October OABA

October 2015

Also In This Issue: H Texas State Fair Kicks Off its 63rd Year in October H Industry Mergers and Acquisitions H Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame Inducts Alvin “Al” DeRusha

NEW. NOW.

NEXT!

Visit the OABA at Booth #5526 November 16–20, 2015 Orlando, Florida

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Contents The Official Publication of the Outdoor Amusement Business Association

Features Firestone Financial Joins Berkshire Hills Experience What’s New, Now, and Next in the Attractions Industry at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015

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October 2015

ASSOCIATION 4 FROM THE OABA CHAIR

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS 26 DOT REGULATORY NEWS

Are You Ready For Change?

State and Federal Legislation and Regulations

6 ASSOCIATION BUZZ The Spirit, Dreams and Family

29 ARNOLD SAFETY CONSULTING Consciousness Rap on DOT

8 ON THE EARIE

NAME Acquired by Media Group

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Allied International Holdings, Inc. to be Acquired by XL Group plc

Tom Powell reports on the industry’s shows, fairs, colorful show folks and amusing events.

CIRCUS MEMBERS 32 FROM THE CENTER RING

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18 PHOTO GALLERY

Rodney Huey follows circuses around the country.

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18, 22 SERVICES, BENEFITS & PROGRAMS

Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame Inducts Alvin “Al” DeRusha Texas State Fair’s 63rd Year

The OABA catches members in action.

Jammin’ Jamborees and Contribution Fund Drawing Winners

October 2015

Also In This Issue: H Texas State Fair Kicks Off its 63rd Year in October H Industry Mergers and Acquisitions H Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame Inducts Alvin “Al” DeRusha

NEW. NOW.

NEXT!

Visit the OABA at Booth #5526 November 16–20, 2015 Orlando, Florida

ShowTime PUBLISHER|MANAGING EDITOR Robert Johnson 407.681.9444 H bobj@oaba.org EDITOR Dee Dee Alford 407.681.9444 H deedeea@oaba.org GRAPHIC DESIGN Avic-Versi Creative Jen Burge H 817.602.7254 H avicversi@att.net ADVERTISING SALES 407.681.9444 H oaba@oaba.org ASSOCIATION OFFICE Outdoor Amusement Business Assn., Inc. 1035 S. Semoran Blvd., Suite 1045A Winter Park, FL 32792 407.681.9444 H fax 407.681.9445 © Outdoor Amusement Business Assn. 2015

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Our Mission: To promote the preservation and growth of the outdoor amusement industry through leadership, advocacy and education.

All advertisements appearing in this ShowTime publication are paid by the advertiser and the OABA reserves the right to refuse any advertising. The ads are provided on an “as is” basis and do not necessarily carry the endorsement of the OABA. In addition, the OABA does not guarantee, warrant, or endorse the information, products, or services of any corporation, organization, or person contributing to this publication.

OABA OFFICERS

OABA TRUSTEES

CHAIR Michael Wood 1ST VICE CHAIR Thomas J. Gaylin, III 2ND VICE CHAIR E. J. Dean 3RD VICE CHAIR Jay Strates TRUSTEE 2014 Chris Lopez TRUSTEE 2013 Mike Featherston TRUSTEE 2012 Jeanne McDonagh TREASURER Larry Yaffe PRESIDENT Bob Johnson

OABA DIRECTORS Michael Brajevich Doug Burtch Joe Burum Tony Cassata Brad Dallman Andy Deggeller Michael Doolan Blake Huston

Stacey Jamieson Mitchell Kaliff Melissa Kibby Michael Lauther Charlene Leavitt Ron Morris Ben Pickett Debbie Powers

Rick Reithoffer Lorelei Schoendienst Joseph Skerbeck Mary Chris Smith Greg Stewart Holly Swartz Amber Swedgan Rob Vivona

Bill Johnson-2011 Dominic Vivona, Jr.-2010 Wayne McCary-2009 Andy Schoendienst-2008 John Hanschen-2007 Guy Leavitt-2006 Ron Burback-2005 Don Deggeller-2004 James E. Strates-2003 * Jackie Swika-2002 Danny Huston-2001 Jeff Blomsness-2000 Sam Johnston-1999 Buddy Merten-1998 * Richard Janas-1997 Jean Clair-1996 James Murphy-1995 Dominic Vivona-1994 * Bill Dillard, Sr.-1993 Tom Atkins-1992 * Red Wood-1991 * Billy Burr-1990

Bob Coleman, Sr.-1989 * Milt F. Kaufman-1988 * Andy Andersen-1987 * John Vivona-1986 * Mike Farino-1985 James H. Drew, III-1984 Gerald L. Murphy-1983 * John A. Campi-1982 * Buster L. Brown-1981 * Hub Luehrs-1980 * Lloyd J. Hilligoss-1979 * Hal F. Eifort-1978 * Alfred H. Kunz-1977 * P.E. Reithoffer, Jr.-1976 * Bernard P. Thomas-1975 E. James Strates-1974 * Rod Link-1973 * C.J. Sedlmayr-1972 * John Portemont-1971 * William T. Collins-1966-70 * W.G. Wade-1965

* Deceased

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ASSOCIATION H MESSAGE FROM THE OABA CHAIR

Are You Ready For Change?

Michael Wood

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s the summer of 2015 draws to a close and auprime contractors who retain them. Under this ruling, a prime tumn is upon us, one cannot help but notice all contractor is now responsible for the actions of all its subconthe changes to the landscape that surrounds us. tractors in terms of employment law, for the first time! This Cool nights bring beautiful fall colors and relief from sumwill certainly have a far-reaching impact on many businesses mer’s heat, just in time for the final lineup of America’s great nationwide. One such example would be the fast food indusfall fairs. try where, for example, McDonald’s Corporation would now Autumn has always been my perbe responsible for the employees sonal favorite time of year — warm of all of its franchises whether they days, crisp cool nights, and the own them or not. Our industry would If we are to survive all spectacle of Mother Nature’s autumn be yet another example, where fairs colors abound. As I have grown, I would now be held responsible for the the regulatory and logistical think that there is more at play than employees of their carnivals, conceschallenges present and future, just the things I have mentioned sions and exhibitors. Although I am change will be a big part of it. that make autumn my favorite seacertain this ruling will be challenged son; it’s the change that ushers it all in the courts, until such time it is the in. Change, like it or not, goes on all law and how such relationships will around us, with or without us, every day of our lives. In fact, be governed. More importantly, if it withstands those legal change is one of the few constants you can actually count on, challenges, then what? however unpredictable it may be in the end.

Certainly on the surface it is a change we did not want, but As I look around our industry, I must say autumn has armay be an opportunity for us. This NLRB ruling clearly estabrived for us, too. Without forgetting yesterday’s lessons or lishes us as partners in both the winnings and the losings for successes, it’s my belief we should embrace the inevitable; the first time, creating an opportunity to work on the operatthings must change. Sometimes all the energy we collectively ing efficiency issues that have long plagued our industry — have placed into resisting change would have been far more too many hours and too much ride capacity. Before us lies a productive if we had embraced it. The daily challenges are perfect opportunity to have this conversation with fairs. In my what draw us to this great industry, so I ask, why not take on opinion, a conversation long overdue and, for many reasons — those challenges and pave our own way into the future, rather whether it be tradition, competition or just complacency — we than have someone else mandate it for us? must rise up and have this conversation to change the fair/ Evidence of this is a ruling recently handed down by the carnival relationship.

National Labor Relations Board in regard to subcontracIn nature change is called evolution; in civilization, progtors; definitively tying subcontractors and their actions to ress; and in the carnival world, survival. If we are to survive

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all the regulatory and logistical challenges present and future, change will be a big part of it. For those who resist it, it may be your demise, and for those who embrace it, your future. The lessons of “how we have always done things” should never be forgotten, nor should they be the focus of our future. It is my belief that we have barely scratched the surface of this great business of ours. We just need to embrace the necessary change it will take to unlock the future for the next few years and for those who follow.

I hope that as our season winds down you have all had a safe and prosperous one, and that we share the same passion for our future. H

CALENDAR November 16–20 IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015 Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL

November 29–December 2 IAFE Annual Convention and Trade Show Paris & Bally’s Hotels Las Vegas, NV

www.iaapa.org

www.fairsandexpos.com

November 18 6 PM – 7:30 PM Carnival and Showmen’s Reception

December 1 6:30 PM SLA Cocktail Party 7:30 PM SLA Banquet and Ball

Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL

Paris Hotel Las Vegas, NV

OCTOBER 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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ASSOCIATION H ASSOCIATION BUZZ

The Spirit, Dreams and Family Bob Johnson, OABA President

O To promote the preserva ur Mission: ti amusement industry thr on and growth of the outdoor ough leader ship, advocacy and education

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for owners Jeff Blomsness and Danny Huston it’s still about read recently in IAAPA’s September FUNWORLD magacommitment, passion and family. Those of you who know zine that Europe, comprised of 50 countries, has many them can attest to this. It’s about families and personal relaamusement parks and attractions that are family based tionships that they have developed for over 40 years in the or started off that way. The 2015 Chair of IAAPA, Gerado amusement industry.

Arteaga, CEO of Fantasilandia in Chile, went on to say, “A Other families in the mobile family-run business tends to have amusement industry are the same a special, personal feel and culture and, for the most part treat all their that is distinct and unique.” He said employees like they are part of the that, “Over time... being able to trace The carnival and circus family. They have a strong commityour roots back to an individual and industries, as well as many ment to quality, safety and sense of a corporation, the key for them is to family-owned concessionaires their family legacy laid down before maintain the spirit, dreams and vithem. sion of their founders, often creating in the outdoor mobile As the IAAPA Expo takes place their own sense of family. Being able amusement industry, are still in Orlando next month, our Board to trace back to your roots creates all about generational family members will get together after the an almost magical connection with 2015 amusement season is under the past, something quite common heritage and culture. their belts. They are looking forward in Europe that is not lost on their to networking with their manufacguests.” turer and supplier friends, their concessionaires and even Think about the carnival and circus industries, as well as competitors to talk about the past season and plan for 2016. many family-owned concessionaires in the outdoor mobile Your OABA staff looks forward to seeing many of you amusement industry. We are still all about generational famat the IAAPA EXPO in Orlando the week of November 16. ily heritage and culture. Even with the recent acquisition by Promising you lots of warm Florida sunshine! H Townsquare Media of North American Midway Entertainment,

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and y B p o t S Us at h t i W Talk

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3 Booth #

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ASSOCIATION H ON THE EARIE

On The Earie Tom Powell, OABA News Ambassador

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raffic was backed up almost all the way to Nashville as customers lined up to attend the 37th annual Wilson County Fair in Lebanon, TN on the final Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the August 14-22 event where Hale Moss has been president since its inception in 1979. Food concessionaire James Roy Pope posted a picture on Facebook showing the vehicles backed up as far as one could see. Christine and I went down to visit on a Thursday, but it was the day before the fair opened, and the only traffic we encountered was the usual heavy flow of workers heading home on I-40 East.

We were honored to be invited by Jane Baxter Vivona to a surprise 80th birthday party for her husband, Phil, one of the three remaining brothers out of five who own Amusements of America. Dominic and his wife, Helena, were on hand, but Morris, in his 90s, was working at a spot in New Jersey. John and Babe (Sebastian), the two other founding brothers, have passed away. It took forever for me to get the five brothers straight, and now there are all the children and grandchildren to get to know, plus their spouses.

With the help of Rob, who is an OABA director, I learned that Phil’s children and their spouses who were in attendance also included Tony and Shelly; John and Sandra; David and Cheryl, Kathy and Rob Riggs. Dominic’s children are Dominic Jr., who was not present, and Marco, who was on hand with his wife, Lourdes.

One of the first people we saw was Ann Floyd, 86-year-old widow of J. D. Floyd, who with the late Billy Baxter, owned Cumberland Valley Shows and the Floyd & Baxter Company. She was in good spirits as she said she keeps up with news by talking on the phone with Marilyn Portemont, still active in her 90s and living in Andalusia, AL. Ann’s grandson, Jason, was there with his friend, Karrie Clawes. He had booked with Deggeller Attractions where she also

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worked, but left two years ago and is working on the old Cumberland Valley Shows winter quarters in Lebanon. He also had a Wiggle Worm Coaster and water game booked with Amusements of America.

Jason’s brother, Jeremy, books the Space Roller at independent locations. Jason said he leased his big ride, the Extreme, to an amusement park in Myrtle Beach, SC. Also at the party was JoAnn Arnold, who is first vice president of the International Independent Showmen’s Association. She will be installed as president in February, succeeding food concessionaire Richie George. A cousin to Ivan, Agnes, Jon and Tom of Arnold Amusements, JoAnn is involved in the lemonade stands operation with AOA. The show had arrived in Lebanon after a record run at the Ohio State Fair, Columbus, where revenues were up by 12 percent over those of 2014. “Every day was good,” said Dominic. “We got a break with the weather, which was fantastic.” Vivona said he booked in Charles Panacek’s Belle City Amusements, Josh Macaroni of Family Attractions, Joe Frankowski of D & J Amusements, and Rio Cristiani. A 12-day attendance record of 982,305 was set, breaking the old mark of 903,824.

I talked to Tony Diaz of North American Midway Entertainment after the blockbuster announcement of Townsquare Media acquiring NAME, and making it a wholly-owned subsidiary. Townsquare will definitely open up opportunities in its core secondary and tertiary markets.

“I think it’s a very positive move. With Jeff and Danny at the helm, we can’t miss.”

Diaz referred to Danny Huston, president, and Jeff Blomsness, chairman, who along with all key managers including Diaz, will continue in their present roles and sign long-term agreements to remain with the business. Since I last talked to Diaz after the Calgary Stampede, NAME played K-Days and Capital Ex in Edmonton, where

attendance was 785,290, up 45,000 over that of 2014.

NAME also had good runs at the Queen City Ex, Regina, Saskatchewan, and Saskatoon Exhibition, where Bobby Hauser’s West Coast Amusements brought in equipment. Asked about the effects of Canada’s dollar, which is worth about 70 cents in U. S. currency, Diaz said, “The dollar exchange is not ideal this year, but we don’t worry about things we can’t control.”

Adam Heffron, director of event marketing at the Wisconsin State Fair, gave me some interesting numbers on the 164th annual fair which drew attendance of 1,033,053. “It was a very good year. We were hurt by rain on the last Friday. The ride gross was $2,688,053, up $104,836.

The food gross was $4,445,492, and the games gross was $794,200. We broke the million mark on attendance for the third straight year.”

Heffron, whose dad, Mike, is retired manager of the Minnesota State Fair and current head of the Midwest Fair Managers Association, provided a list of the top 10 rides and games operators. In the latter category, No. 1 was the Super Nova Roller Coaster of Kyle Brady, with OABA chairman Michael Wood coming in second with his Magnum. Jeff Brady of Playworld Amusements was third with his Gondola Wheel and Gloria Myers and her son, Bobby, took fourth place with their Wave Swinger, and fifth with their brand new New York-New York, four-story custom-made Italian Funhouse.

Rounding out the top 10 were Blake and Katrine McDonagh of Thrilled Attractions, with an Alpine Bobs, No. 6; Anita and Nick Pelosi of Showtime Rides, with a Hurricane, seventh; the Sky Flyer of Reithoffer Shows, eighth; Laser Fair’s Kyle Wisdom, ninth, with a Starship 3000, and Tom and Jeanne McDonagh of McDonagh’s Amusements, No. 10, with their Big Bamboo Funhouse.

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Hillman Snyder, Jr. of Big Rock Amusements shot this photo of Joyce and Bobby Cassata, Bob’s Space Racers, while they visited his doughnut stand at a fair in Michigan.

OABA Trustee Jean Clair, Luehrs’ Ideal Rides, is flanked by Howard Pringle, left, and Alfie Phillips, both formerly with Conklin Shows.

Phillips is a former OABA director.

Dottie Alverson, president of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Greater Tampa Showmen’s Association, visits with concessionaire Michael O’Connor of Dan McCafferty Amusements.

From left, at a roast for Christine Powell are Lillian Thomas, Laura Sedlmayr and Roberta Mathis, whose family owns Archway Amusements.

Lillian’s husband, Mike, now deceased, was with several shows, and Sedlmayr’s parents, Carl and Egle, owned Royal American Shows.

Johnny Hobbs, left, hosted Hillman Snyder, Jr., right, and Billy and Sue Clark, Smoky Mountain Amusements, at his nightclub in Nashville.

The next shots were taken during Phil Vivona’s surprise 80th birthday party at the Wilson County Fair, Lebanon, TN, on August 13. OABA Trustee Dominic Vivona is greeted by JoAnn Arnold, first VP of the International Independent Showmen’s Association.

Jane Baxter Vivona, Phil’s wife, made all the arrangements. With her is OABA Director Robbie Vivona of Amusements of America.

Phil Vivona, the honored guest, is greeted by an exuberant guest, Linda Johnson.

From left, are Jerry Smithson, safety director for the show, Marco Vivona and his wife, Laurden.

Obviously, the party had a Western theme with plenty of good food, drinks and music.

Jason Floyd is flanked by Christine Powell, left, and his grandmother, Ann Floyd, whose late husband, J. D., was partnered in Cumberland Valley Shows with Billy Baxter. Jason leased his Xtreme ride to a park in Myrtle Beach, SC and booked a Wiggle Worm and game with AOA in Lebanon.

Candy Anderson led the way in the games department with her Bottle Up. Gary Oren of Oren Concessions was second with a long-range basketball, and fourth with a mini ball. Third was a big game water race owned by Debraun Ellis of Ellis Concessions. Jeff Bossman of JBS Concessions was fifth with a balloon pop. Adam West of All State 38 was sixth with a gun ball, eighth, with a beer bust, and ninth, with a one ball.

Dennis Kolp of Dennis Concessions, placed seventh, with a mini basketball, and tenth, with a long range basketball.

It was noted that there were also 120,000 rides on the SkyGlider and 121,000 slides down the Giant Slide, and 400,000 cream puffs were eaten. I wish I had one!

Have all great days. Happy Halloween! God Bless!

Please send news to tomp@oaba.org, or call 615-319-1258. H

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H FEATURES

Carnival Professionals and Showmen to Experience What’s New, Now, and Next in the Attractions Industry at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015

By Scott Cahoon, IAAPA Communications

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arnival professionals and showmen are invited to see what’s new, now, and next in the worldwide attractions industry at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015, Nov. 16-20 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

The weeklong trade show and conference will draw more than 28,000 attendees, feature a half-million-square-foot trade show floor with 1,000 innovative exhibitors, and offer more than 100 educational opportunities, facility EDUTours, and networking events.

IAAPA Attractions Expo is owned and produced by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) and is the global attractions industry’s largest conference and trade show.

1,000 Exhibitors to Display the Industry’s Newest Innovations One thousand companies will fill more than 525,000 net square feet of exhibit space on the IAAPA Attractions Expo trade show floor Tuesday, Nov. 17 through Friday, Nov. 20.

Exhibitors will offer products in more than 125 product categories, including rides, shows, midway games, inflatables, play equipment, novelties, souvenirs, food and beverage items, and more. A number of the attractions on the show floor will be available for live demonstration, giving attendees a chance to try their next business-changing product before they buy.

IAAPA has created a new Food and Beverage Showcase on the show floor for 2015. Buyers can sample the latest trends in the food and beverage sector, including snacks and beverages, food service technology, food preparation equipment, concession equipment, green and ecofriendly products, franchise opportunities, and more.

More than 140 companies will display their products and services at IAAPA Attractions Expo for the first time, including

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businesses in the First-Time Exhibitors Pavilion, a dedicated area for new IAAPA Attractions Expo Exhibitors.

Cutting-Edge Education Program Led by Industry’s Best and Brightest IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015 will feature more than 100 educational opportunities designed to keep attractions industry professionals of all levels informed about the latest trends and developments in safety, operations, retail, human resources, food and beverage, entertainment, social media, public relations, marketing, and more.

Carnival operators and showman are encouraged to attend several sessions particularly relevant to their field, including the Games and Merchandise Roundtable and 2015 Food and Beverage Trends on Monday, Nov. 16; Attractions Pricing Strategies to Maximize Profitability and Making Your Attractions Safe for Kids on Nov. 19; and much more.

Several education programs at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015 will include presentations by senior industry leaders. The Lunch and Learn on Monday, Nov. 16, will feature keynote speaker Mark Woodbury, president of the creative division of Universal Parks and Resorts worldwide. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, Parques Reunidos CEO Yann Caillère will speak at the GM and Owners’ Breakfast. Also on Wednesday, Nov. 18, John McReynolds, Senior Vice President, External Affairs, for Universal Parks and Resorts and 2016 IAAPA Chairman of the Board, will keynote the Amusement Parks and Attractions Constituency Lunch.

In-Depth Learning Opportunities at Orlando’s Premier Attractions In-depth learning experiences provide IAAPA Attractions Expo attendees a deeper understanding of the attractions industry. Featured experiences at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015

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include EDUTours to the Brevard Zoo, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Legoland Hotel, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Florida, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Each tour has a unique focus and provides a behind-the-scenes look into the operations of world-class facilities.

In-depth learning experiences are individually priced and require registration, an expo badge, and separate ticket. Tickets may be purchased during the online registration process or if space is available on-site at the expo, however tickets often sell out. IAAPA, OABA, SLA, and IISA members qualify for specially discounted ticket prices to these events. All EDUTour attendees must be 18 or older

Gaining Credit toward IAAPA Certification Participants in the education sessions, seminars, and EDUTours available at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015 are eligible to earn credit toward IAAPA Certification. IAAPA Certification is the attractions industry’s new professional recognition program.

Industry professionals can earn credits through IAAPA programs as well as third-party training and education events. Participation in the education seminar program at IAAPA Attractions Expo is worth 19 credits. Each EDUTour is worth three additional credit hours. Other individually credited events include the IAAPA Institute for Attractions Managers (16 credit hours), IAAPA Rookies and Newcomers: FEC 101 (14 credit hours), IAAPA Human Resources Symposium — Taking Your HR Practices to the Next Level (13 credit hours), IAAPA Safety Institute (four credit hours), Disney Innovation “ToyBox” Workshop (one credit hour).

More information about how IAAPA Certification can provide a valuable boost to an attractions industry professional’s career is available at www.IAAPA.org/Certification.

Carnival and Showmen’s Reception

operators are invited to attend the Carnival and Showmen’s Reception to relax, meet old friends, and make new connections.

Assorted hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, and soda will be served. Guests must be 18 or older to attend; 21 or older to consume beer and wine. Tickets are $20 for IAAPA, OABA, SLA, and IISA members and $30 for nonmembers. Tickets must be purchased in addition to Expo registration, which is required.

IAAPA Celebrates at I-Drive 360 Thursday, Nov. 19, 7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

IAAPA Attractions Expo 2015’s premier networking event, “IAAPA Celebrates at I-Drive 360,” takes place Thursday, Nov. 19, at the all-new I-Drive 360 attractions complex in Orlando, Florida. Participants will enjoy all four new attractions at the I-Drive 360 complex, including The Orlando Eye observation wheel; the Madame Tussauds celebrity wax museum; Sea Life Orlando aquarium; and Skeletons: Animals Unveiled science center and museum. Participants will also enjoy live music, food and beverage, and fireworks during the event.

Please note: Participants must be 18 or older to attend education sessions, networking events, and facility tours.

For more information about IAAPA Attractions Expo, visit www.IAAPA.org/IAAPAAttractionsExpo.

OABA members qualify for a special discounted registration fee for the Expo and Expo events. Renew your OABA membership if you haven’t already done so to take advantage of this special offer. Then, when registering for the Expo, select “OABA” in the drop-down menu and enter your membership ID number to get the member discounts. If you don’t know your membership ID number, contact the OABA at 407.681.9444. H

Wednesday, Nov. 18, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

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H FEATURES

NAME Acquired

by Media Group

By Jessica Boudevin

North American Midway Entertainment will retain brand and staff after acquisition by Townsquare Media

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hough North American Midway Entertainment (NAME) co-CEOs Danny Huston and Jeff Blomsness weren’t looking to sell, a persistent campaign and $75.5 million offer by Townsquare Media (TSQ) proved beneficial for both parties, with the acquisition expected to close in September.

According to Townsquare Media’s Claire Yenicay, the company first identified NAME as an attractive acquisition prospect in 2013. However, when Michael Josephs, Townsquare Media’s Exec. VP, Business Development and Mergers and Acquisitions, approached NAME, Blomsness and Huston weren’t yet interested in selling. “We built the relationship over the last couple of years and came to the conclusion that we would be better together,” said Yenicay.

TSQ and NAME management finalized the definitive agreement on August 14. “It was a back and forth with negotiations, but when it came up to it we think it’s a fair multiple,” said Yenicay of the purchase price. “We’re happy with it and I think they were as well.”

The $75.5 million that Townsquare Media is paying for NAME is financed through a combination of secured debt financing, equity consideration, and cash on balance sheet, with $5.5 million of TSQ Class A common stock issued to NAME management. TSQ has also sold 43 towers and will apply about $22.8 million of those proceeds toward the deal.

Huston said that 100 percent of NAME’s team will stay intact and the acquisition will not affect events that the company already routes, just potentially add more.

“We absolutely plan to stay doing the events that we do,” he said. “Jeff and I very well plan to stay on. This is our life – this is what we do. We have a great team with all of our people.

Nothing will change as far as our operation and what we do.”

Townsquare Media does not plan on changing NAME’s brand or business. “They’re great operators and we don’t want to mess with what they’re doing,” said Yenicay. “We’re not in the carnival business, so for us to come in and try to tell them how to do their job would be a mistake.”

The acquisition of NAME extends the company’s multiproduct offering while allowing for incremental revenue and growth opportunities.

“Nearly half of NAME’s current events are within 100 miles of a Townsquare market and fit squarely within our core-stated strategy of providing affordable, family-friendly entertainment content,” said TSQ Chairman and CEO Steven Price in a press release. “This acquisition furthers our efforts

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to diversify our product offerings and increase our nonadvertising-based revenue, allowing us to offer more multichannel, cross-platform content opportunities to our consumers and business clients.

The company plans to explore several actionable revenue synergies, including offering TSQ services to fair organizers, partnering with fair organizers on additional events, leveraging TSQ’s services to drive attendance at preexisting NAME events, sponsorship sales, and establishing and owning new events.

Between those strategies, TSQ estimates that it can generate $5-$10 million in additional annual revenue.

From NAME’s side, the acquisition is crucial to growing the business. Not only will Townsquare Media’s 310 radio stations, 325 search engines and 500 live events in 66 U.S. markets help get the name out for different fairs’ events, but the company’s experience in concerts could offer booking assistance or opportunities. TSQ owns and operates radio, digital content, live event and digital marketing services in small and midsized markets nationally.

“It is absolutely a value add for the events we already play and will make us more attractive to other events,” said Huston, who plans on slow and steady growth. “We don’t need to grow so big that we lose sight of our philosophy, which is to keep being good at what we do.”

No existing contracts or clients will be affected by the acquisition. NAME has long-term agreements to operate at 10 of North America’s largest 50 fairs. Yenicay said that if it fits into previously-scheduled routing, TSQ may consider incorporating NAME rides into some of its preexisting concepts. Current TSQ events include music festivals, participatory athletic events, lifestyle events, and B2B/B2C expos.

Both companies have an acquisitive history. NAME began as the amalgamation of several carnivals, and TSQ continues to acquire companies as part of its growth strategy. Now, prospective companies could potentially include more carnivals to bring under the NAME umbrella.

Celebrations are currently at a standstill while NAME continues its fair season. “We’re right in the middle of it,” said Huston.

Being busy working doesn’t delay Huston from looking forward. “We think joining forces with Townsquare is going to be a powerful thing for us,” he said. “We’re going to continue to provide the best in class service and products and keep ties with our fairs and events, just grow it bigger and better and be the best at what we do.” H

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H FEATURES

Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame Inducts

Alvin “Al” DeRusha on September 12, 2015

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l DeRusha’s experience traveling with carnivals, starting at the age of eight, prepared him for his legendary career in Minnesota’s television industry. If you ever watched All Star Wrestling or Channel 11’s children’s shows, then you’ve seen Al’s work.

Al started as a mail boy and prop man at WMIN-TV in 1953. When WMIN-TV and WTCN-TV merged in 1956, he became a floor director at the new headquarters in the Calhoun Beach Hotel. In 1959 he was promoted to producer and director.

Over the years, Al has worked with and directed more

than 36 members of the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame. He directed TV coverage of the Twins, the Vikings, and the North Stars.

In 1961 Al started directing All Star Wrestling for Verne Gagne’s American Wrestling Association (AWA). In 1973 he left Channel 11 and stayed with Verne Gagne and the AWA, promoting matches, directing interviews, and traveling to major wrestling venues with wrestlers like the Crusher, Andre the Giant, and Jesse Ventura. In 1985 he went to New York and worked with Vince McMahon’s WWE. In 1987 he came back home to the Twin Cities and worked for the AWA. In 1990 Al joined the Outdoor Amusement Business Association and for the past 25 years he has conducted membership drives and “Jammin’ Jamboree” fund-raising events for the OABA at more than 30 carnivals a year across the U.S. and Canada.

The OABA Board and Trustees congratulate our Sr. VP Al DeRusha on this honor and wish him continued success with the OABA. H

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FEATURES H annual chili cook-off. Pig races draw standingroom-only crowds, and “Mutton Bustin’” gives our youngest cowboys (and cowgirls) their first hands-on rodeo experience. There are car

Texas State Fair’s 63rd Year

by Senator John Cornyn

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s the pages of the calendar move from summer to fall each year, Texans always seem to have their eyes on the month of October. Indeed, it won’t be long before millions of Texans descend on Dallas for a month full of traditions, deep-fried food, and the world-class entertainment that make up the Texas State Fair experience. States, counties, and communities across the country hold their fairs celebrating their culture, but none can match the true spectacle the one and only Big Tex oversees each October.

This year will mark the 63rd fair for Big Tex, our tallest and largest senior citizen. While a fire a few years ago required him to go on a temporary hiatus, Big Tex has returned new-andimproved. Standing at 55 feet in size 96 boots, his charm is bigger than ever.

The roots of the Texas State Fair began well before Big Tex’s time in 1886 with the competing Dallas State Fair & Exposition and Texas State Fair & Exposition. That year administrators at the Dallas State Fair alone recorded over 100,000 attendees — only a fraction of the over three million in record-breaking crowds last year.

When the two fairs combined in 1887, they formed an unbeatable combination. And it’s no secret why the masses have flocked to Dallas each October for over a century (with the exception of a few years during the World Wars and Texas’ centennial celebration). Stretching 24 days, the Texas State Fair is the longest-running fair in the country. And while three-plus weeks may seem like a long time — with so much to do, see, and eat, the state fair seems to come and go in an instant.

You can scuff up your boots dancing to live music, pet a shark at the aquarium, or sample the top contenders in the

shows, livestock shows, art shows, acrobatic shows, and water and laser shows. And you can get a 212-foot view of all the action from North America’s tallest Ferris wheel, the Texas Star.

Over the years, fairgoers have seen their share of spectacles. Early performers included composer John Philip Sousa, who gave us ‘Semper Fidelis’ and ‘Stars and Stripes Forever’, and orator Booker T. Washington. In 1900 and 1902, Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley put on an unforgettable Wild West show, including a buffalo herd and 600 horses. Even Elvis Presley shook his hips in the Cotton Bowl during the 1956 fair.

And between the rides and rodeo events, there is the Red River Classic. Roughly halfway between Austin, Texas, and Norman, Oklahoma, the Texas State Fair plays host to the annual football game between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma, still one of the fiercest rivalries in college football. The game draws a large and spirited crowd, and the split sea of Longhorn burnt orange and Sooner Crimson in the Cotton Bowl is a must-see event for college football fans.

If you’re hungry after all this activity, you won’t be for long.

Eating your way through the fairgrounds is a rite of passage for festival goers across the country, and it is no different here in Texas. Fried food is certainly the feature, from classics like chicken or pickles to the more inventive chicken-fried lobster with champagne gravy or the fried latte for those looking for a caffeine boost. If you’re looking for more than fried Twinkies, you can find the nation’s best smoked brisket, mango with chili and lime on a stick, or fresh Texas-made guacamole. For those ambitious enough to try it all, you’re in luck. This year debuts the much-anticipated rollout of Thrifty Thursdays, during which you can purchase sample plates to taste all the diverse fare that Texas has to offer.

Since the 1960s, fair operators have released a theme before the big event to build up anticipation – and I can’t wait to see how they roll out ‘Passport to Texas’ this year. It’ll be tough to cram everything the Lone Star State has to offer into one extravaganza. But as the saying goes, ‘everything is bigger in Texas’, and the Texas State Fair is certainly no exception. H

Senator John Cornyn Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Judiciary and Finance Committees. In 2014, Senate Republicans elected him to serve as Majority Whip for the 114th Congress.

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ASSOCIATION H PHOTO GALLERY

Jammin’ Jamborees & Photo Gallery PROGRAM

2015 OABA Jammin’ Jamboree

Gopher State Expositions – Benton County Fair, Sauk Rapids, MN

OABA Jamborees are fun, exciting and entertaining. They provide an opportunity for everyone on the show to get together and have a great time while doing some good for the OABA.

2015 Jammin’ Jamboree Totals

NAME/All Star Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20,104 West Coast Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19,571 Twentieth Century Rides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,117 Butler Amusements - Lance’s Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,249 A Fantasy Amusement Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,550 Butler Amusements - Mick’s Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,000 PBJ Happee Day Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,800 Frazier Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,285 Skerbeck Entertainment Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000 TOTAL $78,676

2015 OABA Jammin’ Jamboree Schedule

Randy Forcier, show owner, visits with Dave Cavallaro of Cavallaro Concessions, St. Paul, MN.

Gull Wing Industries

This beautiful new Hitch Hiker trailer made its debut in Sauk Rapids and is the newest addition to owners Rob and Greta Miller, Miller Concessions, Foley, MN.

Twentieth Century Rides, Brownsville, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . March 4 PBJ Happee Days Shows, Marion, AR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 5 West Coast Amusements, Swift Current, SK . . . . . . . . . . . June 24 Skerbeck Enertainment Group, Oxford, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 8 A Fantasy Amusement Co., St. Charles, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 14 Butler Amusements – Mick’s Unit, Turlock, CA . . . . . . . . . . July 14 Butler Amusements – Lance’s Unit, Sacramento, CA . . . . . July 15 West Coast Amusements, Vermilion, AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 22 NAME/All Star Amusements, Louisville, KY . . . . . . . . . August 25 T. J. Schmidt & Co., Southgate, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 2 Rosedale Attractions & Shows, La Plata, MD . . . . . . September 16 NAME/Mid America Shows, Centreville, MI . . . . . . September 23 Powers Great American Midways, Greenville, NC . .September 24 Thomas Carnival, Ft. Smith, AR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 27 Wright’s Amusements, Winnie, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 29 NAME/Astro Amusements, Tyler, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 1 GoldStar Amusements, DeRidder, LA . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 11 Belle City Amusements, Gainesville, FL . . . . . . . . . . . October 28 Amusements of America, Charleston, SC . . . . . . . . . November 5

Working with the Carnival Industry since 1989 Contact us at:

www.gull-wing.com Look Up ing Gull Wh# Boot

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Pack-Man 175 kw or 250 kw Quiet Power Tractor or Trailer Mounted

309 N.E. 1st Street P.O. Box 128 Alta, IA 51002 Toll Free: 800-838-1482 Fax: 712-200-1936

Pictured from left, Grandma Zita Baliukevicieke from Lithuania and Grandma Shirley Forcier, out for a stroll with their twin granddaughters, Kamila and Nora Forcier

H OABA ShowTime Magazine | OCTOBER 2015

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ASSOCIATION H PHOTO GALLERY

Photo Gallery GoldStar Amusements OABA Membership Drive

GoldStar Amusements held their annual membership drive in Faribault, MN.

On hand for the membership drive were, from left, Mike Featherston, Jr., his wife Kristen, Melissa Erasmus, and her husband Adriaan.

Al DeRusha and OABA Ambassador Wanda Folks.

The names of those who signed up were entered in a drawing for OABA merchandise.

Everyone received an OABA 50th anniversary pin. Pictured is Lizelle Lance Rosenburg from South Africa.

Kentucky State Fair – Louisville, KY

Jeff Blomsness, NAME/All Star Amusements, hosted a fair OABA President Bob Johnson presents an The NAME crew, from left, Laurie and Gary Magyoran, board committee dinner.

OABA 50th anniversary clock to Jeff Blomsness. Patti Power and Ed Dame.

Members of the fair board, from left, Yvonneda and Gib Gosser, Jeff Blomsness, Phyllis and Marshall Coyle.

James Comer, Commissioner of Agriculture Commonwealth of KY, second from left, with Benson Bell, Jeff Blomsness, Ginger Wills, Warren Beeler and Steve Kelley.

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ASSOCIATION H SERVICES, BENEFITS & PROGRAMS

Photo Gallery OABA Visits Magel Carnival Midways – Pine City, MN

OABA Visits Stipe Shows – Little Canada, MN

OABA Sr. VP Al DeRusha visited with Barry Stipe, Stipe Shows.

The Magel boys, from left, John Magel, Sr., John Magel, Jr. and Bill Magel, Sr.

The Stipe boys, from left, Kyle, Mike and Wesley.

John Magel, Sr. pictured with his daughter Jennifer Cummings and granddaughter Alexis Cummings.

Lupe Loredo and Bill Stipe, Jr. These pretty ladies posed for the OABA camera, from left, Alexis Cummings, Laura Estep, and from Bogota, Columbia: Vannessa Villabon and Mechas Posada.

Berry family, from left, Diane Berry, Brian Gregoire, Hunter Harren and Glenda Berry.

Al DeRusha with Jada Reese Magel and Julia Grace Magel. They represent the fifth generation of Magels.

Al traveled with their great-greatgrandfather Leo in the 1940’s and 50’s.

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Posing for the OABA camera were, from left, Bill Thorndike, Jill Stromwall, Bob Pueringer, Erik Witt and Dave Weersma.

H OABA ShowTime Magazine | OCTOBER 2015

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ASSOCIATION H PHOTO GALLERY

Photo Gallery GoldStar Amusements at South Dakota State Fair

Richard Hanson, GoldStar Amusements, “making smiles” for Jaylin who visited the fair as part of the Makea-Wish group.

THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST HAVE A NEW NAME. Complete financing for the Outdoor Amusement industry since 2000.

Formerly Prairie Financial, Inc. Paul Muller Wade Muller Mark Walker Pam Muller

paul@oafinance.net wade@oafinance.net mark@oafinance.net pam@oafinance.net

816-581-0033 • 839 NE Woods Chapel Road • Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

www.oafinance.net OCTOBER 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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ASSOCIATION H SERVICES, BENEFITS & PROGRAMS

Contribution Fund PROGRAM

2015 OABA Contribution Fund Program Participants

BRONZE • Get Your Contribution Fund Tickets Now • This is deductible as a business expense

OABA Contribution Fund Program

THE OABA’S CONTRIBUTION FUND offers three different plans to meet your show’s contribution to the OABA and in turn rewards the show and concessionaires for these donations.

WHY SHOULD I PARTICIPATE? You will be given the opportunity to receive cash prizes for your contributions to this program and help the OABA protect the carnival industry.

WHAT IS IT? Fund-raising for the OABA has always been based on the generosity of its members and depends on members to pay their fair share, the theory being that the organization belongs to the members who raise relevant issues and in the belief that they will also underwrite activities. Support and participation of enough members will provide the revenue necessary to continue and improve on membership services.

HOW IS IT HANDLED? This OABA program advises member carnivals to collect funds from all office-owned and independent concessions and rides, side shows and arcades. When the show owner collects the money, they need to give or complete a receipt. The show or concessionaires then send the receipts to the OABA office, which will be eligible for monthly and annual incentive prizes.

Please note that it is important to include your phone number on your receipt, as we want to be able to contact you when you win!

WHAT IS THE MONEY USED FOR? The funds collected for this program are earmarked for legal, legislative and lobbying issues. Also, funds are used to continually upgrade member services.

CAN’T I JUST CONTRIBUTE? Sure, but then you lose out on the opportunity to participate in winning cash incentives.

SEND IT ALL IN! Funds are solicited and contributed in the name of the OABA. Once money is collected, please send it monthly to the OABA office in form of a check or money order. You may check ShowTime magazine where the contributions and monthly winners in each plan will be published monthly. H

Bronze Plan

Contribution from Concessions & Rides $5.00 per event Monthly drawings April-October Final drawing in February First Prize $300 First Prize $3,000 Second Prize Second Prize $2,000 $200 $100 $1,000 Third Prize Third Prize

Bates Bros. Amusement Co. Amusement Plus B&D Entertainment Bates E.L.I.T.E. Bates Entertainment D&S Entertainment Calkins Midways Audra Fletcher Ava Holtz Greg Holtz Julia Holtz Kathy Holtz Chuck Waterman Crabtree Amusements Marina Carraza Melissa Kibby Pat Martinez Paul Nemeth

2015 OABA Contribution Fund Ray Cammack Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19,320 Reithoffer Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,840 Frazier Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,310 Powers Great American Midways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,500 NAME/Astro Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,815 NAME/Amusement South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,700 Luehrs’ Ideal Rides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,230 S&S Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,155 A Fantasy Amusement Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,000 Rainbow Valley Rides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,700 Poor Jack Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,500 NAME/All Star Amusement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,395 Doolan Amusement Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,100 NAME/Mid America Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,070 Calkins Midways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,000 Rosedale Attractions & Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 930 Elliott’s Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350 Crabtree Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245 Bates Bros. Amusement Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 TOTAL $62,230

Silver Plan

Contribution from Concessions & Rides $10.00 per week Monthly drawings April-October Final drawing in February First Prize $400 First Prize $4,000 Second Prize Second Prize $2,000 $300 $200 $1,000 Third Prize Third Prize Bronze and Silver Plans: If the carnival contributions exceed $5,000, 2016 OABA dues are waived for carnival.

Gold Plan

Contribution from Concessions & Rides $5.00 per day Monthly drawings April-October Final drawing in February First Prize $500 First Prize $5,000 $400 Second Prize Second Prize $2,000 Third Prize Third Prize $300 $1,000 Gold Plan: If the carnival contributions exceed $10,000, 2016 OABA dues are waived for carnival.

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Doolan Amusement Company Abigail Doolan Heidi Doolan John Doolan Michael Doolan Sean Doolan Tina Doolan Frazier Shows 3 G’s B&B Enterprises Blazen Enterprises Broetsky Entertainment Broetsky Equipment Broetsky Foods Andrea Broetsky Ashley Broetsky Bryan Broetsky Cash Broetsky Chase Broetsky

August Drawing Winners BRONZE

Carl Vance NAME/Astro Amusements $300 Teri Kedrowicz Rainbow Valley Rides $200 Audra Fletcher Calkins Midways $100

SILVER

Richie Stafford Reithoffer Shows $400

Jeff & Sheila Dean Powers Great American Midways $300 Kasey Elliott Elliott’s Amusements $200

GOLD

Bryan Creason Ray Cammack Shows $500 Taylum Leavitt Ray Cammack Shows $400 Robert Ousey Ray Cammack Shows $300

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Jan Broetsky Jaxon Broetsky Julie Broetsky Piper Broetsky S.P. Broetsky S.T. Broetsky Steve Broetsky Frazier Shows Jenny’s Tattoos Jessica Johnson Jamal Khalil Garfield Miller Garry Miller Ginny Miller Carlos Ramirez Jaxon Scales Jordan Scales AJ Schrum Adam Schrum Betsi Schrum Schrum Enterprises Barb Sloan Larry Sloan Tobias Sky Dylan Tobias Emma Tobias George Tobias Georgie Tobias NAME/All Star Amusements Patti Blomsness JPB Inc. Kris Rieder Dawn’s Concessions Dawn Snoddy NAME/Astro Amusements Carl Vance Rosedale Attractions Michelle Farrow Barbara Gaylin Jason & Joe Gaylin Tom Gaylin Wayne Hinson Sue Shreve S&S Amusements Andrew’s Balloon Andrew’s Blockbuster Andrew’s Fishy Fish Andrew’s Games Andrew’s Goldfish Andrew’s Lemonade Andrew’s Ring Toss Andrew’s Sausage Andrew’s Water Race Britt’s Basketball Britt’s Games Britt’s High Striker Britt’s Long Range Evan’s Lemonade Ike’s Lemonade Jimmy’s Balloon Jimmy’s Basketball Jimmy’s Beer Bust Jimmy’s Games Jimmy’s One Ball Jimmy’s Shark Jimmy’s Sponge Bob Jimmy’s Tubs Josh Novelty Larry’s Balloon Larry’s Bebe Gun

Larry’s Games Larry’s Gold Fish Larry’s Soup Can Maco’s Balloon Maco’s Duck Pond Maco’s Roll Down Mary’s Jewelry Michael’s Cotton Candy Michael’s French Fry Michael’s Funnel Cake Michael’s Ice Cream Paula’s Pretzel Porky’s Ring Toss Princess Pizza S&S Monkey Maze Santillo’s Funnel Cake Santillo’s Lemonade Santillo’s Root Beer Santillo’s Sausage Swika’s Popcorn Skerbeck Entertainment Group Tim & Cindy Koleff

SILVER

A Fantasy Amusement Co. George Fun Food Charlotte Gudenkauf Jim Gudenkauf Bill Johnson Mary Johnson Elliotts Amusements Rob Cook Jason Dawson Deb Elliott Kasey Elliott Mike Jones Luehrs’ Ideal Rides Clair’s Classic Foods First Class Attractions Luehrs’ Ideal Rides, Inc. Oliver C. Atkins, Inc. Andrew Schoendienst, Jr. NAME/Mid America Shows Gary & Lori Crabtree Ray DeFrates Nick Douglas Amy Huston Banks Huston Blake Huston Cooper Huston Danny Huston Lucy Huston Miles Huston Richard Huston Alvin Kennedy Bill Lordy Troy Meadows Michiana Facepainting Terry Norman Justin Peperak Kiara Peperak Eldon Runyan Shades Plus - Kathy K Rhonda Wilson Sylvia Wilson

Bear Dean & Stephanie Corl Suzie & Phil Corl Corl Corl’s Popcorn Dave’s I Got It Jeff & Sheila Dean Elliott/Powers Ruthie Evans Glen Flarecopter Hamlet Heaton Concessions Gina Ianni Ianni Concessions Marc & Tiffany Janas Jason’s Caricatures Sara Ketcham Ketcham’s Concessions Klingenmeyer M&V Pizza Pam McDonald Bob & Suzette McKnight McKnight Concessions Mel & V Concessions PGAM/Ianni Debbie & Corky Powers Raymond’s Jewelry Reithoffer Shows Tony Albanese Gary Alberry

Kurt Andrews Mike Bronchik Ray Hrudka Jan Husted Mike Lauther Jimmy LeBarron Mike Mofield Nicole Popovich Beau Pugh Bobby Pugh Louie Racobo Rick Reithoffer Mario Rojas Paul Smith Richie Stafford John Stoorza Gabriella Tanner Robert Vinson

GOLD

Ray Cammack Shows Ashlea B&J Bradbury J&B Bradbury Bradbury Family Brian & Jacqueline Bradbury Jacqueline Bradbury Jacqueline & Brian Bradbury

Bryan Creason JACA Cameron Kastl Ashley Kastl Cameron Kastl Jaden Leavitt JoAnne Leavitt Mark Leavitt Michele Leavitt Pasyn Leavitt Roger Leavitt Taylum Leavitt Chris & Jody Lopez Mad Hatter Tom & Jeanne McDonagh Bill Morton Burt Morton Carrie Morton Deborah Morton Ashley Murray Hailey Ousey Kirstin Ousey Mary Ousey Michael Ousey Michael John Ousey Robert Ousey Jayce Pacheco Dominic & Kim Palmieri Andrew Schoendienst, Jr. Steve VanderVorste

Powers Great American Midways B&S Concessions OCTOBER 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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ASSOCIATION H SERVICES, BENEFITS & PROGRAMS

OABA–Duke Smith Memorial Education Fund 2016 SCHOL ARSHIP

2016

Memberships Sold Heidi Elsperman – Deggeller Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Andrew Schoendienst – Luehrs’ Ideal Rides . . . . . . . . 44 Doug Burtch – T.J. Schmidt & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Carly Vertz – Skerbeck Family Carnival . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Michelle Farrow – Rosedale Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Niki Skerbeck – Skerbeck Entertainment Group . . . . . . . 9 Nick Strates – Strates Shows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 TOTAL 213

Your Show Deserves The BEST! Visit Us at IAAPA Booth 3002

Statement Of Purpose The Mobile Amusement Industry, Inc. (MAI), through its OABA–Duke Smith Memorial Education Fund, is interested in furthering the educational goals of young people within our industry. The youth of today will be the leaders of tomorrow and will require the education necessary to be competitive in an increasingly complex business environment. Individual and company contributions to the OABA–Duke Smith Memorial Education Fund and the annual generosity of Allied Specialty Insurance Company and Gold Medal Products provide opportunities to eligible applicants for financial assistance with advanced education.

Eligibility Requirements H Each applicant must be a member in good standing of the Outdoor Amusement Business Association.

H Each applicant must be a graduating high school

senior or a continuing student at a university, junior college or trade school or be employed in the mobile amusement industry.

Each applicant must have plans of attending an accredited educational institution or trade school of their choice for their continued education.

H

Concession Trailers • Funhouses • Glass Houses • Ticket Boxes

Show Me Fabrication, inc.

29723 Highway 50 East, Sedalia, MO 65301 (660) 827-3240 showme@showmefab.com | www.showmefab.com 24

Scholarship applications and all supporting documentation must be received by the OABA by December 31, 2015. Students who have applied for and/or received scholarships in the past are eligible to reapply by submitting updated transcripts and autobiography. (The deadline for fall transcripts is January 16.) If you are an OABA member, go to www.oaba.org, Member Area, Member Programs, Education and Industry Training Scholarships, OABA–Duke Smith Memorial Fund Scholarship, then click on Applications for forms. Or call the OABA office at 800.517.6222 for more information. IMPORTANT: Applications and/or supporting documentation received after the deadline WILL NOT be submitted to the scholarship committee for consideration! H

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Visit Us at IAAPA Booth#

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entities fill out and update their registration information electronically using a web-based, online version of Form MCSA–1. The Form MCS-150 will only be used for Mexico-domiciled carriers, and the Forms MCS150B and MCS-150C will be eliminated.

H The use of MC numbers to identify for-hire motor carriers will be eliminated.

All carriers, private and for-hire, will be identified solely by their USDOT numbers.

In addition, by April 25, 2016, all private and for-hire motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders must file with the FMCSA a list of agents for service of process in every state where they operate commercial motor vehicles.

OSHA Fines Carrier Over Driver Suspension The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has fined Oak Harbor Freight Lines, Inc. for retaliating against a truck driver who said he was too ill to drive.

The driver filed a whistleblower complaint, citing violation of safe operating rules under the Surface Transportation Safety Act. After its investigation, OSHA ordered the trucking company to pay $20,000 in punitive damages and $354 to the driver for his suspension.

This is the second time the agency has found Oak Harbor retaliated against a truck driver who invoked federal safety rules.

OSHA investigators also found that the company’s attendance policy encouraged drivers to operate trucks while sick or exhausted.

Drivers absent due to illness or exhaustion had negative notes placed in their personnel records and faced possible discipline or termination. OSHA has repeatedly asked Oak Harbor to change the attendance policy, but the company has not complied.

Senate have each passed a three-month extension of the highway program reauthorization, until October 29, 2015.

President Obama signed the bill into law on July 31, the day the program was set to expire.

The House had earlier passed a five-month extension, but the Senate was considering a full six-year reauthorization bill with titles on highway and motor carrier safety, including CSA reform. The Senate bill only contained funding for three years, however, and long-term funding remains the sticking point for any highway reauthorization package.

This shorter extension will require Congress to address the funding and program issues again after the August recess. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) has stated his committee will take up a reauthorization bill in September.

House, Senate Pass ThreeMonth Highway Bill Extension The U.S. House of Representatives and the

Sen. Carper Introduces Fuel Tax Increase Bill Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE), a member of the Senate Finance Committee and the Senate

Environment and Public Works Committee, has introduced legislation to increase the federal gasoline and diesel fuel taxes by 16 cents per gallon.

The revenue would be dedicated to the Highway Trust Fund to invest in highways, bridges and transit programs.

The legislation would increase gasoline and diesel taxes by four cents a year for four years, and subsequently index them to inflation. Sen. Carper’s bill would also extend and expand the earned income (EITC) and child (CTC) tax credits. It would make both credits permanent, as well as expand the EITC for childless workers, index the CTC to inflation, and make it easier for working Americans who qualify to claim the EITC. The fuel tax increase is not currently included in the DRIVE Act, a bill to reauthorize the Highway Trust Fund for six years. The DRIVE Act was placed on the Senate calendar for floor consideration in July; the full Senate was expected to take up consideration of the bill when it returned from recess in September. H

Puppy Roll Faribault, MN

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january 2015

$7.00

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$7.00

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$7.00

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$7.00

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GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS H ARNOLD SAFETY CONSULTING

Consciousness Rap on DOT

By Eric Arnold, Arnold Safety Consulting

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ormally, I write about 500–700 words in these columns about a specific DOT topic which I believe is either important or which has been in the news. However, this month things have been relatively quiet on the DOT front and I have writer’s block. Therefore, rather than give you nothing, I am going to give you a stream of consciousness rap about DOT compliance, in no particular order.

Logs You must make sure your drivers are completing a log for every single day. This includes the days the drivers are not driving. You may put multiple off-days on one log. However, there needs to be a log which covers every day. Days when a driver does not drive but works on the show taking tickets, fixing equipment or whatever must be logged as on-duty, not driving. This applies to drivers of smaller vehicles as well. Anyone who crosses state lines and is driving a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,001 lbs. or more must have a log. Many one-ton pickups are over 10,001 lbs. GVWR. They are definitely over that threshold if they are pulling a trailer.

OABA drivers generally do not drive or work that many hours. Nevertheless, countless OABA members have paid DOT thousands and thousands of dollars simply because their drivers were not filling out a piece of paper.

Electronic Logs This is still coming. It has not gone anywhere. DOT had promised to release the rulemaking in September 2015, which means motor carriers will be forced to buy electronic logs (EOBRs) by sometime in 2017. This was included in the MAP-21 law passed by Congress some years ago. The only exception, which may be included in the final rule, is drivers who do not fill out logs now, such as local drivers, will not be required to purchase EOBRs.

DataQs When you are inspected on the road by DOT, you have the ability to challenge the violations written up by the police. This is called the “DataQ” process. I do not know why it is called that. I imagine some DOT apparatchik thought it sounded clever. The URL to initiate a DataQ challenge is https://dataqs.fmcsa.dot.gov. You

basically submit a copy of the inspection, explain which violations you believe to be in error, and send it in. All they can do is say no, right? The DataQ challenge will be reviewed by either the police officer who wrote the citation or his supervisor. If they believe you have a legitimate complaint, they will remove the citation from your CSA record.

If you are saying to yourself, ‘the same guys who wrote the ticket hear my complaint?’ Yes, sir! Your chances of getting violations removed from a DOT inspection are not good; however, it does occasionally happen. It helps if you are legitimately not guilty of whatever infraction is written. Even then, it’s a toss-up whether the police will remove it from your record.

CSA CSA is the scoring system DOT uses to rank motor carriers in terms of compliance and safety. DOT believes CSA has a direct link to safety. It has a direct link to compliance. It has very little, if any, correlation to safety, despite what DOT thinks. The CSA scoring system is under very heavy attack at the moment from the trucking industry, which roundly hates this arbitrary and often unfair system. It is likely in the next year or so that the CSA scores will be hidden from public view on DOT’s website, at the behest of the trucking industry and Congress. However, DOT will still internally use these scores to determine who they are going to audit.

Common areas where OABA members fall short on CSA are maintenance, hours of service and driver fitness. CSA scores are generated by accidents and DOT roadside inspections. The more violations and accidents your drivers generate, the higher your score. High scores, like in golf, are bad. If an OABA member can avoid DOT roadside inspections, or actually pass them, it greatly increases their chances of avoiding DOT audits at their offices. H Eric Arnold, President of Arnold Safety Consulting, Inc., is a former U.S. Department of Transportation agent with 30 years regulatory and transportation compliance experience.

His column on DOT safety and compliance appears periodically in the OABA’s ShowTime magazine. As part of your OABA dues, Mr. Arnold is available for free consultations regarding the DOT rules and regulations. Call the office for more details.

OCTOBER 2015 | OABA ShowTime Magazine H

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ASSOCIATION H CIRCUS MEMBERS

From The Center Ring Connecting & Protecting the Circus Industry!

Rodney Huey, RAH PR Strategies OABA Circus Media Consultant

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ctober is upon us, and American circuses are beginning to turn the corner on their seasons and look homeward toward their winter quarters. The one exception, of course, is the Big Apple Circus that opens on the 21st at New York City’s Lincoln Center to kick off its 38th season.

BAC will debut The Grand Tour, featuring an impressive lineup of international circus artists that includes the Zuma Zuma acrobats from Kenya and China’s Energy Trio balancing act. The production is set in the 1920s against a background of “ships, trains, automobiles, and airplanes.” The Grand Tour will play Manhattan through January 10, 2016. Meanwhile, BAC’s perennial Clown Care Unit, headed by BAC co-founder Michael Christensen, continues to make “clown rounds” in 16 pediatric hospitals across the country to bring joy and laughter to hospitalized children. BAC estimates that its 80 clown artists entertain more than 225,000 children annually.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s Circus Xtreme opens the month in Denver before picking up the Midwestern dates of St. Louis (MO) and Cleveland (OH), closing out October in Toledo (OH). Legends is back in the Northeast with dates in Manchester (NH), Worcester and Boston (MA), Bridgeport (CT) and Rochester (NY). Built to Amaze plays Everett and Spokane (WA) through the 11th and then takes the long haul to Des Moines (IA) before presenting the Final Performance of the Gold Unit in Cedar Rapids (IA) at 5:00 pm on Sunday, October 25, marking the first time since 2003 that Ringling will have only two units on the road next season.

Cole Bros. Circus continues its homeward journey hitting cities in the Deep South. Kelly Miller Circus plays six Illinois dates and four Missouri dates this month while Carson & Barnes Circus crisscrosses lower Midwestern states.

Universoul closes its month-long Washington Park engagement in Chicago (IL) on the 18th and opens in Philadelphia (PA) on the 22nd. And, on the West Coast Circus Vargas entertains circus-goers in Palmdale (CA) during the first week of October, and then takes a short break to move into Arizona, opening in Glendale on October 29.

After the tragic blow-down of its tent in Lancaster (NH) on August 3 that killed two patrons, Walker Bros. Circus of Sarasota (FL) resumed its schedule without a tent five days later, presenting acts in “a modest-sized ring, flanked by two tall metal beams with lights and topped with flags,” according to Megan Brockett of pressconnects.com.

Cirque du Soleil has announced another New York City venture, this time on Broadway at the Lyric Theatre. The show, entitled Paramour, is being promoted as “a rapturous

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and passionate new experience that unites the signature spectacle of Cirque du Soleil with the storytelling magic that defines Broadway.” Paramour is slated to preview in April, 2016.

The Circus Model Builders is holding its National Convention in Santa Fe (NM) October 7-12. Bindlestiff Family Variety Arts will host the 2015 NYC American Youth Circus Festival on October 17 at its Circus Warehouse in Long Island City. Members the St. Louis Arches youth group performed at the Library of Congress National Book Festival in Washington, DC recently to promote Cynthia Levinson’s book, Watch Out for Flying Kids! In Sarasota (FL), Phare, the Cambodian Circus will present Khmer Metal in the Mertz Theater at The Ringling October 15-18. The avant-garde show has been described as an “edgy, progressive modern [urban] tale.” Across town the Circus Arts Conservatory will hold its Charity Golf Tournament at the Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club on October 12 before hosting the Sahib Shrine Circus October 23 & 24 in the Sailor Circus Arena.

Also, students from the Sailor Circus Academy will perform in the Sun Fiesta Parade in neighboring Venice on October 17.

Living up to its billings by Spectacle Magazine as one of three “vibrant circus cities” in the United States, Chicago (IL) is abuzz with circus this month. First, the Aloft Loft circus training school announced the purchase of the 107-year-old First Evangelical Church in Logan Square as its new home for training and performances. The group needs to raise $100,000 for floor leveling, ceiling removal and electrical rewiring before circus equipment can be moved in. Secondly, the Actors Gymnasium at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center in nearby Evanston (IL) recently launched the inaugural class of its Professional Circus Training Program that is “designed to prepare students for professional circus performance.”

Circus in Progress: An Evening of Daring New Work will be presented by AG on October 10 to provide a “sneak peek at some of Chicago’s most exciting new works of circus art!”

Another city jumped on the anti-circus bandwagon when the City Council of Austin (TX) passed an ordinance that bans the use of the ankus as an elephant management tool. Too bad some of these so-called animal lovers pay little attention to the plight of elephants in the wild that are threatened daily by poachers. Trained dogs are being used to disrupt traffickers

H OABA ShowTime Magazine | OCTOBER 2015

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