2026 Schedule of Events*

Sunday, February 8th

6:00 PM: Super Bowl Party (Ballroom)
Hosted by Fare Foods

Monday, February 9th

8:30 AM—8:00 PM: Onsite Registration

9:30 – 10:30 AM: Keynote – Corporation & LLC Secret Strategies for Success (Palm Room)
Introduction: Sandy Class CCE, Tavern at the Park and NICA Secretary
Keynote Speaker: Michael Wedaa, Augmentus

Michael Wedaa is a respected business consultant and has been a successful entrepreneur for more than 20 years who has owned, operated, and sold dozens of businesses. This session focuses on tax and legal planning, building credit, workforce productivity, company structure, and long-term growth. Learn his strategies for deciding when to lease and how to handle family on payroll. He is the author of the best-selling book Corporations and LLC Secrets and has helped clients in all 50 states.

10:45 – 11:45 AM: Getting to Know AI and "How To" Use ChatGPT (Palm Room)
Moderator: Mickey Venegas, CCE, Mickey’s Massive Burritos and NICA Director
Speakers: Ryan Rickey, Rickey’s Jerky and NICA Commercial Exhibits Council; and Nick White, CCE, White’s Concessions

We know that AI is available all around us but learning about it and choosing to try it is what this session is about. It explains AI in simple concepts as a real-world tool that assists managing workflows that Concessionaires and Event Managers can start using right away to refine talking points and make planning more concise in a practical, non-intimidating setting. Bring your devices and explore AI using ChatGPT.

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM: "Chat & Chew" Roundtables Over Lunch (Palm Room)
Moderator: Rachael Lough, CFE, Ohio State Fair and Expo Center
Topics: Enhancing the Guest Experience, Managing Lines, Employees Trading Food and Products, Using Social Media, Preventing Theft, and Forms of Payment

On the way into the Palm Room, pick up your complimentary Box Lunch and Bottle of Water, choose a Topic Table, sit at the table, meet some new friends, and enjoy “Chatting While Chewing.” When invited you will move to a new topic table and continue to engage in a second lively conversation. When possible we use these notes to promote solutions.

1:15 – 2:15 PM: Affordability—What is the Right Price? (Palm Room)
Moderator: Greg Miller CCE, Miller & Company and NICA Past President
Panelists: Gene Cassidy, CFE, The Big E CEO; Cameron Murray, Chester’s Gators and Taters; Brad Ribar, Loret Foods; and Jay Wells CCE, Wells Concessions and NICA Outgoing President

What is really included in the price? How do we take the OUCH out and bring VALUE back? Neither Fairs nor Vendors can solve this alone. WE truly must figure this out Together. Our events must provide revenue to our organizations and businesses, and at the same time create Happy, Highly Satisfied Guests who will return. It takes a Dollars and “$ense” conversation and a “Together WE Can!” attitude to do that! Come join the conversation.

2:30 – 3:00 PM: Labor & Legislation Updates (Brandon 2)
Presenter: James Kendrick Judkins, JKJ Workforce

JKJ Workforce has provided legal solutions for over 40 years regarding temporary or permanent foreign workers. This session will answer questions on the current labor situation including H-2B Workers, P-Visas, and the progress on the CARE/RIDE Act.

2:30 – 3:30 PM: Better Together: Marketing Collaboration Between Fairs & Concessionaires (Palm Room)
Moderator: Anne-Alise Pietruszka, Mellowship Entertainment
Panelists: Whitney Fraleigh, Fluffy's Hand Cut Donuts and NICA East Council; Greg Sanocki, The Big E; Nathan Vandewarker, Maverick Concepts and NICA Director; and Maria Zaffuto, Fairology

This session explores how content creation, marketing collaboration and shared storytelling between Concessionaires and Fairs can build visibility, deepen audience connection and drive measurable engagement. Drawing on real-world examples from The Big E and the OC Fair, the discussion will highlight how concessionaires can elevate themselves beyond menu items to become recognizable voices and influencers within the fair experience. Topics include the dos and don’ts of content development, how to identify stories worth telling, social media as a two-way engagement tool and amplifying Fair marketing in an authentic way.

3:45 – 4:45 PM: A Conversation with Ray Allison, Shari Black, Eddie Cora & Cheryl Flood (Palm Room)
Host: Pam Simon, CFE, Minnesota State Fair
Panelists: Ray Allison CFE, Executive Director, Indiana State Fair and IAFE Chair; Shari Black, CFE, CEO and Executive Director, Wisconsin State Fair; Eddie Cora, President & CEO, Miami Dade County Fair; and Cheryl Flood, CFE, CEO, Florida State Fair

Pam will guide this chat with Fair Industry seasoned professionals regarding their vision, their experience, their common sense, and their agreement that “nobody is more important than the Fair Guest.” Ray prompts us with “Let’s Share Our Stories,” Shari tells us, ”We Never Let Anyone Fail!” Cheryl reminds us to ”Make your Dash – Count!” and Eddie is known for saying, “I Believe in People!” They will share their strategies and techniques for successful shows. Bring your questions!

5:00 – 9:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show (Entrance Hall & Ballroom)
Food Show Windfall Sponsored by NICA and Fare Foods
$200 Prize Drawings at 6:30, 7:30 & 8:30 PM

5:00 – 9:00 PM: 1st Annual NICA Cornhole Tournament (Ballroom Patio)
Sponsored by Rocken Graphics • All Proceeds Benefit NICA Foundation

9:15 – 11:00 PM: Fare Foods Hospitality Reception (Palm Room)
Hosted by Fare Foods • Name Badge Required

Tuesday, February 10th

10:00 – 11:00 AM: New Food Trends (Palm Room)
Hosted by Fare Foods
Moderator: Audrey Poole, Fare Foods and NICA Foundation President
Panelists: Fred Battiste, Lemon Chill; Angie Eggers, Kent Worldwide; Ryan Schooley, State Fair Mini Donuts; and Tom Studenroth, Lower Foods

Fairgoers are always excited to learn about the new and trendy Food items for the next Fair, however we have to learn about them first. Join us for an interactive, educational opportunity to learn about new items that may fit in your menu.

11:15 AM – 1:30 PM: NICA Today & "How To" Workshops (Palm Room)
Hosts: Jay Wells, CCE, Wells Concessions and NICA Outgoing President; and Trent Wilkes, CCE, Wilkes Concessions and NICA Director
Panelists: NICA Board of Directors

What is NICA? This interactive session will take you on a journey to find out where NICA is today and where it is headed. You will meet the NICA Board and Staff, learn about our NICA Foundation Scholarships, sign up with Benefit Partners, and explore participating in a slew of NICA Networking Opportunities “Together!” After a short overview presentation by NICA Leadership, attendees can partake in mission-based “How To” Workshops and/or grab a quick pasta lunch on your own

12:00 – 12:25 PM: "How To" Use NICA Benefits (Palm Room)
Presenter: Jay Wells, CCE, Wells Concessions and NICA Outgoing President

NICA has a Membership that pays for itself! In fact, your benefits travel with you all season. Would you like to sign up for NICA Benefits but don’t know where to start? Ask questions, learn from NICA Members, and launch your benefits onsite.

12:00 – 12:25 PM: "How To" Find Your Style of Public Speaking (Brandon 2)
Presenter: Nick White, CCE, White’s Concessions and NICA West Council

Not every great speaker sounds the same. Discover which speaking style fits YOU best. Lean into your strengths and speak with authenticity and impact at your events, whether you’re addressing a small group or a large audience.

12:00 – 12:25 PM: "How To" Apply For Your CCE Designation (Brandon 4)
Presenter: Sandy Class CCE, Tavern at the Park and NICA Secretary

The Certified Concessionaire Executive (CCE) Program was developed to recognize the professionalism of Concessionaires. The title of CCE is attractive to potential events, represents a deep understanding and respect for the Industry, and indicates that the titleholder will perform at their best. Don’t know where to start or you are stuck on a section? We can help you cross the finish line!

12:30 – 12:55 PM: "How To" Purchase a Concession Trailer (Palm Room)
Presenter: Jason Miller, Schantz / Craftsmen

Gain information about Planning, Design, Delivery, Timelines, and more—everything essential to buying a Concession Trailer.

12:30 – 12:55 PM: "How To" Host NICA Gatherings (Brandon 2)
Presenters: Bary Bunts, CCE, The Apple Cart and NICA Treasurer; Mickey Venegas, CCE, Mickey’s Massive Burritos; and Trent Wilkes, CCE, Wilkes Concessions and NICA Director

Want to get more involved with NICA? Hosting a NICA Gathering is about more than getting together—it’s about building relationships. This workshop covers the essentials of hosting NICA Gatherings at your Fairs, Festivals, or Special Events, establishing Communication Committees, participating at NICA Conventions, and sharing your experiences on NICA Live!

12:30 – 12:55 PM: "How To" Use Fiserv/Clover (Brandon 4)
Presenter: Anthony MacKinnon, Clover Powered By Fiserv

New to Fiserv/Clover or looking to get more out of it? This workshop breaks down using equipment and software in simple terms, showing Concessionaires practical ways to use the system on the fairgrounds, from payments to reporting.

1:00 – 1:30 PM: "How To" Use AI Practically (Palm Room)
Presenter: Nick White, CCE, White’s Concessions and NICA West Council

This hands-on workshop breaks down practical ways Concessionaires can use AI in everyday operations. Learn simple tools and real-world examples you can start using immediately, no tech background required. Bring your device!

12:30 – 1:30 PM: Pasta Lunch Buffet at Panfilo's
On Your Own

1:45 – 2:45 PM: Woulda/Shoulda/Coulda: What Business Owners Need to Know (Palm Room)
Moderator: Rey O’Day, NICA Executive Director
Panelists: Carolann and Chad Kolar, Kolar Concessions and NICA Midwest Council; Anissa and Bill Prowant, Prowant Specialty (retired); and Phil Teague, Hummel Group

This seminar focuses on the critical importance of risk management, proactive planning, and the hard-earned lessons of business ownership at various stages of their lifecycle. The panel, featuring perspectives from executive leadership to new entrepreneurship, explores common pitfalls that lead to regret. Some of the topics that it will look at include Risk Anticipation, Financial Discipline, and Operational Readiness.

3:00 – 4:00 PM: Changing Tastes of the Fair Guest (Palm Room)
Moderator: Rachael Lough CFE, Ohio State Fair and Expo Center
Panelists: Beth Buckley, Florida State Fair; Nancy Chapman, Chapman Fashion International and NICA Director; Tina Hollis, Clover Powered by Fiserv; and Jenny Lang, Dutchess County Fair

Over the past decade, Fairgoer tastes have evolved dramatically. Pop Culture like Henna Tattoos and Permanent Jewelry along with Wild Flavors like Flaming Hot Cheetos on everything and Garlic Pickle Ranch Pizza, have become crowd favorites. Moreover, some of the biggest shifts are the growing awareness of food allergies, how customers spend and view money, and how they care about sustainability . Learn how we continue to meet modern customer expectations.

4:15 – 5:15 PM: IAFE Fairs Economic Impact National Report Summary (Palm Room)
Host: Rey O’Day, NICA Executive Director
Speaker: David Grindle, IAFE President & CEO

This session highlights the findings of the 2025 IAFE Economic Impact National Report. Learn about the significant economic and civic contributions of Fairs and their potential for growth. You will leave proud and inspired that you are part of the Industry!

5:00 – 9:00 PM: Fare Foods Food Show
Food Show Windfall Sponsored by NICA and Fare Foods
$200 Prize Drawings at 6:30, 7:30 & 8:30 PM

5:00 – 9:00 PM: 1st Annual NICA Cornhole Tournament
Sponsored by Rocken Graphics • All Proceeds Benefit NICA Foundation

9:15 – 11:00 PM: Fare Foods Hospitality Reception
Hosted by Fare Foods • Name Badge Required

Wednesday, February 11th

11:15 AM – 12:25 PM: Government Relations – CARE/RIDE Act
Hosted by OABA • Presenter: Rocky Fox, Husch Blackwell Strategies

Join OABA’s lobbying firm, Husch Blackwell Strategies, for an in-depth update on last year’s advocacy efforts and progress surrounding the CARE/RIDE Act. This session will also outline the strategic priorities for 2026, providing key insights into how ongoing government relations efforts will impact the Fair Industry.

12:30 – 2:00 PM: NICA Leadership Luncheon & Meeting
Invitation Only

5:00 – 6:30 PM: NICA Annual General Membership Meeting
Door Prize: 2 Sets of 2 Busch Gardens / Sea World Tickets

The Annual General Membership Meeting features the 2026 Board of Directors Installation, Year in Review, Coca-Cola Membership Contest, CCE Awards, Old and New Business, and Greetings from Outgoing and Incoming Presidents.

6:30 – 7:00 PM: Cocktail Reception
Sponsored by Fare Foods

7:00 – 10:00 PM: "Making Connections" Annual Dinner & Gala Celebration
Dinner Sponsored by Fare Foods • Keynote Speaker: David Grindle, IAFE President & CEO

NICA’s “Making Connections” Annual Gala Celebration provides a dinner courtesy of Fare Foods; features Keynote Speaker David Grindle, IAFE President and CEO, and a Sister Organization Greeting from Greg Chiecko, CFE, OABA President and CEO; presents a NICA Good Neighbor Award to the Indiana State Fair; celebrates NICA’s gratitude for our Hall of Fame recipient, Jennifer Giordano, CCE, C&C Concessions and Past West Council, Past NICA and NICA Foundation Treasurer; highlights the NICA Foundation; pays tribute to Staff

*Schedule subject to change; check back here for updates!