On Premise September/October 2017

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TAVERN LEAGUE OF WISCONSIN

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 TLW.ORG

TLW STARS LEADING THE WAY

A TR I B UTE TO TLW LE AD E RSH I P

ALSO INSIDE: Gene & Helen Loose Celebrate 100 TLW Conventions SafeRide Report Results The Latest ABL News from Washington

THE PREMIER EVENT IN T H E BA R & N IGH TLIFE IN DUS TR Y.

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MARCH 26-28

NCBSHOW.COM

The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 VOLUME 35, NO. 5

FEATURES

SAFERIDE PROGRAM RESULTS. . . 10 Impressive statistics reported from counties throughout the state

A MILESTONE YEAR. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Gene and Helen Loose celebrate 100 TLW Conventions and so much more in 2017

FALL CONVENTION

82ND ANNUAL FALL CONVENTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel, Appleton October 2-5, 2017 • Schedule of Events • Keynote & Seminars • Registration Form & Hotel Information • Entertainment & Host League • Exhibitor List • Auction Form • Member of the Year Nomination Form

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LEAGUE SPOTLIGHTS LEAGUE PROFILE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Racine City

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Joey’s in Racine & Franksville

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Racine County Food Bank

MEET THE DIRECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

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Rich Karrasch – 1st District Director

DEPARTMENTS President’s Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Corporate Sponsors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Front Rail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 ABL Dispatch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Corporate Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Legislative Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Accounting On Tap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Featured Affiliates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Affiliate Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Ask the Bartender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Local League Updates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Advertiser Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

SOCIALIZE WITH US: www.tlw.org

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

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PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE MY, HOW TIME FLIES! Remember when you were in grade school and the summers seemed like they lasted forever. The older we get, the more quickly time seems to pass. Sometimes it feels as though there are not enough hours in the day – maybe it’s because we have bills to pay and we’re trying to make a living. All I know is the older I get, the faster time goes!

Some of you may remember when I ran for TLW Senior Vice President and was elected. My first TLW Executive Board meeting was memorable and a little humbling. I was getting ready to sit next to Gene Loose and even before I reached the chair, President Swearingen said to me: “Not there, you sit right next to me!” A little chuckle throughout the room told me just how green I was in this new position. It didn’t take too long, though, and I was catching on to the responsibilities of the job.

A few months later I was attending my first TLW Fall Convention in Milwaukee and Robin Yount, the Brewers shortstop, was the keynote speaker. I felt confident that things were falling into place and running smoothly, and that I was being effective in this new job.

Later that evening, President Swearingen asked me to stop by his room because he said we needed to talk about something important.

I got to his room and after asking me if I wanted a drink, he proceeded to tell me that he was going to throw his name in the hat for state representative for his district. I was clueless and said “That would be great, but why are you telling me?” Then he dropped the bomb! “You will have to assume the role of president when I do this.”

Upon hearing the news, I suppose I looked like a deer staring down a car’s headlights. I was shocked but then I did what anyone in their right mind would do: I looked for support and help from the ones who were in this position before me. Because of the leadership that this association has had in the past we continue to move forward and do great things. I have to thank people like Pete Madland, Bubba Sprenger, Bill Hunter, Jerry Hinderman and Rob Swearingen along with the rest of our Board of Directors and staff for the encouragement and direction they gave me during my terms as president. Also, I need to thank Scott Stenger and his office for keeping me up-to-date on legislative issues as well as pointers about what to say or not say to the media. Anyone who has dealt with the media knows how things can sometimes get twisted around. Then last, but not least, I’d like to thank our office staff who’ve made me feel welcome from day one.

Cindy and Karen have always been the go-to sources for me since I took office, and they’ve been wonderful to work with. Since January, it’s been great to work with Lori and more recently our new hire Steve. We have one of the most efficient offices of any association.

They say “time flies when you’re having fun!” Well I’m here to tell you it’s true! Five years have gone by quickly and I’ve been able to meet so many great people since taking this position – both TLW members and those associated with the industry. Believe me when I say, “I wouldn’t trade these last five years for anything.” I tell my friends and customers I have it made, I get to travel this great state and meet with our members. Sometimes I’m the one getting advice and sometimes I’m giving it. I’ve found most of us in this industry have encountered the same problems and when you get to talk with those who have overcome those problems, it’s been nice to pass on their experiences.

My business did not have to suffer while I was away working on Tavern League issues and I am grateful for that. The time that I was away could not have been possible without the support and help of my family and my employees. At this fall’s convention your new TLW President will be elected and I know this association will embrace our new leader as they have me and everyone before. I thank you for the kindness and patience you’ve shown me over the last five years.

God Bless and Thank You All! TLW President

Terry J Harvath

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CORPORATE SPONSORS SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT THOSE WHO

Support Those Who Support Our Association

SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION

PLATINUM PLATINUMSPONSORS SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS

2012 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

GOLD SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS

Anheuser-Busch Anheuser-Busch

TA V E R N L E A G U E O F W I S C O N S I N

SILVER SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS

Fine Wine & Liquor

BRONZE SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS

Wisconsin Amusement & Music Operators, Inc.

Wisconsin Amusement & Wisconsin Amusement & Inc. Music Operators, Music Operators, Make sure to thank these groups for their support, and encourage others not onInc. the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call the ((608) these 270-8591) forfor ourtheir brochure that and lists encourage the benefits others of the different categories.

Remember Any “Support thoseinterested who support us.” should call MakeTLW sureoffice and thank groups support, not on the list to participate. business in joining

Make sure and thank these groups forfor their others not ondifferent the list tocategories. participate.

Any business interested in joining should the TLW office (608-270-8591) oursupport, brochureand thatencourage lists the benefits of the Remember “Support those who support us.” call www.tlw.org SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017us.”On Premise 5 the TLW office (608-270-8591) for our brochure that lists the benefits of the different categories. Remember “Support those who support n

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PRESIDENT Terry Harvath

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Chris Marsicano

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SOUTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENTS Jim Pickett, Dan Taivalkoski

EASTERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENTS Terri Buman, Gene Loose

CENTRAL ZONE VICE PRESIDENTS Lori Frommgen, Robert “Bubba” Sprenger

NORTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENTS Jen Gunning, Nancy Lorbetske

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EDITOR Pete Madland, Executive Director, Tavern League of Wisconsin

MANAGING EDITOR Barbara Howell, Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc.

GRAPHIC DESIGN Jerriann Mullen, Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc.

ADVERTISING SALES Louise Andraski, Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. louisea@merr.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Julie Schiller, Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. ads@ntmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dan Bergs, John Bodnovich, Jennifer Bradley, Terry Harvath, Barb Howell, Rich Karrasch, Pete Madland, Chris Marsicano, Scott Stenger, Amanda Wegner

PRINTED BY RR Donnelley Long Prairie, Minnesota On Premise (ISSN #1051-4562) is a bi-monthly publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin, Inc., 2817 Fish Hatchery Road, Fitchburg, WI 53713, phone: (800) 445-9221.

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 RR Donnelley, Long Prairie, MN. For advertising information, contact Louise Andraski, 262-729-4471, louisea@merr.com.

Subscriptions included in TLW membership dues; non-member subscriptions: $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. ©2017 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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PARTNERS IN PROGRESS MAJOR SUPPORTER OF STATE AND LOCAL TAVERN LEAGUES 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 Giveaway at TLW Spring Conference • Donor of Large Screen TV at TLW Fall Convention

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

WISCONSIN AMUSEMENT & MUSIC OPERATORS PO Box 259506, Madison, WI 53725 | T: 608.709.1960 | F: 608.252.9243 | E: amanda@wamo.net A complete list of WAMO members can be found on the web site. Visit us at www.WAMO.net Hosts of the World’s Largest Dart Tournament & the Nation’s Largest Pool Tournament

FRONT RAIL THREE TIER VS. SERVICE

BY PETE MADLAND, TLW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The three-tier system has been with us since prohibition and our association has always supported it. Recently this system has come under attack by others in the alcohol industry so I thought I should spend some time giving a few of my thoughts.

HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS The three-tier system serves a purpose. Some of us may have issues with it but for the most part it has served all three tiers pretty well, some tiers much better than others. It separates the producers from the wholesalers from the retailers. It does this for a reason and that is to promote fair competition among those in each tier. It was never meant to allow producers to compete with wholesalers and retailers or allow wholesalers to compete with retailers, etc. It was meant to allow competition within each tier.

Now some organizations want to destroy that concept.

The system also allows for an orderly collection of excise, sales and income taxes on alcohol products. While doing this it discourages things like illegal internet sales, mail-order sales and bootlegging.

quor salesmen walking right by a member establishment each time he is in town, not taking a minute to stop. In too many instances an order taken by phone has replaced the personal touch of an actual salesman. Many members have never had a face-to-face meeting with a person from the company they spend thousands of dollars with each year.

Recently I heard of a decision by a beer wholesaler to cut deliveries to certain rural accounts to once a month! Unbelievable!

Also it eliminated special deliveries on weekends if a tavern runs out of a product! Service, for some wholesalers, not all, has taken a backseat to profit. It seems to me that too many accountants are making too many decisions, but that’s just my opinion.

Most businesses blame the lack of competition among wholesalers as the cause of the problem. I agree it is a problem. But what is the solution? Do we do away with the system? If we did, what would be the consequences? We could write pages on this subject and I am sure the other tiers could do the same with their perspective. Believe me, I understand the frustration but I am not going to talk about the pros and cons in detail.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Another important aspect of the three-tier system is protecting the integrity of the product we sell. Not a week goes by when I don’t read about people dying from illegal, tainted alcohol. It’s by no accident that these incidents normally occur in countries like China, India or Pakistan but not in the United States. I will credit the three-tier system and law enforcement for that.

WHOLESALERS COME UNDER FIRE While we support the three-tier system and recognize its effectiveness, it is not perfect. As I travel and listen to members I am becoming more aware of the problems you, as retailers, are facing. Periodically I hear from members along the Wisconsin/ Minnesota border complaining about the price differential.

Now there are several issues impacting the price differential i.e. state and local taxes, quantities of purchase for example, nonetheless it is a real issue for our members along the border.

To me a more pressing problem is the service, or lack of, by some of our liquor and beer distributors. I hear stories of li-

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Here is what I am going to do. I am going to ask you to send me your story. I want information to present to our wholesalers about your experiences with their service and make them aware of why you are frustrated. I need the name of your business and the name of your wholesaler and the tale you want to share. We need to get these stories to the right people in the wholesale business. They need to hear your issues. Who knows, maybe things will change for the better. At the very least, if the day does come when the Tavern League of Wisconsin no longer supports the three-tier system the wholesalers will understand why. What the hell, it’s worth a try. We should not have to choose between supporting the three-tier system and having good service from our wholesalers. The real question is: Why not both? *Please understand that not all wholesalers are guilty of high prices and poor service. Most are great partners of the TLW and support us at both the state and local levels. To those I want to say “Thank You” and we appreciate our partnership with you. TLW www.tlw.org

Bold. New. Local.

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Demon Rum Unleashed is a tantalizing blend of the finest Caribbean rums and seductive spices – developed locally in Hudson Wisconsin by Demon Spirits.

T Taste Demon Rum at Booth #12 during the TLW convention.

Get recipes at www.drinkdemonrum.com.

To Unleash Demon Rum in your establishment, contact your local General Beverage or Saratoga representative.

Please Unleash Responsibly! Demon Rum® is a registered trademark of Demon Spirits LLC. © 2017, Demon Spirits LLC

TAVERN LEAGUE’S SAFERIDE PROGRAM CELEBRATES 32 YEARS T

he Tavern League of Wisconsin’s SafeRide program was established in 1985 and today it’s the largest alternative transportation program in the country to address the issue of operating a motor vehicle while impaired. Found in 62 counties within the state, the program has been nationally recognized by the National Conference of Mayors for its effort to reduce alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.

In 2014, the SafeRide Program helped contribute to the lowest number of alcohol-related fatalities in Wisconsin since WWII. Since 2003, Wisconsin has experienced nearly a 50 percent decline in alcohol-related fatalities, and over the same period the SafeRide Program has expanded to offer an almost 150 percent increase in free rides home to TLW patrons.

Gov. Scott Walker approved a significant increase in state funding for the program in the 2015-2016 state budget. Under the law, all persons convicted of an OWI are assessed a SafeRide

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Surcharge that is dedicated to the SafeRide Program. The cost of the program, however, is shared by funds provided by surcharges on OWI convictions as well as from TLW members.

In the past year, participating Tavern League member establishments provided 95,203 free rides home to customers throughout Wisconsin, creating safer roads for everyone. “It’s not a good idea to drive impaired. Our SafeRide program provides an alternative that is safe and free,” says TLW President Terry Harvath.

According to TLW Executive Director Pete Madland, the program’s status as the largest in the country is due to TLW members. “We are very proud of our members who volunteer their time to make the program a success.”

For more information on SafeRide, please visit tlw.org and click on the SafeRide link. www.tlw.org

TAVERN LEAGUE OF WISCONSIN SAFERIDE SURVEY 2016-2017 LEAGUE/GROUP

NO. OF RIDERS

COST OF RIDES

AVERAGE COST

Adams Ashland/Bayfield Barron Brown Burnett Chippewa Clark Columbia Crawford Dells/Delton Area Dodge Door Eau Claire Fond du Lac Grant/Iowa Greater Northwoods Green Lake Area Jackson Jefferson Juneau Kenosha City Kenosha County La Crosse Lakeland Langlade Lincoln Madison/Dane Manitowoc Marathon Marinette Marquette Milwaukee Monroe Oconto Oneida Oshkosh Outagamie Ozaukee Pepin Pierce Polk Portage Price Racine City Racine County Rock Sauk Sawyer Shawano Sheboygan South Central St. Croix Superior/Douglas Trempealeau/Buffalo Walworth Washburn Washington County Waukesha Waupaca County Waushara Wood

896 741 120 1129 388 3002 68 3189 546 4310 397 672 1581 479 1391 1361 88 698 934 112 743 386 7274 403 246 1283 5059 2498 3441 2908 521 837 2213 74 5079 6202 2025 33 316 247 160 1530 72 2169 155 258 18931 809 163 937 223 262 1580 442 1100 279 165 70 280 419 1309

3,443.00 12,323.20 1,008.50 14,950.80 9,237.00 14,594.00 534.00 18,872.00 3,032.75 13,539.00 7,928.00 5,469.90 21,977.00 3,279.00 15,410.00 11,350.70 1,462.00 4,143.50 4,689.00 995.00 7,465.00 10,113.00 66,967.94 4,450.00 2,460.00 19,045.00 81,113.66 21,940.00 35,679.00 14,294.00 8,391.84 14,537.50 10,886.50 1,450.00 29,719.75 45,271.54 17,257.45 352.00 2,636.00 2,647.00 553.60 10,872.00 695.58 52,020.00 2,843.00 7,740.00 17,382.00 11,065.00 2,060.80 5,718.00 1,126.00 2,578.00 14,390.52 4,405.50 8,838.00 3,150.00 2,785.00 932.00 3,235.00 7,980.00 4,224.75

3.28 16.63 8.40 13.24 23.81 4.86 7.85 5.92 5.55 3.14 12.41 8.15 13.90 8.00 11.08 8.34 16.61 5.94 5.02 8.80 10.05 26.20 9.16 11.00 10.00 15.00 16.03 8.78 10.37 4.92 16.11 17.37 4.91 19.59 5.85 7.30 8.52 10.66 8.34 10.72 3.46 7.11 9.66 23.98 18.34 30.00 0.91 13.67 12.56 6.11 5.05 9.84 9.11 9.97 22.71 11.29 16.88 13.31 11.55 19.05 3.23

Totals

95,203

$729,510.28

7.66

www.tlw.org

PARTICIPATION

% OF MEMBERSHIP

TOTAL COST

12 24 7 30 10 13.7 10 26 15 10 15 9 12 6 44 28 40 6 30 10 41 53 157 18 17 50 100 59 42 24 18 78 25 9 30 43 60 6 14 10 21 52 52 59 52 12 46 7 19 37 12 14 32 88 78 16 25 8 30 19 26

40% 30% 9% 33% 10% 7% 20% 59% 37% 20% 16% 6% 17% 15% 27% 50% 100% 19% 33% 16% 41% 70% 100% 30% 32% 40% 50% 48% 42% 25% 40% 34% 48% 8% 45% 57% 33% 13% 60% 17% 36% 49% 100% 75% 40% 5% 100% 6% 35% 62% 32% 21% 25% 90% 89% 40% 41% 10% 27% 50% 60%

4,503.00 12,861.93 1,317.00 22,900.80 14,078.42 3,400.11 668.52 19,526.46 6,617.39 14,539.00 5,428.00 21,553.90 31,855.50 4,000.00 17,500.00 14,264.58 1,462.00 4,979.32 5,534.00 1,595.00 8,240.40 10,773.00 70,156.95 5,000.00 2,460.00 29,045.00 89,093.54 22,181.50 72,385.04 14,602.32 8,631.84 20,097.32 30,636.50 2,654.06 32,170.75 64,404.23 21,988.01 295.00 5,127.00 3,350.00 1,173.90 28,045.60 695.58 65,840.00 2,843.00 7,740.00 17,382.00 11,289.00 3,168.80 7,341.52 1,126.00 4,614.50 24,669.31 8,426.00 10,266.00 13,610.79 3,105.00 1,287.00 3,800.00 8,203.95 4,224.75

1,917

44%

$950,730.09

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ABL Dispatch – The Latest Industry News From Washington

By ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich

SWIPE FEES

TAXES

In May, ABL played a role in getting language removed from the Financial CHOICE Act that would have repealed the Durbin Amendment.

Through direct lobbying and grassroots efforts, ABL joined the chorus of retailers that sought to preserve debit card fee reforms that promoted competition.

Tax issues remain a topic of conversation, but given the current political climate – with no unified message and conflicting agenda priorities emanating from the Trump Administration, and Senate and House GOP leadership – the timetable for sweeping tax reform continues to be pushed back. It is conceivable that a broad tax reform bill, if eventually deemed politically untenable, could be replaced by a smaller “tax relief” bill or series of smaller tax relief bills. ABL is on the record supporting legislation that would repeal the estate tax; and supports tax reform that preserves S-Corp tax structure that keeps pass-through entity taxation at par with corporate rates.

MUSIC LICENSING

IMPAIRED DRIVING

ABL is supporting the Transparency in Music Licensing and Ownership Act (H.R. 3350). (See article at right for an indepth look at this bill.) The bill calls for the creation of a public database of musical works and sound recordings to aid businesses and establishments that wish to publicly perform music in identifying and compensating the rights-holders. Under the current system, bars and taverns have no verifiable and reliable way to determine which musical work rights belong to each of the PROs. This prevents beverage licensees from making informed business decisions when it comes to purchasing music licenses and knowing what they are getting when they obtain licenses from PROs. ABL is asking its affiliates to urge members of Congress to co-sponsor the bill.

The focus on impaired driving – which increasingly (and rightly so) includes drug-impaired driving – has shifted to the states and federal agencies, which continue to work with public health advocates (and to some extent the industry) on this issue. The current transportation authorization law, the re-authorization of which is a usual suspect for impaired driving policies, does not expire until 2020, and while some individual impaired driving bills have been discussed, none have gained any significant momentum. In June, ABL weighed in with legislators in Utah, urging them to modify or repeal a bill passed there lowering the BAC limit for drunk driving to .05 percent.

• Small Business Financial Planning • Specializing in Retirement Plans • IRA’s • Mutual Funds • Annuities • Stocks & Bonds

JIM ROPEL

920-387-5952

TLW Affiliate Member

234 North Clark Street, Mayville, WI 53050

OVERTIME RULE On November 22, 2016 U.S. District Court Judge Amos L. Mazzant III issued a preliminary injunction halting the implementation of the Department of Labor’s (DOL) overtime rule.

The final overtime rule, announced by the DOL in May 2016, would raise the threshold for employees who are exempt from overtime pay to $47,476 – more than double the current salary threshold of $23,660. With the change in Administrations, it was unclear what would happen with the appeal of the ruling.

At the end of June, the Trump Administration determined that they would not file a brief challenging Judge Mazzant’s decision, instead opting to seek outside comments on the impact of raising the threshold to an amount lower than what was proposed by the Obama Administration.

Member FINRA/SIPC

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BEVERAGE LICENSEES SUPPORT TRANSPARENCY IN MUSIC LICENSING AND OWNERSHIP ACT The following is a press release issued by ABL that explains how the bill would establish a digital database, bringing copyright ownership and licensing information to the public and to stakeholders.

American Beverage Licensees announced its support on July 21 for the Transparency in Music Licensing and Ownership Act (H.R. 3350). The bipartisan bill, introduced

by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) and co-sponsored by Reps. Suzan DelBene (DWA), Blake Farenthold (R-TX), and Steve Chabot (R-OH), would establish a reliable, unified database of copyright ownership and licensing information for musical works.

“Beverage licensees thank Congressmen Sensenbrenner for his legacy of strong leadership on music licensing issues and his recognition that increasing transparency in the music licensing system benefits licensees and artists alike,” said ABL Executive Director John Bodnovich. “Many bars and taverns obtain licenses so that music can be legally played in their businesses. The database that this bill calls for will provide them with dependable information on which they can make entertainment choices for their businesses.”

Bar and tavern owners, who already operate in the traditionally-regulated beverage alcohol industry, understand the importance of observing laws and regulations, including complying with copyright laws for the public use of musical works. Beverage licensees generally use copyrighted musical works – either via streaming service, jukebox, karaoke, live bands, DJs, or otherwise – by purchasing licenses from performing rights organizations (PROs). Each year, these licensed beverage businesses support songwriters by collectively paying millions of dollars in licensing fees to PROs. Under the current system, bars and taverns have no verifiable and reliable way to determine which musical work rights belong to each of the PROs. This prevents beverage licensees from making informed business decisions when it comes to purchasing music licenses and knowing what they are getting when they obtain licenses from PROs. This uncertainty can result in protracted disputes between small business owners and PROs. More ominously, it can lead to bars and taverns shutting down live music in their businesses altogether.

The Transparency in Music Licensing and Ownership Act would alleviate this problem through the creation of a public database that identifies entities through which musical works are licensed in a format that reflects current technological practices; is updated on a real-time basis; and is publicly accessible without charge. By establishing the database under the Register of Copyrights, and encouraging rights owners to register their works with the database, this bill will benefit all stakeholders in the music marketplace.

“This is a bipartisan issue, affecting hospitality businesses in every town, city and state across America,” said Bodnovich. “Beverage licensees have been clear that their focus is on bringing transparency to the music licensing process. The Transparency in Music Licensing and Ownership Act is a sensible step toward that goal, and we look forward to working with Congressman Sensenbrenner to advocate for this legislation.”TLW

Baraboo

The American Beverage Licensees is the voice of America’s beer, wine and spirits retailers in Washington, D.C. The ABL represents the Tavern League of Wisconsin and its many members as well as thousands of other on- and off-premise retailers of beverage alcohol across the United States.

www.tlw.org

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A Milestone Year for Gene & Helen

Couple Celebrates 100 TLW Conventions and So Much More in 2017

By Jennifer Bradley

I

t was just after 10 a.m. on a Wednesday morning in August when I took the 25-minute drive to Potter, Wisconsin. I know this rural area of the state well, as my father, a farmer, visits the local tractor dealership often. A mile down from Gruett’s Power Center, directly across from the local ball diamond, I parked in the gravel lot at Gene and Helen’s Bar, aptly named for Gene and Helen Loose.

These Hilbert High School sweethearts have a lot to celebrate in 2017: 60 years of marriage, 50 of those spent working and owning the bar, Gene’s 80th birthday in September and attendance at 100 TLW Conventions.

Helen was quick to confirm that they only missed one TLW convention in the 50 years, but made up for it by attending one before they were even tavern owners, and they both smiled when telling that story. “We went to the one right before we were in business,” she says. “Gene’s dad said there was one thing he insisted on before passing the bar to us: ‘When you take over the tavern, you will join the Tavern League!’” Gene doesn’t know why his dad was so adamant about it, but then he also required the young couple to attend the next convention, too.

They haven’t stopped attending conventions since. “I don’t think there’s anywhere in this state we haven’t traveled,” says Helen.

“We always look forward to seeing everyone twice a year, and it’s sad that there always seems to be someone missing at each convention.” While there are some members that no longer attend or have passed away, Helen says a reason she and Gene keep attending is because they care about the future, and agree that sometimes the biggest message is in a person’s actions, not their words.

FAMILY VALUES This philosophy of leading by example and being present when it counts has been a part of who Gene and Helen are and they

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carry it with them whether it’s speaking about their business, the TLW or their personal lives. “There was never a night when there wasn’t a meal on the table,” says Helen when talking about the days of raising four children and running a tavern. “One of us ate with the children and helped with their homework. To this day, we have a meal every night.”

Douglas, their oldest, passed away seven years ago. Deborah, Michael and Marjorie are all married with children, but also live close by. “The kids and grandchildren are the ones that help me here all the time, because we have no employees,” Helen says.

When I asked if I heard her right and they really have no employees, Helen laughed and went on to explain about their extended family. “We have wonderful friends and even a neighbor boy makes sure everything is taken care of too. The family stops by often to fill the cooler and that is such a big help too.” Helen says those little things make all the difference.

She’s very proud of how well the family’s younger generation interacts with people and feels it’s a skill learned in the bar, a skill many have difficulty with today. It was evident they learned from the best, as Gene and Helen joked with a delivery man that stopped in that day. Helen says their relationships with food and beverage suppliers has always been good, but early on in the business it was a bit different. When they were married in 1957, Helen explains, “all the beer men gave you www.tlw.org

free beer for your reception. You couldn’t get anything like that today!”

This small-town lady has a big heart, and still genuinely loves caring for the neighborhood by preparing quality food and drinks – it shows in her confident, yet comfortable smile. Gene and Helen’s common goal to run the tavern together all these years is what they say has kept their marriage strong. “When we got married, Father said, ‘Don’t go to bed mad. You might not wake up in the morning,’” says Helen.

Their time away from the tavern comes during TLW Conventions, and then over the holidays, when the bar’s doors are locked and family time is priority. They also made time for their eight grandchildren’s sporting events, concerts, and other activities as they were growing up. “We did a lot,” adds Helen, when talking about the four boys and four girls ranging in age from 22-30.

They also have six great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

When discussing her granddaughter that’s expecting, Helen jokes: “She’s my bartender on Friday nights, so I know she’s going to have to get her husband to help me.”

COMMUNITY SERVICE The local community has been, and continues to be, near and dear to the Looses’ hearts. The plaque behind the bar celebrates Gene’s 40 years as a volunteer for the Potter Fire Department, awarded in 1997, the same year the couple was recognized as the TLW Members of the Year.

In addition to the fire department, Gene served on the town board, as constable and has been the TLW’s Eastern Zone Vice President since 1979.

Both Gene and Helen wholeheartedly support youth and adult baseball leagues in Potter, a local tradition that continues to thrive. Today, close to 300 youth play every week in the summer says Gene, while Helen adds that kids come from all over to compete. In their younger years, Gene says he played on the “over 30” league and when their kids were on the field, they knew everybody. He smiles and says that he filled in on the younger league when they didn’t have enough players. “I’d end up catching,” he says with a grin.

“Those kids still respect us,” says Helen of the youth they’ve seen grow up, and adds: “and half of them still call us mom and dad!

They weren’t our own, but we helped a lot of them out and that’s the way it always was.” She explains that while she and Gene were asked to be drivers for some local weddings years ago, now those couples’ children are having children, and it’s exciting when they stop in over the holidays or on weekends when they’re back in town.

Every week Gene continues to cut the grass across the road from the bar at the Potter Fireman’s Park, and as I walked around the bar to leave that day, Helen stopped to say goodbye, and then whispered with a smile: “He needs to keep moving and hasn’t stopped.

He’s always been a fireman from the bottom of his heart.” www.tlw.org

“Gene’s dad said there was one thing he insisted on before passing the bar to us: ‘When you take over the tavern, you will join the Tavern League!’”

- HELEN LOOSE CHANGES When asked what’s changed in their business over the years, Helen’s response came quick, as she recognized the drinking age and smoking ban as the top two issues to directly impact their industry.

The couple certainly knows how valuable the Tavern League is to the industry and how even businesses as small as theirs benefit from its efforts. It’s the local, grassroots support that the Looses believe so strongly in. “It’s important to be involved [in the Tavern League] and to keep everybody up-to-date on things,” says Gene, who has a true passion for keeping the TLW strong and vital for all those coming up behind them. Helen says that with big or small changes in the laws, it’s important that TLW members have a voice.

Another change that is apparent to Helen is how many more designated drivers there are today and how the younger generation really looks out for each other more so than in the days of the couple’s youth. While the SafeRide program isn’t finding success in Helen and Gene’s remote area because of the enormous cost, the Fox Valley TLW members are using Uber to make sure people get home safe.

Gene and Helen also point to the professionalism of TLW board members, even down to their appearance at conventions, when they are dressed in suits and ties for men and business attire for women. “That’s what they needed,” says Helen. “It makes them stand out a bit. There has been a big transition on the board.”

Although key issues to TLW members have impacted the business over time, Gene & Helen’s Bar has stood the test of time. The inside is quaint with a small-town feel. A 50th Wedding Anniversary quilt hangs on the wall, and in the back corner, a toy kitchen is available for the children who come to visit with their parents.

Helen says that family values are why so many people bring their families and children to eat there. “It’s been like that since we took over the bar,” she adds.

She also explains that the local community has simply changed its routine too. Gene says the busy time used to be more in the morning, as early as 8 a.m., after the farmers were done milking, and now it’s in the evening, but the regulars still come in for lunch. They open between 10-11 a.m., “whenever we feel like it,” says Gene, and then he explains that “we lock up whenever we feel like it too!”

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I had to ask these long-time tavern owners, “What’s the ‘in’ beer to drink?” and laughed when they said Busch Light, because it brought me back to my college days and it wasn’t the answer I had expected. “It’s a revolving door,” says Helen, who explains they don’t carry any “fancy” beers and that Pabst has rotated through a lot of times in the last 50 years. “For a while, too, it would be Miller.”

I asked if they are planning any celebrations for this monumental year, and Gene says his kids are asking the same thing.

“I told them, I don’t know, but what are YOU going to do?” and laughs.

Within an hour, it was time for us to part ways. My five-year-old son had finished his kiddie cocktail and was blowing bubbles in the glass, while eleven o’clock and lunchtime was creeping up on Helen’s busy day ahead.

Plus, she said, “the manure haulers are going to be calling. Last week they called and ordered 17 burgers with fries.”

I just smiled. This farm girl knew exactly what Helen was referring to and we even passed a few on the way home. TLW

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TLW PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES VIEWS THE CANDIDATES IN THEIR OWN WORDS In this column, we present the viewpoints, experience and accomplishments of the two candidates who are running for TLW President. Voting will occur on Thursday, Oct. 5 during the fall convention in Appleton.

TOM DAHLEN We need to keep the TLW moving forward, and I know with all my experience I will be able to accomplish that.

As your state treasurer, I thought I’d let you know a few things about me and my business. I’m the owner and operator of the Hilltop Tavern, Bar & Grill on Highway 10 near Granton, Wisconsin. Granton is located just 30 miles northwest of the center of the state.

Here are some of my accomplishments: • TLW member for 35 years • Held every position in my local league • Member of the TLW Board of Directors 23 Years • TLW Treasurer 16 years When I took over as your state treasurer, the TLW had a net worth of $900,000 and today the net worth is $3.3 million. I’ve been through two state audits with the Dept. of Revenue and they made some recommendations, however, the TLW has never received any fines.

• Created Calendar Raffle averaging $80,000 per year (Matching Funds Program). It’s now in its 19th year.

• Chairman of the TLW Foundation Fundraising Committee. Changed the TLW Foundation Raffle to a 50/50 payout and it’s been a considerable success • Co-chair of the state golf tournament • Chairman of the evaluation committee • Participate on the auction committee • Involved in starting the state trap shoot last year • I DO WHATEVER NEEDS TO BE DONE I’ve been in business for 35 years and I am in the position to spend as much time as needed to keep the TLW moving forward. I love this organization and will work extremely hard to accomplish as much as I can. Please visit my hospitality room in Appleton and see me.

I would be honored to receive your vote in October at the fall convention! www.tlw.org

CHRIS MARSICANO My name is Chris Marsicano, and I am currently your TLW Senior Vice President, and I’d like your support as a candidate for the president of the Tavern League of Wisconsin.

When I was two, my parents made the life changing decision to go into the restaurant business. They joined the Tavern League in 1966, and the Village Supper Club in Delavan has been my second home ever since.

I’ve served on the board of the Walworth County Tavern League for the last 18 years as a director, secretary/treasurer and SafeRide coordinator. From the rules and forms we developed when we started our SafeRide Program, my wife and I created the booklet How to Start a SafeRide Program which is still available through the TLW office.

I have served on the state board for about 14 years as 1st District Director, Southern Zone Vice President and as Senior Vice President for the last five years.

As President I would continue to fight for the value of our liquor licenses; work to increase membership and maximize benefits the TLW offers its members; and work on improving our social media presence, while remaining sensitive to the fact that not everyone uses it. I would also work with office staff to increase efficiency and recognize where improvements can be made.

I am passionate about the Tavern League of Wisconsin and our members. Each year presents new challenges to our industry through regulations and even technology – and I hope that I will have your vote of confidence as president to move the Tavern League of Wisconsin into the future.

I am always available to answer your questions and address your concerns. Please visit my hospitality room, the Aspen Room, located by the pool in the Radisson in Appleton. See you there! TLW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

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2017 Fall Convention Schedule of Events Annual Food Drive: Please bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation for St. Joseph’s Food Pantry.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2017 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. TLW Board of Directors Meeting Evergreen Room 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Food Service Sanitation Course & Exam - Oaktag Room (Class Registration is open to members and non-members) 12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M. Board Lunch - Aspen Room 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Registration - Lawrence Room 8:00 P.M. to Midnight Outagamie County League Welcome Party LOCATION: Tanner’s Bar and Grill, Kimberly BAND: DJ & Video by Toe Knee V

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2017

12:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Trade Show - Grand Ballroom Bean Bag Toss Contest for TIPAC 12:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. Silent Auction – Ebony Room 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. Seminar – Menu Building for Profit Presented by Sysco Foods - Great Hall 3:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. Seminar – DOR Inspections: What Are They Looking For? Presented by Department of Revenue - Great Hall 8:00 P.M. to 1:00 A.M. Cocktail Party & Costume Contest Empire Room THEME: TLW STARS – A TRIBUTE TO LEADERSHIP COSTUME: Come as your favorite leader from the past or present BAND: TAXI. Sponsored by BMI

8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Registration & $2 Bill Exchange Lawrence Room

9:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. Live Auction – Empire Room

8:45 A.M. to 9:15 A.M. Audit Committee - Bond Room

9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Registration & $2 Bill Exchange Lawrence Room

8:45 A.M. to 9:15 A.M. Nominating Committee - Crown Room 8:45 A.M. to 9:15 A.M. Resolutions Committee – Oaktag Room 8:45 A.M. to 9:15 A.M. Rules Committee – Parchment Room 9:15 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. General Session – Empire Room Attendance Drawing Host League Intro – Terri (Sassy) Buman, Eastern Zone VP Opening Ceremony – Marty DeCoster, Outagamie County Tavern League President Senior Vice President’s Report – Chris Marsicano President’s Report – Terry Harvath Secretary’s Report – Erin Pulaski Treasurer’s Report – Tom Dahlen Keynote Speaker – Lynn Dickey former Green Bay Packer Quarterback Executive Director’s Report – Pete Madland Special Club Awards Member of the Year Award Attendance Drawing First-Timers Orientation

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2017

9:00 A.M. to 1:45 P.M. Silent Auction – Ebony Room 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. General Business Meeting - Empire Room Attendance Drawing ABL Report- Bob Sprenger Legislative Report - Scott Stenger and Steve Morris, ABL President Parade of Candidates Good and Welfare Attendance Drawing 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Trade Show – Grand Ballroom 2:00 P.M. to 2:45 P.M. Vendors Drawings Trade Show Area (Attendees must be present to win) 2:45 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Exhibitor Booth Drawing Trade Show Area (Exhibitor must be still set-up to win)

3:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. District Caucuses: 1st & 9th District – Empire Room 6th District – Cortland Room 2nd District – McIntosh Room 8th District – Pippin Room 4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. District Caucuses: 3rd District – Empire Room 4th District – Cortland Room 5th District – McIntosh Room 7th District – Pippin Room 5:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. President’s TIPAC Reception Sponsored by: TBA Either Pool or Courtyard

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2017 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 P.M. Voting – Delegates Only Oaktag Room 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. General Business Session Empire Room Attendance Drawing CORE Drawing & Check Presentation Brad Schinke MillerCoors Presentation by Andy Berg: How to Overcome On-Premise Hurdles Audit Committee Report Nomination Committee Report Rules Committee Report Swearing in of Officers Host League Drawing Trade Show Buyers Raffle Foundation Raffle Good & Welfare President’s Closing Remarks DVD Presentation Attendance Drawing 12:00 P.M. Outagamie County President’s Reception Outagamie County President: Marty DeCoster Plan B 157 Raught St., Kaukauna, WI 54130 (920) 462-4239 Note: Times and events are subject to change without notice.

www.tlw.org

2017 Fall Convention Keynote Speaker KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Lynn Dickey

Retired Green Bay Packers Quarterback Packers Hall of Fame Class of 1992 TUESDAY, 9:15 A.M. TO 12:00 P.M. GENERAL SESSION Lynn Dickey is a graduate of Kansas State University, where he was a two-time all-Big Eight Quarterback in 1969 and 1970. He was the Big Eight Offensive Player on the All-time Big Eight team. His No. 11 jersey is the only number ever retired at Kansas State University.

Dickey was drafted by the Houston Oilers in 1971 and played there through the 1975 season. He was traded to the Green Bay Packers in 1976 and set most of the single season and career passing records. In 1983 he led the NFL in passing yards (4,458) and touchdown passes (32). Dickey retired after the 1985 season.

Lynn Dickey is a current member of the Kansas High School Sports Hall of Fame, the State of Kansas Sports Hall of Fame, the Kansas State University Hall of Fame and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.

He currently lives in Leawood, Kansas with wife Anamaria and has four daughters and five grandchildren. Dickey works for Serve You Customer Prescriptions Management, based in Milwaukee.

2017 Fall Convention Seminars TUESDAY 1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M., GREAT HALL MENU BUILDING FOR PROFIT Presented by Business Consultant Dustin Howard, Sysco East Americans are now spending more money eating out than they are on groceries. We have more members than ever serving some type of food. If you serve food it is important to cash in on this trend and make some money.

Dustin Howard of Sysco East will conduct this seminar and talk about profitability, presentation and menu creation. What’s Hot? What’s not? What must you do to create a menu that is both appealing and profitable? Breaking even is not acceptable! Make your grill, your deep fryer, your kitchen work for you. This seminar will show you how.

Dustin Howard works as a business consultant for Sysco East. He started as a dishwasher and line cook before graduating from the Culinary Institute of New York. He became an Executive Chef at age 23. As an employee, he opened four restaurants in four different states while maintaining a 15 percent labor cost and a 28 percent food cost. Receiving many awards along the way, Dustin settled in with Sysco East and has been there since 2012. www.tlw.org

TUESDAY 3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M., GREAT HALL DOR INSPECTIONS: WHAT ARE THEY LOOKING FOR? Presented by Wisconsin Department of Revenue Agents You may have already been paid a visit by Department of Revenue agents. If you haven’t, be prepared for one. The DOR is responsible for the enforcement of the Chapter 125 laws that govern our industry. Not knowing those laws can directly impact your business and livelihood.

So what happens when they pay you a visit? What are agents looking for? What can you do to protect yourself? DOR agents will be on hand to discuss these questions and more. Tax audits will also be discussed, because they are becoming more frequent and many of our members have had to face them. Time will also be allowed for Q & A. This seminar is for anyone in our industry. Remember, ignorance is no excuse for violating the law!

The presenters: Tyler Quam, Kurt Goodreau and Rick Uhlig with the Department of Revenue’s Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement Unit.

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2017 Fall Convention TLW Stars Leading the Way - “A Tribute to TLW Leadership.”

TLW Stars Leading the Way: “A Tribute to TLW Leadership” TLW 82ND FALL CONVENTION AND TRADE SHOW

OCTOBER 2-5, 2017 RADISSON PAPER VALLEY HOTEL

• Radisson Paper Valley Hotel

333 W. College Ave. • Appleton Full — Sold Out

HOTEL

RATES

COPPERLEAF BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Copper Queen, Copper King: $125.00 Silver Suite: $145.00, Platinum Suite: $155.00.

All plus taxes Credit Card is required to guarantee room. Cancellation Policy: No penalty 24 hours prior to arrival.

After 24 hours, one night stay charged to credit card.

(Across the street from the Radisson Paper Valley) 300 W. College Ave., Appleton, WI For reservations call, 866-238-4214 and ask for TLW room block.

2017 Fall Convention Registration Form Name

Spouse/Guest Name

Signature(s)

/

Business Name Mailing Address City/State/Zip Business Phone

Home Phone Email Address __________________________________________________

Local League This is my first convention

I am a new Member

I would like to contribute $5.00 of this registration fee to: (please check one only)

Total amount Due $

TLW Support

Check #

Wisconsin Tavern League Foundation

MasterCard

CORE (Children of Restaurant Employees) REGISTRATION FEE PER PERSON

METHOD OF PAYMENT

Member

Visa

American Express

Card # Non-Member

Full Registration……………………………

$50

$70

Postmarked after September 20, 2017

$60

$80

One Day Only………………………………

(Circle one Tuesday/Wednesday)

$30

$35

Expiration Date

Cardholder Name

Signature Cardholder Address City/State/Zip

Please complete and mail this form with payment to: TLW, 2817 Fish Hatchery Road, Fitchburg, WI 53713-5005 22

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www.tlw.org

2017 Fall Convention Entertainment Monday Night DJ & VIDEO BY TOE KNEE V Join the fun on Monday night for a unique entertainment experience. The one and only Toe Knee V has cornered the market on recreating the music and memories from the 80s and 90s. You’ll relive those years through a combination of music videos, movie clips, TV themes, commercials and much more. Experience once again those unforgettable classic video performances from MTV, Night Tracks, American Bandstand, Solid Gold, Dance Fever, or Soul Train, and many, many more.

Tuesday Night TAXI

SPONSORED BY BMI Come along and join the ride as TAXI entertains TLW members on Tuesday night. In addition to classic rock, the band performs blues as well as country tunes. TAXI is comprised of seasoned musicians from northeast Wisconsin including: Jon Vander Heyden on bass; Mike Daley on drums; Tony Vallera on guitar; and Keith Milka on keyboards.

Your Host League OUTAGAMIE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE The Outagamie County Tavern League welcomes all TLW members to the 2017 Fall Convention in Appleton. The convention committee includes, back row left to right: Jimmy Carter; Monte Michiels; Bradley Schinke; Terry Harvath; Danny Wittman; Kevin U. “Smurf”; Brian Ritchie; Michele Striegel; and Brian Striegel. Front row, left to right: Kim Hannerick; Paula Pitsch; Marty DeCoster; and Harvey Sprangers. Not Pictured: Chris Halback; Jesse Valeri; Larry Dorn III; Terri “Sassy” Buman; Travis Bast; Helen Brahm; and Jim Peerenboom.

www.tlw.org

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2017 Fall Convention Exhibitor List Allstate Liquor & Wine Co. Booth #41, 42 Tom Zacharias 12001 W. Carmen Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53225 P: (414) 353-1000 F: (414) 353-0768 www.capitol-husting.com Liquor, Wine and Beer Distributor

American Income Life Booth # 4 Laurie Gruber 100 Pintail Dr. Hammond, WI 54015 P: (715) 579-3297 P: (800) 875-9997 www.ailife.com llgruber@ailife.com Supplemental Life and Health Benefits to Members and Employees

Anheuser-Busch Inc. Booth # 45, 56 Andy Engel P: (608) 258-9506 www.anheuser-busch.com engel@ hamilton-consulting.com Assorted Malt Beverages

B & K Bar & Restaurant Supplies Booth # 82, 83 Donald Falk 7100 W. Greenfield Ave. West Allis, WI 53214 P: (414) 259-9161 P: (414) 322-1605 cell F: (414) 259-9197 www.bandkbarsupplies.com dfalk50@yahoo.com Bar Stools, Pub Tables and Chairs, Booths, Glassware, Chemicals Snacks, Pourers, Bar Chips, etc.

Badger Mats Booth # 84 Nick Filardo P.O. Box 222 Mineral Point, WI 53565 P: (608) 574-3736 F: (608) 987-5441 www.badgermats.com nick@badgermats.com Anti-fatigue Bar Mats, Logo Entrance Mats, Kitchen Mats

Badger Mutual Insurance Company Booth # 26 Melissa Prunty 1635 W. National Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53204 P: (414) 383-1234 F: (414) 383-1535 www.badgermutual.com mprunty@badgermutual. com Personal and Commercial Insurance

Badger Wholesale Co. Inc. Booth # 27 Scott Vandenheuval 1111 Cedar St Green Bay, WI 54301 P: (920) 437-7132 P: (800) 456-7869 F: (920) 437-1755

Bar Rags Drinkware Booth # 49, 50 Kevin Pelz 5003 Milan Rd. Sandusky, OH 44870 P: (800) 707-7247 F: (419) 625-6697 www.barrags.com barrags@aol.com

Brew Pub Lotzza Motzza Pizza Booth # 85 Denny Terrance 3027 W. Mason St. Green Bay, WI 54313 P: (920) 883-7851 www.bernatellos.com dennyterrance@yahoo.com

Edge One Inc. Booth # 44 Kris Zahn 161 Business Park Circle Stoughton, WI 53589 P: (608) 873-3311 F: (608) 873-3506 www.edgeone.com kzahn@edgeone.com

T-Shirts, Sweatshirts

Frozen Pre-Made Pizza, Lotzza Motzza Pizza

ATM Sales and Service, Credit Card Processing

Bromak Sales Inc. Booth # 5 Gary Keller E9770 7th St. Clintonville, WI 54929 P: (715) 823-4429 F: (715) 823-7493 www.broaster.com broaster@bromakinc.com

El Cortez Hotel & Casino Booth # 72 Tim Wojciechowski 600 E. Fremont St. Las Vegas, NV 89101 P: (702) 385-5200 P: (800) 634-6703 www.elcortezhotelcasino. com TWojciechowski@elcortez. net

Bayland Insurance Booth # 59 Tom Landreman P.O. Box 28559 Green Bay, WI 54324 P: (920) 494-5000 P: (844) 920-7422 F: (920) 857-1408 www.baylandinsurance.com tlandreman@ baylandinsurance.com Business Insurance, Health, Group Health, Personal Insurance

Benedict Refrigeration Service Inc. Booth # 54 Bill Candell 1003 Harlem St. Altoona, WI 54720 P: (715) 834-3191 F: (715) 834-8533 www.benedict refrigeration.com abenedict@ benedictrefrigeration.com Kitchen, Bar and Restaurant Equipment Design, Sales and Service

Big Daddy Games LLC Booth # 87, 86 Howard Smoyer 1223 Appleton Rd. Menasha, WI 54952 P: (920) 727-5508 F: (920) 886-1216 www.bigdaddygames.net howard@bigdaddygames. net Amusement Devices

Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin Booth # 47 Yvonne Bennett 21140 W. Capitol Dr., #5 Pewaukee, WI 53072 P: (262) 783-4292, Ext. 101 www.bowlwi.com yvonne.bennett@ bowlwi.com Trade Association - Bowling Industry for State of Wisconsin

Brakebush Brothers Booth # 66 Al Neumann N4993 6th Dr. Westfield, WI 53964 P: (800) 933-2121 x1368 F: (920) 787-1603 www.brakebush.com aneumann@brakebush.com Frozen Value-added Chicken Products

Full Line Foodservice

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Broaster Company Equipment and Supplies, Broaster Foods

CB Distributors Inc. Booth # 36 Debbie Richardson 2500 Kennedy Dr. Beloit, WI 53511 P: (888) 824-3256 www.cbdistributorsinc.com tradeshow@cbdistinc.com The Bar Shot

Cornerstone Processing Solutions Inc. Booth # 78, 79 Brad Palubiak 1600 S. Main St. Oshkosh, WI 54902 P: (920) 651-8888 F: (920) 651-8889 www.cornerstoneps.net brad@cornerstoneps.net ATM, POS, ECRS, Credit Card Processing and Equipment

Demon Spirits LLC Booth # 12 Wayne Karls 492 East Cove Rd. Hudson, WI 54016 P: (715) 531-1466 www.drinkdemonrum.com wayne@demonspirits.com Demon Rum (Spiced Rum)

DeVere Company Inc. Booth # 62 Cynthia S. Shackelford 1923 Beloit Ave Janesville, WI 53546 P: (608) 752-0576 F: (608) 752-6625 www.deverechemical.com customerservice@ deverechemical.com Commercial Dishwashers Lease, Sales & Service, Cleaners and Disinfectants, Janitorial Supplies

Diageo Booth # 75 Mallory Krueger 646 Arnie St. Combined Locks, WI 54113 P: (414) 335-4568 www.mktg.com mkrueger@gmail.com

Hotel and Gaming

Emil’s Pizza Inc. Booth # 74 Sue Kraemer P.O. Box 168 Watertown, WI 53094 P: (920) 262-9756 F: (920) 262-2920 www.emilspizza.com skraemer@emilspizza.com Manufacture and Sale of Frozen Pizza

Focus on Energy Small Business Program Booth # 40 Courtney Wojcik 2637 Tulip Ln. Green Bay, WI 54313 P: (262) 336-4274 F: (262) 650-3160 www.focusonenergy.com cwojcik@franklinenergy.com Energy Efficiency Incentives and Services

Foremost Business Systems Booth # 61 Lori Alwin 4834 Park Glen Rd. Minneapolis, MN 55416 P: (952) 920-8449 F: (952) 920-7880 www.foremostpos.com lori@foremostpos.com Aloha POS, Tableside Ordering, Gift Certificates, Online Ordering, Video Surveillance

Forest Floor Foods Booth # 52 Greg Floyd N5014 Northview Rd. Eden, WI 53019 P: (920) 477-6009 F: (920) 477-2035 www.forestfloorfoods.com olives@pickledveggies. com Full Line of Mixers, Rimmers, Bitters, Specialty Stuffed Olives, Pickled Veggies and more

Game Management Corp.

Booth # 70, 71 James Donker 45 W. Snell Rd. Oshkosh, WI 54901 P: (920) 237-2428 F: (920) 651-8746 www.gamemanagement corp.com donkerj@aol.com Video Poker and Progressive System, Printer Systems, Card Readers

Gourmet Parlor Pizza Booth # 25 Stephen Sauer P.O. Box 245 Royalton, MN 56373 P: (320) 584-5930 www.gourmetparlorpizza. com steve.sauer@ gourmetparlorpizza.com Frozen Pizza

Great Lakes Distillery Booth # 77 Guy Rehorst 616 W. Virginia St. Milwaukee, WI 53204 P: (414) 431-8683 www.greatlakesdistillery. com info@greatlakesdistillery. com Wisconsin Hand-Crafted Award-Winning Spirits

Greater Insurance Service Corp.

Booth # 73 Heather Heidtke 414 Atlas Ave. Madison, WI 53714 P: (800) 747-4472 F: (608) 221-0484 www.gisconline.com/tlw/ heatherh@ greaterinsurance.com Life, Health and Personal and Property Insurance Products

Heartland Business Systems Booth # 55 Joe Harlow 1700 Stephen St. Little Chute, WI 54140 P: (920) 788-7720 jharlow@hbs.net Point of Sale Systems

Holiday Wholesale Inc. Booth # 64, 65, 63 Dixie Marquardt P.O. Box 177 Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 P: (608) 254-8321 P: (800) 333-8321, Ext. 102 F: (608) 254-8003 www.holidaywholesale.com dmarquardt@ holidaywholesale.com Candy, Snacks, Foodservice, Disposables, Cleaning Supplies, Novelties, Tobacco Products

New Liquor Products, Specific Brands TBD

www.tlw.org

2017 Fall Convention Exhibitor List HSC Business Brokers Booth # 38 Jerry Vlaminck P.O. Box 739 Delano, MN 55328 P: (763) 972-9077 P: (800) 735-3512 F: (763) 972-9080 www.hscbrokers.com info@hscbrokers.com

Meyer Brothers LLC Booth # 76 Bob Meyer P.O. Box 196 St. Nazianz, WI 54232 P: (920) 639-4488 www.themeyerbrothers. com robert.meyer@ themeyerbrothers.com

Commercial Real Estate Brokerage in the Hospitality Field

Old Fashioned Cocktail Mix

Johnson Brothers Beverage Booth # 19 Greg M. Zens 301 E. Vienna Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53212 P: (414) 963-9932 www.johnsonbrothers.com mw-customerservice@ johnsonbrothers.com Wine, Spirits and Beer Distributor

Lamers Bus Lines Booth # 43 Erica Dakins 2407 South Point Rd. Green Bay, WI 54313 P: (800) 236-1240 x10139 P: (800) 236-1240 F: (920) 496-3611 www.golamers.com ericadakins@golamers.com Wisconsin’s Premier School Bus and Motorcoach Company with 33 Locations Statewide

Liquor Control Solutions Booth # 8B Steve Kaminski 2222 American Dr. Neenah, WI 54956 P: (920) 749-8007 F: (920) 749-8011 Luiges Frozen Pizza Inc. Booth # 3 Carl Schwibinger W3830 Cty. Hwy. K Belgium, WI 53004 P: (920) 994-4884 F: (920) 994-4624 luiges@live.com Quality Frozen Pizza

Mass Appeal Inc. Booth # 1, 2 Thomas G. Wilkinson 2247 Ullmer Ct. Green Bay, WI 54303 P: (920) 469-2000 P: (800) 345-5432 www.massappealinc.com sales@massappealinc.com Thousands of Advertising Items to Promote Your Business

Metropolitan Food Service Equipment Booth # 60 Mark LaVick 2618 Birch St. Eau Claire, WI 54703 P: (715) 318-2337 F: (715) 895-8003 mlavick@mfsewi.com Commercial Food Service Equipment

www.tlw.org

MillerCoors Booth # 69, 80 Hailey Richardson 3939 W. Highland Blvd.

Milwaukee, WI 53208 P: (614) 356-0580 P: (262) 203-4018 cell www.millercoors.com Hailey.Richardson@ millercoors.com MillerCoors Products

Minhas Micro Distillery Booth # 58 Dennis Rego P.O. Box 397 Monroe, WI 53566 P: (608) 293-0758 F: (608) 325-3198 www.minhasdistillery.com gm@rhinelanderbrewery. com Rail Liquor, Rum Horchata, Cream Liqueur of Different Types and Beer, Hard Sodas

Modern Cash Register Systems Booth # 8A Tom Jones P.O. Box 574 Neenah, WI 54957 P: (920) 749-8007 F: (920) 749-8011 www.moderncashregister. com tom@moderncashregister. com Stand-alone Cash Registers and Point-of-Sale Systems, Sales, Service, Supplies and Peripherals

NuC02 Booth # 21 Kathleen Herbst 2800 SE Market Place Stuart, FL 34997 P: (800) 472-2855 www.nuco2.com acritcher@nuco2.com Beverage Carbonation Solutions

Office Product Co. Booth # 9A Chuck Helfenstein 3190 London Rd. Eau Claire, WI 54701 P: (715) 834-0517 F: (715) 834-2866 opc@cvol.net POS System, Cash Registers, Office Equipment

Pabst Brewing Company Booth # 39 Matt Schoenherr 1610 Linnerund Dr. Sun Prairie, WI 53590 P: (262) 439-9173 P: (262) 391-4629 cell www.pabstbrewingco.com Beer - Pabst, Old Style, etc.

PCMusic Booth # 51 Alex Rizhanovsky 2400 Hasell Rd., Ste. 310 Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 P: (630) 495-8863 P: (800) 495-8863 www.pcmusic.com info@pcmusic.com PC Based On-Demand Music Provider

Pepsi Beverages Company Booth # 48 Tim Michels 2541 W. 20th Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54904 P: (920) 236-4454 F: (920) 236-3759 tim.michels@pepsico.com Beverages and Snacks

Motion Technology Inc. (Autofry) Booth # 14 Mike K. McMahon 10 Forbes Rd. Northborough, MA 01532 P: (800) 348-2976 F: (508) 393-5718 www.mtiproducts.com mmcmahon@mtiproducts. com

Precision Pours Inc. Booth # 68 Tom Highum 12837 Industrial Park Blvd Plymouth, MN 55441 P: (800) 549-4491 P: (800) 549-4491 F: (763) 694-9343 www.precisionpours.com tomhighum@ precisionpours.com

Ventless Deep Fryer

We Manufacture the 3-Ball Liquor Pour Used in Over 2,000 TLW Establishments

Nei-Turner Media Group Inc. Barb Howell 400 Broad St., Unit D Lake Geneva, WI 53147 P: (262) 729-4471 F: (262) 729-4476 www.ntmediagroup.com bhowell@ntmediagroup. com Publishing High-quality Print Materials, Visitor Guides, Magazines and Custom Publications

Pretzelhaus Bakery/ Funacho Booth # 28 Ken St. Clair 17565 Evergreen Ct. Brookfield, WI 53045 P: (262) 309-9902 F: (262) 797-0743 www.pretzelhausbakery. com ken@pretzelhausbakery. com Shelf Stable Pretzels - No Freezer or Refrigerator Storage, Cheese Sauces with Warm Holding Dispenser

Riverside Foods Inc. Booth # 67 Mike Coenen 2520 Wilson St. Two Rivers, WI 54241 P: (800) 678-4511 P: (920) 323-3351 cell F: (920) 794-7332 www.riversidefoods.com musky@riversidefoods.com

Taylor Ent. of WI Inc. Booth # 10 Earl Hansen N8108 Maple St. Ixonia, WI 53036 P: (262) 567-7286 P: (800) 242-9510 F: (262) 567-7201 www.taylorwi.net earl.hansen@taylorwi.net

Breaded and Battered Appetizers and Seafood

Sales, Service and Parts for Taylor Ice Cream, Henny Penny Cooking and Perfect Fry Equipment

Safe Harbor Payment Systems Booth # 18 Ross Judnick 4724 Vaux Rd, P.O. Box 18031 Duluth, MN 55811 P: (218) 729-9103 www.safeharbor paymentsystems.com safeharborpos@gmail.com POS Systems, ATMs, Credit Card Processing, Mobile Payments and Local Service

Sanimax USA LLC Booth # 57 Andy Barnaal 608 Bassett St. De Forest, WI 53532 P: (608) 846-5466 P: (800) 765-6453 F: (608) 846-5370 www.sanimax.com Andrew.Barnaal@sanimax. com Collection and Recycling of Used Cooking Oil, Grease Trap Cleaning

Society/Disher Insurance Services Booth # 81 Mike Disher 2916 Church St. Stevens Point, WI 54481 P: (715) 344-8383 P: (800) 675-5137 F: (715) 344-4427 www.disherinsurance.com mike@disherinsurance.com Property and Casualty and Workmen’s Compensation Insurance

Star Business Machines Booth # 9B Cory Sosnovske 3709 Patch St. Stevens Point, WI 54481 P: (715) 341-5919 F: (715) 341-4867 www.starbusiness machines.com cory@ starbusinessmachines.com Star Connection/ LodgeVision Booth # 32 Chad Strampe S2634 Cty. Hwy. Bd, Ste. 1 Baraboo, WI 53913-9554 P: (608) 355-2025 F: (608) 234-4302 www.lodgevision.com sales@lodgevision.com

The Insurance Center Booth # 46 Teresa Perna 701 Sand Lake Rd. Onalaska, WI 54650 P: (800) 944-1367 F: (608) 783-1079 www.ticinsurance.com customercare@ ticinsurance.com Insurance, Full Service Agency, Age 65 Plus, Business Insurance

Tricky Dick 2 Booth # 16, 15 Robert Manteufel 2209 S Berry Dr. Appleton, WI 54915 P: (920) 213-6666 Novelties

VITO Fryfilter Inc. Booth #53 Sascha Geib 702 W. Algonquin Rd. Arlington Heights, IL 60005 P: (847) 859-0398 F: (847) 770-4701 www.vitofryfilter.com info@vitofryfilter.com Oil Filtration Systems for Deep Fryers

Wisconsin Scrub and Sweep Booth #13 Ken Phelps 2550 Advanced Rd. Madison, WI 53718 P: (608) 422-4055 F: (608) 422-4950 www.wiscrubsweep.com ken@wiscrubsweep.com Floor Cleaning Equipment - Rental, Sales and Service; Cleaning Chemical Sales

Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps Booth #20 Walter Bohrer 1860 Executive Dr. Ste. E Oconomowoc, WI 53066 P: (414) 217-1731 F: (262) 968-1849 wbohrer@wi.rr.com Promotional Milk-Cap Pulltabs and New and Used Vending Machines for Pulltabs

Commercial and Residential Satellite TV, Digital Signage, Internet, Phone

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2017 Fall Convention Auction EACH YEAR AT THE FALL CONVENTION, MEMBERS GATHER TUESDAY EVENING FOR

THE TLW LIVE AUCTION.

The TLW Live Auction is one of the larger parties held during the four-day festivities and members have fun bidding, toasting and dancing! In addition to the Tuesday night function, members also have the opportunity to participate in the silent auction that runs Tuesday, Noon to 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.

In the past, auction items have included travel packages, sports memorabilia, fine clothing, electronics, art and more! Auction Chairperson Judy Vandenhouten helps coordinate the auctions that benefit TLW Support.

Donating an item is simple.

1. P lease fill out the form below and mail it to: Judy Vandenhouten E2904 County Road J, Kewaunee, WI 54216 Email: houtrvle@gmail.com Cell: (920) 493-4329 2. B ring your item to the registration booth upon arrival to the fall convention. •The auction committee decides if the item will go into the live or silent auction. •All items purchased at the auctions must be paid for by personal check, credit card or cash.

Thank you for your contributions!

Auction item form 2017 Fall Convention If your league or members will be bringing auction items to the Fall Convention, please complete the form below and send it to the Auction Chairperson Judy Vandenhouten.

Donor (Individual name and League) Contact Person Phone (business)

(home)

Please describe the item(s) your members will be donating to the TLW auctions.

Item:

Value:

Item:

Value:

Item:

Value:

Item:

Value:

Item:

Value:

Thank you for your participation!

Return this form by Sept. 20, 2017 to Judy Vandenhouten, E2904 County Rd. J, Kewaunee, WI 54216 26

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www.tlw.org

2017 Fall Convention Member of the year THE TAVERN LEAGUE OF WISCONSIN

MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD The award is presented annually to a deserving TLW member at the fall convention. Please take a moment to nominate a member who you feel is deserving of this award. The recipient is chosen based on service to the Tavern League of Wisconsin as well as service to community and family.

Many members are qualified to receive this award.

Complete the form and be sure to include any information such as local awards, media coverage, newspaper clippings, endorsements, references, etc. Please send nominations to the TLW office by September 20, 2017.

Last year’s member of the year was Neil Caflisch, owner of The Square Tavern in Baraboo.

Nomination form 2017 Fall Convention 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 September 20, 2017. www.tlw.org

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A century after German immigrants introduced Wisconsin to brandy, the drink’s popularity continues to grow

By Amanda N. Wegner

Silver Birch Supper Club, Tomahawk

Photo Courtesy Ron Faiola, supperclubbook.com

Old Fashioned Love

W

hen Wisconsinites fall in love with something, they really love that something. Take beer, for example. Or cheese and brats. And, of course, the Green Bay Packers.

Then there’s the Old Fashioned, the unofficially official cocktail of Wisconsin. Filed among the likes of the martini and Manhattan, the Old Fashioned is one of those old-school classic cocktails that has stood the test of time. But of course, Wisconsin put its own spin on it generations ago, and not because it was the hipster or high-brow thing to do.

Beyond Wisconsin’s borders, the Old Fashioned is classically made with bourbon, but as we all know, brandy is the overwhelming liquor of choice here, supported by both experiential and hard evidence: Korbel’s 12-month rolling volume of brandy sales to Wisconsin as of April 2017 was 153,000 9-liter cases.

That represents more than half the overall volume of the brand, with 53 percent of total sales to the state, says Margie Healy, Korbel’s public relations manager.

“Outside of Wisconsin brandy Old Fashioneds are really unknown. If you’re in another state and order one, you’ll either get a funny look from the bartender or they’ll say, ‘You’re from Wisconsin!’” says author Ron Faiola, who knows a thing or two about Old Fashioneds. In fact, he might qualify as an Old Fashioned connoisseur.

“Both of my books and movie feature over 100 supper clubs, so I have tried a lot of great brandy Old Fashioneds,” says Faiola, who prefers his Old Fashioneds sweet. Faiola is an author, photographer and filmmaker with three documentaries on PBS, including “Wisconsin Supper Clubs: An Old Fashioned Experience,” and two books on supper clubs including his latest, Wisconsin Supper Clubs: Another Round, released in May 2016. He is currently finishing his next film, a documentary titled “We’re Here for a Fish Fry!”

WHY DO WISCONSINITES LOVE OLD FASHIONEDS? Deyna Miller, Bar Manager, Aberdeen Restaurant & Bar, Manitowish Waters: Wisconsin has a huge supper club tradition that includes cocktailing and conversing in the bar prior to sitting down at your table to enjoy your dining experience. Being the largest brandy drinking state no doubt owes its title to this tradition.

Jeffrey Karbash, Owner, The Duck Inn, Delavan: It’s because Wisconsinites are brought up on them. It’s a tradition to come in for a Friday night fish with parents and grandparents and see the parents drink them, maybe even take a sip. Once they become of drinking age, they start to order them.

Bob Prosser, Owner, Ishnala Supper Club, Lake Delton: How do you beat an Old Fashioned? Old Fashioneds are part of Wisconsin history and tradition. Many families have passed their family recipes down for generations, and you absolutely cannot touch the taste of a great Old Fashioned.

Chris Wiken, General Manager, The Packing House, Milwaukee: That’s a great question and one that many writers have tried to figure out. I think it starts with Wisconsin’s love of brandy dating back to the German immigrants that came here in the 1800s. The Old Fashioned cocktail grew from that love of brandy. It’s a topic

As to how brandy came to be the Old Fashioned liquor of choice here is something of mystery, but according to legend, says Faiola, Wisconsin’s brandy roots began at the Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. “German immigrants in the state enjoyed brandy and ever since then, we’ve been a major consumer of that particular spirit,” he says.

With a little history to stand on, we put out a call to experts around the state (and beyond) to learn why Wisconsinites love Old Fashioneds, if the drink’s popularity is holding steady, and the secret to making a great one. While each has his or her own take (and — spoiler alert! — there’s a little disagreement to the “secret” of a great Old Fashioned), their responses paint a colorful picture of why and how the Old Fashioned has made its way to join the ranks of beer, cheese, brats and our beloved Packers in Wisconsin. www.tlw.org

Photo Courtesy Ron Faiola, supperclubbook.com

“Historians also say that during Prohibition, fruit and bitters were added to cut the harsh taste of bathtub brandy, however I believe that the brandy Old Fashioned cocktail became popular in the state after Prohibition, when everyone was legally trying the latest concoctions,” Faiola adds. “Our twist to the Old Fashioned was using brandy instead of bourbon, and it became the classic Wisconsin cocktail.”

Rocky’s Supper Club, Stoddard SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

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DO YOU FIND ONE STYLE — SWEET, SOUR, PRESS — IS MORE REQUESTED THAN THE OTHERS?

The Fireside, Hayward

Photo Courtesy Ron Faiola, supperclubbook.com

Miller: Traditionally, most people order brandy Old Fashioned sweet, but there are dozens of variations people enjoy. A good bartender will take the time to help you figure out your flavor.

I’ve heard debated about for decades, especially with the cocktail’s resurgence in the last several years.

Ron Faiola, Author, Photographer and Filmmaker: A brandy Old Fashioned is the community drink of choice, a common bond between friends and family. It’s not strong like a martini, so you can have a couple before dinner. It’s the ultimate adult soda pop.

Paul Ahvenainen, Master Distiller, Korbel Brandy: Wisconsin loves brandy, particularly Korbel brandy. I think the Korbel Old Fashioned is so popular in Wisconsin because it’s just one of those pairings that works. Korbel brandy is smooth and has a “fruit forward” style that blends nicely with the muddled fruit and bitters used in the Old Fashioned. While a classic whiskey based Old Fashioned can have a bit of a bite, the natural smoothness of the Korbel Old Fashioned has found a home in Wisconsin.

ARE YOUNGER GENERATIONS MAINTAINING THE DRINK’S POPULARITY? Miller: We are finding the younger generation is bringing back a lot of the traditional old-school cocktails, with the Old Fashioned being the Wisconsin favorite.

Karbash: The drink is definitely holding popularity with the younger generation. It’ very much a traditional thing here.

Prosser: The brandy Old Fashioned has skyrocketed in popularity. It is our No. 1 drink by far; we serve over 200 Old Fashioneds per day. It is just part of the culture of Wisconsin and of course, supper clubs.

Wiken: I think they’re more popular now than they have ever been. At The Packing House, we see folks in their 20s ordering them right alongside their grandmas and grandpas.

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Karbash: We have whiskey Old Fashioneds, brandy Old Fashioneds and increasingly, a lot of Southern Comfort Old Fashioneds. Across the board, sweet seems to be the more popular, though we will do Southern Comfort with sour mix to counteract the sweetness of the SoCo (Southern Comfort). But overall, the most popular is a brandy Old Fashioned.

Prosser: Sweet, hands down. Probably 95 percent of our all Old Fashioneds are ordered sweet.

Wiken: By far, sweet is the most popular followed by sour and then press. Well over half the Old Fashioneds we sell are ordered sweet.

WHAT’S THE SECRET TO AN EXCELLENT OLD FASHIONED? Miller: The secret to a fantastic Old Fashioned is to make it from scratch by muddling with fruit, sugar and bitters, not using a mix, especially in Wisconsin!

Karbash: The muddling of sugar and water has be to in correct proportion with how much brandy, along with how much bitters compared to the rest of the mix. The whole secret is the proportion. I know some muddle oranges and cherries into it, but I find the traditional recipe, which calls for sugar and water along with bitters, brandy and sweet soda, works the best.

Prosser: Two things … the Old Fashioned mix and muddling the fruit. The Old Fashioned mix is vitally important in the process. We make our own mix in-house. We start by making our own simple syrup to ensure that the sugar has completely dissolved then add our recipe amounts of bitters and let chill. The other side of the coin is the muddling. This seems to be a large debate across the state, to muddle or not muddle. We always muddle our Old Fashioneds, and we believe it makes the drink. By muddling, you emulsify the fruit and add a great level of flavor and aromas into the drink you wouldn’t get by not muddling.

Wiken: It all starts with the best ingredients. Brandy is by far the most requested liquor for the Old Fashioned here at The Packing House. We like to start ours with Korbel, but locally produced brandy from Great Lakes Distillery is wonderful and a great way to start as well. Angostura bitters and a fresh orange slice along with maraschino cherries and a couple of sugar cubes gets you going in the right direction. We also offer Luxardo cherries which give the drink a bit more panache. Hand muddling is key to bring all those great flavors together. Add the right mixer and you’ve got a delicious and classic Wisconsin Old Fashioned.

Faiola: The secret is hand-muddling and a great homemade Old Fashioned mix, plus it should be served in a nice big tumbler with 1.5 to 2 ounces of brandy. Fruit is the traditional garnish, but there are many other options including my favorite: bleu cheese stuffed green olives. TLW www.tlw.org

ELECT CHRIS MARSICANO TLW PRESIDENT

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Our association is made up of members in cities, villages, towns and unincorporated areas in every corner of the state. The demographics may be different, but we are all part of the same TLW family.

I’m applying to the membership for the job of President of the Tavern League of Wisconsin and the opportunity to be part of growing our association.

Feel free to reach out if you have questions.

(262) 745-4043 c.marsicano@yahoo.com

I look forward to seeing you at the TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show in Appleton. Stop by my Hospitality Room by the pool in the Aspen Room.

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161 Business Park Circle • Stoughton, WI 53589 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

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CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT CAMPARI AMERICA As a longtime sponsor of the Tavern League of Wisconsin dating back to 2002-2003 when the company was known as SKYY Spirits, Campari America is dedicated to serving the organization’s “front lines.”

“Campari America joined the Tavern League so we could get closer to the people on the front lines for selling our products,” says Dave Karraker, vice president of engagement and advocacy for Campari America. “We know that more than 70 percent of the people who walk into a bar don’t know what they are going to order before they walk up to a bartender. So, it is critically important that we build strong relationships with bar owners, beverage managers and bartenders so we can be assured we are providing the best possible products with the best possible service to meet the needs of the Wisconsin consumer.”

Campari America’s full range of products is distributed by General Beverage across Wisconsin, except in Eau Claire/Superior, where is it distributed by Saratoga Liquor.

Campari America’s parent company, Gruppo Campari, based in Italy, is the sixth-largest premium spirits company in the world, which provides a wide variety of products from SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey Bourbon, to Grand Marnier and Espolòn Tequila. The company also offers an outstanding portfolio of Italian brands that can’t be outmatched, such as Campari, Aperol, Frangelico and Averna. “Each of our brands have a rich history that helps to drive consumer interest and advocacy,” says Karraker.

Campari’s “advocacy” includes Negroni Week, where bars and restaurants are dedicated to donating $1 to charity for every Negroni cocktail sold. Held the first full week of June

VOTE: Tom Dahlen

Tavern League of Wisconsin - State President Member since 1982 Held every position in my local league State board member for 20+ years State Treasurer last 16 years Lobbied for TLW in Washington D.C. Attended many ABL meetings Started the calendar raffle now in its 19th year

each year, Negroni Week is one of the largest charitable giving programs in the world and last year, 7,700 bars from 52 countries participated.

As one of the world’s largest spirits companies, Campari is on the front edge of trends and is seeing a number of new consumer trends affecting the sale of alcohol in Wisconsin, the biggest of which is the “bourbon boom.”

“The bourbon category is on fire as more and more men and women are in search of brands with more flavor that have deep American heritage,” says Karraker. “We are in a great position to capitalize on this thanks to our iconic Wild Turkey Bourbon and Rye Whiskey, as well as our higher-end Russell’s Reserve Bourbon and Rye.” Karraker has also noticed that people are gravitating to lower-alcohol cocktails, particularly before dinner, which has allowed Aperol to do exceptionally well. Also a top choice on drink menus is the classic cocktail: Campari Negroni. Lastly, the availability of high-quality, affordable 100 percent blue agave tequilas has that category surging, with Espolòn Tequila up double digits thanks to that trend.

“The goal of everyone at Campari America is to be the best partner possible to the bars and restaurants we serve in Wisconsin,” says Karraker. “We have an exceptionally broad portfolio of products for every establishment and work with our partners to develop a cocktail program that is just right for the account. We can serve as your ‘one-stop shop’ for not just premium vodka, whiskey, rum, gin and tequila, but also for unique brands you can’t find anywhere else. Our intriguing portfolio, matched with our personalized service, is a great reason to work with Campari America.”TLW Campari America 715 Sumac St., Oregon, WI 53575 (608) 291-2344 www.campariamerica.com

Please give me your vote in October!

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LEAGUE PROFILE RACINE CITY TAVERN LEAGUE

Racine CITY TAVERN LEAGUE On August 21 the Racine City Tavern League gathered at Red Line Tavern in Racine for their monthly meeting. There were 22 members on hand, according to Racine City Tavern League President John Dunk.

hen it comes to having a place in Wisconsin Tavern League history, the Racine City Tavern League secures a top spot: It was where the Tavern League was born back in 1935.

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City and County Tavern Leagues. “I belong to more than one, because you get more ideas and insight by participating in other local leagues,” says Dunk.

“We were the first league,” says John Dunk, owner of John’s Dock in Racine and president of the Racine City Tavern League for the last year. “This is where it all started, so we have a pretty rich history.”

In addition to regularly working to recruit and retain members, the Racine City Tavern League is a charitable powerhouse. In 2016, the league donated about $76,000 to deserving causes. While a part of that total includes fundraisers held by members for various causes, as a group the Racine City Tavern League sponsors Big Brothers Big Sisters of Racine and Kenosha Counties; the Fourth Fest of Greater Racine parade, one of the largest Independence Day parades in the Midwest; Racine County Sheriff Explorer Post 5100; Racine County Food Bank; and more.

Today, the Racine City Tavern League is about 80 members strong, but as part of that “rich history,” it wasn’t always that way. “We were the first league, but we’ve had our ups and downs,” says Dunk. “About 10 or 12 years ago, we were down to six members. We had been very strong, then got weak, so we did something about it. With the 80 or so members we have now, we worked hard to get them and work even harder to keep them.”

Member recruitment remains an ongoing and important part of what the Racine City Tavern League does. “We never want to be in that position again,” says Dunk. “It’s something we’re working on, always. We added about four or five members already this last year.” Most of the league’s membership recruiting comes from members visiting non-members and “selling them on the package of what the Tavern League, both the city and the state league, can do for them,” Dunk adds.

As a note, Racine County also has its own league, and many members belong to both, as well as the neighboring Kenosha

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“There are a lot of organizations that we work with,” says Dunk. “Like every other league, we donate thousands and thousands of dollars to organizations and individuals in need each year.”

In addition to taking pride in the league’s position as the first tavern league in the state, Dunk is also proud of the Racine City Tavern League’s “interesting and unique” SafeRide program.

“When we book a SafeRide, we bring the driver and the vehicle home,” says Dunk. “People can have a lot of apprehension [with SafeRide] because they don’t want to leave their vehicle and have to come back the next morning. I’m pretty sure we might be the only ones in the state to do that.”TLW www.tlw.org

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT JOEY’S ON TAYLOR, JOEY’S ON LATHROP & JOEY’S WEST

Joey Legath, shown at right, along with his wife Anna run three establishments: Joey’s on Taylor and Joey’s on Lathrop in Racine, and their newest venture Joey’s West in Franksville.

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oey and Anna Legath have a strong hold on the tavern business in and around Racine.

“Between the two of us, we’ve had five bars altogether,” says Joey Legath, who got into the tavern business after taking over his father’s bar, Art’s Office, now called Joey’s on Taylor, in 1990.

Today, the Legaths run three establishments: Joey’s on Taylor and Joey’s on Lathrop, which are in Racine, and Joey’s West, the newest establishment in nearby Franksville.

The hallmark establishment, Joey’s on Taylor, is a “working-class bar, very blue collar” explains Joey, and is what made everything else possible. “It’s the slowest,” he says, “but we’re dedicated to it because of the history.”

Speaking of history, it’s at Joey’s on Taylor that Joey was convinced to join the Tavern League of Wisconsin. “Jerry Rasmussen from the Brat Stop came in here almost 27 years ago and said, ‘Joey, you need to join. It’s good for you and your business.’ He would not give up until I joined, and I’ll be ever grateful for that.”

Joey’s on Lathrop is another working-class bar. The location is one Joey had his eye on for years, always telling Anna that he would love to own it someday. That dream finally came true in 2008. “I was adamant about getting that place,” says Joey, who had gone to a bar at the location, Mully’s All-American Bar, when he was a kid. “It’s been a very good bar for us.”

Like Joey’s on Lathrop, Joey’s West, the most recent addition to their portfolio, is a place Joey had been eyeing. “Joey would drive by and say that would be a cool place, someplace that could make us money,” says Anna. One day when she was in Denver, Joey called and said it was for sale, and Anna said to buy it, sight unseen. Joey’s West opened in May 2016.

Joey’s West is their first establishment to serve food, and the Legaths www.tlw.org

are proud of the kitchen they’ve built and the menu they’ve developed. “We’ve approached our menu design like we’ve approached our bar design. We want it to be something that makes everyone comfortable,” says Anna, a former interior designer.

“When you look at a typical bar menu and you see deep-fried mushrooms, deep-fried cauliflower, you know someone just opened a package and threw it in a deep fryer,” she adds. “I wanted some homemade things on [the menu].”

Thanks to the Legath’s main cook, Eddie, the menu at Joey’s West includes a variety of “homemade” items, including fresh Mexican food every day, hand-battered cheese curds, handrolled egg rolls, local beef and bakery, even lobster grilled cheese and shrimp po boys. “We try to make as much as we can from scratch,” says Anna.

And, of course, they offer a Friday fish fry. “Our fish fry is super, super popular,” adds Anna. “That’s what the talk is all about.”

In addition to providing great experiences for their customers, the Legaths are dedicated to giving back. One way they do that is through the annual Bikers for Charity event, held at Joey’s West in August. The group typically raises money for ALS, a cause dear to Joey’s heart. This year, the group also donated to the Racine Zoo. “We make a commitment to donate money,” says Joey. “I feel very fortunate that the community has given me a business so that I can be charitable. I am happy to give back.” TLW Joey’s on Taylor 1863 Taylor Ave., Racine, WI 53403 • 262-633-4663 Joey’s on Lathrop 2054 Lathrop Ave., Racine, WI 53405 • 262-634-9841 Joey’s West 9825 Kraut Rd., Franksville, WI 53126 • 262-456-0105 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT RACINE COUNTY FOOD BANK Thoughts for Food, to assist them in their efforts and attempt to change the public perception of the industry.

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ithout the broad base of support that business owners provide, the needs of families experiencing a crisis or living in poverty would likely exceed the Racine County Food Bank’s ability to serve the community, says Dan Taivalkoski, executive director of the Racine County Food Bank.

Luckily, Taivalkoski can take a bit of solace in knowing that he can rely on the Racine City Tavern League as a pillar of support.

As the former owner of Racine’s the Beacon Tavern, Taivalkoski brings an interesting background to his current position. In 1998, the membership of the local league felt that their industry was being portrayed negatively in local media, so they reached out to the organizers of a local fundraising event for the Racine County Food Bank,

In 2002, Taivalkoski became the chair of the Thoughts for Food event, and in 2004, when the executive director of the Food Bank was leaving, he applied and was hired. Taivalkoski continued to run the Beacon and serve as the executive director of the Food Bank until 2007, when he sold the business to focus solely on the Food Bank. While he’s no longer running a bar, Taivalkoski remains an active member of the Tavern League of Wisconsin, serving as a southern zone vice president and chair of the membership committee.

“Steadfast support from my friends in the League has enabled us to keep up with demand,” Taivalkoski says of the League’s ongoing commitment to the Food Bank.

Unlike a food pantry, the Racine County Food Bank is not a direct service organization. Its clients are the pantries, homeless shelters, community meal programs and social service agencies that offer a meal or snack with their programs.

And the Food Bank and its 15 partners have the numbers to back up their success in serving the community. Last year, the Food Bank sorted and distributed 564,125

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pounds of food donations through the network and purchased and distributed an additional 282,863 pounds of food to supplement those donations, providing 733,123 total meals. For the emergency food pantries alone, there were 22,898 visits, of which 38 percent of the people served in those visits were children.

“We provide an important safety net for families to ensure that the most basic need of nutritious food is met,” says Taivalkoski. “We are truly grateful for the support that our friends in the hospitality industry provide!”

The Food Bank’s services are accessed via Impact 2-1-1, which manages the traffic to the organization’s network of emergency food pantries. “Racine County residents in need of emergency food simply call 2-11 for a referral to one of our 15 partner pantries,” says Taivalkoski.

In addition to support from individuals and businesses, the Food Bank receives funding from United Way of Racine County (the organization’s single largest funding source) as well as FEMA’s Emergency Food and Shelter Grant Program.

The Food Bank’s largest fundraising event remains the Thoughts for Food event, and the Racine City Tavern League, Wisconsin Tavern League Foundation, the Joint District 1 and 9 Foundation, along with the local MillerCoors Distributer, CJW, have all been staunch supporters.

Despite all this support, the need remains.

“We are always in need of nutritious food donations as well as monetary gifts that we use to purchase food,” he says. TLW Racine County Food Bank 2000 DeKoven Ave., Unit #2, Racine, WI 53403 262-632-2307 www.racinecountyfoodbank.org

www.tlw.org

MEET THE DIRECTOR MEET THE DIRECTOR: RICH KARRASCH In this column we’ll introduce you to a district director of the Tavern League of Wisconsin. The individual featured is a director representing the league that is highlighted in this issue. For the September-October issue, we’d like to introduce you to Rich Karrasch, 1st district director.

Q. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND, INCLUDING YOUR FAMILY AND THE LOCATION AND TYPE OF BUSINESS YOU OWN. I’m originally from Chicago. (Forgive me.) I worked on one of the trading floors in Chicago for 13 years. The pace wasn’t for me so I decided to buy a tavern.

In 1996 I purchased a bar in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin which is located in the southeast corner of the state. I changed the name of the bar to Main Street Tap hoping it would also change the image and clientele. Main Street is basically a mom and pop place that survives on very good, loyal customers.

I am single with no children, so the bar business was a natural fit for me. This coming January my bar manager Dawn will be buying into the business, so that will start a whole new chapter for both of us.

Q. WHAT INTERESTED YOU IN BECOMING A TAVERN LEAGUE MEMBER? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MEMBER AND WHAT OFFICES, IF ANY, DID YOU HOLD LOCALLY BEFORE BECOMING 1ST DISTRICT DIRECTOR? This may sound strange to some of you, but I never even knew about the Tavern League until 2000. No one had ever approached me about the Tavern League or told me about it. In 2000 I received a random flyer from the TLW aimed at non-members. After reading the talking points and the benefits, I thought I had better join this organization that was fighting in Madison and across the state on my behalf.

I served as vice president of the Kenosha County Tavern League for over 10 years. I stepped down about four years ago, but I am still a director on the local board. I ran for a 1st district director in 2011 and won. I’ve been on the board ever since. www.tlw.org

Q. WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING TAVERN LEAGUE MEMBERS TODAY? I think the most important issue in the 1st district is membership.

We worked very hard on getting our membership over 500 members, so we could add an additional director to the state board.

We have managed to maintain our 500-member number, but it seems like every six months we are pounding the pavement to reach that number again. I realize businesses seem to be shutting down as fast as they are opening, but if we could tap into the class ‘A’ members I could see us easily staying well above the 500 number.

Q. ARE THERE SPECIFIC ISSUES THAT ARE UNIQUE TO THE 1ST DISTRICT THAT YOU’D LIKE TO WORK ON? I would have to say the first priority would be shutting down that ridiculous bill that is being circulated in Madison that is intent on eliminating the three-tier system.

This is just the latest issue that we must fight together by making phone calls to legislators and spreading the word to others so we can stop it.

Q. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A DISTRICT DIRECTOR? The best thing about being a district director is the people. The TLW is made up of such a diverse group. We have restaurant owners, golf course owners, banquet hall owners, small bar owners, and large bar owners. But when you put us all into the same room we are all equal. We fight together for the same cause so we can continue to succeed at all levels.

It really makes me feel good when I attend a meeting and see tavern owners there taking a few hours out of their busy schedules to attend and hopefully leave with some message to share with their customers and other TLW members.

Q. HOW ELSE ARE YOU INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY? I am an active member of our local chamber of commerce in our attempts to bring new customers into our town. I also work at the county and local police departments on projects concerning children, especially on the drug awareness programs. I also enjoy helping and working with the local American Legion and VFW posts. TLW

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LEGISLATIVE NOTES STAND UP FOR SMALL TAVERNS IN WISCONSIN! OPPOSE BILL TO ELIMINATE THE THREE-TIER SYSTEM!

BY SCOTT STENGER, STENGER GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

THE BILL PROPOSES THE FOLLOWING CHANGES

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t a press conference at the Wisconsin Brewing Company in August, Reps. Dale Kooyenga, Gary Tauchen, John Macco, Shannon Zimmerman and Sen. Sheila Harsdorf outlined their legislation to make significant changes to the three-tier system in Wisconsin. Passage of this bill would be devastating to independent mom and pop retailers. It is a radical approach to the regulation of the alcohol industry and unlike that seen in other states.

Craft brewers, state wineries and craft distillers have all indicated their support for the bill which is somewhat perplexing given that Wisconsin taverns are selling their products and helping to contribute to their success. Despite our strong relationship with these craft manufacturers they have decided to support a bill which will decimate the very businesses selling their products today. Taverns have supported their businesses but they don’t support our businesses.

Over the last 10 years craft brewing in Wisconsin has exploded - increasing nearly 200 percent while wineries have experienced a 250 percent increase! It is hard to claim the three-tier system is having a negative effect on manufacturers. Wisconsin ranks 13th in the country per capita in the number of brewers.

Wisconsin also ranks third per capita in the country in the number of liquor licenses issued and this bill seeks to increase the number of new liquor licenses by 10 percent creating thousands of new liquor licenses. Only Montana and North Dakota have more licenses per capita than Wisconsin.

Small taverns cannot compete against manufacturers and this bill lets every brewer get into the retail business as well as the brewing business with a huge financial advantage. It is not fair, which is why the law exists in the first place and does in every state in the country. Large manufacturers benefit from this bill – not small brewers or wineries.

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1.

Ten percent increase in the total available “Class B” liquor licenses a municipality may issue.

2. Doubles the production capacity from 10,000 to 20,000 barrels and the number of locations from six to 12 for brewpub owners.

3.

Doubles the capacity for a winery to be classified as “small winery” from 25,000 gallons to 50,000 gallons.

4. Allows wineries with a retail “Class B” license to remain open until 2 a.m.

5. Deletes the 2011 requirement that a distributer has at least 25 clients, and sells to at least 10 retail license holders.

6. Allows for a brewery to sell intoxicating liquor on-premise or the brewery’s off-site retail location.

7. Allows for a creation of distillpub permit by Department of Revenue.

THREE-TIER LAW PREVENTS CROSS-TIER OWNERSHIP Wisconsin’s alcohol industry, along with those in every other state in the nation, is governed by a three-tier system that regulates the activities of manufacturers, distributors and retailers. To prevent abuses within the industry that were prevalent before prohibition, as well as unfair competition between large and small companies within the industry, the three-tier law prevents cross-tier ownership. This has been the law in Wisconsin for decades and everyone within the industry was aware of these rules when they began their business. The current law does not provide carve-outs or advantages for one tier over the other.

This bill changes that at the expense of small independent tavern owners. Passage of this bill threatens the future of the mom and pop tavern operator unique to Wisconsin.

The bill changes the law to provide advantages to certain segments of the industry while not others. Providing carve-outs for certain business is wrong and unfair to everyone else in the industry. By adding more licenses, the bill devalues every retail license in the state, and would allow multi-million dollar corporations the ability to unfairly compete with mom and pop retailers. The authors of this bill may have good intentions, but their bill would forever damage the retail tier of the industry.

EXPOSURE TO LEGAL CHALLENGES In addition, passage of the bill would expose Wisconsin to legal challenges. To date, Wisconsin has avoided expensive litigation over our alcohol regulatory system because of its consistency as compared to other states. Right now, over 25 other www.tlw.org

FALL BACK! states have, or are currently, facing lawsuits attacking their statutes – cases in which a state’s attorney general is obligated to defend. The carve-outs proposed in LRB 3614 would invite constitutional challenges against Wisconsin’s law.

Finally, it is hard to understand why the sponsors of this bill seek to dismantle the three-tier system that has resulted in unprecedented growth in brewers, distillers and wineries.

If the current system is to blame, how do proponents of the bill explain the growth in the manufacturing tier? Wisconsin’s three-tier system has allowed all segments of the industry to flourish. Under the current system and as acknowledged by the sponsors of the bill, craft breweries, wineries and distillers have seen explosive growth over the last 10 years. By creating a free market within each tier while maintaining an orderly system of business between the tiers, Wisconsin’s three-tier law has provided the environment necessary for these businesses to prosper. Passage of this bill, however, will threaten the livelihood of mom and pop taverns in Wisconsin.

Please contact your legislator today and urge them to oppose the bill to eliminate the three tier system. Go to legis.wisconsin.gov to find your legislators’ email and phone number. TLW

Remember to Set Your Clocks Back!

Daylight savings time ends on the first Sunday in November, so remember to set your clock BACK an hour at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5.

Section 175.095(2), Wis. Stats., states that daylight saving time begins at 2:00 a.m. the second Sunday in March and ends at 2:00 a.m. the first Sunday in November.

As such, clocks are set ahead one hour at 2:00 a.m. the second Sunday in March. Thus taverns would close at 3:30 a.m. daylight saving time on this date.

On the first Sunday in November, the clocks are set back an hour at 2:00 a.m.; bars gain an extra hour and must close at 2:30 a.m. regular Central Standard Time.

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ACCOUNTING ON TAP BUSINESS ENTITY STRUCTURE

BY DAN BERGS, CPA

• Tax implications – How to minimize taxes not just in the short-term but also in the long-term. Making a decision to benefit in the short-term can sometimes cost you in the long-term when selling or transitioning business ownership.

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valuating the legal form of your business is an ongoing process. The right form for you today might not be right in ten years. As an integral part of planning for your business success, consider whether your current form of business is going to suit you for the next year, five years, ten years, and into retirement. The initial factors of choosing a business entity structure are different than planning for an established business. Please consider the important factors below when determining your initial business structure and keep in mind that as businesses change the entity structure may also need to change to help achieve the business goals in the long term.

TWO PRIMARY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN FORMING YOUR BUSINESS • Legal liability – How to best protect your business and personal assets against claims of vendors, customers, and other creditors.

AS A BUSINESS MATURES OTHER FACTORS TO CONSIDER • Succession – Will you be able to pass the business on to your heirs or your employees? If you plan on selling your business to a third party, is it structured in such a way that you’ll be able to keep the most sales dollars in your pocket? Your business entity selection will have an impact on how the sale of your business is taxed.

• Investors – If you are considering taking on partners or outside investors, the choice of entity may need to be changed. At a minimum, this is a good time to review your form and document the various legal and tax issues that need to be addressed in multi-owner companies.

• Employee benefits – If benefits (health insurance, life insurance, cafeteria plan, and retirement benefits) are important to you, this fact

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should be considered as part of your entity-selection process. The ability to provide benefits for yourself and your family is contingent in many cases on your choice of business entity structure.

Looking at the list of possible business structures is a daunting task. You may choose from sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited partnership, LLC (taxed as a disregarded entity, a partnership, a C corporation, or an S corporation), LLP, or a corporation (taxed as a C or an S corporation). Each type of entity structure has advantages and disadvantages in regards to succession planning, investors, and employee benefits.

Selecting an initial form for your business is not a decision to be made lightly.

It is important to consult your attorney and your accountant prior to making this very important decision. In addition, it is vital to plan a periodic review of your business structure to be sure it is still the right choice for you. The timing of these decisions are important and periodically reviewing the business entity structures is beneficial for long term business planning. TLW Dan Bergs, CPA is a supervisor in the Tax & Business Services Department with Wegner CPAs LLP. Wegner CPAs LLP has offices in Madison, Baraboo, Waukesha and Janesville.

This article is not intended to give complete tax advice, but a general review of the subject matter. You can contact Dan at (608) 442-1986 or dan.bergs.@wegnercpas.com.

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FEATURED AFFILIATES BAR & RESTAURANT SUCCESS Nick Fosberg was 26 when he bought his first bar from his father, and even though he had grown up in the industry, he says he found owning a bar much more than he bargained for.

He says after eight months of ownership, he was paying the bills out of his own pocket and knew nothing about actually running the business.

“I had a wife, a kid and didn’t want to let them down, so that’s when I started reaching into marketing books and courses,” Fosberg says. He learned all he could through a small business marketing coach and he now wants to help TLW members find new ways that work to market their businesses, through his company, Bar & Restaurant Success.

He says it’s important to focus on lead generation, and then use that list in the future to bring customers back in the door, but also build a relationship with customers through marketing messages.

“Don’t just hammer them again and again with specials and promotions,” Fosberg recommends. “Let them [customers] in on your family life, what’s happened in the business. Get personal and let them know you on a personal level too.”

He says that he teaches his clients to build relationships with customers before they even walk through the door. Showing customers who you are, what you stand for and what to expect is essential according to Fosberg. He adds that it’s also paramount to admit when you’ve made a mistake and that if there is a problem, you’ll fix it.

Fosberg was able to grow his business and then began giving advice to others who were struggling with the same thing. “That’s when my career changed,” he says. “I wanted to help these other bar and restaurant owners.” His two bars now operate without his daily oversight and he is able to focus full-time on his passion with Bar & Restaurant Success.

He is offering TLW members his book Bar & Restaurant Success: How to Attract New Customers, Turn Them into Raving Fans, and Become Unbeatable in Any Market! for just $5.95 (the cost of shipping). And his goal is to continue to work with people who are stuck like he was. He focuses on using marketing dollars wisely and finding the most value in them. “The number one thing I teach our restaurant owners is lead capture direct response marketing strategies. You can get a high return on investment on those dollars.”

PAYCHEX Paychex is a provider of payroll, human resource, and benefits services for small- to medium-sized businesses. And its services and solutions are completely scalable for TLW members, whether they have one employee or hundreds, according to Andrea Boom, one of the company’s small business consultants.

Boom says another important aspect of their services is that they can be customized to each business, instead of a one-size-fits-all solution. She meets with business owners to tailor payroll and human resources offerings to their needs.

Boom says that while she can provide services to southeastern Wisconsin, Paychex is a nationwide company, “which brings our customers the best of both worlds. They get local service and live local support, but also have the benefit of a company with a national presence and stability.”

She explains that Paychex is the only fully bonded and insured payroll provider in the United States to offer proprietary software solutions.

What that means is all of their customers’ data stays within their own walls, and is not outsourced to a third-party software provider.

Everything is cloud-based as well, which Boom says is important for growth. “As you grow and change, we can grow and change with you,” she explains. “You also don’t have to move from one platform to another because you might need a new level of service.”

Boom says that TLW members are very interested in Paychex’s restaurant reporting and tip credit filing capabilities. “It can save any food or beverage establishment thousands of dollars a year depending on what tips they are reporting,” she explains. “Even a lot of accountants that we partner with know about this.”

She wants TLW members to know that she partners with local accountants and continues to believe that this relationship is very important for all parties. Boom explains that many customers need guidance to run their business profitably, help with payroll and human resources, but still are able to keep that partnership with their accountant strong.

To order Fosberg’s book, visit brsbook.net.

Paychex just became an affiliate member of the TLW this year, although Boom’s been working with the association for a while.

She will be attending the fall convention in Appleton and is driven to really help people be successful in their goals.

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Paychex 2801 Coho St., Ste. 204, Madison, WI 53713 (608) 235-3326 • aboom@paychex.com paychex.com

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www.tlw.org

Where You Belong Affiliate Member

QUARTER TIME Quarter Time’s roots trace back to 1932, and Office Manager Patti Larson says that attention to customers’ needs has not changed since then. Quarter Time offers a wide variety of amusement devices, ranging from jukeboxes and pool tables to video games and dart machines, and that’s just the beginning.

Larson says a large part of their business is helping run pool and dart leagues, which will be starting soon as we head into fall.

Working with the Tavern League since 1988 Auto - Home - Life - Health - Business Representing:

Since 1996

“We want to be there for their needs all the way around, whether it’s service or supplying our customers with the latest and greatest games that are out there,” says Larson, who explains that Quarter Time serves businesses within a 50-mile radius of its location, just north of Madison, in Waunakee.

Speaking of the latest and greatest, Larson says that trends are changing and embracing new technology will help tavern owners attract the younger generation and ensure a continued client base.

“If mom and dad hang out at a particular bar, and young people start to see technology and things they like to be involved in at the same place, they become engaged,” she adds.

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For example, Larson says new dartboard, electronic pool tables and jukeboxes which run on phone apps are trends that the TLW membership is, or should be, embracing. “We can bring these things to you and give you the kind of service you need,” she says.

“We don’t wait two or three days to do a service call. We show our customers we are there for them.”

Larson adds that Quarter Time truly cares about its clients, their needs or concerns when looking at upgrading or installing new amusements. “They [the bar owners] have competition and don’t want to be the bar that has the older stuff and gets passed by,” she explains, adding that the Quarter Time staff understands a bar’s general atmosphere is very important today.

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Family friendliness is also something Quarter Time feels is important, and helps their customers establish that through prize machines. “Those are the kinds of things that keep the kids happy, and also allow the parents the ability to relax,” Larson says.

As a newer affiliate member of the TLW, Larson says Quarter Time is very excited to get its feet wet and become involved with the organization. She says this is an exciting time in the industry, and appreciates that the TLW truly advocates for its members.

“We are looking forward to meeting everyone and showing them Quarter Time products and services,” Larson concludes.

Quarter Time 306-B Moravian Valley Rd., Waunakee, WI 53597 (608) 251-1486 • quartertimedist.com www.tlw.org

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AFFILIATE MEMBERS TLW AFFILIATE MEMBERS AS OF AUGUST 18, 2017 Ackley Novelty Inc. Aflac Allied Games Inc. American Entertainment Services Inc. American Income Life American Welding & Gas AMI Entertainment Network.

Amusement Devices Inc. B & K Bar & Restaurant Supplies B-M Music & Games Badger Case, An Alliance Technology Co. Badger Mats Badger Mutual Insurance Company Badger State Events Entertainment & Production Inc. Bar Rags Drinkware Bar Restaurant Success Baraboo Sysco Food Services Barr Refrigeration Batzner Pest Control Bay Towel/Linen Rental Bayland Insurance Benedict Refrigeration Service Inc. Best Bargains Bevinco Big Game Sports Cards/ Sterling Graphics Bill’s Distributing LTD. Blue Honey Bio-Fuels Inc. BMI (Broadcast Music Inc.) Bob Schuchardt Insurance Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin Brakebush Brothers Brat Stop Products LLC Bromak Sales Inc. Capital Brewery Cash Depot CCI Merchant Services Central Ceiling Systems Inc. Chambers Travel Cornerstone Processing Solutions Inc. County Wide Extinguisher Inc. Creative Beverage Systems LLC Creative Marketing Specialist D & D Amusement Games LLC Dean’s Satellite & Security Delafield Brew Haus Demon Spirits LLC

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DeVere Company Inc. DISCUS Edge One Inc. El Cortez Hotel & Casino Ember Glo Emil’s Pizza Inc. Engels Commercial Appliance Inc. EPSG (Evo Platinum Services Group) Fabiano Brothers Farley Forster Herbenson Group - Baird FASTSIGNS of Kenosha Flanigan Distributing Flashpoint Designs Fleming’s Fire I Flipside Coin Machines Inc. Focus on Energy Small Business Program Foremost Business Systems Forest Floor Foods Freistadt Alte Kameraden Band Friebert, Finerty & St. John, S.C. Game Management Corp.

Games Are Us Inc. General Beer - Northeast Inc. Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown LLP Glavinsured Agency Inc. Gourmet Parlor Pizza Great Lakes Amusements Great Lakes Distillery Great Northern Amusements Groot Industries Guardian Pest Solutions Inc. Gunderson Linen Hansen Foods LLC/ Pep’s Pizza Health Markets Insurance Agency Heartland Business Systems Heartland Payment Systems Hiawatha Chef, Bar and Janitorial Supply Holiday Wholesale Inc. HSC Business Brokers Indianhead Foodservice Dist. Inc. Insurance Center International Bancard Midwest Inzane Apparel & Promo Products Johnson Brothers Beverage Kavanaughs Restaurant Supplies

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

Kessenich’s LTD. KevCorp International KLB Insurance ServicesIllinois Casualty Kobussen Buses LTD. Lakes Business Group Inc. Lamers Bus Lines Lebby’s Frozen Pizza Lee Beverage of Wisconsin LLC LJP Insurance Agency/ Rural Mutual Luiges Frozen Pizza Inc. M & R Amusements & Vending LLC Magnuson Industries Inc. Mass Appeal Inc. MBE CPAs Metropolitan Food Service Equipment Meyer Brothers LLC Mid Wisconsin Beverage Midstate Amusement Games Midwest Amusements Midwest Coin Concepts of WI Midwest Food & Tobacco Group Midwest Insurance Group Mike Lindy Amusements Inc. Milwaukee Brewers Milwaukee Pedal Tavern LLC Minhas Micro Distillery Mitchell Novelty Co. Modern Cash Register Systems Modern Specialty Motion Technology Inc. (Autofry) Murphy Desmond S.C. National Chemicals Inc. Nei - Turner Media Group Inc. New Glarus Brewing Co. NHS Food Service Northern Lakes Amusement Northwest Coin Machine Co. Northwoods Cab NuC02 On Mobile Paradise Printing Company Park Ridge Distributing Inc. Paychex PCMusic Pehler Distributing Inc. Pepsi Beverages Company Pivotal Payments Plunkett’s Pest Control

POS Partners Precision Pours Inc. Pretzelhaus Bakery/Funacho Print Source Plus Quarter Time Racine Amusement Inc. Ransom’s Home & Business TV-Satellite Red’s Novelty LTD. Reinhart Food Service LLC Retail Control Solutions Riverside Foods Inc. S & S Distributing Inc. Safe Harbor Payment Systems Saloons N Spoons/ Turbo Chemical Sam’s Amusement Co. Sam’s Club Sanimax USA LLC Saratoga Liquor Co. Inc. Schmidt Novelty Scott’s Vending Service Specialists Stansfield Vending Inc. Star Connection/LodgeVision Star Satellite Stevens Point Brewery Superior Beverages LLC Superior Vending Taylor Ent. of WI Inc. Tesch Chemical Think Ink & Design Tim-Todd Services Inc. TIPS Program Tito’s Handmade Vodka Tom Sawyer Amusements Top Hat Marketing Tricky Dick & Specialty Tricky Dick 2 TRL Int’l. Mtkg. Group/ Global Vending LLC U.S. Bank Payment Solutions/Elavon U.S. Foods Vern’s Cheese Inc. Vital Tokens Wausau Coin Machines Inc. WI Hospitality Insured Wine Institute Wisconsin Restaurant Association Wisconsin Scrub and Sweep Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps Wisconsin Winery Association Wollersheim Winery & Distillery www.tlw.org

GET THE ONLY JUKEBOX TO COMBINE SONGS, MUSIC VIDEOS, AND DIGITAL SIGNAGE.

NEW MEMBERS TLW NEW MEMBERS JUNE 13, 2017 TO AUGUST 13, 2017 DISTRICT 1 Kenosha City Grabs Burger Bar Angela Preston Kenosha Mason’s Eatery & Pub Kenosha

DISTRICT 3

The Lake House Flying Fish LLC Kenosha Kenosha County Bubba’s Brickyard Jeremy Bauman Burlington Nippersink Country Club Chris Holian Genoa City Town of Wheatland Fire Dept.

Mike Herda New Munster Spring Valley Country Club Dave Wagner Salem

Racine County Buca’s Bar & Grill Ronald Kroes Racine

DISTRICT 2 Dodge County Marci’s on Main Laurie Mylrea &.

Greg Heintz Fox Lake Jefferson County Milwaukee Street Roadhouse Steve Buss & Scott Kuehn Johnson Creek In Good Spirits Cory Yost Sullivan

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Dells/Delton Area The Sand Trap Bar & Grill Tish Luther Wisconsin Dells Grant/Iowa County Son Chasers Social Club Angela Pebworth Cassville Gangster’s Bar & Grill Connie Hinderman Hazel Green L & L Public House Michael Smallman Mineral Point Juneau County The Way Station Steve & Tracy West Mauston

Racine City Hi-O Headquarters Mike Henes Racine

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Madison/Dane County Tootsie’s Bar & Grill LLC Jody Thayer Dane

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Monroe County Low Places LLC Tracy Woolhouse Cashton Sauk County The Shed Wynn Dedrick Spring Green

DISTRICT 4 Manitowoc County Ant Hill Mob Motorcycle Club LTD. Scott Prez St. Nazianz

The Lucky Penny Bruce D. Williams, II Oshkosh The Strip Kevin Erickson Oshkosh Witzke’s Tavern LLC John Rasmussen Jr. Oshkosh Sheboygan County Harbor Lights Two LLC Krisi Kaiser Sheboygan Washington County American Legion Post 1 Amy Keller Germantown Gamroth’s Kuhburg Junction Jon & Kim Gamroth Germantown Erin Inn Derek Wilcox Hartford

DISTRICT 5 Green Lake Area Ford’s Gathering Rochelle Ford Princeton Langlade County MC Festival Grounds LLC Molly Head Gleason Ruby May’s Cafe LLC Jeanine Mischler Pickerel

Oshkosh City Andy’s Pub & Grub Chuck Anderson Oshkosh

Portage County Jonny’s Longbranch Saloon Jonny Armstrong Almond

Jockey Club 3, LLC Reed Savka Oshkosh

Old 10 Bistro Matt Carlyle Stevens Point

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017

The 13th Floor Canteen Tamie A. Antill Stevens Point

Marinette County Trail’s End Saloon Jennifer Wentland Goodman

Shawano County Lumberyard Sports Bar & Grill Chelsie Stefanski Bonduel

Center Bowl Lynn & Edward Wortner Peshtigo

Grahams Hideaway Julie Graham Marion Waupaca County Blazer’s Bar & Grill Chelsea Wiszus Tigerton

DISTRICT 6 Brown County Seven After Kristine Dhein Green Bay The Beach House Alisa Marie Archiquette Green Bay V3 Chris Knutson Green Bay Door County Blue Ox Bar & Grill Mindy Kwaterski Baileys Harbor Rustic Timbers DCC Sherrie Patten Egg Harbor The Bullpen LLC John M. Kroll Forestville

Oconto County Geono Beach Bar & Grill Marie McDougal Little Suamico J’s Smokeshack BBQ Jess Senn Oconto Falls Outagamie County The Cold Shot Sherry Galow Appleton MJ’s Supper Club John & Misie Heegeman Hortonville

DISTRICT 7 Chippewa County Corner Pit Stop Kenny Davis Bloomer Clark County Chelsie’s Grill Allan Hanson Greenwood Eau Claire City/ County Brown Hut Barb Prueher Chippewa Falls

The Fireside Restaurant Lauren Schar Sister Bay

Westgate Sportsman Club Inc. Brittany Stark Eau Claire

Forest County The Habit Jan Schreiber Alvin

Westside Bar & Grill G-Bear One, LLC Eau Claire

www.tlw.org

NEW MEMBERS Jackson County Rustic Haven Bar & Grille Larry Anderson Hixton Whispering Pines Jennifer Humphreys Osseo Trempealeau/ Buffalo County Outright Affair Matt Sunday Osseo The Doghouse Alvin Samples Whitehall

DISTRICT 8 Ashland/Bayfield County The Brickhouse Cafe & Catering Heather Ludzack Cable Burnett County What the Heck Denise Kaye Spooner Greater Northwoods Copper Street Pub Walker Robinson Hurley Lincoln County Humphrey’s Pub Beth M. Humphrey Merrill

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Oneida County Aromas Three Lakes Price County Timber Breeze Resort ETK LLC Butternut Sawyer County Twin Lakes Tap Jennifer Palmer Hayward Virgin Timber Resort Christopher Graham Hayward

Superior/Douglas County The Dry Dock Tavern and Mini Mart Teresa Springborn Foxboro Cedar Lounge Naomi Nelson Superior Taylor County A & E Tavern Peter G. Paulson Medford Vilas County P.I. Pub & Restaurant Karen L. Swenson Presque Isle

Washburn County Twin Oaks Bar & Restaurant Hutta Marquardt Hayward

DISTRICT 9 Milwaukee County Evolution of Milwaukee LLC Jeremy Pust Milwaukee Liquid Johnny’s Brian James Milwaukee Walk Her Inn Diane Plumeri Milwaukee

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www.tlw.org

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ASK THE BARTENDER In this column, we answer some of the most often asked questions by Tavern League members. Please feel free to submit your questions for consideration to Chris Marsicano, c.marsicano@yahoo.com.

Q: WHAT DOES AN ALCOHOL BEVERAGE LICENSE ALLOW? It allows persons to sell alcohol beverages to individual retail customers, from a particular place (premises). The sale must occur at the licensed premises, with the buyer and seller both physically present at the time of sale. Licenses are issued by municipalities (cities, villages, towns) after the governing body (city council, town board, etc.) determines that the applicant is qualified for the license. No one can sell alcohol beverages (or giveaway for a commercial purpose) or allow consumption in a public place without getting the appropriate license.

Q: ARE LICENSES AND PERMITS THE SAME THING? No. Licenses are issued by the municipality where the business is conducted; permits are issued by the state. While there is some functional overlap, retailers are usually covered by licenses and wholesale and production tiers of the industry are generally covered by permits.

Q: HOW ARE QUOTAS AND RESERVE LICENSES DETERMINED? The municipality is responsible for determining quotas and reserve fees, based on formulas in state law. Quotas are based on population and the number of licenses in effect in the community as of December 1, 1997. A municipality may transfer up to three reserve “Class B” licenses to a municipality that is contiguous or within 2 miles of the transferring municipality. The transferring municipality establishes the initial issuance fee in an amount not less than $10,000. Upon receipt of the issuance fee, the receiving municipality shall pay the issuance fee to the transferring municipality.

Q: I WANT SPECIFIC INFORMATION ABOUT LICENSING. WHERE DO I GO? Licensing decisions, quotas, reserve fees, etc., are all controlled by the municipality. This is not a responsibility of the Department of Revenue, and Department employees cannot give accurate and timely information about municipal licensing. For more information regarding the quotas and fees for “Class B” licenses, please contact the clerk of the municipality where the license is issued or will be applied for.

Q: HOW DO I APPLY FOR AN ALCOHOL BEVERAGE LICENSE? Contact the clerk for the city, village, or town where you wish to do business. The clerk will give you applications and information about legal requirements. After you apply, the clerk will publish the application three consecutive days in a local daily newspaper, or once in a weekly newspaper, to see if there

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are objections in the community. The licensing authority (city council, council licensing board, town board, etc.) will vote on the application. The license may not be granted until at least fifteen days after the application is filed with the clerk.

Q: WHAT ARE THE BASIC QUALIFICATIONS FOR A PERSON TO GET A RETAIL LICENSE? The basic qualifications are: you must be of legal drinking age (21); have resided continuously in Wisconsin for at least 90 days prior to the application date; and you must have a seller’s permit issued by the Department of Revenue.

Q: CAN I GET A LIQUOR LICENSE IF I HAVE A CRIMINAL RECORD? Please refer to the following state statue: 125.04(5)(b) (b) Criminal offenders. No license or permit related to alcohol beverages may, subject to ss. 111.321, 111.322 and 111.335, be issued under this chapter to any person who has habitually been a law offender or has been convicted of a felony unless the person has been duly pardoned.

Q: ARE LICENSING QUALIFICATIONS DIFFERENT IF I INCORPORATE? A corporation/LLC must meet the seller’s permit and criminal offense requirements. The officers must be of legal drinking age and may be affected by a criminal record as described above. The officers and directors need not be residents of Wisconsin, or attend server training, but the agent must be a Wisconsin resident and complete server training. You must appoint a (single) agent, and the agent must meet all the qualifications of an individual applicant.

Q: DOES THE LICENSEE OR THE AGENT ALWAYS HAVE TO BE AT THE PREMISES WHEN IT’S OPEN? No. There must be one or more licensed operators in charge of the premises. An operator’s license is often called a “bartender’s license.” Not all bartenders must hold operator’s licenses, but there must be at least one licensed operator in charge of the premises.

Q: HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR AN OPERATOR’S LICENSE? To qualify for an operator’s license, you must be: at least 18 years old; meet criminal record requirements; and have completed a responsible beverage server course.

The last requirement can be waived if it is a renewal application or if you held a Wisconsin alcohol beverage license, including an operator’s license, within the past two years. The municipality may issue you a provisional operator’s license if you are enrolled in a responsible beverage server course when you apply. An operator’s license is only good in the municipality that issues it. For instance, if you are issued an operator’s license in the City of Milwaukee, you may not use it in a suburban municipality. There are some exceptions, so contact the Department of Revenue for clarification. TLW www.tlw.org

LOCAL LEAGUE UPDATES

7TH DISTRICT MEMBERS HIT THE LINKS On June 26, TLW members from the 7th District enjoyed a day of camaraderie and golf at Pheasant Hills Golf Course in Hammond. Those participating from Pepin County Tavern League included from left: Barb Bauer, Cell Block Lounge & Grill, Durand; Denny Haglund, JR’s Mainstreet Bar, Plum City; Dick Silberhorn and Travis Hooker, Spot Bar, Durand.

WANT TO SEE YOUR LOCAL LEAGUE FEATURED IN ON PREMISE? Send your photos and a brief description to: Pete Madland, petem@tlw.org • Chris Marsicano, c.marsicano@yahoo.com • Barb Howell, bhowell@ntmediagroup.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX Affiliated Investment Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 AMI Entertainment Network amientertainment.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Anheuser-Busch Inc. anheuser-busch.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 B&K Bar Supplies bandkbarsupplies.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Bar Rags Drinkware barrags.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Brakebush Brothers brakebush.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Chris Marsicano for TLW President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Cornerstone Processing Solutions Inc. cornerstoneps.net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Demon Rum drinkdemonrum.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Disher Insurance disherinsurance.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Edge One edgeone.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Emil’s Pizza emilspizza.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Great Lakes Amusement glastore.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Great Lakes Distillery greatlakesdistillery.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Jim’s Specialties halo.com/jim-flynn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Kessenichs LTD. kessenischs.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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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

Great Lakes Amusement Cherry Master - Video Poker Pull tab disPensers Coin Pushers - rePlaCeMent Parts

PLAtinum touch 3 34 GAmes in one cAbinet Affiliate tavern League member Green Bay, WI 877-354-7544 www.GlaStore.com

Mass Appeal Inc. massappeal.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Metropolitan Food Service Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Midwest Food & Tobacco Group midwestftg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 MillerCoors Inc. millercoors.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

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On Premise the official publication

Modern Cash Register Systems moderncashregister.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

of the Tavern League of

Nightclub and Bar Show ncbshow.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Wisconsin

Radisson Paper Valley Hotel radisson.com/appleton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Reinhart Food Service rfsdelivers.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Riverside Foods riversidefoods.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Sysco Foods sysco.com/baraboo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Tom Dahlen for TLW President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 WAMO wamo.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Wisconsin Souvenir Milk Caps wimilkcaps.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43, 50

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Wisconsin Wine & Spirit Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

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W ELCOME TO THE

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