

74 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

CONNECTIONS www.repcolite.com

www.skatinginsurance.com

ROLL-ON FLOOR PRODUCTS

K.L. OWENS & ASSOCIATES LLC

Contact: Joseph Nazzaro, Jr. Mailing Address: PO Box 1778 Hurst, TX 76053 Phone: 800-243-3900 Fax: 817-354-6393 joenazzaro@aol.com www.roll-on.com

Contact: Karen Owens Mailing Address: 309 Bouldercrest Way NOVELTY ITEMS/REDEMPTION Woodstock, GA 30188 PRODUCTS Phone: 770-855-4723 Fax: 866-845-5081 50% OFF PLUSH karen@klowensassociates.com Contact: Nathan Thompson www.klowensassociates.com 1500 Commerce Rd. Richmond, VA 23224 MCGOWAN INSURANCE Phone: 804-283-0214 Contact: Drew Tewksbury Kelthomp4@aol.com Mailing Address: 20595 Lorain Road www.50offplush.com Fairview Park, OH 44126 Phone: 440-263-1882 BMI MERCHANDISE dtewksbury@mcgowaninsurance.com Contact: David Katz www.mcgowaninsurance.com Mailing Address: 1960 Rutgers University Blvd.

MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE Lakewood, NJ 08701

SOUTHEASTERN SKATE SUPPLY #2 Contact: David Ramsey Mailing Address: PO Box 336 Mableton, GA 30126 Phone: 800-241-8060 Fax: 770-944-8589 david@seskate2.com www.seskate.com

GROUP TITE COAT INTERNATIONAL Contact: Scott Gray Mailing Address: 5365 Dorsey Evergreen Rd. Fulton, MS 38843 Phone: 800-442-8483 owner@titecoat.com www.titecoat.com

GROUNDS AND MAINTENANCE CHEMICALS CPI ROAD SOLUTIONS, INC. Jay Walerstein 5616 Progress Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46241 317-243-2348 jw@roadsolutionsinc.com www.roadsolutionsinc.com

INSURANCE

Contact: Nancy Clay Mailing Address: 11880 College Blvd, Ste 500 Overland Park, KS 66210 Phone: 913-266-5325 Fax: 877-892-4574 nclay@meadowbrook.com www.wcpolicy.com/rsa

LEGAL SERVICES ANSELMI MIERZEJEWSKI RUTH & SOWLE P.C. Contact: John Ruth Mailing Address: 1750 South Telegraph Rd Suite 306 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 Phone: 248-338-2290 Fax: 248-338-4451 jruth@a-mlaw.com www.a-mlaw.com

HANASAB INSURANCE SERVICES INC. Contact: Robert Ferrer Mailing Address: 625 S Fairfax Ave Los Angeles, CA 90036 Phone: 323-782-8454 Fax: 323-978-2452 robert@hanasabinsurance.com www.hispcs.com

MUSIC

Fax: 615-321-6292 blee@sesac.com www.sesac.com

Phone: 732-363-0212 llotito@bmimerchandise.com www.bmimerchandise.com

COAST TO COAST ENTERTAINMENT Contact: Gary Balaban Mailing Address: 1000 Towbin Ave Lakewood, NJ 8701 Phone: 732-238-0096 Fax: 732-238-4404 gary@coastentertainment.com www.cranemachines.com

FUN CENTRAL/COOL GLOW NOVELTIES Contact: Sanam Hakam Mailing Address: 2200 Lyna Rd., Ste 160 Carrollton, TX 75006 Phone: 888-786-2476 sanam@funcentral.com www.funcentral.com

FUN EXPRESS

Contact: Lae Phonephakdy Mailing Address: 4206 S. 108th St Contact: Jim Juniper Mailing Address: 787 Adelaide St. North Omaha, NE 68137 Phone: 800-875-8494 Suite 2 Fax: 800-228-1002 London, ON N5Y 2L8 laep@funexpress.com Phone: 866-684-8324 www.funexpress.com sales@fecmusic.com

FEC MUSIC

http://www.fecmusic.com

FUNTASTIC NOVELTIES, INC.

JBL TRINITY GROUP LTD Contact: Anthony Profaci Mailing Address: 50 First Avenue Atlantic Highlands, NJ 7716 Phone: 800-925-7465 anthonyprofaci@jbltrinity.com

www.rollerskating.org

SESAC INC Contact: Bill Lee Mailing Address: 55 Music Square East Nashville, TN 37203 Phone: 615-320-0055

Contact: Kris Wall Friesner Mailing Address: 4515 Industrial Road Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Phone: 260-482-1566 Fax: 260-482-1568

kris@funtasticnovelties.com www.funnov.com

GLOWORKS Contact: Joe Iacona Mailing Address: 23133 Schoenherr Road Warren, MI 48089 Phone: 800-809-4569 Fax: 586-840-4996 joe@gloworks.com www.gloworks.com

RHODE ISLAND NOVELTY Contact: Dan Highcove Mailing Address: PO Box 9278 Fall River, MA 2720 Phone: 800-435-3456 Fax: 508-675-9406 dhighcove@rinovelty.com www.rinovelty.com

SCHUSTER PRODUCTS Contact: Steve Schuster Mailing Address: 10555 West Parnell Ave, Suite 1 Hales Corners, WI 53130 lisa@schusterproducts.com www.schusterproducts.com

THE STUFF SHOP Contact: Mike Hill Mailing Address: 111 Triple Diamond Blvd North Venice, FL 34275 Phone: 800-860-8474 Fax: 941-480-1899 mike@stuffshop.com www.stuffshop.com

THEISEN VENDING CO Contact: Anita Bennett Mailing Address: 2335 Nevada Ave North Golden Valley, MN 55427 Phone: 612-827-5588 Fax: 612-827-7543 anita@theisenvending.com www.theisenvending.com

VIRGINIA TOY AND NOVELTY COMPANY Contact: Christina Williams Mailing Address: 5823 Ward G Virginia Beach, VA 23455 Phone: 757-313-7000 Fax: 757-313-7007 cwilliams@virginiatoy.com www.virginiatoy.com

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 75

CONNECTIONS SURESHOT REDEMPTION

CREATIVE WORKS INC.

RIDE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

Contact: Sondra Doyle Mailing Address: 1500 South Hellman Avenue Ontario, CA 91761 Phone: 909-923-5700 Fax: 909-923-7909 SondraD@folandgroup.com www.sureshot-redemption.com

Contact: Kimberly Schilling Mailing Address: 350 Bridge St. Mooresville, IN 46158 Phone: 317-834-4770 Fax: 317-834-4771 marketing@thewoweffect.com www.thewoweffect.com

Contact: Tamara Dean Mailing Address: PO Box 40 Independence, OR 97351 Phone: 503-606-4438 Fax: 503-606-4436 RDCcars@aol.com www.bumpercar.com

PARTY SUPPLIES NORTHWEST ENTERPRISES Contact: Gordon Vong Mailing Address: 900 Lunt Ave. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 Phone: 847-806-0034 Fax: 847-806-0577 gordonv@nwparty.com www.nwparty.com

REBECCA’S Contact: Joseph Nazzaro, Jr. Mailing Address: Po Box 1778 Hurst, TX 76053 Phone: 800-777-2235 Fax: 817-354-6393 joseph@rebeccas.com www.rebeccas.com

SURESHOT REDEMPTION Contact: Sondra Doyle Mailing Address: 1500 South Hellman Avenue Ontario, CA 91761 Phone: 909-923-5700 Fax: 909-923-7909 SondraD@folandgroup.com www.sureshot-redemption.com

PLAY EQUIPMENT AND LASER TAG AMAZING PLAY DESIGN Contact: Darrell Weaver Mailing Address: 1075 W. Kathryn St. Nixa, MO 65714 Phone: (816) 935-3635 amazingplayllc@yahoo.com http://www.amazingplaydesign.com

ARC LASER TAG ARENAS Contact: Lathan Gareiss Mailing Address: 5450 Lee Street Lehigh Acres, FL 33971 Phone: 888-514-0283 lathan@arclta.com http://www.arclta.com

INTERNATIONAL PLAY COMPANY INC. Contact: Kathleen Kuryliw Mailing Address: 215-27353-58th Crescent Langley, BC V4W 3W7 Phone: 604-607-1111 Fax: 604-607-1107 sales@iplayco.com www.iplayco.com

LASER BLAST Contact: Carla Ewald Mailing Address: 6118 Gotfredson Rd Plymouth, MI 48170 Phone: 877-338-7889 Fax: 734-418-2017 mike@laser-blast.com www.laser-blast.com

LASERTAG.COM BY ZONE LASER TAG, INC. Contact: Erik Guthrie Mailing Address: 419 Webbs Ln. Dover, DE 19904 Phone: 866-966-3797 Fax: 317-783-3711 erik@lasertag.com www.lasertag.com

LASERTRON Contact: Ann Kessler Mailing Address: 251 Meyer Road Amherst, NY 14226 Phone: 716-836-0670 Fax: 716-836-0535 info@lasertron.us www.lasertron.us

PLAYSMART Contact: Gary Boots Mailing Address: 107 North Missouri Sedalia, MO 65301 Phone: 217-221-4031 Fax: 660-829-0526 gboots@playsmart.com www.playsmart.com

ROLLER SKATE MANUFACTURERS ATOM SKATES Contact: Josh Haagen Mailing Address: 3306 E. Washington Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 Phone: 602-275-3271 Fax: 602-275-5895 Info@atomskates.com www.atomskates.com

BERRY SKATES Contact: Patricia Olender Mailing Address: 165 Court St. #184 Brooklyn, NY 11201 Phone: 347-927-3030 polender@berryskates.com www.berryskates.com

BONT SKATES Contact: Debbie Rice Mailing Address: 10672 Billings St. Orlando, FL 32832 Phone: 225-603-6588 debbie@bont.com www.bont.com

CHICAGO SKATES/NATIONAL SPORTING GOODS Contact: Joel Aranson Mailing Address: 376 Hollywood Ave. Fairfield, NJ 7004 Phone: 800-242-7476 Fax: 973-276-8419 skater@chicagoskates.com www.chicagoskates.com

CRAZY SKATE COMPANY Contact: Trent Carter Mailing Address: 5530 West Raymond St. Indianapolis, IN 46241 Phone: 317-222-6105 contact@crazyskateco.com www.crazyskateco.com

GOLDEN HORSE RENTALS/LW SKATES Contact: Walt Hedrick Mailing Address: 4004 Cedar Creek Ct. Arlington, TX 76016 Phone: 817-781-1898 waltskate@yahoo.com www.usedrentalskates.com

MOTA SKATES Contact: Julie Glass Mailing Address: 16548 E Laser Drive Unit 1 Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 Phone: 480-292-7834 Fax: 360-888-4693 www.motaskates.com

RIEDELL SKATES INC Contact: Bob Riegelman Mailing Address: 122 Cannon River Ave N Red Wing, MN 55066 Phone: 651-388-8251 Fax: 651-385-5500 margie@riedellskates.com www.riedellskates.com

ROLLER DERBY SKATE CORP Contact: Will Marion Mailing Address: PO Box 249 Litchfield, IL 62056 Phone: 217-324-3961 Fax: 217-324-2213 wmarion@rollerderbyskates.com www.rollerderby.com

SKATES US, INC. Contact: David Ripp Mailing Address: 415 West Eaton Pike Richmond, IN 47374 Phone: 765-935-7477 Fax: 765-935-7033 david.ripp@skatesUS.com www.SkatesUS.com

SURE GRIP INTERNATIONAL Contact: Jim Ball Mailing Address: 5519 Rawlings Ave South Gate, CA 90280 Phone: 800-344-3331 Fax: 562-923-6965 skates@suregrip.com www.suregrip.com

76 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org

CONNECTIONS ROLLER SKATES & DISTRIBUTORS RC SPORTS INC. Contact: Ronald Creten Mailing Address: 9910 Lakeview Ave Lenexa, KS 66219 Phone: 414-559-1121 Fax: 913-894-5179 ron@rcsports.com www.rcsports.com

SOUTHEASTERN SKATE SUPPLY INC Contact: Glenn Ramsey Jr Mailing Address: PO Box 12448 Roanoke, VA Phone: 800-444-7528 Fax: 540-342-7873 info@seskate.com www.seskate.com

SOUTHEASTERN SKATE SUPPLY #2 Contact: David Ramsey Mailing Address: PO Box 336 Mableton, GA 30126 Phone: 800-241-8060 Fax: 770-944-8589 david@seskate2.com www.seskate.com

ROLLER SPORTS USA ROLLER SPORTS Contact: Richard Hawkins Mailing Address: 4730 South Street Lincoln, NE 68506 Phone: 402-483-7551 Fax: 402-483-1465 rhawkins@usarollersports.org www.usarollersports.org

ROLLER ROO APPAREL SKATERS CHOICE OF FLORIDA Phone: Robert Bentley Mailing Address: 2607 East Olive Rd. Pensacola FL 32514 Phone: 850-478-3994 Fax: 850-478-0590

SKATING APPAREL EXPERT HOSIERY, LLC Contact: Abid Sheikh Mailing Address: 5448 Apex Peakway #115, Apex, NC 27502

www.rollerskating.org

Phone: 919-799-7707 Fax: 919-799-7717 info@experthosiery.com www.funtimefootwear.com

SNACK BAR EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES AUTOFRY/MULTICHEF - MOTION TECHNOLOGY Contact: Bess Wightman Mailing Address: 10 Forbes Road Northborough, MA 01532 Phone: 800-348-2976 Fax: 208-393-5750 bcouture@mtiproducts.com www.MTIproducts.com

GOLD MEDAL PRODUCTS COMPANY Contact: John Evans Mailing Address: 10700 Medallion Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45241 Phone: 800-543-0862 Fax: 800-542-1496 info@gmpopcorn.com www.gmpopcorn.com

PEPSI-COLA COMPANY Contact: Tony Grimes Mailing Address: 7701 Legacy Drive, MD 3A-8/5 Plano, TX 75024 Phone: 972-334-2794 tony.grimes@pepsico.com www.pepsiworld.com

PIZZAOVENS.COM Contact: Jason Dees Mailing Address: PO Box 24886 Lexington, KY 40524 877-3367-6836 jdees@pizzaovens.com www.pizzaovens.com

SOUND SYSTEMS & LIGHTING ACTION LIGHTING Contact: Al Kottwitz Mailing Address: 310 Ice Pond Rd. Bozeman, MT 59715 Phone: 800-248-0076 Fax: 406-585-3078 allan@actionlighting.com www.actionlighting.com

HELIX LEISURE Contact: Ted Parsons Mailing Address: 2015 McKenzie Dr. Suite 106 Carrollton, TX 75006 Phone: 469-521-8000 Fax: 214-260-0976 tedp@embedcard.com www.helixleisure.com

MRB CONTRACTORS

AUDIO LITE Contact: Terry Maxfield Mailing Address: 701 Graham St. Emporia, KS 66801 Phone: 800-255-1015 Fax: 620-342-3338 terry@audiolite.com www.audiolite.com

FROGGY’S FOG Contact: Christopher Markgraf Mailing Address: 302 Rutherford Ln Columbia, TN 38401 Phone: 615-469-4906 sales@froggysfog.com www.froggysfog.com

STAR WHOLESALE LIGHTING AND SOUND Contact: Michael Couey Mailing Address: 55 Thomas Grace Annex Sharpsburg GA 30277 Phone: 678-570-7608 couey18@aol.com

SPECIAL PRODUCTS & SERVICES CONSUMER ENERGY SOLUTIONS, INC.

Contact: Patrick Clouden Mailing Address: 1255 Cleveland St Suite 400 Clearwater, FL 33755 Phone: 866-683-9723 QUIK N’ CRISPY pclouden@cesstaff.com Contact: Paul Artt Mailing Address: 12021 Plano Rd. Suite www.consumerenergysolutions.com 160 GLOBAL ROOFING COMPANY Dallas, TX 75243 Contact: JoB LeRay Phone: 972-669-8993 Mailing Address: 2117 Goliad Circle Fax: 972-669-8990 Frisco, TX 75033 paul@q-n-c.com Phone: 800-257-3758 www.q-n-c.com Fax: 888-614-9559 info@globalroofingcompany.com www.globalroofingcompany.com

Contact: Ivan Garcia Mailing Address: 618 S. Beltline Irving TX 75060 Phone: 972-827-8599 Fax: 216-614-4200 ivan@mrbcg.com www.mrbcontractors.com

ONE SOURCE SOLUTIONS Contact: Don Essary Mailing Address: 213 N. College Ave Newton, NC 28658 828-461-1760 don@trustonesource.com www.trustonesource.com

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND PARKS MAGAZINE Contact: Scott Borowski Mailing Address: 10 Athens Avenue, Ste 208 Ardmore, PA 19003 Phone: 610-645-6940 Fax: 610-645-6943 editortapmag@kanec.com www.tapmag.com

VENDING MACHINES AND COIN-OPERATED GAMES AMERICAN CHANGER Contact: Wayne Snihur Mailing Address: 1400 NW 65th Place Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 Phone: 954-917-3009 info@americanchanger.com www.americanchanger.com

BAY TEK GAMES, INC. Contact: Holly Hampton Mailing Address: 1077 E. Glenbrook Dr Pulaski, WI 54162 Phone: 920-822-3951 sales@baytekgames.com www.baytekgames.com

Volume 26 - Issue 2 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / 77

CONNECTIONS BENCHMARK GAMES

MOSS DISTRIBUTING

Contact: Paula Rinker Mailing Address: 51 Hypoluxo Rd Hypoluxo, FL 33462 Phone: 561-588-5200 Fax: 561-493-2999 prinker@benchmarkgames.com www.benchmarkgames.com

Contact: Terry Moss Mailing Address: 18801 Guthrie Ave. Des Moines, IA 50316 Phone: 515-266-6422 terrymoss@mossdis.com www.mossdis.com

BETSON ENTERPRISES Contact: Brian Murphy Mailing Address: 303 Paterson Plank Road Carlstadt, NJ 7072 Phone: 201-438-1300 Fax: 201-438-7246 bmurphy@betson.com www.betson.com

PLAYER ONE AMUSEMENT GROUP Contact: Bill Freeman Mailing Address: 1920 Center Park Drive Charlotte, NC 28208 P: 386-747-0845 bfreeman@bradydist.com www.winwithp1ag.com

SHAFFER DISTRIBUTING CO. DANDMAT Services

Contact: Paul Jones

Contact: Danny Schutt Mailing Address: 900 McGuire Park St. Ocoee, FL 34761 Phone: 321-231-6411 danny@vendingfloridaco.com www.vendingfloridaco.com

Mailing Address: PO Box 12427 Columbus, OH 43212 Phone: 800-282-0194 Fax: 614-294-1040 pjones@shafferdistributing.com www.shafferdistributing.com

GOLD STANDARD GAMES

THEISEN VENDING CO

Contact: Mark Robbins Mailing Address: 333 Morton St Bay City, MI 48706 Phone: 989-893-1739 Fax: 989-893-1809 info@gold-standard-games.com www.gold-standard-games.com

Contact: Anita Bennett Mailing Address: 2335 Nevada Ave North Golden Valley, MN 55427 Phone: 612-827-5588 Fax: 612-827-7543 anita@theisenvending.com

www.theisenvending.com

WHEEL AND BEARING MANUFACTURERS ANABOLIX SKATE COMPANY Contact: Mike Elsbury Mailing Address: 7304 Atmore Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46217 Phone: 317-903-6172 mkels71@yahoo.com www.anabolixskate.com

VOLCANIC WHEEL Contact: Soo Kim Mailing Address: 1160 North Central Ave #212 Glendale, CA 91202 Phone: 818-547-9900, 547-9600 sookim@volcanicwheel.com www.volcanicwheel.com

WRIST BANDS, TICKETS AND TOKENS HOFFMAN MINT

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SKATE ONE CORP DBA ROLL ONE DISTRIBUTION Contact: Scott Labeda Mailing Address: PO Box 8420 Goleta, CA 93117 Phone: 805-683-4779 Fax: 805-964-0511 isaac@rollone.com www.rollonedist.com

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NATIONAL TICKET COMPANY Contact: Patrick Carter Mailing Address: Po Box 547 Shamokin, PA 17872 Phone: 800-829-0829 Fax: 800-829-0888 pcarter@nationalticket.com www.nationalticket.com

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78 / Roller Skating Business Magazine / Volume 26 - Issue 2 www.rollerskating.org