On Premise September/October 2020

The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 TLW.ORG

Hot on the

ATV Trail

ALSO INSIDE: Not Forgotten— Fighting Through the Pandemic Remembering Conventions Past

PARTNERS -IN PROGRESSHosts of the World’s Largest Dart Tournament & the Nation’s Largest Pool Tournament TAVERN LEAGUE OF WISCONSIN • Co-sponsor of TLW Legislative Day • Underwriter of TLW Video on Jobs and Employment • Provider of Coin-Operated Games at TLW Conferences & Shows to Benefit TIPAC • Sponsor of the TLW Trip Give-away at TLW Spring Conference & Show • Donor of Large Screen TV at TLW Fall Convention & Show

LOCAL TAVERN LEAGUE PROGRAMS (Saferide, Golf, Others) • Contributions and support from individual WAMO members • Matching Funds from WAMO to Tavern League Locals • Contributions to SafeRide Program, Golf and Others • Active Participation and Attendance

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Visit www.WAMO.net for more information.

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WISCONSIN AMUSEMENT & MUSIC OPERATORS PO Box 259506 Madison, WI 53725 608.709.1960 608.824.2205 EMAIL amanda@wamo.net PHONE FAX

A complete list of WAMO members can be found at www.WAMO.net.

The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 VOLUME 38, NO. 5

FEATURES HOT ON THE ATV TRAIL . . . . . . 10 With over 417,000 registered off-road vehicles in Wisconsin, the ATV/UTV business has been good for TLW members.

REMEMBERING CONVENTIONS PAST . . . . . . . . . 14 In lieu of holding the 85th annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show this year, let’s take a trip down memory lane and remember conventions past.

NOT FORGOTTEN. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The Tavern League and ABL continue to fight to support bars and taverns through the pandemic.

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TLW MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD. . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 It’s time to nominate the unsung heroes of the TLW for the Member of the Year Award!

DRIVEN BY SUCCESS. . . . . . . . . 20 Tom Dahlen retires as Tavern League Treasurer after 20 years of passion, hard work and great success.

LEAGUE SPOTLIGHTS LEAGUE PROFILE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Ashland/Bayfield

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . 29 The Stagecoach Bar & Grill and Bay City Cultural Center

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

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Book Across the Bay

MEET THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER. . . . 31 Paul Salzwedel

DEPARTMENTS President’s Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Corporate Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Front Rail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 ABL Dispatch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Legislative Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Accounting on Tap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Corporate Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Featured Affiliates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Affiliate Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Industry Trends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Advertiser Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

SOCIALIZE WITH US:

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PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE TLW IS FIGHTING FOR YOU

B

y the time you are reading this, summer has come and gone, and I can truthfully say that most of us in the industry are saying good riddance! The Covid-19 virus is certainly something that none of us ever thought we would see in our lifetime. Our industry has been impacted like no other in the state of Wisconsin. We were shut down with just three hours notice on St. Patrick’s Day, one of our biggest days of the year.

We then endured almost three months of being closed to the public with only the ability to serve our customers by carryout, and not everyone could take advantage of that leaving them closed completely. We missed three of our biggest holidays of the year. We managed to get our doors open for Memorial Day weekend thanks to the State Supreme Court decision striking down the Governor’s order. The TLW was instrumental in helping to achieve this goal by filing an amicus brief with the Court.

Even before the Stay At Home order was struck down by the Court, the Tavern League manned all battle stations to help keep our members from sinking. It was something that we had never imagined—the complete shutdown of our entire industry. We bar and restaurant owners were staring ruin in the face. I know that I asked myself many a night, “How am I going to pay my bills, pay my employees and keep a roof over my family’s head?” It was an extremely stressful time for every single member.

I may be a bit biased, but I am extremely glad I had the Tavern League of Wisconsin on my side. The TLW swung into action immediately, seeking relief from state and federal government agencies. We wrote to the Governor and his staff seeking guidance and help for our members and putting forth a proposal of how we could serve our customers safely

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while still trying to salvage our business. From Governor Ever’s we heard the resounding sound of SILENCE. We had better luck from the DOR getting relief from credit deadlines and consignment laws. We partnered with many other small business associations and reached out to our federal leadership and voiced our support for national programs like PPP and disaster loans. On a local level many county leagues petitioned their municipalities for discounts on liquor and other local license fees. State leadership and local league leaders went above and beyond to get the word out to all our members about what programs and help whether federal, state or local was available to them and their employees.

The fight for our survival is not over yet, and it unfortunately looks like a long road ahead. Our members in Madison/ Dane County and Milwaukee continue to suffer the most due to restrictive Covid-19 measures by their local health departments. We are continuing to have meetings with the lawmakers from these areas to try and get some relief for these businesses while also doing our best to bring the plight of all our members to their attention.

Relief will be a major focus of the TLW in the new legislative year, and I encourage all of our members to check out our endorsed candidates and talk to them and share your concerns about our future. Above all, get out and vote on November 3. Your vote may make the difference between success and failure for the future of our industry.

Cheers!

Chris Marsicano TLW President

www.tlw.org

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SPECIAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP PLATINUM CLUB MEMBERS 5TH DISTRICT TAVERN LEAGUE OSHKOSH CITY/WINNEBAGO COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE OUTAGAMIE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE PORTAGE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE

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ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LEVELS PLATINUM $1,000 Annual Membership Level GOLD $500 Annual Membership Level SILVER $250 Annual Membership Level For more information on becoming a Special Club Member, call the TLW office at (800) 445-9221.

CENTRAL DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Lori Frommgen

NORTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Jen Gunning

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PAST PRESIDENT Terry Harvath

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On Premise is produced by Nei-Turner Media Group Inc., 400 Broad St., Unit D, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. Gary Nei, Chairman; William Turner, President; Barbara Krause, Publisher.

Printing is by LSC Communications, Pontiac, IL. For advertising information, please contact Cindy Micha, (262) 903-8633, cmicha@ntmediagroup.com. Subscriptions included in TLW membership dues; non-member subscriptions cost $15 per year. Postmaster: Send address corrections to the Tavern League of Wisconsin Office, 2817 Fish Hatchery Rd., Fitchburg, WI 53713-5005. Periodicals postage paid at Madison, WI and other additional offices. ©2020 Tavern League of Wisconsin Inc. Permission to reprint must be secured in advance of publication, and credit given to author and On Premise.

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CORPORATE MEMBERS Support Those Who Support our Association

SUPPORT THOSE WHO

SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION

PLATINUM MEMBERS PLATINUM SPONSORS

2012 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

GOLD MEMBERS GOLD SPONSORS

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Amusement & list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call Make sure to thank these groups for their support andWisconsin encourage others not on the Musicthe Operators, the TLW office (608-270-8591) for more information regarding benefits ofInc. the different categories. Remember “Support those who support us.” www.tlw.org Make sure and thank these groups for their support, and encourage others not on the list to participate. AnySEPTEMBER/OCTOBER business interested in2020 joining should call 7 On Premise the TLW office (608-270-8591) for our brochure that lists the benefits of the different categories. Remember “Support those who support us.” n

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FRONT RAIL MEMBERSHIP-BUILDING IS EVERYONE’S JOB

BY PETE MADLAND, TLW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

T

he TLW is the largest association of beverage licensees in the country. We all know that and we should be proud of that distinction.

But we should not be satisfied. At our high point, we had over 5,000 licensed establishments as members.

Currently, that number is 4,498 — a decline of 10%.

We have suffered through smoking bans and recessions, have seen the rise in the emphasis on healthy living and home entertainment, and now COVID-19. We have to get that 10% back!

Your first reaction is probably: “How do we get new members under these conditions?” I believe we can because I witnessed 206 brand-new members join since March 17.

These are members that never belonged before. They saw the TLW working and fighting for them. They saw the TLW providing volumes of information regarding the pandemic and the financial help that was available. They saw an association keep members educated and current on a daily basis. And they saw an association that invested in a Supreme Court case that opened the doors of their businesses.

Building membership is always a challenge, even in good times.

But with the crisis our industry is facing now, an opportunity presents itself. Let’s take advantage of that opportunity.

As usual, the task falls on our local leaders and members.

Remember a few basic rules: •N o one is unapproachable. Anyone with a Class A, B or C license is a potential member. A list of all of the licenses in your county is available from our office. Remember, the most frequent reason given when challenged why a business never joined the TLW is: “We were never asked.”

• You should have a membership committee already established; if not, establish one. Develop a strategy.

Go out in teams rather than going it alone. Give your recruiters an allowance so they do not have to spend their own money. Maybe provide an incentive for new members who sign up or for the person who signed them up.

•R eview the benefits of belonging to the TLW. Do this at your next meeting. Ask members why they belong or why a nonmember should join. Write these reasons down and learn them. This exercise can remind you of some benefits you may have forgotten and help reinforce your belief in the league.

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This also gives recruiters confidence when they go to talk to new members and can help them overcome objections.

• Anticipate objections. After discussing the “whys” of belonging, talk about reasons not to belong and how to respond to those reasons. Below are a few I would anticipate.

Objection 1: “It costs too much money.”

We have all heard this. The typical response is: “No, it doesn’t; it is only $125,” or “You’re cheap!” Instead of that response, I suggest you say, “You’re right, $125 is a lot of money. You have to sell a lot of beer to make $125.”

Then go on to explain how the TLW can save members money through an association health plan or workers’ compensation. If they serve food, mention the savings on our certified food safety class or online bartending certification. If they use live music, talk about the discounts on music licensing with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) or Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI). While you’re at it, mention Wisconsin has some of the lowest beer and liquor taxes in the country. And last, but not least, use those two dreaded words “dram shop” or “liquor liability.” Does $125 seem like a lot now?

Objection 2: “I can’t make the meetings.”

Agree. Say: “I understand meetings are difficult to make, especially with all of the work people in our business must do.”

Being in the same business creates a source of camaraderie.

Then go on to explain that there is strength in numbers.

They can help strengthen the organization simply by joining.

Their money is well spent in lobbying efforts in Madison and Washington, D.C., and our office is there to help them anytime. Make sure to mention our toll free number and that, even though they cannot attend meetings, they can still get our publications, go to our conventions, use SafeRide (if available) and attend any social events your league may sponsor.

Objection 3: “It will get done anyway.”

H ere you must resist the temptation to physically attack the person and, once again, nod in agreement. Tell them you hope they are right and that it will get done, but the fact is that sometimes we fail. In the future, however, our odds of being 100% successful increases if they join.

So let’s knock on some doors. You may have to educate and, in some cases, reeducate nonmembers. Don’t be discouraged by rejection. It happens. Remember to stay positive and keep in mind whom you are representing. Set a goal and work toward it by encouraging one another. Remember, we are in this together! TLW www.tlw.org

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Hot on the ATV/UTV Trail With over 417,000 registered off-road vehicles in Wisconsin, the ATV/UTV business has been good for TLW members.

By Jen Bradley

W

e’ve all seen the increased number of off-road vehicles in the state in recent years, but 2020 has been record-breaking in this recreational industry. And TLW members aren’t complaining. They are getting creative, working with local and state officials, and making sure these all-terrain and utility vehicle (ATV/UTV) enthusiasts have a place to stop for a drink, sandwich, and just visit with friends and family while out enjoying the Wisconsin trails and routes.

“We have a lot of traffic,” says Richard Winkle, owner of The Old Mill in Arkdale, a small town located off of Highway 21 between Adams-Friendship and Wisconsin Rapids. “We’ve found that the locals love ATVing so much that we have three private property trails going to our bar. The landowners took the time to build and maintain these trails just to make sure all ATVs and UTVs can use them.”

the larger side-by-sides and UTVs,” he adds.

Winkle says that, as a TLW member, it is important for him (and others) to show appreciation, doing some of the hard lifting for the seasonal grooming and maintenance of the trails. “The more we can do, the more we are showing that we respect their property and are grateful for the business,” he adds.

A NEW DEMOGRAPHIC

What started as a recreational trail program for summer trail-riding fun has grown into a year-round, statewide system of trails and road routes for all ages of ATV and UTV enthusiasts. “We have more new people this year than I’ve seen in a long time,” Harden says. “The demographic of who buys these vehicles has also drastically changed.”

Early on, the concern had been that the ATV/UTV group would be young and wild kids drinking beer and making trouble, but with a $20,000 to $30,000 investment per ATV/ UTV, that hasn’t happened. The demographic is older, possibly because the hobby requires insurance, a trailer, something to pull that trailer and money to spend while there, he says.

AMAZING GROWTH This is good news to the drivers of more than 417,000 registered ATVs and UTVs in Wisconsin. It is also good news for the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Association Inc. (WATVA).

WATVA President Randy Harden says that local clubs are thankful for TLW members’ involvement and help spreading messages of safety, accessibility and responsibility.

The recreational vehicle state organization began in the mid-1980s when three- and four-wheelers were just edging into popularity, stemming mainly from farm use. The dealerships thought it would be good to start something similar to the longstanding snowmobile registration program, says Harden. “Fast forward to 2012 and our organization was tasked with figuring out how to include

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Winkle agrees. The ATV/UTV hobby has become popular with families, retirees and those wanting a way to get around that’s easier than a motorcycle.

The UTVs are especially attracting an older population to this adventurous activity. “When you get into a UTV with seatbelts, heaters and air conditioners in the cabs, that causes this demographic to continue to grow,” Harden says.

Winkle says he’s seeing a lot more families feeling like they can bring their kids to the bar for lunch while riding the trails on a weekend. One older gentleman brings his grandkids down to the bar every other day to have lunch while the parents are working. “We’re the cafeteria for them and it’s fun,” he says.

The trails and routes venture through public land, but also navigate by bars and grills, restaurants, campgrounds and gas stations. Many are located in the northern part of the state, but they are becoming more common in the southwest, central and northeast as well. Harden says there are 2,250 miles of dirt trails, 4,000 of winter-only and more than 33,000 miles of legal road routes in Wisconsin when we spoke.

Dan Timmerman, past president of the Grant/Iowa County Tavern League, says his local campground owners have been blown away by the reservations they’ve seen for ATV/UTV enthusiasts. “At first, the guy wasn’t sure he was for it, but now he’s got reservations for the entire summer,” Timmerman explains, saying that even the local car dealership has seen immense growth in sales because of the extra people driving by.

Timmerman encourages TLW members to know and work closely with their local officials as they discuss ATV/UTV trails and routes. An economic impact study from 2013 in Green County revealed that an average trail user spends more than $180 per visit, $60 of that being on food and drink, and another $60 on fuel. The balance was in miscellaneous spending.

Furthermore, engaging local officials has worked well for Langlade County, which recently voted to open all roads to ATVs/UTVs. One tavern owner had a place two miles from the route and wasn’t getting any business, but the others were. “For him, this really works now,” says Harden.

behaving, not littering, and respecting property and people. Winkle explains that the self-regulation can be beneficial in other ways, too, such as knowing who’s coming and going, or if someone has had COVID-19 or are otherwise sick. “If they are, they stay home and don’t go for the group ride,” he says. “As owners, it makes us feel safe because, if there are 20 ATVers coming to our bar, we know they handle their group well by doing internal checks.”

Timmerman has spent a lot of time establishing relationships in the southwest corner of the state, working with the Jamestown township all the way up to the state level, to show the economic opportunity this sport provides when roads are opened to it.

“There were a number of people against having these machines share the road with the rest of traffic, but as a group, we said: ‘We have horses, pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles, farm equipment and husbandry equipment already,’” he says.

The local Department of Natural Resources (DNR) warden and Timmerman drove the town once the ordinance was approved, taking notes of where to put the little green signs. The warden came out again after they were up to verify the setup was correct. This helped bridge relationships, as did the forming of the Grant County ATV/ UTV Alliance, which Timmerman explains holds monthly meetings with 90% of participating townships. “Working with the state legislature to get the speed limits in cities, towns and villages to 35 MPH or less helped allow for the traditionally off-roaders to drive on pavement in more areas,” he admits.

Winkle knows firsthand the value of these customers during a more than challenging year for TLW members. “It’s kept a lot of businesses going,” he says of the ATV/UTV traffic.

KNOW THE RULES The local clubs have been invaluable to the growth and sustainability of this recreational sport. Winkle says they have monthly meetings to go over any new regulations, down to the types of tires these vehicles must have to operate legally on the trails.

“They are very self-regulating,” he says and Timmerman agrees. He says the groups make sure members are www.tlw.org

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Harden says it’s important that everyone knows the rules and that the TLW is helping make this happen, as there are different regulations for the range of users — private, public and farm. “[Bars] are the place people come to socialize, and they can be a presence for the industry and partner with us all.” He adds that many leagues have helped pay for road signs through fundraisers or donations.

BE INVITING Winkle says the ATV/UTV clubs love to go on rides together and interact more than your typical customers. He enjoys seeing the camaraderie between friends and even strangers as they bond over a common love of the outdoors.

Fundraisers and other sponsored events make things more engaging, and he encourages other TLW members to think outside the box when trying to attract the off-road travelers’ business. One he and other Adams County Tavern League members host is called the Connect the County Trail Ride. Visitors go from bar to bar to get stamps, then one bar hosts the end-of-the-night party with a band, prizes and more.

“It’s become a community, it really has. It’s good for tourism, too,” Timmerman says, advising other TLW members to get involved with their local clubs, supporting them in any way possible. “Donate baskets or other items to their charitable events, donate signs for the trails, or go

out as a bar staff and help maintain the trails. The more trails we get open, the better it is for business.”

Harden explains that ATV/UTVers aren’t going to go somewhere they aren’t welcome and says it’s important to make establishments inviting. Some are putting splash stations — a place for riders to dust off — outside or designating special parking areas, so they know where to go that works best for the bar or restaurant.

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www.tlw.org

He says TLW members should remember that, while ATV/ UTV numbers are growing, the impact is staggered. They aren’t visiting all at once in the same area, but “there has to be a way to get there first,” he adds.

The WATVA has registration information, maps, updated regulations and so much more on its website, watva.org.

The TLW is a member of the organization and any business can be one, too, as an associate member. This keeps TLW members up to date on ATV/UTV trails and routes, regulations, legislative news and much more.

The truth is, the TLW and ATV/UTV growth goes hand in hand. According to Harden, “It’s nice to keep the messaging consistent and keep information at businesses these vehicles patronize regularly.”

ENJOY THE RIDE

It’s become a community, it really has.

It’s good for tourism, too ... The more trails we get open, the better it is for business.” — Dan Timmerman, Grant/ Iowa County Tavern League fishing, and then decided, ‘Let’s do this ATV thing.’ And now the dealerships have literally run out of product.”

The dealerships have reported record sales in May, June and July. Since the factories had been shut down for a while as well, production has had to catch up with

When it comes down to it, the ATV/UTV business has been good for TLW members. Many members also participate in the local clubs and enjoy taking a ride with friends.

demand.

There’s no doubt COVID-19 has had a huge, lasting impact on the ATV/UTV industry in Wisconsin. Harden says the dealers closed down in March and April, but when they reopened, “It was like the world had discovered the outdoors,” Harden says. “People were hiking and

has doubled and keeps getting bigger,” Winkle says. He

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“We noticed that, since we’re doing what we’ve done to make our establishment more ATV-friendly, our business sees families coming in for a meal, friends out for a ride and groups on a poker run, and says that this newer kind of traffic is something members should not be afraid of, but instead should embrace.

TLW

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REMEMBERING CONVENTIONS PAST A

fter much debate, the 85th annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show this year has been canceled for the safety of attendees, vendors and Kalahari staff. While the TLW apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause, the association thanks you for your understanding and looks forward to seeing you all at the Spring Conference & Trade Show in Stevens Point. In lieu of holding the Fall Convention & Trade Show this year, however, let’s take a trip down memory lane and remember conventions past. TLW

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NOT FORGOTTEN The Tavern League and ABL continue to fight to support bars and taverns through the pandemic

By Amanda N. Wegner

A

s the coronavirus pandemic continues to challenge both businesses and our way of life, the TLW, along with American Beverage Licensees (ABL), continues to push to support its members, advocate for a level playing field, and help members make sense of the piecemeal regulations blanketing the state and nation.

“At this point, our members and businesses are aware of all of the regulations they have to follow to keep people safe,” says Scott Stenger, TLW lobbyist, “so it’s time to focus on the next phase, the next steps. Through no fault of their own, our members, their businesses and their industry have found themselves at the top of a list of businesses that people have been advised not to frequent (much like airlines). Our businesses are threatened. The airlines didn’t have to wait for a $25 billion bailout, but our small businesses have been largely forgotten at the state and federal level.” Fortunately, the TLW, Stenger and John Bodnovich, executive director of ABL, are working at both the state and national levels to ensure on-premise businesses are not forgotten.

A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD Since the beginning of the pandemic, small businesses, particularly restaurants and taverns, have been at a distinct disadvantage compared to other businesses. For instance, notes Stenger, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans don’t mesh well with the independent owner model that applies to many in this industry, “so a lot of members couldn’t apply.”

Stenger also thinks it’s irresponsible for decision-makers to say “we’re all in this together,” when in reality, that’s not the case. “Decision-makers say we are all in this together, but then they come out and say ‘don’t go to this business or that business,’” says Stenger. “There’s no difference between a gas station or a hardware store full of people and going to the bar. We are all on the same page, but to isolate and scapegoat certain businesses adversely impacts all of us. Our bills haven’t stopped coming. We have rent to pay and still need to put food on the table, so to scapegoat bars, especially in this time, is irresponsible.”

Bodnovich agrees with Stenger’s statement that the “we’re

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all in this together” motto hasn’t been equally applied in regard to regulations and protections for taverns. “We are working to level the playing field with similar businesses. We want to make sure bars are not dinged when restaurants have more privileges. We think it is important that all hospitality businesses are on a level playing field so they all have an even chance” of making it a go in the COVID-19 economy.

Bodnovich has seen this play out in places like Ohio, Alabama and Puerto Rico, where arbitrary closing times and alcohol sales times have been set with no scientific support. “There needs to be some basis for these determinations, not just picking on bars and taverns,” says Bodnovich.

He encourages members to ask a lot of questions, both to know what they should be aware of and to determine why regulating agencies are doing what they are. This includes filing Freedom of Information Act requests to get to the bottom of what coronavirus contact tracing is showing — the actual numbers and data. “If there is no data, why has the policy been made and why are things the way they are?” asks Bodnovich.

That said, the Tavern League is ready to take a stand.

“We aren’t going to take it,” says Stenger. “We are going to stand up and represent our membership. We want a response. We want them to give us the resources they have given to other businesses to help them get through.”

He adds: “This doesn’t just affect our members and our businesses, but our employees, our customers, local economies and local charities. For instance, if there aren’t local businesses around to raise money for charity, that leaves a void that can’t be filled. All these things are connected.”

But the Tavern League can’t make those connections www.tlw.org

alone. Members are critical to making the TLW’s message heard and effective. “The stories that our members tell local, state and federal decision-makers can make the difference. No one can tell the story better than our members. To be able to communicate what they need to get through this pandemic is going to be so important,” according to Stenger.

He encourages members to reach out to their elected officials however possible, whether that’s by a personal conversation, email or phone call. “They need to hear what we need from us. They hear it through me and the Tavern League leadership, but they need to hear the voice of the local business owner as well.”

To help simplify those conversations, the TLW offers a tool through its website that connects members with their legislators. “All you have to do is get on the website, click on the issue, put in their address, write a message and hit send,” says Stenger. “We make it as easy as possible.”

The Tavern League also sends out emails to members when a legislative item comes up for action. Just sign up to join the mailing list on the Government Affairs page of the Tavern League website, tlw.org.

ABL PIVOTS TO ADVOCATE FOR MEMBERS ON THE NATIONAL LEVEL ABL has “pivoted hard” to help members navigate the COVID-19 crisis. “Starting in mid-March, the world turned upside down for bar and tavern owners,” says Bodnovich. “We still have our traditional issues, but we’ve shifted to help businesses succeed in the time of coronavirus.”

Early projections, says Bodnovich, have shown that 10% to 20% of on-premise businesses nationwide could fail because of COVID. Fortunately, those projections haven’t come true. “We haven’t hit those numbers, but we are constantly evaluating what we can do to help members stay in business,” he says.

However, Bodnovich is concerned that, with the uptick in cases and without further federal assistance, the problems are going to continue to mount for TLW members, and he is working to curb that.

In fact, ABL is currently working on federal policy and

COVID-19 relief bills to ensure terms are acceptable to its members. This includes advocating with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and U.S. Small Business Administration, urging that bars and taverns have equal access to emergency loans, and that the terms are as agreeable and beneficial as possible.

The association is also working on options to help establishments get compensated for perishable foods and beverages. “With nearly 100 days in shutdown, establishments lost perishable food and beer went out of code,” explains Bodnovich. “We are working to see if we can get a tax credit for those who may have lost beer.”

From a legal perspective, ABL is also working on liability issues as they relate to COVID-19. Bars and taverns continue to adapt to safely provide for their communities, including keeping workers employed and the American economy afloat. “But beverage licensees are concerned that, despite doing their best to follow applicable government guidelines, they will be forced to defend against an onslaught of frivolous COVID-19-related lawsuits,” says Bodnovich.

Because the consequent exorbitant legal costs for those lawsuits could deter bars and taverns from reopening, and could ultimately cripple businesses, ABL is supporting the Safe to Work Act, which would safeguard businesses against unfair lawsuits so they can continue to contribute to a safe and effective economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The protections in this legislation, adds Bodnovich, are limited in duration and scope, though. They are not permanent changes to federal law. “Furthermore, they allow states to provide additional protections if they so choose and, critically, preserve reasonable recourse for those harmed by truly bad actors.”

ADAPTING TO THE PANDEMIC The patchwork of regulations across the nation reflects that there is no single solution to conquering COVID-19.

And there is also no quick recovery in sight. “We are not going to get away from this piecemeal approach to COVID,” says Bodnovich. “With no national roadmap, that makes the role that the TLW plays more important.

That makes the voice of the owner in Wisconsin more

“The stories that our members tell local, state and federal decision-makers can make the difference. No one can tell the story better than our members. To be able to communicate what they need to get through this pandemic is going to be so important.”

— Scott Stenger, Tavern League www.tlw.org

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“With no national roadmap, that makes the role that the TLW plays more important.

That makes the voice of the owner in Wisconsin more relevant. Now, more than ever, this is the time to be unified as so many businesses fight for their lives.”

— John Bodnovich, American Beverage Licensees

“Persistence and working to get through this will pay dividends,” adds Stenger. “There is hope after this, and we can’t underestimate the willingness of our friends and neighbors to get us through.”

Another recommendation is to keep up to date with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Bodnovich says, “CDC guidelines serve as a good roadmap. Are we keeping it clean? Are we managing the business in a safe way as recommended by the CDC? It is the authority on infectious diseases and most businesses, whether a tavern, bar, liquor store, flower shop or any Main Street business, should be looking to those guidelines.”

Bodnovich offers a few recommendations for doing just that. One is to keep an eye on what is happening in surrounding states: “That is a signal of what may be coming next for Wisconsin,” he says. “Oftentimes, local elected leaders look to neighboring states to help make decisions.”

Stenger echoes Bodnovich’s point on safety. “Our members are doing this statewide and doing it safely, and the numbers back that up. Customers will come if they feel they can be in an establishment safely … The public needs to buy in that it’s safe.”

relevant. Now, more than ever, this is the time to be unified as so many businesses fight for their lives.”

VetsRoll extends a heartfelt THANK YOU to the Tavern League of WI Members and Your Customers Your belief and support of our program has allowed us to provide CLOSURE*GRATITUDE*RESPECT to more than 2,000 American heroes, since 2010!!

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www.tlw.org

A final piece of advice from Bodnovich is to work through the right channels, and abide by laws and regulations.

“We encourage members to be law-abiding, and to work through the proper channels to change those laws and regulations they don’t agree with. We don’t want you to go out of business and lose your license.”

Stenger adds an important piece of advice as well: “Listen to customers to get to know what they care about,” says Stenger. “Cater to their concerns. And those concerns are not the same everywhere; northern Wisconsin has a different take on this than Dane County,” for example.

While there’s no roadmap and plenty of frustration, there is one constant — the Tavern League.

“This association has been around for over 80 years. It’s seen good times and bad times,” says Stenger. “The basic purpose of having an association really boils down to situations like this, so that we can be a collective voice for our members and deliver results for that membership, be that at the state or local level. Rest assured we will fight like hell to deliver results for your business. These are the dark times, the bad times, but we will deliver a return to good times for our members and do all we can to work with the Legislature to accomplish our goals.” TLW

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Tavern League Government Affairs tlw.org/government-affairs CDC considerations for restaurants and bars www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ organizations/business-employers/bars-restaurants.html ABL COVID-19 resources https://ablusa.org/resources/covid-19/

www.tlw.org

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DRIVEN BY SUCCESS

Tom Dahlen retires as Tavern League Treasurer after 20 years of passion, hard work and great success.

By Jen Bradley

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fter 20 years of service to the TLW, State Treasurer Tom Dahlen is stepping down and one thing is for sure — he will not be forgotten. “I can remember Tom longer than I can remember,” jokes Gene Loose, TLW member, and owner of Gene and Helen’s Bar in Potter. “He will truly be missed.”

Dahlen moved to central Wisconsin from Racine in 1982, wanting to provide a better life for his son, reports his wife, Nancy. (The couple wed in July 1993.) “I don’t know if he threw a dart or what, but here’s where he landed,” she says.

Passionate about community and helping out, it didn’t take long for Dahlen to get himself acquainted with the area and local business owners. That included joining the Tavern League as soon as he bought his bar. “I think he joined almost the same day he purchased the bar. He had 36 years in business and the Tavern League,” according to Nancy. “It’s something he feels strongly about. You have to do all you can to help yourself in the industry.”

That included taking on leadership roles with both the Clark County Tavern League and the state organization. In fact, Dahlen held every position with Clark County and, in 1996, he was elected District 7 director, a position he held until 2001 when he became state treasurer. “He is driven to succeed. He watches others, gets ideas on how to make money, then blows them up and tries to make them bigger,” Nancy says.

One such idea was the state calendar raffle, which he started in 1998. Over the last 22 years, that raffle alone has raised more than $1.5 million for the TLW. “The calendar raffle is such a moneymaker,” confirms Nancy. “He’d see places always having raffles for the schools or parks, and he set his mind to making that work for the Tavern League. It was a lot of work, but he never saw it as a burden.”

“He is always willing to do the work, comes up with good ideas and then goes the extra step,” Dawn Burkhardt of

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Withee’s Midway Bar and Clark County Tavern League president says of what she’ll miss about Dahlen.

Tavern League members won’t just miss Dahlen’s drive to succeed, but his financial savvy as well. “He was such an expert on the financials,” says Loose.

Terry Harvath, past state president and owner of Appleton’s Wishing Well, agrees. “He was such an asset when it came to business matters and making the most of our finances.”

And in an industry that tends to attract fiery personalities, Dahlen also brought a calm, levelheaded demeanor that could set others at ease, which was noted by many. “I really appreciate how he doesn’t get bent out of shape about the little things,” says Burkhardt. “There is always a sense of control” when he is around.

“He is one of the most levelheaded guys I know; he’ll listen to someone’s opinion on something and never blow up,” Harvath concurs. “He would always think first before he spoke — that is a great asset. There’s not a lot of people like that in this industry.”

Dahlen sold his bar, Tommy’s Hilltop Tavern in Granton, in 2018. Tom and Nancy say they are looking forward to spending time with their family, including six children and 14 grandchildren, at their home in Florida during retirement.

But for as much as Tavern League leaders and members will miss Tom and Nancy Dahlen, they will miss their Tavern League family as well. “He will miss the people part of Tavern League,” echoes Nancy. “He already does, but it’s time to move in a different direction.” TLW www.tlw.org

MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD THE TLW MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD

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t’s time to nominate the unsung heroes of the TLW for the Member of the Year Award! We all know someone who is organizing fundraisers, donating time to help community initiatives get off the ground or making food for an event that supports local friends, and then says, “It’s no big deal!”

Who are the people in your circle that work tirelessly, care endlessly, and deserve to be recognized for all their dedication and hard work?

TLW President Chris Marsicano says he would love to see more Member of the Year nominations sent in this year.

He needs your help and is hoping to see many new names come across his desk from the general TLW membership — those who give their time and money to their communities quietly, but deserve recognition for all they do.

“This award doesn’t have to be for someone who sits on a board of directors. It is for anyone,” he emphasizes. “We’re looking for the ordinary person who is often overlooked, gives above and beyond, and finds time to help those who are less fortunate.”

The Member of the Year Award is a decades-long tradition at the TLW. Marsicano says that, in the last few years, board members won and, while that’s excellent and they are deserving, he really wants the general membership to submit names and recommend their peers for this esteemed award.

Traditionally, the award is given at the annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show, but with the cancellation this year, Marsicano says he will personally deliver the award to the winner, who will be photographed and featured in the November/December issue of On Premise.

The printed nomination form is available below. The deadline for nominations is October 14. Please send submissions to Marsicano at c.marsicano@yahoo.com or by mail to The Village Supper Club at 1725 S. Shore Drive, Delavan, WI 53115.

Marsicano is also welcoming phone calls at (262) 745-4043.

“I enjoy recognizing members that dedicate themselves to giving back,” he says. “I hope this encourages members to look across the bar (or table) at those people who do so much for their communities and deserve an extra pat on the back.” TLW

Member of the Year Name Business City, State, Zip Local League Please state why you feel this person should receive the TLW Member of the Year Award.

(Attach additional information and supporting documentation if necessary.)

Your Information: Name Local League Phone Number

Date

Thank you for submitting this entry. Please return to the TLW office: 2817 Fish Hatchery Rd., Fitchburg, WI 53713 • Deadline is October 14, 2020 www.tlw.org

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ABL Dispatch — The Latest Industry News from Washington

BY JOHN BODNOVICH, ABL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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e have now crossed the five-month mark since the unofficial start of COVID-19 business closures devastated so many onpremise businesses in states across the country. Wisconsin’s neighbor to the south, Illinois, saw its bars and taverns closed for 100 days. While other states were closed for shorter periods of time, some are reopening more slowly than others, putting a strain on bars, taverns, restaurants and other hospitality businesses that have been scraping and clawing to stay in business.

There also seems to be a lot of arbitrary policymaking in states now, as governors, mayors and other officials grapple with how to slow coronavirus spread. Unfortunately, bars, taverns and restaurants find themselves in the crosshairs of many of these decisionmakers who are trying to “do something” — even if it is not based on any scientific evidence — to avoid the suggestion that they aren’t doing anything about COVID-19.

This is leading to a patchwork of alcohol restrictions that are driving a stake through the heart of on-premise businesses everywhere. In Alabama, for example, bars cannot serve alcohol after 11 p.m. In Ohio, the cutoff is 10 p.m. In Puerto Rico, it is 7 p.m., even though food service is allowed until 10 p.m.

The random nature of these regulations makes it challenging to create a uniform response or strategy. Some bars and their associations are turning to the courts and filing lawsuits to reopen with larger capacities, regular hours or indoor service.

Others are working with state lawmakers to forge a path toward financial viability, supporting legislation that would allow them to regain a foothold. Public relations efforts also continue.

Licensees point to limited (and nonuniform) contact tracing across the states as problematic when making policies that include sweeping limitations on bars. Without accurate and scientific data, and the public disclosure of that data, it is unclear what states are basing policy decisions on. And despite some bad actors, it appears from compliance check reports that the majority of bars are abiding state laws and regulations for social distancing and public health guidelines to prevent COVID-19 spread, including following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considerations.

ABL continues to gather and share information with members, the public and policymakers, so that bars and taverns can

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reopen as soon as possible, and under reasonable modifications to save state economies and small businesses.

COVID-19 – PHASE 4 RELIEF The last two months have been notable for what has not happened in Washington. Specifically, the House, Senate and administration have yet to coalesce around an additional COVID-19 relief package. The Senate left Washington the second week of August and will not return until after Labor Day. Earlier in August, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer stated that — without a vote on a COVID relief package — the House of Representatives won’t reconvene until September 14 (though it now appears Speaker Nancy Pelosi may call the House back to vote only on United States Postal Service legislation).

Unfortunately, with Congress home and focusing on political activities for the next few weeks, the best-case scenario for a COVID-19 deal is in September. Complicating matters is the need for Congress to pass legislation to fund the government before current funding runs out at the end of the fiscal year on September 30. There is now discussion about combining the two priorities and if that bill would be more of a collection of COVID-19 policy priorities as opposed to an expansive relief measure.

For those keeping score at home, the Democrat-led House passed the $3 trillion Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act (H.R. 6800) on May 15.

The Republican-led Senate introduced the $1 trillion Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection and Schools (HEALS) Act on July 27. The Senate bill is intended to be a starting point for Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and the White House in negotiations with the House.

Phase 4 relief is to serve as follow-up legislation to the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was enacted on March 27. Republican priorities for Phase 4 legislation include cutting unemployment benefits, providing tax cuts and assuring liability protections for businesses. Democrats are focused on extending jobless aid, providing rental and mortgage assistance, and bolstering election security.

COVID-19 – STANDALONE BILLS & ISSUES Though the larger COVID bills have captured the attention of the national media, individual policy pieces are important markers of industry priorities, and are being worked on by ABL and other trade associations: • Real Economic Support that Acknowledges Unique Restaurant Assistance Needed to Survive (RESTAURANTS) Act (H.R. 7197; S.R. 4012) – This legislation, which has www.tlw.org

the support of the National Restaurant Association and the Independent Restaurant Coalition, would create a $120 billion grant program for eating and drinking establishments with annual revenues of less than $1.5 million. It has bipartisan support in both houses, with 27 Senators and 177 House members cosponsoring the bill.

• Safe to Work Act (S. 4317) – This bill would establish a temporary exclusive federal cause of action for personal injury and medical liability claims arising from actual, alleged, feared or potential exposure to the coronavirus between December 2019 and October 2024. It would govern any claim against nearly any defendant; preempt state laws, including common law, that more easily allow claims arising from coronavirus exposure; and require that plaintiffs satisfy each element of their claim by clear and convincing evidence. Defendants would not be liable if they undertook reasonable efforts to comply with applicable mandatory coronavirus standards and regulations in effect at the time of the alleged exposure.

• Perishable Food & Beverages – ABL and 18 other national trade groups are uniting together under the banner of the Perishable Food and Beverage Coalition (PFBC), and are seeking relief for businesses that have suffered a loss to their food and beverage inventory as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic with a targeted, onetime business tax credit for unmerchantable inventory.

The tax credit would provide relief for small businesses faced with imminent and permanent closure; help ensure greater financial certainty; assist with employee retention; and bring financial relief to affected businesses.

• Supporting America’s Restaurant Workers Act (S.4319) – This legislation would temporarily increase the business meal deduction from 50% to 100% for expenses for food and beverages provided by a restaurant through December 31, 2020. ABL is working with the American Distilled Spirits Alliance to support this legislation.

• Continuing Small Business Recovery and Paycheck Protection Program (CSBRPPP) Act (S.4321) – This bill would expand small business access to the proposed PPP second draw by changing the eligibility requirement that businesses must demonstrate a gross revenue reduction of at least 50%.

• PPP Loan Forgiveness – ABL is joining other likeminded trade associations to make clear to Congress that loan forgiveness under the PPP should be tax-free as intended in the CARES Act. By making this clear in future COVID-19 relief legislation, Congress would be restoring congressional intent and avoiding a surprise $100 billion tax hike on millions of Main Street businesses.

• Jumpstarting our Businesses’ Success (JOBS) Credit Act of 2020 (H.R. 6776) – This legislation would provide businesses with a financial incentive to keep employees on the payroll when their operations are suspended due to COVID-19-related forced closures or when their gross receipts significantly declined compared to last year.

www.tlw.org

DIETARY GUIDELINES FOR MODERATE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION On Aug. 13, ABL submitted comments opposing the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) recommendation that the federal government change longstanding guidance on moderate consumption of alcohol, recommending the daily guideline for men be reduced from up to two drinks per day to up to one drink per day.

From the comments, “ABL and its members are committed to the responsible sale and service of alcohol products to legal consumers. Retail beverage licensees are trained professionals.

They have built their businesses and customer service around established guidance on moderate consumption of alcohol, including the recommended daily guideline of up to two drinks per day for men and to up to one drink per day for women.

This approach has worked well, and provides consumers and industry alike with simple, commonsense parameters for moderate alcohol consumption.”

ABL CALLS FOR END OF TARIFFS ON ALCOHOL ABL joined with 16 other alcohol industry trade associations to submit comments to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in opposition to the U.S. government’s proposal to impose tariffs on distilled spirits, wine and beer imported from the European Union and the United Kingdom. From the comments, “Beverage alcohol sectors on both sides of the Atlantic have suffered enough. These tariffs are exacerbating the incredible burden hospitality businesses are experiencing with the widespread closures of bars and restaurants due to COVID-19.”

Since October 18, 2019, the U.S. has imposed a 25% tariff on imports of single malt scotch whisky; single malt Irish whiskey from northern Ireland; liqueurs and cordials from Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom; and certain wines from France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom.

ABL SPEAKS AT MUSIC LICENSING WORKSHOP ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich was featured as a speaker at a Department of Justice (DOJ) virtual public workshop on July 29, wherein music licensing stakeholders discussed competition in the licensing of public performance rights in the music industry. ABL shared the views of beverage licensees who purchase licenses from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) and Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI), and the implications for antitrust law enforcement of music distribution should the consent decrees for those two entities be terminated or modified.

ABL and other likeminded organizations recently submitted comments to the DOJ on the matter, echoing the observations expressed by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, who noted, “The antitrust protections of the decrees have allowed businesses to innovate and expand music offerings, which has generated greater revenue for songwriters.” In the same letter, he also pointed out that “the American consumer currently enjoys the world’s most vibrant music market” and that the “current market is functioning rather well.”TLW ABL is the voice of America’s beer, wine and spirits retailers in Washington, D.C. ABL represents the TLW and its many members, as well as thousands of other on- and off-premise retailers of beverage alcohol across the United States.

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LEGISLATIVE NOTES 2020 FALL ELECTION PREVIEW

BY SCOTT STENGER, STENGER GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

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ll of Wisconsin’s 99 state Assembly seats are up this fall, along with 16 of the 33 state Senate seats. Aside from the presidential election, Wisconsin will not have a statewide election this year. All eight Congressional Districts will have a contested race. Due to incumbents (I) not running again, the state Senate will have at least eight new members next year and the Assembly will have 13. Republicans currently hold comfortable majorities in both, with a 18-13 advantage in the state Senate (with two vacancies) and a 63-36 advantage in the state Assembly.

It is critical we continue to be able to work with legislators who listen to the concerns and interests of small business owners in their district. The election is fast approaching — November 3 — so be sure to educate your family, friends, employees and patrons to vote for TLW endorsed candidates!

TLW ENDORSED CANDIDATES IN BOLD - VOTE NOV. 3 1st Congressional District • Bryan Steil (R-I) • Roger Polack (D)

14th Senate District • Joni Anderson (D) • Joan Ballweg (R)

6th Assembly District • Gary Tauchen (R-I) • Richard Sarnwick (D)

21st Assembly District • Jessie Rodriguez (R-I) • Erik Brooks (D)

2nd Congressional District • Mark Pocan (D-I) • Peter Theron (R)

16th Senate District • Melissa Sargent (D) • Scott Barker (R)

7th Assembly District • Daniel Riemer (D-I)

22nd Assembly District • Janel Brandtjen (R-I)

3rd Congressional District • Ron Kind (D-I) • Derrick Van Orden (R)

18th Senate District • Daniel Feyen (R-I) • Aaron Wojciechowski (D)

8th Assembly District • Sylvia Ortiz-Velez (D) • Angel Sanchez (R)

23rd Assembly District • Jim Ott (R-I) • Deb Andraca (D)

4th Congressional District • Gwen Moore (D-I) • Tim Rogers (R) • Robert Raymond (I)

20th Senate District • Duey Stroebel (R-I)

9th Assembly District • Marisabel Cabrera (D-I) • Veronica Diaz (R)

24th Assembly District • Dan Knodl (R-I) • Emily Siegrist (D)

22nd Senate District • Bob Wirch (D)

10th Assembly District • David Bowen (D-I)

24th Senate District • Patrick Testin (R-I) • Paul Piotrowski (D)

11th Assembly District • Dora Drake (D) • Orlando Owens (R)

25th Assembly District • Paul Tittl (R-I) • Kerry Trask (D)

26th Senate District • Kelda Helen Roys (D)

12th Assembly District • Lakeisha Myers (D-I) • Ozell Cox (R)

5th Congressional District • Tom Palzewicz (D) • Scott Fitzgerald (R) 6th Congressional District • Jessica King (D) • Glenn Grothman (R-I) 7th Congressional District • Tom Tiffany (R-I) • Tricia Zunker (D) 8th Congressional District • Mike Gallagher (R-I) • Amanda Stuck (D) 2nd Senate District • Robert Cowles (R-I) 4th Senate District • Lena Taylor (D-I) 6th Senate District • LaTonya Johnson (D-I) • Alciro Deacon (R) 8th Senate District • Alberta Darling (R-I) • Neal Plotkin (D) 10th Senate District • Patty Schachtner (D-I) • Robert Stafsholt (R) 12th Senate District • Ed Vocke (D) • Mary Felzkowski (R)

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28th Senate District • Adam Murphy (D) • Julian Bradley (R) 30th Senate District • Jonathon Hansen (D) • Eric Wimberger (R) 32nd Senate District • Brad Pfaff (D) • Dan Kapanke (R) 1st Assembly District • Joel Kitchens (R-I) • Kim Jensen (D) 2nd Assembly District • Shae Sortwell (R-I) • Mark Kiley (D) 3rd Assembly District • Ron Tusler (R-I) • Emily Voight (D) 4th Assembly District • David Steffen (R-I) • Kathy Hinkfuss (D) 5th Assembly District • Jim Steineke (R-I)

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26th Assembly District • Terry Katsma (R-I) • Mary Donohue (D) 27th Assembly District • Tyler Vorpagel (R-I)

13th Assembly District • Rob Hutton (R-I) • Sarah Rodriguez (D)

28th Assembly District • Gae Magnafici (R-I) • Kim Butler (D)

14th Assembly District • Robyn Vining (D-I) • Bonnie Lee (R)

29th Assembly District • John Calabrese (D) • Clint Moses (R)

15th Assembly District • Joe Sanfelippo (R-I) • Jessica Katzenmeyer (D)

30th Assembly District • Shannon Zimmerman (R-I) • Sarah Yacoub (D)

16th Assembly District • Kalan Haywood (D-I) • Dennis Walton (I)

31st Assembly District • Amy Loudenbeck (R-I) • Elizabeth Lochner-Abel (D)

17th Assembly District • Supreme Moore Omokunde (D) • Abie Eisenbach (R)

32nd Assembly District • Tyler August (R-I) • Katharine Gaulke (D)

18th Assembly District • Evan Goyke (D-I)

33rd Assembly District • Cody Horlacher (R-I) • Mason Becker (D)

19th Assembly District • Jonathan Brostoff (D-I) • Helmut Frtiz (R)

34th Assembly District • Rob Swearingen (R-I) • Kirk Bangstad (D)

20th Assembly District • Christine Sinicki (D-I) www.tlw.org

35th Assembly District • Tyler Ruprecht (D) • Calvin Callahan (R)

56th Assembly District • David Murphy (R-I) • Diana Lawrence (D)

79th Assembly District • Dianne Hesselbein (D-I) • Victoria Fueger (R)

90th Assembly District • Kristina Shelton (D) • Drew Kirsteatter (R)

36th Assembly District • Jeffery Mursau (R)

57th Assembly District • Lee Snodgrass (D) • Eric Beach (R)

80th Assembly District • Sondy Pope (D) • Chase Binnie (R)

91st Assembly District • Jodi Emerson (D-I) • Charles Walker (R)

58th Assembly District • Rick Gundrum (R-I)

81st Assembly District • Dave Considine (D-I) • David Dahlke (R)

92nd Assembly District • Treig Pronschinske (R-I) • Amanda WhiteEagle (D)

82nd Assembly District • Ken Skowronski (R-I) • Jacob Malinowski (D) • Marc Ciske (I)

93rd Assembly District • Warren Petryk (R-I) • Charlene Warner (D)

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ACCOUNTING ON TAP PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM LOAN FORGIVENESS

BY DAN BERGS, CPA

P

aycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans have been one of the hottest topics for small businesses over recent months. There have been many changes to the legislation and, since this article was written in mid-August, there could very well be changes to the rules before the article is even published. It is noteworthy, however, that the changes made to the loan program have become more favorable to businesses.

These PPP loans were issued to small businesses to help alleviate the significant economic impacts of COVID-19. They were designed to help cover a couple months of payroll and facility costs, including employee wages, health/dental/vision insurance, employer retirement plan contributions, state unemployment tax, utilities, rent and interest on mortgage obligations.

Recipients of these loans now have 24 weeks to spend the funds they receive. Initially, it was eight weeks, but that was expanded in early June. Most recipients spent their loan funds in less than the 24-week period and are approaching the time to complete the forgiveness application. Many advisors are currently recommending on waiting to see if Congress allows automatic forgiveness for loans under a certain dollar amount ($150,000, for example). There is nothing passed as of midAugust, but pay close attention to this as it could save you paperwork down the road when submitting the forgiveness application.

Here are some other recommendations and considerations for the PPP loan forgiveness applications: 1. If you have used all of the loan funds on qualifying wages for payroll, then it may be easier to just use payroll wages when submitting the application, while skipping other qualifying expenses that may require more work to obtain, like utilities, mortgage interest or rent, for instance.

2. The paperwork submitted for forgiveness needs to be retained for a period of six years. As a best practice, businesses should save this in their permanent business files and can request their advisors to save it in their client files as well.

3. Communication with your banker is key to making sure you have an understanding of the bank’s process for loan forgiveness applications.

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Pay attention to future legislation that may ease the burden on submitting forgiveness applications.

4. If you have reduced your employees’ hourly pay rate or salary rate by over 25%, the full loan may not be forgiven.

If you have paid employees $20 per hour and reduced pay to $10 per hour, for example, you’re likely going to have limitations on your loan forgiveness.

5. I f your employee headcount has been reduced, then you may also have a limitation on the amount of loan forgiveness. This rule has changed a lot, so make sure to contact your advisors when preparing the loan forgiveness application. Some exceptions to the reduction include: reductions related to an employee who rejected a good-faith, written offer to rehire; reductions related to an employee who was fired for cause, voluntarily resigned, or voluntarily requested and received a reduction in hours; and reductions made between Feb. 15 and April 26, 2020 that were reversed by Dec. 31, 2020.

6. Y our loan forgiveness amount cannot be reduced based on headcount reductions if your business was unable to operate between Feb. 15, 2020 and the end of your loan forgiveness covered period at the same level as before Feb. 1, 2020 due to compliance with certain federal requirements or guidance issued between March 1 and Dec. 31, 2020 related to maintaining standards of sanitation, social distancing, or other work or customer safety requirements related to COVID-19.

These PPP loans have helped keep many businesses afloat during the pandemic. Pay attention to future legislation that may ease the burden on submitting forgiveness applications.

Best of luck to all the businesses navigating through these challenging times. TLW Dan Bergs, CPA, is a supervisor in the tax and business services department with Wegner CPAs LLP. The firm has offices in Madison, Baraboo, Waukesha and Janesville. This article is not intended to give complete tax advice, but a general review of subject matter. For more information, please contact Bergs at (608) 442-1986 or dan.bergs@wegnercpas.com. www.tlw.org

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT KWIK TRIP INC.

A

Midwestern household name, Kwik Trip Inc. became a corporate sponsor of the TLW for the first time in 2020, the same year as its 55th anniversary. “We are honored and excited to be a sponsor of the TLW, and did so to provide support to an industry that invests significantly in the communities it serves, while generating a broad economic impact in the form of jobs, tax base and charitable contributions,” says David Ring, community relations manager for Kwik Trip.

Ring says that Kwik Trip as a whole shares some legislative priorities with the TLW, and looks forward to utilizing the TLW’s legislative tools and resources to address public policy issues affecting both organizations at the local and state levels of government.

The well-known Kwik Trip brand was founded in 1965 with its first store in Eau Claire. The family-owned business, now run by the second and third generations of the Don and LaVonne Zietlow family, owns and operates over 720 convenience stores, employs over 27,000 co-workers, and serves 8.5 million guests per week in 350 communities located in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.

Ring says the Zietlow family is generous and caring, sharing 40% of Kwik Trip’s pretax profits with all co-workers through annual bonuses. The company’s corporate support center, production, distribution, transportation, food safety laboratory and health center facilities are all located in La Crosse.

and community more effectively than anyone else by treating our customers, co-workers and suppliers as we, personally, would like to be treated and to make a difference in someone’s life.” It is very similar to the TLW’s. “Both organizations focus on providing excellent customer service, giving back and serving others, and investing in its organization’s and community’s greatest asset — its people,” Ring says.

And Kwik Trip is growing. On July 29, 2020, the company announced that it would acquire the assets of Stop-N-Go stores, a family-owned, Madison-based company that operates 36 convenience stores in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Ring says the company plans to retain the Stop-N-Go brand for many stores, although some larger stores will be remodeled and rebranded as Kwik Trip. The acquisition is scheduled to close by mid-December 2020.

In addition, Kwik Trip will be hiring more than 3,000 people for either full- or part-time employment as a result of the expansion of its fresh-food options and the Stop-N-Go stores acquisition.

“Kwik Trip extends its sincere thanks to the TLW, its 5,000 members and 70 local leagues throughout Wisconsin for the critical economic role they play in the communities they serve, the excellent and lifesaving SafeRide Program, and the $16 million the TLW and its members donated to over 12,000 Wisconsin charities in 2019,” Ring says. “The TLW and its members are true servant leaders, game-changers and difference-makers!” TLW KWIK TRIP INC.

La Crosse, Wisconsin kwiktrip.com

“By owning and operating our own dairy, bakery, kitchens, distribution center and transportation fleet, Kwik Trip is able to produce, transport, stock and sell 80% of its own products,” Ring explains. He says this process is called vertical integration, and allows the company to generate cost savings and efficiencies, while also providing daily deliveries of fresh products to the stores.

“We source the ingredients for our company-made products from local and regional farms and suppliers in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. We are a company whose ‘culture of caring’ for its co-workers, guests and communities is what defines and differentiates us,” he adds.

Kwik Trip’s mission statement is: “To serve our customers www.tlw.org

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LEAGUE PROFILE ASHLAND/BAYFIELD TAVERN LEAGUE

T

ucked along the northernmost edge of the state, the Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League serves about 78 members.

Founded in the 1970s, the league has almost always been a joint endeavor.

“People here hopped on right away,” Dan Doman, president of the Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League and owner of The Snug in Washburn, says of the league’s founding.

But it wasn’t always that way. When past president Nancy Sztyndor returned to the area about six years ago, she was vital to reinvigorating the local league. “Shortly after I got in, I was voted as president. We did a lot of membership drives to build up the league. We had a secretary, but we didn’t have a treasurer or a coordinator for SafeRide — we had to fill those positions. We got a lot of people involved and we’re healthy.”

The league also began taking a more active role in the community. “We do quite a bit for the community,” confirms Sztyndor, who owns Ashland’s Stagecoach Bar & Grill and Bay City Cultural Center, affectionately known as Bohemian Hall. “We’ve had a lot more going on in the last five years than we had been doing.”

She estimates that the Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League supports more than 50 charities in the area. With the pandemic, the league’s fundraising has slowed or been canceled, however, which will affect charitable giving this year.

Like most leagues across the state, the Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League is struggling in the face of the current pandemic, but the league continues to work to support its members and the citizens of its representative counties.

While it postponed its annual fundraising raffles, the organization is moving ahead with its annual pub run.

Everyone in the league is included on a pamphlet that participants take to member bars to obtain a stamp.

Participants who secure at least 35 stamps are put into a drawing for $1,000. Participants who get a stamp from

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every bar are put into an additional drawing for prizes.

Participants can also band together with a partner on the effort.

“This is the one we kept,” says Doman, who has been a TLW member since opening his business 10 years ago. “It’s a small one, but it’s doing fairly well.”The pub run ends with a party, which the league still plans to have this year, at the end of September, albeit in a larger outdoor venue.

The Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League was also working on its spring party, which features free food and raffles, but it was canceled because of the pandemic. The fall fundraiser, which offers baskets and larger prizes from distributors (such as a weekend getaway at a Washburn bed and breakfast) was also postponed. At least 300 people typically participate in the fall fundraiser.

Proceeds from the spring and fall events support both the league and the charities it supports. Members are major contributors to the county league’s charitable efforts as well, supporting both individuals and organizations. For instance, The Snug alone raised $25,000 or $30,000 for charitable efforts last year.

“We are strong in charitable giving here. Our members are a pivotal point in our communities,” says Doman. “Every bar up here is so good that way. We are a tight community and people really care about each other. It’s the Northwoods.”

Having a tight community that cares for its neighbors is also the reason the Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League has a strong SafeRide Program.

“We are doing very well in general and we’ve always done well with that,” Doman says of the local SafeRide Program. It utilizes a taxi service in Ashland, but the rest of the league’s area relies on Good Samaritan drivers.

“We have had to put it out there. People don’t always know we have it, but when people realize we have it, they’re more likely to use it or support it. They like to have the option,” says Doman. “And it’s great that we have a few people across the county who don’t mind” being Good Samaritans.

Being a member of the Tavern League, says Doman, is not only important for the valuable service it provides members, but also for camaraderie and support. He says, “If you own a bar, I don’t know how you can’t be a member.” TLW www.tlw.org

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT THE STAGECOACH BAR & GRILL AND BAY CITY CULTURAL CENTER

T

he Stagecoach Bar & Grill helped bring Nancy Sztyndor back home to Ashland. She reopened The Stagecoach on St. Patrick’s Day in 2014, but she first worked at the establishment when she was 18 years old.

“I remained really good friends with the owner, Jack O’Brien, after I moved away and, when he passed away eight or nine years ago, I was talking to the family and they decided it would be a good idea for me to buy it,” says Sztyndor, who was living in New York at the time.

Sztyndor bought The Stagecoach Inn in 2013 and spent some time bringing the establishment back to life, transitioning it into a bar and grill.

In the time between first bartending at the Stagecoach and buying it, Sztyndor bartended for 15 or 20 years, and worked in retail management. “It was kind of full circle,” she says.

“It was a retirement project for myself and my husband — a seven-day-a-week project. But it’s been pretty fun. I’ve been reintroduced to a lot of people I used to know and have met a lot of new people.”

What makes The Stagecoach unique, says Sztyndor, is the establishment’s history.

It was originally called Cabbie’s Tap, which was opened by Ida and Casper “Cabbie” Meyer in 1953. It was a popular place for students from nearby Northland College as Ida would serve cheese sandwiches to college students. The Meyers ran the bar for a decade until a fire destroyed the second-floor living space. They sold it after that.

“After they sold, it remained a bar and was pretty wellknown,” says Sztyndor. “When we bought it, we wanted to keep the same warm feel it had when Jack owned it and I think we accomplished that. It has a warm feeling, a little nostalgic.”

The Stagecoach is open seven days a week, 11 a.m. until close. With the addition of the grill, the establishment offers a variety of menu items, including burgers, wraps and homestyle specials like meatloaf, cabbage rolls and Salisbury steak. The bar is best known for its burgers, says Sztyndor, because they are fresh and hand-pattied, and a variety of options are available, including jalapeno burgers, olive burgers, Reuben burgers, Philly burgers and many more.

“Anyone who comes in for a burger always comes back,” says Sztyndor, who joined the Tavern League shortly after reopening The Stagecoach. www.tlw.org

“The Tavern League fights for the things we need that we wouldn’t be able to do as a small business. They help protect us all as small business owners.”

— Nancy Sztyndor “The Tavern League fights for the things we need that we wouldn’t be able to do as a small business. They help protect us all as small business owners,” says Sztyndor. In fact, she believes in the Tavern League so much that, when she and her husband Ron decided to take over Ashland’s historic Bohemian Hall with Kelly and Cale Westlund, they added that organization to the league’s member roll as well.

Now called the Bay City Cultural Center, the hall was built in 1913. A center for individuals of Czech heritage to share meals and have plays, it has always been a place for gathering. “When I was younger, it was the place we’d always go for weddings and events,” recalls Sztyndor.

The hall fell into disrepair over the years, so the Sztyndors and Westlunds paid the debt owed, renamed the nownonprofit event center and began repairs. The Bay City Cultural Center is again holding events, weddings and fundraisers. “It’s a pretty big part of the history of Ashland,” says Sztyndor. “We’re delighted to bring it back to life for the community.” TLW THE STAGECOACH BAR & GRILL

315 Main St. E., Ashland, WI 54806 (715) 292-6710 BAY CITY CULTURAL CENTER

319 11th Ave. E., Ashland, WI 54806 (715) 292-1578 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT BOOK ACROSS THE BAY

T

he winter can be a bit quiet in Ashland and Bayfield counties. That is, except for the third week in February, when thousands of people descend on the northern corner of Wisconsin for the annual Book Across the Bay event.

Book Across the Bay is a unique winter race that’s open to winter enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels. The oldest participant in 2020 was 77 and the youngest was 5. The 10-kilometer course, which starts in Ashland and ends in Washburn, is groomed for both classic-style and skate skiing. The kicker, however, is that the course doesn’t follow a land-based route. It runs over the frozen surface of Lake Superior, the world’s largest lake. Plus, the competition is held at night, with the course lit by the stars above and up to 1,000 candles in ice luminaries lining the entire route.

“It’s a fabulous event that people love,” says race organizer Ben Thoen.

About 3,800 people cross the finish line each year and about 4,500 attend the post-race party. While the race is timed, Book Across the Bay is more of an experience than an event, according to Thoen. At every kilometer, for instance, there is a business that sponsors a rest stop, offering everything from a snow sculpture breathing fire to cookies and hot chocolate. The race ends with a massive party.

The event began 24 years ago as a fundraiser for local community organizations. A 501(c)(3) itself, all funds raised

by Book Across the Bay go back to the organizations.

Initially, the event was run as a grant program in which area organizations could submit a request for funding. In recent years, however, race organizers shifted to paying organizations a percentage of the event proceeds in return for working the event, says Thoen.

In its lifetime, Book Across the Bay has provided about $350,000 to local organizations.

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“It is a really cool partnership that we have. Book Across the Bay wouldn’t happen without our volunteers and sponsors like the Tavern League. They are the reason we can do this.”

— Ben Thoen, Book Across the Bay The fundraiser is also a boon for Ashland and Bayfield counties. “At a time of the year when we don’t have much, if any, tourism for some months, the economic impact of having 4,000-some people come through is huge,” says Thoen. “For some local restaurants and bars, it is one of their best weekends of the year. Every hotel, and bed and breakfast within 40 to 50 miles is booked solid for that weekend. It is a significant economic boost.”

Organizers also rely on sponsorships to kickstart the event year. The Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League is one of the many businesses and organizations that support Book Across the Bay. “The donation from the Tavern League does a couple of things,” says Thoen. “By contributing a cash gift up front, we can use that as seed money each year to purchase permits, propane, beer and other stuff.

Most of our funds don’t come in until the day of the race, so it’s super important that we have those sponsors.”

Thoen goes on to explain that the Tavern League provides bartenders for the race’s post-party as well. “It is a really cool partnership that we have. Book Across the Bay wouldn’t happen without our volunteers and sponsors like the Tavern League. They are the reason we can do this.” TLW www.tlw.org

MEET THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER PAUL SALZWEDEL In Meet the Executive Officer, On Premise typically introduces an executive officer who represents the league that is highlighted in the issue (in this case, the Ashland/Bayfield Tavern League). However, for the September/October issue, we introduce Paul Salzwedel, the president of the Green Lake Area Tavern League and central zone vice president. Many of you know Paul, but this column presents an opportunity for him to introduce himself. businesses to keep them profitable and open in these trying times?

Q. TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND, INCLUDING YOUR FAMILY, LOCATION AND BUSINESS. I grew up working in our family business with my father, Louis Salzwedel, at The Hitching Post in Manchester, Wisconsin. I purchased The Hitching Post in 1989, and now I also own and operate Tall Paul’s in Ripon and the Hornet’s Nest in Markesan. I also own a bus and limousine service.

Q. WHAT INTERESTED YOU IN BECOMING A TAVERN LEAGUE MEMBER? Over 30 years ago, I went to our local meeting in place of my dad. After learning a bunch from the other members and having some fun, I was in!

Q. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TAVERN LEAGUE MEMBER AND WHAT OFFICES HAVE YOU HELD? I’ve been a member for more than 30 years, our county president for the last 10 years, the fifth district director for four years and central zone vice president for two years.

Q. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING TAVERN LEAGUE MEMBERS TODAY? The most important issue right now is COVID-19. The most important question is: How can we learn to adapt our

Q. YOU REPRESENT DISTRICTS 2 AND 5. ARE THERE SPECIFIC ISSUES UNIQUE TO THE AREA? District 5 runs toward the north, and one of the issues there is how to keep rural and small town bars viable. District 2, which includes Madison, is the central battleground against COVID-19, which is crippling our industry there!

Q. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING IN A LEADERSHIP POSITION WITH THE TLW? I love talking about the tavern business, getting important information out to the local leagues and also visiting their meetings.

Q. HOW ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY? I am a member of our local Lions Club and I also sit on the board for the Green Lake County Basic Needs Foundation, which gives back to our county’s most vulnerable constituents.

In closing, the Tavern League is a great organization and I encourage everybody in our industry to become a member.

And a big thank you to all of you that are members — old and new! TLW

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FEATURED AFFILIATES BANILLA GAMES LOGO STYLE GUIDE

BRASS FOUNDRY BREWING CO.

BANILLA GAMES

On the western edge of the Twin Cities in Minnesota, Brass Foundry Brewing Co. began in 2017, designing beers that have already won major awards in just a few years of business. The company’s Cream Ale took home the silver medal and its Question 63 India pale ale (IPA) won the bronze in the 2020 New York International Beer Competition. The competition had 600 entries from 14 countries, making these big honors for any company.

Banilla Games began in Greenville, North Carolina, but now does business in many different states and has a Jackson, Wisconsin, franchise that opened in 2018.

Brass Foundry Brewing does not have a taproom. Instead the focus is on distribution — partnering with retailers and distributors in only Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin markets, explains Eric Petersen, sales director. Due to this approach, a lot of attention is given to the retailers and three Wisconsin-based distributors who sell Brass Foundry products. “We do tap takeovers, coordinate samplings (when allowed), and meet with our accounts in each area to try to learn about them, what their needs are and what products people are asking for, so we know what to develop in the future,” he adds.

This craft brewer is a member of the Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association and the TLW. It is not a member of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, a move Petersen says is intentional as the organization holds beliefs that conflict with Brass Foundry’s point of view.

“It’s our belief we should support everyone — the retailers, liquor stores, bars — everyone,” he explains.

After starting to market here just last August, 60% of the Wisconsin market is Cream Ale. Petersen and controller John Kraus both say the Tavern League has done extraordinary things for its members, and it directly relates to the company philosophy of partnership and caring about others first.

“We love the feedback the TLW and beverage associations have given us because they’ve pointed us to the people that they like to work with most,” Petersen says. “Any input we can receive from actual people is valuable and helps guide our decisions.”

“We are a software company,” explains Dan Lewicki, Midwest sales manager. “We develop our own amusement software for the entertainment industry and work exclusively with Wisconsin Amusement and Music Operators (WAMO), another affiliate of the Tavern League.”

Banilla develops the software in house, then markets it to distributors. In other words, the company’s service area is the entire state, but all sales are through WAMO. The games are playerfriendly, and not too hard for anyone to enjoy without previous experience or knowledge.

“We put a lot of effort into the player experience, making games with very relatable themes that are attractive and have a good rhythm,” Chris Gunkel, sales executive, adds. “It keeps people excited to play and continue playing.”

The development happens in house at the main office in Greenville, with a full team of designers, programmers and 3D animators.

This difference is important to customers as the company makes, and therefore can tweak, fix or alter the games in any way to make them better. “We’re not just ordering software and selling it as the middleman,” Gunkel explains.

The Great American Buffalo is one popular game that many TLW members may be familiar with. It’s requested often, so much so that “our competitors copied it,” according to Lewicki and Gunkel.

Another game Banilla released recently is King Kong, based on the old-time movie, which is causing the same level of excitement as the buffalo game. “That’s our latest and greatest, garnering a lot of requests,” confirms Lewicki.

Both he and Gunkel hail from Wisconsin, which they say gives them a very good “lay of the land,” understanding TLW members, and customer likes and dislikes.

This fall, Brass Foundry customers can look forward to Amber Ale being released in Wisconsin starting in September. The company is also working on darker beers to be released in the winter.

“We know the industry and it’s turned into a good business model for us because we know the state better than others,” Lewicki says.

“We love craft beer, but what drove us to the business is we all had industry experience,” says Kraus. “Mine was in finance, Petersen’s was in sales and our CEO has a history of entrepreneurial adventures. We saw a really big demand in the industry and combined all of our backgrounds to create a really strong brewery.”

Banilla Games decided to partner with the TLW because of its close affiliation with WAMO and its important role to the TLW. “We’re all in this together,” he adds. “From a political standpoint, a business standpoint and an amusement industry standpoint, the taverns are our business and we affect theirs.”

BRASS FOUNDRY BREWING CO.

8441 Wayzata Blvd., Unit 290, Minneapolis, MN 55426 (763) 350-4153 | brassfoundrybrewing.com

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BANILLA GAMES

N173 W21140 Northwest Passage, Jackson, WI 53037 (252) 329-7977 | banillagames.com www.tlw.org

CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SU FT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES NDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTA S • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES UNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FO PPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCE SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS CERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICA IN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS UV BRILLIANCE/3DL DESIGN • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMI Randy Harju, owner of 3DL Design and UV Brilliance, had aROCERIES rough start to the year. As a trade show company, 3DL Design took a huge NTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CH hit with the cancellations of exhibitor halls everywhere. He says that he tried to first pivot by offering some COVID protection products, FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODU then relaunched and refocused his business approach with UV • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS Brilliance, a holistic approach to virus mitigation.

S • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PR DUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS Harju says that COVID-19 protection can be done without the use ALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD of harsh chemicals. He spent months working with experts and RODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS researching how to educate others. He says chemical disinfection MICALS •LE FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES GIFT ITEMS T’S GO BA CK IN •TIME practices (wiping menus, door handles, tables, toilets, etc.) may D PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTION eliminate 5% of the coronavirus spread, but there’s a more effective AND C E LE B R AT E HEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITE alternative, and that is to mitigate COVID-19 spread with light and air.

FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFEC • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT The UV Brilliance Disinfection System uses the power of four IONS Helo FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES F1 ultraviolet (UV) light fixtures to disinfect 400 square feet in half FECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • an hour. The portable system emits an ultra high-intensity, broadFOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES spectrum pulsed xenon UV light in four directions. According to Harju, this alone eliminates nearly all of the bacteria, fungi and FECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • viruses in a space.

S • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPL “UV Brilliance offers an examination of your square footage and TEMS • • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • S floorplan to give you a mitigation plan you can build on,” he CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN S explains. “Chances are that members can’t afford an entire program GIFT ITEMS •• FOOD2PRODUCTS 0 2 1 S p r i n g S•hGROCERIES ow at once, but if people are spending money on chemical disinfection, UNDRIES • CONFECTIONS M•a rCHEMICALS c h 4 t h & 5 t h• FOUNT it’s really a waste.”

IES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIE UNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FO Harju wants to offer TLW members more protection against COVID-19 PPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCE than just Plexiglas shields and chemicals. UV disinfection machines, he SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • explains, are being used to sanitize New York mass transit vehicles, as with many other important areas and equipment. At the beginning of the SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMICA pandemic, he says that he sold shields, dividers and more (and stillCERIES does if that’s what people want to buy), but now that he knows other, more IN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS effective options are available, he pushes those more aggressively. ROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CHEMI NTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODUCTS Harju says, in addition to selling UV disinfection units, his team also GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS • CH provides the service, sterilizing areas using lights, then guides the bar FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PRODU owners on what to do next. “Just don’t try to spray every square inch • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS of the bar with chemical disinfection daily or hourly,” he advises.

S • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD PR DUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFECTIONS Moreover, Harju warns that the UV disinfection equipment sold ALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITEMS • FOOD online through big retailers can be dangerous. Instead, he suggests Holiday Wholesale, RODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIESInc. • CONFECTIONS using regulated machines safely, after training. Harju says he 225 Pioneer Drive • PO Box 177ITEMS MICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT continues to scour the planet for solutions with UV light and will • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES continue adding more products to sell via UV Brilliance. “We D onlyPRODUCTS Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965• CONFECTION HEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT ITE test high-end products,” he concludes.

• 333 • 8321 FOOD PRODUCTS •800 GROCERIES • SUNDRIES • CONFEC Harju thanks the TLW for its business over the years and supporting IONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • GIFT www.holidaywholesale.com him as he moves to a new venture!

FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES FECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPLIES • UV BRILLIANCE/3DL DESIGN S • FOOD PRODUCTS • GROCERIES • SUNDRIES 5511 95th Ave., Kenosha, WI 53144 (262) 842-0530 | cv19pp.com and 3dldesign.com CONFECTIONS • CHEMICALS • FOUNTAIN SUPPL

Roaring Savings

www.tlw.org

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NEW MEMBERS NEW TLW MEMBERS AS OF AUGUST 28, 2020 DISTRICT 1 Kenosha City Kenosha Brewing Company Nick Gochis Kenosha, WI S’lush LLC Tiana Razua Kenosha, WI Somers House Geebo LLC Kenosha, WI

Grant/Iowa County Chuck Wagon Cowboy Burgers Michael and Teresa McCormick Richland Center, WI

DISTRICT 4

Juneau County Angie’s Oops Saloon Angela Skiles Camp Douglas, WI

Fond du Lac City/County Slim & Chubby’s Ashton Winter Fond du Lac, WI

Bohicas Pub & Grub James Smith Necedah, WI

Manitowoc County Reedsville Sportsmen’s Club Reedsville, WI

Rock County Coach’s Bar & Grill Derek Diehl Beloit, WI

Boondocks Jacob and Jennifer Chapman Necedah, WI

The Night Owl Greg Ardisson Evansville, WI

Kaz’s Bar Patti Kaczmarek Elroy, WI

DISTRICT 2

Leo’s Upper Dells Bar Dennis Hajek Lyndon Station, WI

Dodge County Heine’s Famous Pizza LLC George Heine Horicon, WI The Other Bar Steve Daute Waupun, WI Madison/Dane County Bucks Landmark Dale Kaltenberg DeForest, WI Licari’s Bar & Grill Lawrence Schmidt Madison, WI Crawford County Great River Roadhouse Josh Petzel De Soto, WI

Timber Haven Bar & Grill Lori Hughes Bryant, WI Marquette County Giddy Up Wendy Seely Dalton, WI Shawano County Longhorn Saloon Ronni Schweyen Shawano, WI Wood County Blue Bayou Pub Christi Mitchell Pittsville, WI

Ozaukee County Ferrante’s Amy Ferrante-Gollwitzer Mequon, WI

DISTRICT 6

Washington County Candy’s Pub Candy Ficht West Bend, WI

Brown County Flippers Cove Renee Phillips Greenleaf, WI

Gamroth’s Kuhburg Junction Jon Gamroth Germantown, WI

Lil Jamaica Lounge Nemard Wilson Green Bay, WI

The Rock Camping Resort Mauston, WI

The Stillery Shaun Bowe Richfield, WI

TNT’s Sports Bar & Grill Troy Piontek Green Bay, WI

State Street Tap Claine Clements Mauston, WI

Wheel Inn West Bend, WI

Door County Little Brown Jug Dale Pautsch Sturgeon Bay, WI

Portofino Bay Sandy Henneman Mauston, WI

Swagger Inn Jennifer Sentz Lyndon Station, WI Woodbine Inn Necedah, WI

DISTRICT 3

Calumet County Zero Turn Inn Mark Heim Brillion, WI

DISTRICT 5 Adams County Michael’s Landing Michael Lewandowski Friendship, WI

Wooden Shoe Kyle Laack Wonewoc, WI

Green Lake Area Last Chance Bar & Grill Terry Cabot Markesan

La Crosse City/County George Street Pub Sean Mueller La Crosse, WI

Langlade County Texas Jay’s John Urban Birnamwood, WI

Forest County Hotel Crandon Mark Gatton Crandon, WI Outagamie County Fox River House Tim Ceman Appleton, WI Mr. Taco Jennifer Almeida Kimberly, WI Savor Food & Spirits Jennifer Almeida Kimberly, WI

DISTRICT 7

FOR ALL YOUR POINT-OF-SALE NEEDS Basic Registers to Touch Screen Terminals SALES • SERVICE • SUPPLIES • RENTALS

Modern Cash Register Systems Neenah • 920.749.8007 www.ModernCashRegister.com 34

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Star Business Machines Inc. Stevens Point • 800-249-7100 www.starbusinessmachines.com

Barron County Club Cumberland David Wangerin Cumberland, WI Sassy’s Joelle Comero Chetek, WI Chippewa County Badger Hole Chuck Bowe Bloomer, WI

www.tlw.org

NEW MEMBERS Bloomer Pub Austin Hutsell Bloomer, WI Captain Ron’s Pub Ron Stangret Chippewa Falls, WI Fatboys Pizza Jay Thompson Bloomer, WI Huddle Up Pub Sandy Schecklman Cornell, WI Randy’s Jimtown Inn Phyllis Goettl Jim Falls, WI Jackson County Viva Cinco De Mayo Rosa Valencia Black River Falls, WI Pierce County Mel’s Midtowner LLC Eugene and Connie Gavin River Falls, WI Trempealeau/Buffalo County Four Corners Angela and Jeremy Wood Trempealeau, WI

Sawyer County Riverside Golf & Recreation LLC Beth Hunt Radisson Taylor County Cattail Tap Timothy Bokath Rib Lake, WI

DISTRICT 9 Milwaukee Z’s Bar David Zarate West Allis, WI

Food and beverage insurance isn’t just our specialty... it’s all we do.

Our traditional values have catapulted us into success and will remain cornerstones as we evolve and stay on top of the latest trends.

Some call it old fashioned, we call it ICC.

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Find an agent – www.ilcasco.com

Seymore & April’s Ponderosa Bar & Grill Steven Tomfohrde Alma, WI

DISTRICT 8 Greater Northwoods The Dawghouse Sonny Marrocco Hurley, WI Tails & Trails William Adams Hurley, WI Lakeland Area North Fork Joseph Reed Arbor Vitae, WI Lincoln County Sportsmans Alibi Bar & Grill Susan Hall Merrill, WI Oneida County Whipsaw Bar & Grill Kyle Christian Rhinelander, WI Price County Bob’s Soo Lake Resort Bob Stanke Phillips, WI

www.tlw.org

262.336.9624 wimilkcaps.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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AFFILIATE MEMBERS TLW AFFILIATE MEMBERS AS OF AUGUST 28, 2020 21st Century Financial Services 3 Sheeps Brewing Company 3DL Design A-1 Amusement Ackley Novelty Adams County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Allied Games American Entertainment Services American Income Life Insurance Company Amusement Devices Inc. American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) B&K Bar Supplies B-M Music & Games Badgerland Sentext Badger Mutual Insurance Company Badger State Media Baird Financial Advisors/Farley Forster Herbenson Group Banilla Games Baraboo Sysco Food Services BarRags Drinkwear Bay Towel Linen and Uniform Rental Bayland Insurance Benedict Refrigeration Service Berg Company Best Bargains Inc. Bevinco Big Game Sports Cards/ Sterling Graphics Bill’s Distributing Blue Honey Bio-Fuels Bob Schuchardt Insurance Agency Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin Brakebush Brothers Brass Foundry Brewing Company Brat Stop Products Breakthru Beverage Wisconsin Brew Pub Lotzza Motzza Pizza Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) Bromak Sales Inc. Bullseye Games Capital Brewery Captain Ken’s Foods Chambers Travel Clock’d

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Community Business Development Cornerstone Processing Solutions Corporate Casuals LLC Country Thunder D&D Amusement Games Davis & Kuelthau Delafield Brewhaus Delicious Foods of Wisconsin Demon Spirits DeVere Company Inc. Drink Wisconsinbly Edge One El Cortez Hotel & Casino Electronic Performance Systems Emil’s Pizza e-tailer Inc./RocketDSD EZ Dock/Pike Dock and Marine Fabiano Brothers Inc. Face Card Promotions/Ad-Tabs Fein Brothers First Choice Merchant Services Flanigan Distributing Flashpoint Designs Flipside Coin Machines Foremost Business Systems Inc. Forest Floor Foods Frank Beer Distributors Free Jackpot Bingo/ American Amusement Ent. Game Management Corporation General Beer Northeast Inc. Gilbert Brown Foundation Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown Glavinsured Agency Inc. Great Lakes Beverage Great Northern Amusements Gunderson Uniform and Linen Rental Heartland Business Systems Hiawatha Chef Supply Holiday Wholesale Inc. The House of Insurance Howe’s Aim to Please Vending HSC Business Brokers Illinois Casualty Company Indeflex Indianhead Foodservice Distributor Inkworks

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

The Insurance Center The Insurance Group Jahnke Coin Machine Johnson Brothers Kaufhold’s Kurds Kessenich’s Ltd. KLB Insurance/Illinois Casualty La Crosse Distilling Company La Crosse Loggers Baseball Club Lamers Bus Lines LC Branding LDSI Lebby’s Frozen Pizza Lee Beverage of Wisconsin LLC Luige’s Frozen Pizza Inc. M & R Amusements & Vending LLC Magnuson Inc. Maple Avenue Marketing & Apparel Mass Appeal Inc. MBE CPAs Metropolitan Food Service Equipment Midstate Amusement Games Midwest Amusements Midwest Coin Concepts Milwaukee Brewers Mitchell Novelty Company Modern Cash Register Systems Modern Specialty Company Motion Technology Inc. Murphy Desmond S.C. National Metalwares Furniture Nei-Turner Media Group New Glarus Brewing Company Noble Insurance Service Northern Lakes Amusement Northern Oasis Spirits Northwest Coin Machine Pabst Brewing Company Paradise Printing Company Park Ridge Distributing Inc. Pecatonica Beer Company Pehler Brothers Distributing Pop’s Kettle Corn Precision Pours Inc. PretzelHaus Bakery/FUNacho Pro3 Solutions LLC Purecart Enterprises LLC Quaker Bakery Brands Quantum Merchant Services/YETE Tech.

Racine Amusement Inc.

Red’s Novelty Ltd. Reinhart Foodservice LLC Restaurant Technologies Retail Control Solutions Rhinelander Brewing Company/Minhas Riverland Expressions Riverside Foods Rum Runner Tropicana Rush Creek Distilling S&S Distributing Inc. Sales & Income Tax Advisory Sams Amusement Sanimax Saratoga Liquor Company Inc. Schmidt Novelty Scott’s Vending Inc. Sketchworks Architecture Society/Ansay & Associates Sports Impressions Stansfield Vending Star Business Machines Stevens Point Brewery Strategic Marketing Company Superior Beverages LLC Superior Business Systems Superior Vending Taylor Enterprises of Wisconsin Inc. Tesch Chemical Tiger Amusement Tom Sawyer Amusements Tri-Mart/Midwest Food & Tobacco Group Tricky Dick Specialties 2 Universal Apparel Universal Presentation Concepts Van Bookkeeping LLC Vemos Vern’s Cheese Inc. Viking Log Furniture Vincent, Urban, Walker & Associates Wausau Coin Machines Inc. Wisconsin Hospitality Insured Wine Institute Wisconsin Motorcycle Roads Travel Guide Wisconsin Restaurant Association Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps Wollersheim Winery & Distillery Xtreme Bar Bingo www.tlw.org

INDUSTRY TRENDS SUMMER SIPPING FROM COAST TO COAST: ANALYTICS ON THE TOP SPIKED SELTZERS

S

ummer may be over, but the spiked seltzer wars are still raging. And the winner? White Claw is the law on social media when it comes to seltzer.

International social media analytics firm Talkwalker looked at data over the past 30 days and that’s the conclusion of the analysis of 23 different spiked seltzer brands. White Claw topped the list of social media mentions with 77,000, far outpacing the second-place finisher, Truly, with 14,000 mentions, Talkwalker reports.

Similar to the craft beer industry, spiked seltzer as a category is seeing an influx of new brands in the craft/micro production space.

While national brands like White Claw are competing for shelf space with industry-backed brands like Bud Light Seltzer or Natural Light Seltzer, regional favorites are also taking hold.

In Talkwalker’s analysis of 10 regional brands: • From Maine to Seattle, Nauti Seltzer from Westminster, Massachusetts, was found to be the most popular, receiving 2,000 social media mentions in this time. That outperformed larger brands like Natural Light Seltzer, Spiked Seltzer and Henry’s.

•C olorado prefers Truly and South Dakota prefers Henry’s, though in most places, White Claw is the most mentioned brand.

When looking at the regional brands, San Juan seltzers captured the Pacific Northwest, while Ficks and Nauti have California.

• I n Texas, Mighty Swell and Cape Line both perform well, and their share of voice extends into the Southeast as well.

• In New England, both Nauti and Arctic Summer perform well, though for all of the regional favorites, their number of mentions are very few in comparison with Truly and White Claw.

Top Five Seltzers by Mentions 1. White Claw – 77,000 2. Truly – 14,700 3. Bud Light Seltzer – 5,400 4. Bon & Viv – 4,200 5. Nauti Seltzer – 2,000 Top Five Seltzers by Engagements 1. W hite Claw – 400,000 engagements 2. S piked Seltzer – 67,000 engagements 3. B ud Light Seltzer – 54,000 engagements www.tlw.org

4. Truly – 18,700 engagements 5. Bon & Viv – 10,000 engagements Talkwalker also looked at mentions of more than 20 different flavors alongside spiked seltzers. Here are the top five most mentioned flavors: 1. Lemon – 3,600 mentions (20.5% of all flavor mentions) 2. Mango – 2,400 (16.2%) 3. Cherry – 2,000 4. Lime – 2,000 5. Watermelon – 1,000 Watermelon’s popularity may be driven in part by Harry Style’s collaboration with White Claw’s watermelon flavor and his single “Watermelon Sugar.” However, watermelon as a flavor also had the highest positive sentiment of any flavor looked at, with 51% positive sentiment. Other standout favorites were pineapple, blueberry acai, pomegranate and ginger, all with 39% positive sentiment, Talkwalker reports. The health trends that led spiked seltzer to grow as a category are all reflected here as many of these flavors are associated with their health and antioxidant properties.

NO-LEAK, STERILE POUR SPOUT Pure Pour (thepurepour.com), a Florida-based startup, says that its new, no-leak bottle pour spout is both sterile and antimicrobial, and puts a stop to bottle leaks and spillage, the second cause of beverage product loss according to the National Restaurant Association. The design fits virtually any bottle and includes a snug-fitting bug cap. The spouts are made of FDAapproved food-grade material, are dishwasher-safe, do not rust and last up to three times longer than other pour spots. TLW

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ADVERTISER INDEX Anheuser-Busch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 anheuser-busch.com

Mass Appeal Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 massappealinc.com

Ansay & Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 ansay.com

Midwest Food & Tobacco Group . . 38 midwestftg.com

B&K Bar Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 bandkbarsupplies.com

MillerCoors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 millercoors.com

BarRags Drinkwear. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 barragsdrinkwear.com

Modern Cash Register Systems . . . . 34 moderncashregister.com

Brakebush Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 brakebush.com

Riverside Foods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 riversidefoods.com

Cornerstone Processing Solutions. . . 31 cornerstoneps.net

Society Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 societyinsurance.com

Edge One. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 edgeone.com

VetsRoll. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 vetsroll.org

Emil’s Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 emilspizzainc.com

Wisconsin Amusement and Music Operators (WAMO). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 wamo.net

Holiday Wholesale Inc. . . . . . . . . . . 33 holidaywholesale.com Illinois Casualty Company. . . . . . . . 35 ilcasco.com

Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps. . . 35, 38 wimilkcaps.com

Jim’s Specialties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Promotional Products

1000’S OF ITEMS FOR YOUR ADVERTISING PENS • CALENDARS • APPAREL • BAR TOKENS

Many American Made Products Halo Rep. - Jim Flynn Janesville 608-758-3470 or Cell 608-201-2055 Email: jimsspecialties@yahoo.com Website: www.halo.com/jim-flynn

Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcap

PULLTAB PROMOTIONS

Great Profits Employee Incentive Program Used Pulltab Machines Available More Info: 262-336-9624 daytonyoung@wimilkcaps.com www.wimilkcaps.com

Stools, Tables, Booths, Outdoor Furniture, Glasswashers and Full Line of Bar Supplies.

4603 DOMAIN DR., MENOMONIE, WI 54751 PH: (715) 235-2151 • (800) 472-2006

• Tobacco/Cigarettes

• Chemicals

• Nuts/Snacks

• Paper Products

• Beverages

• Deli/Institutional

• Glassware

• Beverages on the gun

• Liquor

5 Year Frame Warranty Available 12 or more stools - FREE DELIVERY. 25 Year Affiliate Tavern League Member

7100 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis

414.259.9161

www.BandKBarSupplies.com

Supplying Tavern League of Wisconsin Members from Superior to La Crosse & from Hudson to Wausau 38

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www.tlw.org

© 2020 Society Insurance

Filling you up now so you won’t be hungry later.

Small detail. Big difference.

Today’s cut corner can easily turn into tomorrow’s missing piece. That’s why it’s so important to invest in staying protected against the unique risks that restaurants and bars face. With forty years of experience in specialized coverage, we’re prepared to handle those challenges so that you can focus on what’s next. To learn more about how we deliver the small details that make a big difference, call 1-888-5-SOCIETY or find one of our agents at societyinsurance.com.

DRINK A SELTZER HELP SAVE A RIVER 1 PACK RESTORE S 500 GALLONS*

CONTAINS ALCOHOL

SPARKLING HARD SELTZER WITH NATURAL FLAVORS CELEBRATE RESPONSIBLY ® ©2020 COORS BREWING CO., FORT WORTH, TX • BEER *FOR EVERY 12 PACK OR “12 PACK EQUIVALENT” OF COORS SELTZER SOLD AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS BETWEEN 8/15/2020 AND 8/31/2021, COORS BREWING COMPANY WILL PURCHASE SERVICES FROM CHANGE THE COURSE TO RESTORE 500 GALLONS OF FRESH RIVER WATER. A “12 PACK EQUIVALENT” IS 144 OUNCES. FOR INFORMATION ABOUT CHANGE THE COURSE, VISIT CHANGETHECOURSE.US. MUST BE 21+