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COVERNational Independent Concessionaires Association January-February

2013

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CONTENTSJANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

FEATURES NICA at the IAFE Convention 12 Concessionaire of the Month 26 Dennis & Della Bossman, Midwest Concessions

Supplier of the Month 28 Heinkel’s Packing Co., Inc Love Thy Neighbors 32 A Tale of Vendor Wars, by Ken McKnight

NEWS NICA 2013 Strategic Goals 4 Presidents’ Messages 5 By Greg Miller, CCE & Tom Sattler, CCE

Director’s Voice: Justin Sattler 7 2013 Calendar 8 NICA January-February Community Events 10 Convention Season 18 By Rey O’Day

NICA Schedule at WFA Convention & Trade Show 20 Florida Week Packet 22, 38 DOT Updates 30 Volusia County Fair 2012 36

ADVERTISERS Asset Preservation 29 A to Z Meats 34 Berk Paper & Supply 31 The Best Around 37 Fanestil Meats 17 Fare Foods 11, 25 Firestone Financial 11 Haas & Wilkerson Insurance 6 Heinkel’s Packing Co. 29 Midway Stainless 7 Mr. G’s Custom Meats 31

Odyssey Foods 20 Pepsi 2 R3 (Bunzl) 30 Rio Syrup 17 Swanel Beverages 34 Sysco 21 WNA Specialty Cups 37

COVER PHOTO Taken at Embassy Suites, Tampa, FL Home of the NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods Food Show 2013

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NICA’S 2013 GOALS OFFICERSPresident......Greg Miller, CCE

1st Vice-President......Tom Sattler, CCE

2nd Vice-President.....David Penn

Secretary......Joe Potillo, Jr.

Treasurer......Paulette Keene

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTRuss Harrison, CCE

Directors:Rose Marie Ash

Don Kenna

Tim O’Brien, CCE

Justin Sattler

Tony Trafton, CCE

Past President’s CouncilRichard Busse, CCE

Tom Hodson, CCE

Jim Hodson, CCE (deceased)

Tim O’Brien, CCE

Ron Smith

Adam McKinney, CCE

Mike Pence, CCE

Jack Woods II, CCE

Bob Hallifax, CCE

Frank Parnell, CCE

Larry Orme (deceased)

Larry Sivori

Rich Wright

Bill McKinney, CCE

Arthur Pokorny, Jr.

Gene O’Brien, CCE (deceased)

NICA OFFICEOffice Manager

Jill Omel - nica@nicainc.org

Graphics & Marketing DirectorKaitlyn Loos - graphics@nicainc.org

NICA WEST Office:Executive Manager

Rey O’Day

imreyqoe@gmail.com

2130 Walnut St.

La Verne, CA 91750

NICA MIDWEST Office:Executive Manager

Terry Bonnell

terrybonnellconsulting@gmail.com

NICA - 2013 LONG TERM GOALS

PROFESSIONAL VOICE IN INDUSTRYBecause NICA desires to be recognized as a professional leader in the Event Industry it will:• Develop a trained national speakers bureau that will present meaningful and relevant topics to industry events.• Create a membership excellence program that measures the quality of operations by industry accepted standards, customer service, quality of product or service, overall presentation, operating procedures and observing safety standards.

REVENUE STABILITYNICA will continue to achieve annual financial stability by increasing revenue by 5% a year, by retaining and increasing membership, optimizing selling opportunities and developing donations and grants while managing expenses within the following formula; 60% day to day operating expenses including the publication of the NICA News 30% member / regional / educational events 10% reserves

BENEFITSRecognizing that member benefits are important to NICA for membership savings, and organization revenue, NICA will use the buying power of its membership to annually:• upgrade or obtain one new and unique benefit, • increase member usage of benefits by 20%,• increase rebates by 25%

MEMBERSHIPNICA will become a strong organization throughout the US and Canada with programs to increase the inclusion of all members which will lead to increase of the membership annually through: • recruiting new membership with a focus in a geographic area where there is limited representation.• retention of current members • the establishment of regional councils that are responsive to regional issues.• Retention of current members

SHORT TERM GOALS TO BE COMPLETED BY APRIL 2013

SPEAKERS BUREAU• Pick speakers and train them • Provide information to Fair/Festival Associations about speakers available• Survey the membership for topics of interest• Train members to conduct focus groups to collect information from membership throughout the US and Canada

MEMBERSHIP• Continue developing regional councils• Survey former members to determine why they left NICA• Continue conducting focus groups to determine members needs from NICA

FINANCIAL STABILITY• Review membership dues structure• Publish stories about specific benefits used by the membership• Grow the 501(c)3 foundation under the NICA umbrella to enhance educational programs to be offered to the members and the industry and enable charitable fundraising.

BENEFITS• Complete a survey of the membership on the use of benefits• Continue to explore a tire discount and wireless mobile discount benefit programs• Promote the new Speedway / Marathon / Pilot program

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NICA is a Florida Corporation with Editorial and General Office located at: 1043 E. Brandon Blvd.Brandon, FL 33511(813) 438-8926 • Fax: (813) 438-8928www.nicainc.orgThe information contained in this Publication is based upon sources believed to be reliable. Readers should not act without professional advice. Cover to Cover Copyright - All Rights Reserved. ©NICA

I would like to take a minute to reflect on this past year’s IAFE convention. NICA normally has our face to face Board meeting on Saturday, but this year moved it to Sunday, so that we didn’t have to travel on Thanksgiving Day. Also new this year, our trade show booth was setup at the entrance to the trade show floor. We had a great location beside the OABA and near the IAFE registration enabling us to greet just about anybody who went to the trade show. If you have never seen the trade show you are missing out on an experience. You will see everything from talking robots to Barney Fife. The trade show is always a complete sell out with mostly entertainment, but I did see a few concession related things.

Sunday night the IAFE had their Wine and Cheese Reception and Auction with each IAFE Zone having wine from their area. I must say some of the wine was good but some tasted like paint thinner. I guess I don’t have the taste for good wine; however I do have the taste for a good time and Sunday’s event was a winner. Monday’s opening session was well attended with the highlight being a performance by Clay Walker. That evening in the NICA suite, WIN had our Wine and Cheese Reception. This event was very well attended by both Fair personnel as well as NICA members. It was a successful fundraising night with Randy Reichert winning the IPAD and I believe that’s the second one he has won in the last year. Tuesday, the Board attended and participated in several more round tables and table topics pertaining to the fair industry. We also helped elect the IAFE Associate Member. Continued on next page >>

Passing of the Gavel:Outgoing and Incoming President Messages

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.Dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival and Special Events Industries through effective communication, benefits, leadership and solutions.

As we enter the twentieth year of this organization I’m reminded of all the hard work and dedication that has gone into its development and growth. As a Board Member I have been allowed to participate in some of the behind the scenes work that goes on to insure that we are seen in a positive way and that our voice is heard. In the last 20 years NICA has made great strides towards a stronger bond with other organizations. With these bonds we have formed a better understanding of what their needs are and they have also have been able to see our needs as business owners and as an organization. I have had the privilege of serving with some great Boards over the past few years. We have overcome some unique situations that would have been difficult to get through if not for the leadership of some of the past Boards. I would like to say thank you to all the past directors for their dedication and hard work that has allowed this organization to continue to grow and educate for so many years. My only hope is to be able to continue the work that was started 20 years ago by a couple of men with a dream to help move us into the future as partners of this industry. I would like to ask that each and every member get involved over this next year and stay involved. It only takes a few hours, but it means so much to NICA.

Greg Miller, CCE

Tom Sattler, CCE

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This year’s nomination came from NICA our very own Randy Reichert. He will represent the Associate Membership of the IAFE. Tuesday night we introduced our incoming President, Tom Sattler, CCE at our incoming President/Membership Appreciation Reception. Once again we saw a lot of NICA members as well as Fair partners at the gathering. We were treated to a taste of Florida by Tom and Heather Sattler, CCE.

On Wednesday we meet for breakfast with our Advisory Committee. This committee is made up of Fair management from across the country. We covered several concerns and left the meeting with some good ideas and common goals. Thursday we had several more meetings and IAFE gatherings to attend. By Friday all the Board was either home or on their way home. More so than ever I felt the partnership grow between NICA and the IAFE. Thanks to our host, the IAFE, and the go to person, Kate Turner. I challenge you to look forward to the 2013 Convention and set your calendars to attend. I always feel refreshed after the convention and leave Las Vegas with a lot of excitement.

NICA Executive Regional Councils

NICA WEST COUNCILDon Delahoyde, CCE

Jennifer Giordano

Judy Henbury, CCE

Lucky Henner

Don Long, CCE

Dan Lusenhop

Dale Smith

Tony Trafton, CCE

NICA MIDWEST COUNCILTerry Bonnell

Daniel Bullen

Bill Johnson

Paulette Keene

Donald Kenna

Dannie Moreland

Ronald Smith

Jack Woods, II CCE

NICA State RepresentativesDuane Fischer

Judi Gruver

John Harkey

David Higginbottom

Charles Ivory

Tom Kiermaier

David Koepp

Bruce Kozelou

Stacia Markowitz

Mike McGrath

Kevin McGrath II

Dannie Moreland

Etta Pence, CCE

David Spann

Ed White

NICF BoardChuck Dugan

Russ Harrison, CCE

Lisa Hinton

Donald Kenna

SanDee O’Brien, CCE

Olivia Orme

Bill Wrabiutza

Greg’s Final President’s Message continued:

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A MESSAGE FROMJUSTIN SATTLERHello everyone, I hope all of our members have had a great holiday season with my own personal best wishes for a great New Year. The New Year always brings great promise for the year to get off to a good start. One of the best ways I have always found to lift my spirits for the new season is by attending NICA/Fare Foods very own Food Show and Business Expo. The dates for the show this year are February 4-6, 2013. This event is a chance for NICA and Fare Foods to shine. The NICA Board and staff members work diligently to try and bring forth the best workshops to better educate our members. These workshops always try to incorporate things such as Serv-Safe classes, D.O.T. Education from current D.O.T. Officers, Department of Labor, accounting, public speaking, and soda beverage repair just to name a few. These educational workshops, set up by our organization, are just some of the current issues within our industry and attending them will give each member the tools they need to help combat these issues. Fare Foods also goes to great lengths and every year raises the bar on the quality of the vendors at the show. This insures that they always have great products to offer and many have great rebate programs available as well. All of the items showcased at this event are presented to you in the hopes of increased education, knowledge, awareness, and most of all, increased profits and savings. This event is by far one of the best reasons to be a NICA member and to be able to utilize all NICA has to offer. It is only by attending and supporting this event that this is possible. I would also greatly encourage all of our members to become members of your home state’s fair association along with the IAFE. Each state will host its own fair federation meeting, some in conjunction with the IAFE. In addition to these, the IAFE holds their own zone meetings which consist of several states. These meetings and conventions are where you as a member can see firsthand where the rubber meets the road. These are the places where the industry’s hottest topics are discussed and the best place to see firsthand the answer to the infamous question, “What’s NICA doing for me!”. These are the forums in which your fair and concession managers have the opportunity to present all of their problems and concerns to NICA. The “Together We Can” is implemented at its finest through round

table discussions, workshops, presentations and other various meetings and functions. NICA Board members are present and working diligently at the forefront of these problems and concerns. Everyone is welcome to join these great organizations and everyone that joins is asked to attend any and all meetings and conventions. These are the places where anyone looking to increase their knowledge of our industry should be. Most all of our industries leaders and forefathers already know this and it is very common to see them in attendance at many of these great functions. I could literally write about a dozen articles concerning the issues this current Board has already addressed with leaders in our industry, but would rather you as a member, come and see for yourself what NICA can and is currently doing for you. Just as the old saying goes “seeing is believing”.

I greatly appreciate the opportunity to be a representative for this organization along with my fellow directors. It gives me a great sense of pride for this organization when managers, directors, presidents, etc. of major events make the statement of how important it is to be able to communicate their issues with those of ours. This is where in working together we find solutions that make both sides come together and see increased attendance, better profits, and less issues of concern. Currently our organization has about 25% active involvement in our organization. To me this means we need to be asking ourselves “What can I do for NICA, to help NICA do for me?” When more member involvement is achieved, we will all be proud to say “We did this for NICA”. Remember, “your level of involvement will determine the level of your rewards.”

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JANUARYJanuary 2-4: North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fairs Annual Convention, Sheraton Imperial Hotel, Durham, North Carolina January 3-6: Ohio Fair Managers Association Annual Convention, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Columbus, Ohio January 3-6: Virginia Association of Fairs Annual Convention, The Homestead 1776, Hot Springs, Virginia January 4-6: Indiana Association of Fairs, Festivals and Events Annual Convention, Indianapolis Marriott East Conference Center, Indianapolis, Indiana January 6-9: Wisconsin Association of Fairs Annual Convention, Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin January 10-12: Kentucky Association of Fairs Annual Convention, Galt House Hotel and Suites, Louisville, Kentucky January 10-12: Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions Annual Convention, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Grand Rapids, Michigan January 10-13: Oregon Fairs Association Annual Convention, Salem Conference Center, Salem, Oregon January 11-12: West Virginia Association of Fairs & Festivals Annual Convention, Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, West Virginia January 17-19: Georgia Association of Agricultural Fairs & Expositions Annual Convention, Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel, Atlanta, Georgia January 17-19: Tennessee Association of Fairs Annual Convention, Marriott Airport Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee January 17-20: Minnesota Federation of County Fairs Annual Convention, DoubleTree Hotel, Bloomington, Minnesota January 17-20: Texas Association of Fairs and Events Annual Convention, Grand Hyatt, San Antonio, Texas January 18-20: Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs Annual Convention, Crowne Plaza, Springfield, Illinois January 18-20: Nebraska Association of Fair Managers Annual Convention, Ramada Inn, Kearney, Nebraska January 18-21: New York State Association of Agricultural Fairs Inc. Annual Convention, Rochester Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, New York January 20-23: Western Fairs Association Annual Convention, Reno, Nevada January 20-23: NICA West Food Show & Expo held in conjunction with the WFA.January 23-26: Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs/Pennsylvania State Showmen’s Association Annual Convention, Hershey Lodge & Convention Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania January 24-26: Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs Annual Convention, holiday Inn By the Bay, Portland, Maine January 26: Utah Association of Fairs & Events Annual Convention, Utah State Fairpark, Salt Lake City, Utah January 31-February 3: Missouri Association of Fairs and Festivals Annual Convention, Holiday Inn, Columbia, Missouri

FEBRUARYFebruary 1: Vermont Agricultural Fairs Association and New Hampshire Association of Fairs & Expositions Combined Annual Convention, Lake Morey Inn, Fairlee, Vermont February 1-3: Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies Annual Convention, Alberta Mayfield Inn, Edmonton, Alberta February 1-3: Oklahoma Association of Fairs and Festivals Annual Convention, State Fair Park (Fairfield Inns & Suites), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma February 4-6: NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show, Embassy Suites, Tampa, Florida February 6: NICA Annual General Membership Meeting and Gala.February 5-9: IISF Trade Show and Extravaganza, Gibsonton, FloridaFebruary 12: NICA’s O’Brien Bowling Tournament, Tampa, FloridaFebruary 14-16: Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies Annual Convention, Royal York Hotel, Toronto, Ontario February 21-24: Louisiana Association of Fairs & Festivals Annual Convention, Crowne Plaza, Baton Rouge, Louisiana February 22-24: IAFE Zone 5 Annual Meeting, Overland Park, Kansas

MARCHMarch 1-3: Combined IAFE Zone 3 and IAFE Zone 6 Meeting, Hyatt Regency, Louisville, Kentucky March 11-13: IAFE Spring Seminar, Midtown Holiday Inn, Grand Island, Nebraska March 23-25: IAFE Institute of Fair Management Summit, Ramada Inn, Rochester, Minnesota March 25-27: IAFE Zone 4 Annual Meeting, Ramada Inn, Rochester, Minnesota

APRILApril 1: NICA Scholarship Applications due in the office.

NICA 2013 Calendar

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Order your custom collector basket today to celebrate NICA’s 20th Anniversary!

Call the NICA Office 813-438-8926 or visit nicainc.org

$40.00

April 4-6: Mid-West Fairs Association Annual Convention, Renaissance World Golf Village Resort, St. Augustine, Florida (For Mid-West members and invited guests only.) April 18-20: IAFE Zone 1 Annual Meeting, Holiday Inn By the Bay, Portland, Maine April 25-28: IAFE Management Conference, West Palm Beach Marriott, West Palm Beach, Florida

MAYMay 16-18: Combined IAFE Zone 2 Meeting and Florida Federation of Fairs & Livestock Shows Inc. Annual Convention, Naples Grande Beach Resort, Naples, Florida May 17-19: Kentucky Association of Fairs Annual Spring Meeting, Barren River Lake State Park, Lucas, Kentucky

JUNEJune 1: NICA Board of Directors nominations due in office.June 25: NICA West Council nominations due.

JULYJuly 15: NICA Board of Directors election ballots go out to voting members.

AUGUSTAugust 15: Directory Updates due in office.

SEPTEMBERSeptember 30: Board of Directors election ballots due in office.

OCTOBEROctober 1: All Membership dues are to be paid.October 25-26: Manitoba Association of Ag Societies Annual Convention, Victoria Inn, Brandon, Manitoba

NOVEMBERNovember 13-16: Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs Annual Convention, Parkway Plaza Hotel, Casper, Wyoming

DECEMBERDecember 8-12: 123rd Annual IAFE Convention and Trade Show, Paris Hotel, Las Vegas, NevadaDecember 8-12: At the IAFE Convention – NICA Board Meeting, WIN Wine & Cheese, NICA President Elect Reception and Regional MeetingDecember 13-15: Association of Iowa Fairs Annual Convention, Airport Holiday Inn, Des Moines, Iowa

NICA 2013 Calendar

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In the NICA Community

DON’T MISS: The Shrivel Bowl!

Put on your bowling shoes and join us for a NICA fundraiser (formerly the Turkey

Bowl) renamed in honor of concessionaire Frank “Shrivel” Wolfrom who was

beloved by many and was known for his adventurous antics and unique outlook on life.

An evening of fun and storytelling will be enjoyed by all. Numerous prizes will be awarded and given out throughout the evening. It will take place during the last week of the West Palm Beach Fair For more information, contact Randy Reichert, CCE at 920-912-2651■

Coming soon...Our New Executive Director!NICA’s newest Executive Director has officially been hired! Make sure to stop by and introduce yourself at the 2013 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show in Tampa, FL February 4-6.

2013 NICA Membership Directories have been mailed!Make sure to take care of your annual renewal to ensure your listing in the 2014 directory.

Michael Kramer Fun Time Foods, FL R. Josh Stremmel Wells Concessions, KS

Vincent Nelson Vinnie’s Fine Foods, NY

Doug Kryzanowski Exhibition Park AB, Canada

David Webster Webster Enterprises, TX

James Ingram Deggeller Attractions, FL David Allen Signor Fiske Concessions, Inc., MI

New Members

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Fare Foods Seeking OUTSIDE SALES REPRESENTATIVEA Southern Illinois based wholesale food distributor servicing the concession industry is looking for an Outside Sales Representative. The ideal candidate will process orders and solicit new qualifying business.

The candidate will represent the company at Trade Association meetings to promote the company. You will gain extensive product knowledge and have the ability to quickly resolve issues with customers. You will provide estimates for dates of delivery to customers based on knowledge of the company’s delivery schedules. Candidate will be required to travel. Previous Amusement / Carnival experience preferred. Previous wholesale food experience preferred.

If you would like to become a part of a fast growing family owned food service company please send a resume to sharsy@farefoods.com.

Paid Advertisement by Fare Foods

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Behind the Scenes at the NICA SuiteNICA host two nights in Las Vegas in our suite.The first night is our WIN Wine and Cheese reception, the second is our incoming President’s Reception. This year my husband Thomas Sattler, CCE is the incoming President.

This night takes a lot of planning and preparing on the incoming President’s family. Both of our sons (Lee and Tommy Sattler) made the journey to Las Vegas with us this year, also my husband’s parents (Penny and Tom Sattler) and brother (Board member Justin Sattler) and his wife (Dawn Sattler). On top of my normal duties as WIN Chairperson I had this event to put together.

This night has weighed on my mind since my husband decided to become President. So many of our friends and family told me not to worry it would all come together! As usual things seemed to fall apart and chaos set in. The catering company went under, the hotel was out of supplies, things did not get delivered, etc. Everyone said it would be ok and not to worry. This is a night to celebrate one of the people I love most in this world. Ok, “ok” is not in my vocabulary when stress jump starts my obsessive compulsive tendencies.

What happened next was nothing short of a miracle in my book. In our line of work we are faced with sudden changes all the time. We are use to having a short period of time to do something and then suddenly having to change it. Why did I think this would be any different? We did our shopping for the Boards breakfast and lunch on Sunday. Then we did more shopping for the WIN Wine and Cheese. Both went off beautifully thanks to several great helpers.

Now it was my husband’s night. I had envisioned a Florida themed room filled with southern style food. I went to the suite early in the morning and my mother-n-law, Penny Sattler, was there cutting up all the food to prepare for the night. My father-n-law, Tom Sattler, was wiring oranges and lemons to the leaves to decorate the room. Shortly thereafter my sister-n-law, Dawn Sattler, showed up to help where ever she was needed.

The help didn’t stop there. My parents who were unable to attend and other family members were on call in Fl. with recipes. Ted Wentz and his fiancée, Kayla Keller not only showed up to help but brought along Kayla’s famous Berry dessert for the night. My son’s Tommy and Lee volunteered their furniture moving and decorating skills.

While I left to pick up last minute supplies they all worked all day to make the room just perfect. I had my own very special assistant during all these outings. Tyra Potillo was my right hand as well as “friend” on all these journeys. She was my eyes, map, sanity keeper, etc. There were several nights she forced me out of the NICA suite and sent me to bed assuring me everything would work out!

Several of my fellow WIN ladies and Board spouses offered their time and assistance also. It took more hands on work than I had planned. Several of the family members had refrigerators in their rooms full of supplies.

The night ended up to be just wonderful. We got tons of compliments on the food and decorations. Ted Wentz and Dawn Sattler were once again fabulous bartenders that kept all our guests happy. My family and friends all made sure the food stayed full and nobody went without. At the end of the night our family, friends, and Board members all helped to clean the room and package the leftover food to donate to a food shelter. All and all I couldn’t have been more pleased with the way it turned out. I also want to thank everyone who attended and was a part of my husband’s special night. I want to send a special “THANK YOU” to my biggest support systems that night: Penny and Tom Sattler (my in-laws), Dawn Sattler (my sister-n-law), Ted Wentz and his fiancée, Kayla Keller, one of my best friends Tyra Potillo, and last but certainly not least our son’s Lee and Tommy Sattler!

Heather Sattler, CCE

NICA: Front and Center at the IAFE Convention

Tom Sattler, CCE with Heather Sattler, CCE

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WIN Wine and CheeseOur 2012 WIN Wine and Cheese was another great success this year! This is a night hosted by WIN but open for all to attend. Once again Duane Hickman went above and beyond supplying all the cheese for our Wine and Cheese. This event was started years ago and has grown bigger every year. Our Wine and Cheese is put together by donations and a lot of volunteers. This year Dawn Sattler and Ted Wentz volunteered once again as our bartenders. I would like to send them a special thank you for giving up their night to serve all our guests! We also had a record fundraiser that night. We sold tickets for several door prizes and an Ipad. Randy Reichert was the big winner of the Ipad. This is a great time to get together and mingle with old friends and meet new ones since so many of us are isolated to certain areas on our routes. This night allows you to get to know people from all over. It's not just vendors who attend our Wine and Cheese. We have several fairs, festivals, and entertainers who also attend. So many times we are so busy on the road we don't get the time to enjoy our friends and fair boards. This is a great setting to relax and enjoy each other. I know I have met and made several new friends at these WIN events.

I encourage all of you to get involved and attend as many of these events as possible. If there isn't one in your area feel free to host one yourself. Hand out fliers or ask the office to put it on the website or on our Facebook page. Most of the times you will find people are willing to donate their times or items to help out. I want to thank everyone who bought tickets that night and helped us raise money to support NICA. Most of all I want to thank all our room sponsors and all my WIN ladies who helped me work the room that night and make it a great success!

Ron Smith, Audrey Poole, and Tim O’Brien, CCE

Joe Potillo, Jr & Randy Reichert

The NICA Board, up bright and early.

Rosie Ash, Joe Potillo, Tony Trafton, Tom Sattler, CCE, and Greg Miller

Tim O’Brien, CCE, Justine O’Brien, CCE with Bunni & Paul Lombard

Janey Miller with Gayle McGrath, CCE

Paulette Keene and Don Kenna

Paulette Keene with Hotel Management Preparing for the NICA Advisory Board meeting

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Food What’s Hot and What’s Not! NICA Board member Paulette Keene and I were honored to host an IAFE round table topic based on this subject. We had well over 68 attendees with many fair personnel and food concessionaires with plenty to discuss for an hour and a half. Some of the major points brought up were: What does the operation look like, is it a “ retread product, can the operation handle large volumes, how many do you “book’, are sales sustainable in future years, is operator and event staff media savvy, is social media used to drive sales. Many good ideas with some successes and even some failures were shared. Refillable souvenir cups were a hit with consumers. Changing flavors in existing items, such as, red velvet funnel cakes, was a good way because no new equipment was necessary. One fair kept three locations for new items. If the concessionaire was successful with the new item they were given a location the next year. NICA is very appreciative of the IAFE in giving us this opportunity at their annual convention. Communication truly does help in solving our industries problems and I urge all NICA members to attend their upcoming state convention. This is your greatest way to affect changes for the betterment of our industry.

Till next time, your NICA board member, Don Kenna.

Cecilia & Don Kenna

Tim O’Brien, CCE, Tom Sattler, CCE, David Penn, Russ Harrison, CCE, and Tom Sattler

Chuck Dugan, Tim O’Brien, CCE, and Tony Trafton

Sattler Boys: Lee and Tom

Tim O’Brien, CCE, Greg Miller, CCE, Rey O’Day, and Tony Trafton

Judy George with her Godiva prize package

David Penn, Russ Harrison, CCE, Tim O’Brien, CCE, and Don Kenna

Vinny Valentino with Mike and Stacia Markowitz

Brad Enoch, Norm Keene, Mike McGrath and Russ Scott

Tyra and Joe Potillo, Jr.

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NICA Board of Directors Attends IAFE ConventionFriday the Board members start arriving at the Paris/Bally hotels in Las Vegas and by Saturday afternoon everyone has arrived. We have just gotten to our location but have not set up our room, when we have to leave to meet in the NICA Suite for a 4 o’clock meeting. We are all glad to see each other for a face to face meeting instead of a 2 hour conference call. President, Greg Miller, CCE and the Board are happy to welcome Stacia Markowitz to the NICA board. I personally am delighted to get to know Stacia and become a closer friend to the other Board Members and their spouses. As we continue the meeting, we asked Rosie Ash to go over the Code of Ethics for new Board Members and to refresh all our minds on our codes. After a few hours of meeting we dismiss and are our own till early morning.

It’s Sunday morning and time to open and continue our face to face session. As we go over our old and new business, agreeing and disagreeing, we learn to be willing to ”agree to disagree”. After reviewing the goals we set for NICA at the Spring Workshop, we have a sense of accomplishment and this gives us encouragement to continue our work to complete the rest of the goals. Our main goal being our Mission Statement “dedicated to strengthening relationships with the fair, festival, and special event industries through effective communication, benefits, and leadership solutions.” Some of the goals we are striving to do are to advocate for the industry and help with regulatory issues. I think we are accomplishing this by working together with OABA and the Ohio Association to acquire a lawyer to work on the H2B and J1 Visa issues. We have also updated our website making it more user friendly. If you haven’t noticed you can pay your dues online or change your info for the online NICA directory. You can send an interesting picture of one of your events or an article for the NICA News. We are working on more benefits, but YOU need to use the benefits and take advantage of discounts and rebates that are offered. Just look on the back of your membership card for account numbers and more information to get money back. We are really pushing to show good integrity and wanting all the members to get involved in NICA. As we grow our professional face we need you to help. We finally adjourn for the day and had 45 minutes to get ready to go down to Planet Hollywood for the IAFE Wine and Dine 2012 whose proceeds benefit the IAFE Education Foundation. Finally the day’s over again for NICA. Time to go relax for a while.

Oh, guess what? It’s Monday morning and time for the opening Session of the IAFE Convention and all NICA Board Members attend. I especially enjoy the outgoing Chair, Gary Slater’s presentation and speech. It was a fantastic

presentation about faith, family, fair, and friends. My favorite part was the video that reflects all the heart warming, fun filled hard working days we all put into a fair and the rewards and blessings that come forth from all these efforts that only people who work or volunteer at the fairs can receive. We also enjoyed the entertainer, Clay Walker.

The rest of the day was filled with more meetings! Board Members, their spouses, and NICA members took turns manning the NICA booth in the lobby of the Paris Convention Center advocating NICA’s benefits and signing up new members. I would like to thank Rosie Ash for getting everything in order for the NICA booth. In the meantime, the WIN Chair, Heather Sattler, WIN ladies and Tom Sattler’s mother are all preparing for the WIN Wine & Cheese.

After lunch, the IAFE has asked NICA to moderate a round table discussion. Don Kenna and I were moderators of the topic was “What’s Hot and What’s Not.” Don Kenna has an article about the successful and interesting discussions in this NICA News. There were more round table discussions going on around the room others attended. Many of these round tables had two sessions.

Pam Simon, CFE from the Minnesota Fair was the moderator of our second session. Pam and I got into a discussion about fair business so I decided to stay and see what topics and situations came up in the second session. This session had about 20 people present and about 13 were fair staff related and 7 were vendors or food concessionaires. Pam started the discussion by asking each person what was the” hot item” at their fair? What was successful and what was not? Following is a list of items: deep fried mac and cheese, deep fried candy bars, Poutine (French fries covered with turkey gravy and white cheese curds), Walleye roll, strawberry lemonade, red velvet funnel cakes, and deep fried pickles.

Everyone agreed it is important to get the media involved. This includes newspaper, TV, and radio interviews as well as the social media on the internet such as Facebook, Twitter, etc. There were also concerns about food allergies and how fairs and concessionaires are handling this matter. We agreed there definitely needed to be SIGNAGE on any foods that are dangerous to allergies. These must be posted and one must be very careful not to cross contaminate items with peanut oils and similar common food allergies.

“People’s Choice Awards” was another topic discussed. One fair had voting machines which was an interesting idea because besides for a favorite item, it was educational in teaching people how to use a voting machine. $2 Tuesdays can turn a slow night into a weekend day compared to attendance and sale. The vendors sell smaller portion or sample portions so everyone has a chance to taste more of the fair food items. Coupons and coupon books can boost sales, however if using your own, consult with each fair to see if they are allowed. It’s time to run over to your room to change and attend the WIN Wine and Cheese. There

Paulette Keene, Gayle McGrath, CCE and Rosie Ash

16

is a good attendance and lots of cheese and wine to enjoy while visiting with friends.

Tuesday we had a breakfast meeting with the Advisory Board. President Greg Miller brought the Advisory Board up to date on NICA’s progress for the year, and if they had any advice for us. We were glad to listen to ideas and suggestions they gave to us and take it into consideration for the future of NICA. After a wonderful breakfast we then journey down the hall to the Workshops sessions. They have many interesting topics to choose from The Marketing Evolution to “From Here to There and What is in Between”. We will all attend the Here to there and What is in Between since the Moderator was our President, Greg Miller, CCE and the panelist were Charlie Smith, Greg Stewart, Roger Sharp, and Bob Irwin. There are other round table discussions and workshops all day, but most of us are in committee meetings or Board meetings for NICA. The Trade Show is open for strolling through and we will all gather at 5:00 to attend a 5:30 IAFE Associates Board Selection Credentialing Meeting, where we will nominate Randy Riechert to serve on the IAFE Board as an associate Director to be submitted to the IAFE Nominating Committee for the nominating report.

It’s time to get dressed up because it’s time to celebrate our incoming President, Tom Sattler, CCE. In the NICA suite, Heather Sattler, CCE, Tom’s mother, Dawn, and Tyra have laid out a fabulous feast of appetizers, salads and hors d’oeuvres. It has been a very enjoyable evening.

One day left! I am excited we are going to the General Session and J.R. Martinez is to be the speaker. He is the winner of the Mirror Ball Trophy, Season 13 of “Dancing with the Stars”. It was sad to hear his story, but how he turned his life around can be very motivating to all. It was a good way to start the day. Some of us and a lot of the Board members’ spouses continue to take care of the NICA booth. We are all wearing down, but continue to meet as we have some matters to discuss before we close out our annual meeting.

I forgot to mention that earlier in the week Terry Bonnell joined us for an update on the new region we are getting off the ground, the Midwest Council. It’s been a full and exciting 5 days…… but we are all ready to go home I am particularly missing my grandkids, so see you all in Tampa. Hope this gives you an idea of what goes on in Vegas. ■

Paulette Keene

NICA Would like to Thank

The Rouchkas’ &Tyra Potillo

for their Outstanding Assistance with the IAFE Convention

this Year!

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Tis the Season...to be Attending Conventions

by Rey O’ Day

IAFE Convention: November 25 - 28, 2012, Las Vegas, NV

Many of us including the NICA Board of Directors have just returned from the International Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (IAFE) convention in Las Vegas. This convention provides the perfect place for NICA to present a strong presence in our industry and support a sister association. Conventioneers found a NICA application form in their registration package that stated clearly “NICA is Worth the Price of Admission” by describing our Fair/Festival Management Member Contest and how using NICA benefits more than pays for the membership fee.

On the day before the convention begins our Board holds a day long face-to-face meeting. The first item of business was to welcome newly elected Board member, Stacia Markowitz. Included in the meeting is our office staff evaluation. The Board is highly satisfied with the work and collaborative spirit of Jill, Kaitlyn and SanDee. Be sure and thank them when you speak with them. Terry Bonnell, the newly placed NICA Midwest Council Manager, came by to meet the Board and engage in some question and answer time. Developing councils throughout the country is part of NICA’s plan to engage more of our members in NICA activities and grow membership.

NICA staffed a booth at the entrance to the IAFE trade show where we greeted members, handed out membership applications and answered

questions. Over 200 people attended the NICA presented workshop called “Here to There and What Is in Between.” NICA President, Greg Miller, CCE moderated the panel of four: Greg Stewart, Central Washington Fair CEO, shared the importance of working together; Bob Irwin, Georgia National Fair CEO stressed the philosophical unity between his fair staff and concessionaires, Charlie Smith, Populous CEO described different types of fairground layouts, and Roger Sharp, Sharp Concepts Concessionaire Owner said “Change is ok, don’t be afraid to try new things.” President Miller commented, “I am pleased that IAFE has embraced the concerns and leadership of NICA members and other concessionaires into their convention programming.”

As part of updating our Master Distribution Agreement the Sysco team introduced the NICA Agreement Committee to the buying power of Source 1 Purchasing and Entegra. This partnership will bring better pricing at every level for our members. The plan is to have it in place by January 2013.

The NICA Advisory Board of Fair Managers met with our Board over breakfast to discuss topics of mutual interest and concern. The J-1 and H2B Worker Visa programs were discussed in depth. These programs that provide a very important workforce source for the fair and festival industry are being threatened by State Department regulations and policies. President Miller vowed to work with OABA and IAFE in lobbying efforts to change the practices of the State Department.

Rey O’Day with Kevin McGrath, CCE, Marion Lucas, and Gayle McGrath, CCE

Tim O’Brien, CCE, Don Kenna, Stacia Markowitz, Justin Sattler, and Paulette Keene,

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Here are some NICA West highlights of the upcoming convention:

• Some of the companies that are planning to participate in the two-day Food Show are Lamb Weston, Pactiv-Prairie Packaging, Koch Foods, Sun Rich Fresh Foods, Cargill, Heinz and McCain Foods.

• There are no workshops during the trade show hours.

• Source 1 Purchasing and Entegro will be introduced as new resources to help us engage in a network of buying that is connected at the manufacturing level.

• The NICA West fundraising Raffle will be a week stay at the Maui Schooner in Kihei and $500 cash. Tickets are 1 for $20 and 7 for $100. Drawing is Tuesday, January 22, 2013 @ 3:30 PM at NICA West booth.

• A tour of some of the seven kitchens at the Sierra Grand Resort, sponsored by Garlicky’s, is scheduled for 8:00 - 10:00 Wednesday morning.

• Garlicky’s also agreed to sponsor the NICA-SYSCO educational program from 10:00 - Noon on Wednesday. One of the workshops will feature a butcher breaking down a side of beef that is being provided by Goldberg Solovy.

• Whirley will be ready to take cup orders from concessionaires and fairs who want to offer a refill cup program. Parts of the proceeds support the WFA and NICA Scholarship programs.

• NICA West Member Appreciation Reception will begin at 7:30 PM on Monday in the NICA West Suite. Come enjoy snacks, beverages and fellowship.

The Advisory Board Members also reviewed NICA’s 2012 long term and short term strategic planning goals, were updated on NICA West and NICA Midwest Council activities by Tony Trafton, and introduced to the goals of NICF by foundation President, Russ Harrison.

Two receptions were hosted by NICA: one on Monday to honor our members and partners, and one on Tuesday to introduce our incoming President, Tom Sattler, CCE. A big Shout Out to WIN (Women in NICA) who professionally and exquisitely prepared both receptions: food was delicious and the room was beautifully decorated.

In closing, we want to send CONGRATULATIONS to IAFE for selecting Marla Calico as this year’s Hall of Fame recipient. She exemplifies the spirit and the passion for all the stakeholders in the Fair industry to work together on common concerns. She believes in the education of all in all aspects. She understands that the Fairgoer is the only reason we have companies, organizations and purpose. She talks the talk and walks the walk!!

NICA-SYSCO Food Show @ WFA Convention: January 20-23, 2013, Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, NVRegister now at www.wfaconvention.com for the Western Fairs Association (WFA) convention in order to see the NICA West-SYSCO Food Trade Show. Again this is a great event where sister organizations support the activities and concerns of each other’s members.

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Reno Convention Overview for NICA Members: January 20 – 23, 2013

Sunday 8:00 - 11:00 Bowling tournament

Monday 8:30 - 9:30 Service Members Meeting

Monday Noon - 4:00 Trade Show

Monday 7:30 - 11:00 NICA Appreciation Reception in Suite

Tuesday 8:30 - 9:30 Service Member Breakout

Tuesday 11:00 - 12:15 Rey O’Day Keynotes General Session on WFA Best Practices Program

Tuesday 12:30 - 3:30 Trade Show

Tuesday 3:30 Announce Maui Trip Raffle Winner

Tuesday 6:30 - 7:30 Wine and Cheese Party

Wednesday 8:00 - 10:00 Hotel Kitchen Tours sponsored by Garlicky’s

Wednesday 10:00 - Noon Sysco Educational Sessions sponsored by Garlicky’s

Wednesday 4:00 - 5:00 Service Member Closing

Wednesday 6:30 - 9:00 Industry Awards Dinner

NICA Will See You in Reno!

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NICA Will See You in Reno!

We appreciate your partnership!

Sysco wishes NICA and all its members an amazing 2013 year!

See you at the NICA-Sysco Food Show, January 21-22 in Reno, NV!

22

The hotel has offered us a special group rate of $121.00 per night single or double (plus applicable taxes). This rate is only available for reservations made through Fare Foods. A higher rate will apply if you make reservations directly through the hotel. Please complete the hotel reservation form in this issue and don’t delay. Make your reservations early since there are a limited number of rooms available. Deadline is January 3, 2013.

Fare Foods and the NICA Board will continue to discuss how we can improve the Show. With the expanded space, we will be adding new vendors to showcase new products and ideas. There will be new exciting giveaways, promotions, etc. that will benefit you and will certainly be enjoyed. Come and see for yourself and have fun!

We are very excited to report that last year’s Food Show was a tremendous success…the best Food Show yet! With the additional space, we were able to expand the Food Show allowing additional vendors to exhibit. The Embassy Suites–USF/Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida will, once again, be the location for the 2013 NICA Business Expo and Fare Foods Food Show.

The Embassy Suites is an all suite hotel. In addition, they offer a daily complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, nightly complimentary manager’s reception, corporate business center open 24 hours a day, complimentary morning newspaper, take a swim in the heated pool, unwind in the whirlpool or sauna, and they also offer a well-equipped fitness center.

into

at theNICA BUSINESS EXPO AND FARE FOODS 2013 FOOD SHOWFebruary 4-6, 2013

Celebrating 20 years of NICA and looking to Roar into the Future.

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2013OPEN TO ALL! The NICA Business Expo will open with sessions that will explore the issues and solutions to the day-to-day challenges faced by anyone involved in the Fair/Special Events Industry. Visit www.NICAINC.org for a complete listing of the workshops scheduled.The evening will feature the opening of the very popular Fare Foods 2013 Food Show!

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2013The NICA Business Expo continues with workshops and round tables that reflect subject matter that are of the interest to both concessionaires and event management. The workshops will be facilitated by industry experts from around the country. The evening will feature the last day of the Fare Foods Food Show and the drawing of the grand door prize.

SAVE THE DATES!WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2013NICA will host three workshops this year. • The popular Serv-Safe Food Management Class and Certification administered by the Florida Restaurant Association, 45 seats available, 8am - 4pm

• Social Media and Website tools. Bring your lap top, or ipad and learn how to set up your own website or Facebook Fan pages. Class will also include recommendations for marketing strategies.

• Need to make a presentation to a Fair Board, or at one of the state conventions? Join this workshop and get some tips to make your presentation effective and keep your audience engaged.

All three of Wednesday workshops will have limited seats available. Please be sure to reserve your spot today! (Register on www.NICAINC.org or complete the registration form on page 38)

Over 50 Vendors! Educational Workshops! Registration Available Online! Please see www.nicainc.org or www.farefoods.com for info!

DIRECTIONS:4800 U.S. 301Tampa, FL 33610 1. Head south on FL-43 S toward Oak Fair Blvd 0.2 mi 2. Make a U-turn at Oak Fair Blvd 0.7 mi 3. Merge onto FL-600 W/US-92 W/E Hillsborough Ave via the ramp to I-4 W/Tampa 2.5 mi 4. Turn right onto FL-583 N/N 56th St 2.2 mi 5. Slight right onto N 56th St 0.4 mi 6. Continue straight to stay on N 56th St 1.4 mi 7. Turn left onto E Fowler Ave 1.4 mi 8. Turn right onto Spectrum Blvd 0.1 mi 9. Make a U-turnDestination will be on the right 148 ft3705 Spectrum BlvdTampa, FL 33612

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WORKSHOP SCHEDULEMONDAY, FEBRUARY 4THRegistration ........................................................................................8:00 am - 9:00 pm DOT Workshop....................................................................................9:00 am - 11:30 amNICA National Representative Meeting ............................................12:00 pm - 1:15 pmLunch Break ........................................................................................12:00 pm - 1:15 pmProcessing Credit Cards ....................................................................1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Soda Fountain Repair .........................................................................2:45 pm - 3:45 pm NICA / Fare Foods Food Show...........................................................5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5THRegistration Open ..............................................................................8:00 am - 9:00 pm Industry Labor Issues ........................................................................9:00 am - 11:30 amSocial Media .......................................................................................10:30 am - 11:30 am Women in NICA Lunch and Meeting ..................................................11:30 am - 1:00 pmLunch on your own .............................................................................12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Industry Insurance Issues .................................................................1:15 pm - 2:30 pm Fairs, Concessionaires, and Community Involvement ....................1:15 pm - 2:30 pmJoint Meeting of the Past and Present Members of the NICA Board of Directors .........................................3:00 pm - 4:30 pm NICA / Fare Foods Food Show...........................................................5:00 pm - 9:00 pm WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6THServ-Safe Registration .......................................................................7:30 am Serv-Safe Class ..................................................................................8:00 am - 4:00 pm Social Media .......................................................................................10:00 am - 2:00 pmModern Day Presentations ................................................................10:00 am - 2:00 pmGeneral Membership Meeting ..........................................................7:00 pm Reception & Casino Night! .................................................................8:00 pm - 12:00 pm

THURSDAY, FEBURARY 7THVisit “Gibtown” and or the Florida State Fair

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12THAnnual O’Brien Open Bowling Tournament ......................................11:30 pm

*All dates and times as listed in this magazine are tentative.

If you pre-register online, you will be entered into a raffle for a $100 gas card as well as a golf cart raffle ticket! See p.38 for details.

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CASINO NIGHTNICA Fundraiser -Wednesday February 6, 2013 Embassy Suites, Tampa, FL9pm-12am Black Jack, Texas Hold ‘Em, Roulette, & More!

O’Brien Open Bowling TournamentNICA Fundraiser - Replacing Golf TournamentTuesday February 12, 2013Brandon Crossroads609 Crater Lake Tampa, FL 3361911:30pm

Sponsorships Available! More Details to come on www.nicainc.org.

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Story by Della Bossman

In 1983, Dennis started out working games on Thomas Carnival which is owned by Tom and Margaret Atkins and John and Carolyn Hanschen; and after a few years purchased 3 games from them with a partner. Eventually he bought out the partner to form Midwest Concessions which incorporated in August of 1992. Dennis says the highlight of his career was in Fort Smith, Arkansas at the Arkansas/Oklahoma State Fair where he met me 1993. I have been in the business all of my life. My parents, Ed and Wanda Whalen owned food, games and rides with Harry Burke Shows for over 25 years. My mother’s parents traveled with various shows with their photo booth during her childhood and my paternal grandfather Ed Whalen, Sr owned a show, Whalen and Reily at one point in his career.

In 1994 Dennis and I combined 12 game concessions and went on the road together with Thomas Carnival. We continued to build the business along with our family as we married and welcomed our first daughter, Jacqueline “Jackie” Bossman in 1995. Our second daughter, Alyssa arrived on Christmas Eve 1998 and our third daughter, Breanna in 2002. By then we had grown to 27 games predominately traveling with Thomas Carnival and Dennis had been given the concessions manager position with Thomas Carnival. We also had been accepted to present 3 games at the Minnesota State Fair independent midway.

Thomas Carnival once again gave us an opportunity to purchase the 2 Cotton Candy concessions on the show in 2003. When we purchased these trailers I learned of the NICA organization and joined at that time. My

husband and I have made many friends within the organization after all these years. One of our cotton candy stands was on the cover of an issue of the NICA magazine several years ago. After running those candy trailers and 27 games for a couple of years we started to reduce the games. In 2008 we sold the cotton candy stands to John and Carolyn Hanschen’s daughter and son in law, Brandon and Katherine Petree. We then purchased a Pizza concession which we still have on the show today. At this point we have 20 games and the pizza stand that make up Midwest Concessions.

Last year we bought a very nice clamshell type Machine Gun Game trailer that was accepted into the Minnesota State Fair along with the other 3 games we have been providing for 15 years now. These games were also accepted into the Wisconsin State Fair for their first year as an independent midway. Although we predominately work with Thomas Carnival we also provide concessions with South Texas State Fair, Lowery Carnival Company,

DENNIS & DELLA BOSSMAN of Midwest Concessions

27

Mitchell Brothers, Miller Spectacular, and Twentieth Century Shows. I would have to say that Thomas Carnival has always been the most influential in the success of Midwest Concessions.

The thing we like most about being concessionaires is the people. We have met many of our great friends out here on the road. I can recall a story that stands out, which I am sure many other concessionaires can relate to, is the employee that traveled with us from Arkansas to Louisiana to finish the last couple of spots and during the last event he just had to go home because his brother had died. Well this individual and his brother had worked for us in the past and when we got to Arkansas the next year he came walking up to Dennis with his brother. Dennis looked at him

shocked and said, “I thought your brother died!”. The employee replied immediately “He came back to life!”

Dennis is well into hunting season having filled his deer tags before the Thanksgiving holiday and we are looking ahead to the 2013 season with Thomas Carnival. Our oldest daughter Jackie will be graduating in May and will be accepting a scholorship to attend Morningside College in Sioux City, IA in the fall.

I have spent most of my life trying to improve the image of the carnival game concession by merchandising all of our games and hope to see it bring about some change during my lifetime. Our success is some indication that merchandising is what works as we continue to grow on the same route for so many years now. While we try to remain an affordable form of entertainment by not raising prices with all of the expenses increasing, it is definitely getting harder and harder to do so. The public will spend a little more for their favorite food, but not so much, an impulse item like a game. It is great to know we have the support of organizations like NICA during difficult times. ■

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SUPPLIER OF THE MONTH: Heinkel’s Packing Co., Inc.

GIVE US A LITTLE HISTORY ON HEINKEL’S PACKING CO:Heinkel’s Packing Company began in Decatur, Illinois in 1912 when German immigrant, Albert Heinkel, started making sausage in the back of his store which served the dual purpose of community grocery store and meat market.

Heinkel’s Packing, now spanning four generations, has faithfully served its customers for a century. None of this, however, would be possible without the support of our loyal customers who consistently think of Heinkel’s when they think of Meat. We are thankful for your business and we will continue to serve you, the customer, for many years to come.

WHAT’S YOUR MOST POPULAR PRODUCT?Our Hickory Smoked Turkey Drum. But Heinkel’s has much more to offer. With 100 years of sausage making experience we boast the best Fresh Italian Rope Sausage and Bratwurst in the industry. Our 3-1 Natural Casing Polish has always been our #1 seller. In Illinois at local retailers like Kroger and County Market our newly created Jalapeno and Cheese Jumbo Wieners are flying off the shelves.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART ABOUT YOUR JOB?I enjoy being able to work with my Father, Denny Heinkel, and my cousin, Miles Wright. The old school and the new school make for a dynamic work environment. All three of us work in a cracker-box back office. Denny’s work boots smell, so Miles and Wes have Citrus Power air solvent at the ready. Miles prints too much, so the one printer we all three share is always out of paper. To get through the day, Wes is prone to listening to Tool and Vilvaldi’s Cello Suites on Spotify. Oh, the joys of family.

WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU’RE LOOKING MOST FORWARD TO THIS YEAR?Heinkel’s is looking forward to seeing its customers again and making new ones. Heinkel’s is looking to expand its sausage business. We know we have a superior product so come visit our booth and sample our products. We would love to meet you.

WHAT’S SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT HEINKEL’S?Heinkel’s is celebrating 100 years of continuous family-owned business. Third generation Co-owners Miles Wright and Denny Heinkel have worked together for over 45 years and are solely responsible for Heinkel’s growth in the fair industry. 4th Generation Wes Heinkel (Denny’s son) is being groomed to take over the reins and grow Heinkel’s business with NICA via Fare Foods.

DID YOU DO ANYTHING TO CELEBRATE YOUR 100TH YEAR?We did a hot dog eating contest at Decatur’s annual festival to celebrate. It was the first one ever to happen in Decatur and Heinkel History, and it was a hit! Over 6,000 people were there and we can’t wait to host it again next year.

ARE YOU COMING TO THE UPCOMING FARE FOODS FOOD SHOW IN TAMPA?Heinkel’s will be at the NICA show this year featuring our Hickory Smoked Turkey drums and sausage products. Hopefully business is as good as the Snook fishing, and vice-versa.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH NICA MEMBERS?Heinkel’s is always willing to work with its customers. We can customize any sausage products to fit the size you want and we have the experience to experiment if you have any innovative ideas or are looking to market a new recipe.

Heinkel’s has always valued its close and professional relationship with Fare Foods and looks forward to growing future relationships with clients both old and new.■

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SUPPLIER OF THE MONTH: Heinkel’s Packing Co., Inc.

Distrubuted through Fare Foods 1-800-651-1601

30

Fair, Festival & State Association

Membership Contest

Fair / Festival ManagerLarge Fair/Event

Denny Lang ...................................1Fred Brown ....................................1Jessie McLaughlin .........................2Judy Bureman ...............................1

Fair / Festival Manager Small Events

Jim Ward .......................................2Michael Heard ...............................1

AssociationLarge Fair/Event

Office .............................................3IFEA ..............................................1

For a more information about the contest and a complete list of rules,

please see next page for contest info.

FMCSA Implements Improvements to Safety Measurement System

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) moved forward with improvements to the Safety Measurement System (SMS) in December 2012. These enhancements are the result of careful analysis of feedback from the motor carrier industry, law enforcement, and other safety stakeholders.FMCSA is committed to continually improving SMS

in an open and transparent manner that promotes safety. Many of the enhancements were available for your review and comment since March 2012, while several others were announced in the Federal Register in August 2012. To read those Federal Register notices, visit https://federalregister.gov/a/2012-7360 and http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety-security/sms/agency-response-to-public-comments-of-sms-changes_signed.pdf.If you have not done so already, we encourage you to visit http://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms and log in to review your information.FMCSA appreciates your continued engagement and attention to safety and compliance; together we can save more lives. If you have any questions, please contact the FMCSA Division Office in your State. For a list of FMCSA Division Offices and their contact information, visit http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/about/contact/offices/displayfieldroster.aspx.

Thank You,CSA Web Team

U.S. DOT/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

31

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(Ed. Note: While this article does not reflect an official position of NICA, we do recognize that sometimes we need to laugh at our behavior. Please enjoy.)

We all have neighbors at our fairs, and whether you’re a food concessionaire out on the mainline, or a vendor in a building, there are rules that apply to everyone. Fair management makes these regulations and we are all suppose to abide by them. The rules are as old as our fairs and written in the manuals and contracts we read, sign and supposedly adhere to. It’s only fair (pun intended).

We love our neighbors, but like any relationship there are those that try our patience more than others. Some we laugh at, some we yell at, others we barely tolerate or at the least secretly call management on them. Sometimes you just have to go to war with them, The Vendor Wars!

Are you guilty of being a bad neighbor? Of course not, but you have heard the stories of those who are. Have you ever been next to the guy with the microphone turned up to 12? Or how about needing a gas mask on your counters for your help and customers from the BBQ smoke or exhaust fans just down the aisle. Do you complain because you’re giving out forks and spoons for your competitor’s food at an alarming rate? And no, it’s not fair (again, pun intended) to put one’s condiment table on a one-foot square area behind your stand!

Call it the Concessionaire’s Commandments or the Vendor’s Bill of Rights, what is okay to some is Unfair to others. We are all in this together, but some are more in it for themselves. HA HA HA!

“Be a good neighbor,” says one Fair’s manual on conduct, “You won’t be permitted to obstruct the traffic flow surrounding, or the view or exposure of another exhibitor.” Still, each day you see someone hang items, place signs, and push their world just inches or feet into your space. It is always fun to look down an aisle and see who is slowly moving out from their 10 x 20 spots. And oh, how they grow during a Fair.

Here are but a few of the verbal morsels one hears at a fair:

“Oh, excuse me for overstepping my bounds,” says one for expanding their territory and taking selfish liberties. “Can I borrow your ladder?” “Sure, but the last time you didn’t bring it back!”

“Hey, that chair is mine!” “No it isn’t, it came with the booth!”“Right, that is why my name is scratched into the paint on the bottom of it.” And then you hear some vendor behind a curtain yelling, “Hey the circuit breaker just popped! Who stacked all these cardboard boxes on the power outlet? ARRRGH! I can’t plug in!”

Or one might even hear: “May I take your order please?” from a young lady in front of your stand or booth who quietly has come around, order pad in hand, hustling orders for food for their booth in another part of the fair, far, far away. To make matters worse not only is she soliciting us as vendors, she is hitting on your customers too.

“Okay then, do I get a vendor discount?” I queried.“No.” “Well why not?”

“DO NOT CLOSE EARLY!” warns one Fair’s handbook. You can’t move out early the last day of a Fair, but they sneak out anyway. There are many crafty ways of getting your booth torn down and moved to the parking lot before the onslaught of trucks, vans and handcarts starts the crazed procession.

“Your booth must be staffed at all times,” says another manual.

Does this mean sleeping under the table is okay when foot traffic is slow? You had to laugh out loud when one vendor slept snoring with legs half way out of his own dressing room while customers stepped over him discussing prices with his wife.

Another commonly heard regulation from Fair management is, “We reserve the right to restrict, or prohibit exhibits that are objectionable due to noise, method of operation or anything profoundly offensive to a neighboring partner.” This is the

Love Thy Neighbors!?! By: Ken McKnight

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same as, “Turn down your thumping dance music and your microphone volume because I can’t even talk to my customers, and besides my products are vibrating off my shelves.” Oh, one other thing, “I didn’t know it wasn’t okay to dance in the aisles three booths down.”

At some fairs you find management orderly and consistent in their policies regarding concession and vendor rules. If you step out of bounds you’re going to get “called out on the carpet.” or “sent to the principal’s office” (sic). For some Fairs it is the wild, wild west (or east for that matter) and anything and everything goes. So buckle your seat belts and get ready for the ride!

Being a good neighbor isn’t always what we think it is at a Fair. Often times we are so tightly wound, stressed out from the last show and selfish in our motives that we don’t always think clearly. Throw in no sleep, too much coffee and some nasty customers and watch out.

Some of us seek self-preservation, while others tend to our egos. We hold dear our aspirations, pocketbooks and dreams to drive us during our brief, but fruitful stay on the fairgrounds of America. As one famous phrase says, “Can’t we all just get along?” Of course we can, but some of us just get a long a little differently. That’s why we have rules, right? And it all should be easy!

Who are these folks? What are their (our) idiosyncrasies that bum us out each season? Is there a little bit of each of us in them? Be nice, my colleagues, because the vendor next to you that bugs you so much this year might be the one next year that you love and cherish for their thoughtful, kind and helpful ways when you least expected it!

Here are but a few of the quirkier neighbors one might encounter:

The Peepers are an eclectic group. Many of these types are known as super competitors who look behind your curtains, peek under your covers and stare at your menu boards under the cover of darkness, Most of them clandestinely do this before the Fair starts and always when no one is around. Must figure they have to get that competitive leg up you know?

“Hey why was that concessionaire looking in my windows at two am?” Only my security camera and the menu board will know for sure.

Are you a Borrower? Do you often forget your tools, zip ties and extra napkins? How often do you get hit on for change? There are a myriad of excuses to borrow something and there are those you trust to return an item and those you don’t. And, then there are those who annually depend on your generosity to help run their business!

I Got the Music in Me! We all love music but sometimes not so loud as so we can’t be heard. As a selling environment the distractions are enormous, but hey, you’re at the Fair. And sometimes

it is just wayyyyyy to loud! Let’s face it; in our hallowed halls of commerce it is usually super busy and often times overly congested. We want it that way. However, when it comes to closing a sale or pushing one’s product, the loud group on the corner or next to you with their blaring music, overly turned up microphones or screaming pitches are counterproductive to finalizing the selling process. How many times have you had to talk loud, louder, and loudest just to get your message across to a customer, who by the way keeps turning around to see what buzz is going on in the next booth while someone is dancing in the aisle? Oh yeah!

One fair writes in their handbook, “We strictly enforce a “NO ROAMING” policy. It is required that partner’s stay within the confines of their contracted exhibit space to conduct business. This policy ensures a pleasant atmosphere for fair-goers and partners alike.”

The Roamers / Encroachers (I dub them cockroaches) are slippery individuals that benefit from taking customers out from under your noses. They will literally come to your counter or booth with their gimmicks, bracelets, promotions, artwork or gizmos and explain to a customer, who is either talking to you or watching your demo with, “Guess how many of these are in this bottle and you will win a whatever!” or, “See this? Let me show you how it works.”

Coyotes and buffaloes migrate outside their territories looking for food. Vendors and concessionaires shouldn’t. Many fairs and festivals do a great job of controlling the Roamers, while others probably need a little work on it. I just wish there was a magnetic field we could activate around their booths or stands that would shock them each time they leave the confines of their area to hustle someone else’s customer. Kind of like a dog collar with an electrical perimeter on it! And Zap, your done!

Then there are those who push the limits of trade and those that benefit from it. “So,” says the food concessionaire to a customer, “the stand on the corner told you to come down here to get an extra side of ranch dressing or some limes? No problem. But we charge for that (pointing at the menu board). That will be seventy five cents please!”

It is a circus-like atmosphere at the Fair with tiny flying machines on the ground, in the air, and coming over the curtains…a misplaced basketball here, a trash can moved in front of your tables there. It is a constant barrage of music, smoke and hopefully money. There is so much going on around us. Thank goodness for fair management who show us the right way (the rules) of doing what we do.

We wouldn’t want it any other way. That’s why we keep coming back week after week, month after month, and year after year. Just remember, don’t take the law into your own hands!

Neighbors: Love them or leave them, they are still our neighbors! When in doubt, try practicing The Golden Rule.■

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Mail Check or Money Order to NICA at 1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 qVisa qMastercard qAmerican Express

Credit card no.

Security Code Expiration Date

TOTAL:__________________

Signature of credit card holder

ASSOCIATE A person or entity who provides services to the concession industry.

qFair/Festival over 75,000 attendance......................$125

qFair/Festival under 75,000 attendance......................$75

qManufacturer/Distributor/Industry Supplier..............$75

qCarnival Operator...........................................................$75

Please provide a detailed description of the services your organization/company provides.

INDEPENDENT CONCESSIONAIREVoting membership available to any person who is an independent concessionaire. qNew NICA Members.......................... ........................$125qSpousal member.........................................................$75qEmployee (non-voting).................................................$50

Please check a category below and provide a detailed description of the services your company provides. qCommercial exhibits qFood qGames qRetail qAttractions/Entertainment

Concessionaire General Routing InformationPlease list all states where you conduct your concession business.

For Office Use OnlyDate

#

National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511(O) 813-438-8926 • (F) 813-438-8928email: nica@nicainc.org • www.nicainc.org

ALL DUES ANNUALLY PAID OCTOBER 1stI understand that my application is subject to final approval by the NICA Board of Directors. I also understand that if my application is not accepted, the amount paid will be refunded to me. If accepted for membership in NICA, I hereby agree to abide by its by-laws and rules.

Applicant’s signature Date

Spousal signature Date(spousal signature required when both are joining)

Spouse’s first name Spouse’s last name(please print)

The NICA sponsored $10,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Policy is automatically provided to all Independent Concessionaire Members.

Visit our website for NICA Membership Benefitswww.nicainc.org

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NICA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

qMr. qMrs. qMs. First Last

Name of business

Physical address City State Zip

Mailing address City State Zip

Permanent tel. no. ( ) Cell phone no. ( )

Fax no. E-mail Website

Paperless: qYes qNo I agree to get my renewal invoices sent by email. Please provide email address. Referred by

Please fill out the below information as ACCURATELY and DETAILED as possible. INFORMATION and KEY WORDS provided below will be used for your entry in the NICA Annual Membership Directory as well used as key words to search for your business on the NICA website.

Annual Membership Fees

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YUMMY TIMES at The 2012 Volusia County Fair

Volusia County Fair & Youth Show reports second best attendance since opening in 1923(DeLand, FL.) - Dec. 6, 2012 - The numbers are in, and Volusia County Fair & Youth Show officials are reporting records for the annual event conducted by the nonprofit Volusia County Fair Association.

With a gate of 185,500, the 2012 fair, which was Nov. 1-11 at the Volusia County Fairgrounds, experienced its second best attendance since opening in 1923. Deggeller Attractions, the carnival provider for The Fair, saw a record year on the midway, with gross revenue increasing 6 percent over 2011. Additionally, Livestock sales totaled $167,000 (a 1.8 percent increase over 2011), plus Fair officials report an increase in the number of livestock exhibits and competitive exhibits over 2011 as well.

Additional highlights range from the concert offerings to admission discounts. The Tommy Lawrence Arena saw a full house crowd for Tracy Lawrence on November 3, and the annual food drive in which patrons exchange two canned goods for half-price gate admission collected more than 8,500 pounds of food for Second Harvest Food Bank, bringing the four-year total to more than 12 tons.

The Volusia County Fair & Youth Show is dedicated to promoting the agricultural, horticultural, creative arts, sciences and educational opportunities for the residents of Volusia County while providing quality and affordable entertainment for the people of Central Florida. For more information about the Volusia County Fair & Expo Center, visit www.volusiacountyfair.com.

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Membership Contest 2012

General MembershipArt Pokorny ..................................2Bob Drinkwater .............................1Brandon Warner ...........................1Brett Rupert ..................................1Coca Cola .....................................1Dale Smith ....................................2Dan Lusenhop ..............................1Dominic Palmieri...........................1Don Delahoyde, CCE ....................1Don Long ......................................1Frank Flood ..................................1Gayle McGrath .............................1Gordon Food Supply ...................1Jay Wells ......................................1John the Greek .............................1Judy Henbury ...............................2Ken McKnight ...............................1Leonard Dunford...........................1Lucky Henner ...............................2Michael Knott ................................1Mike Curci .....................................1Norman Keene .............................3Randy Reichert, CCE ...................1Robin Smith ..................................1Ron McKinney ..............................2Tim Harmon ..................................1Tom Hodson .................................1

NICA RepCharles Ivory, CCE ..........................1Dannie Moreland ...........................11David Spann ....................................1Kevin McGrath II ..............................1Stacia Markowitz .............................1

AdministrationOffice .............................................42Rey O’Day .......................................7

Board of DirectorsPaulette Keene ................................1Rose Marie Ash ...............................2Russ Harrison, CCE ........................8Tom Sattler, CCE .............................1Tony Trafton, CCE ...........................4

AS OF 12-10-12

PRIZES* Carnival Cruise Package - (valued over $1500) a drawing will be held for all the members who refer new/former members in 2012. For every new/former member referred, the recruit-ing member will receive 1 chance to win the Carnival Cruise. * $500 Cash - For every new/former member referred, the recruiting member will receive 1 chance to win the $500. * NICA National Rep Contest - Winner will receive $500 cash and is eligible to win any of the above-mentioned prizes.

Drawings to be held in Tampa, Florida in February 2013.

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Please select the box for the workshop you’d like to pre-register for and fill out the information at the bottom before sending to NICA office. To see full description, refer to p.23. Please select only one of the classes, since the times will conflict. Only one registrant per form. THERE ARE A LIMITED NUMBER OF SEATS AVAILABLE. REGISTER NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.

□ Serv-Safe: $135Cost:$135 per person. Lunch and drink are included in the registration fee. *You must bring a state issued driver’s license or other photo ID with signature to the class.Upon receipt of your registration, a Manager Review Guide will be sent to you. Anyone who registers after January 18th may pick up their review guide the day of the class.

□ Social Media & Website Tools: $20 □ Modern Day Presentations: $20

Name: _______________________________________Company: _____________________________________________________

Address:____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone#:( )______________________Cellphone # ( )______________________Email:______________________________

For Payment by Credit Card: ___Visa ___ MasterCard ___ Discover ___American Express

Name on Card:

Billing Address:

Card Number: Expiration Date: Security Code:

Fax your registration form to (813) 438-8928 or mail with payment to NICA, 1043 E. Brandon Blvd, Brandon, Fl 33511 or call NICA at (813) 438-8926 and register over the phone. No refunds. Checks, Money Orders and Credit Cards accepted. Make checks payable to NICA.

Wednesday Pre-Register Workshops

NATIONAL INDEPENDENT CONCESSIONAIRES ASSOCIATION, INC.

Name _________________________________________________________________ Member □ Non-Member □Name of Business ___________________________________________________________________________________Permanent Address __________________________________________________________________________________City __________________________________________ State ____________ Zip _________________Phone # ( ) ____________________________ Cell Phone # ( )________________________

Email ______________________________________________

REGISTER ONLINE! WWW.NICAINC.ORG

DEADLINE FOR PRE-REGISTRATION IS JANUARY 25, 2013. You can also fax your registration form to the NICA office at 813-438-8928, via email to nica@nicainc.org or call 813-438-8926.

If you pre-register you will get an extra entry into the golf cart raffle! If you pre-register online, you will be entered into a raffle for a $100 gas card in addition to the golf cart raffle ticket.

Attendee Reservation Form

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To reserve hotel accommodations for the NICA Business Expo & Fare Foods 2013 Food Show, please complete the following information and fax to Audrey Poole at Fare Foods (618) 542-4798 or e-mail apoole@farefoods.com. If you have any questions, please contact Fare Foods at (618) 542-2155.

Name: First ___________________________ Last ________________________________________

Name of Business ___________________________________________________________________

Permanent Address __________________________________________________________________

City _________________________ State _____________________ Zip _________________________

Phone # ( ) ___________________________Fax # ( ) ______________________ Email _________________________________________________________________________

Arrival Date __________________________Departure Date _________________________ Number of Rooms ________________

Please check one: □ King Bed Suite □ 2 Double Bed Suite

Credit Card# to guarantee reservation: _________________________________________ Expiration Date: ___________________________

Remember…Booth space is limited! The deadline booth space reservation will be December 14th! If you have not signed up to exhibit your products at the Food Show...pick your space now! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate in one of the best Food Shows in 2013!

And we will see you in Tampa!

Call now to exhibit! Audrey Poole - Fare Foods,

618-542-2155 or apoole@farefoods.com

56 - 8’ X 10’ Booths in the Grand Ballroom

Hotel Reservation Form

Pick Your Booth Space Today!

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National Independent Concessionaires Association, Inc.1043 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511

Time Sensitive Mail ~ January - February 2013 Issue

NICA News PRSRT STDU. S. POSTAGE

PAIDSTEVENS POINT WI

PERMIT NO. 272