The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 TLW.ORG
Nothing Else
Like a SafeRide ALSO INSIDE:
87th TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show Summary The Latest News from Washington and Madison
The Official Publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 VOL. 41, NO. 6
FEATURES 87th Annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show Summary. . . . . . . 8 The Outagamie County Tavern League played convention host to a large group of TLW members at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in Appleton.
Nothing Else Like a SafeRide. . . 12 Since 2004, the SafeRide Program has provided more than a million safe rides, proving its value to TLW members and patrons alike.
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President’s Perspective. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
League Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Corporate Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Corporate Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
ABL Dispatch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
New Members & Affiliate Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
By the Book. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Food Safety Training Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Legislative Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Advertiser Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
DEPARTMENTS
SOCIALIZE WITH US
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 3
PRESIDENT Keith Kern
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Cathy Vales
SECRETARY Kris Zappa
TREASURER Todd Giraud
SOUTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Jennifer Collison
SOUTHERN DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Keith Koehler
EASTERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Vinny Egle
EASTERN DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Don Mjelde
CENTRAL ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Paul Salzwedel
CENTRAL DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Bob Carpenter
NORTHERN ZONE VICE PRESIDENT Donn “Dino” Amundson
NORTHERN DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Lorbetske
PAST PRESIDENT Chris Marsicano
SPECIAL CLUB MEMBERSHIP PLATINUM CLUB MEMBERS 5TH DISTRICT TAVERN LEAGUE OSHKOSH CITY/WINNEBAGO COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE OUTAGAMIE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE
GOLD CLUB MEMBERS DOOR COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE OCONTO COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LEVELS PLATINUM $1,000 Annual Membership Level GOLD $500 Annual Membership Level SILVER $250 Annual Membership Level For more information on becoming a Special Club Member, call the TLW office at (608) 270-8591.
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MANAGING EDITOR
Carrie Mantey, Nei-Turner Media Group Inc.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER AND ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
Jerriann Mullen, Nei-Turner Media Group Inc. jem@ntmediagroup.com
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
Danielle Letenyei, Nei-Turner Media Group Inc. danielle@ntmediagroup.com
PRINTED BY
Kodi Collective, Illinois On Premise (ISSN #1051-4562) is a bimonthly publication of the Tavern League of Wisconsin Inc., 11801 W. Silver Spring Dr., Ste. 200, Milwaukee, WI 53225, Phone: (608) 270-8591. On Premise is produced by Nei-Turner Media Group Inc., 400 Broad St., Unit D, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. Gary Nei, Chairman; William Turner, President; Barbara Krause, Publisher. For advertising information, please contact Danielle Letenyei at (608) 438-6996 or danielle@ntmediagroup.com. Subscriptions included in TLW membership dues; nonmember subscriptions cost $15 per year. Postmaster: Send address corrections to the Tavern League of Wisconsin Office, 11801 W. Silver Spring Dr., Ste. 200, Milwaukee, WI 53225. Periodicals postage paid at Madison, WI and other additional offices. ©2023 Tavern League of Wisconsin Inc. Permission to reprint must be secured in advance of publication, and credit given to author and On Premise.
www.tlw.org
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE T
he seasons are once again changing. Leaves are now falling and many of us have already experienced a few hard frosts, with maybe a lingering flurry or two, revealing it won’t be long before winter is in full force.
Winter tourism for many of our members is just as important as the summer. Snowmobiles, utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and ice fishing continue to draw people out during our long winter months. Although I’m personally not a huge fan of winter, the hospitality industry simply cannot overlook these important economic factors. But as if our chosen profession isn’t hard enough, we further place our continued success in the hands of Mother Nature. Luckily, we as owners are resilient, smart and passionate about our businesses, and will continue to innovate and change as needed. The last three-plus years definitely prove that! Since my last writing, I am amazed at how much we continue to be busy. Our office staff have nearly completed their first year since joining us. It’s easy to forget the massive job they are tasked with, including the large events we’ve held over the last few months. League Leaders Day, the annual State Golf Outing and our Fall Convention & Trade Show were all held within 45 days of each other! It wasn’t until I looked back on my travel schedule that it occurred to me how much we had going on in such a short amount of time. Having attended all three events (like many of you), it’s fair to say our staff took it all in stride, running each event smoothly while tackling any issues head on. If you happen to call the office in the near future, please thank managing director Tina Conley and her team for the countless hours they put into helping our association shine. This year’s Fall Convention & Trade Show was a huge success. The sold-out trade show, nearly reaching 1,000 attendees, was hopping. From the various seminars to welcoming LeRoy Butler as our keynote speaker, it’s my hope that all who attended came away with both education and entertainment. Our live and silent auction numbers were as strong as years past, as many counties once again donated items or contributed to our charities, political action committee (PAC) and conduit. Please remember: We are always in awe of your generosity and it further exemplifies why we are the greatest association of its kind in the world. www.tlw.org
I would like to thank Marty Decoster, president of the Outagamie County Tavern League and owner of Plan B in Kaukauna, and the crew for their work in organizing another wonderful time in Appleton. We already have our eyes set on the 2024 Spring Conference & Trade Show, which will take place at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva from April 8 to 11. Room blocks and registration are currently open, and we look forward to welcoming everyone this spring. As the cool weather begins to set in and we start to hunker down, I want to point out two upcoming events. First is our annual Legislative Day on March 5 at the Best Western Premier Park Hotel in Madison. Once we finalize the arrangements, we will be sure to get the word out for registration. Depending on how Assembly Bill 304/Senate Bill 332 develops in the meantime, I will be counting on ALL of you to try to make the trip and help our efforts, learn about current issues or continue to create relationships with your representatives. The second event is our winter getaway in Las Vegas, hosted by our friends and affiliate members at El Cortez Hotel & Casino, from February 25 to 29. Both Pat Lazarus, the director of casino operations, and Jay Bernard, the hotel operations manager, were present during our Fall Convention & Trade Show, and have already booked over 250 rooms. They always welcome us with special rewards and discounts, and it wouldn’t be a TLW event if there weren’t a party they throw one night just for us. This will be my third year attending, with group participation almost doubling each year. So if you’re looking to break up the winter blues, make your plans now for a fun, relaxing time in sin city! And I would like to, once again, thank you all for your continued support over my first two years as your president. As I begin my second term, we still have plenty to work on and accomplish. One person cannot do it all, and that is why we all need to continue to grow our local leagues, focus on membership and strengthen into an even more unified force. As I have said in the past, if there is anything I can do to help, please reach out. I hope you all have a safe and successful holiday, and I’m sure we will meet up again soon. Cheers!
Keith Kern TLW President NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 5
CORPORATE MEMBERS
SupportTHOSE Those WHO Who Support our Association SUPPORT SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT OUR ASSOCIATION PLATINUM SPONSORS PLATINUM SPONSORS PLATINUM MEMBERS
2012 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY
GOLD SPONSORS
2012 MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY
GOLD MEMBERS GOLD SPONSORS
Anheuser-Busch Anheuser-Busch
TA V E R N L E A G U E O F W I S C O N S I N
BRONZE MEMBERS BRONZE SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS
TA V E R N L E A G U E O F W I S C O N S I N
SILVER SPONSORS SILVER MEMBERS SILVER SPONSORS
Make sure to thank these groups for their support and encourage others not Wisconsin Amusement & on the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call the Wisconsin Amusement & TLW office at (608) 270-8591 for more information regarding the benefits of the different categories. Remember to “support those who support us.” Music Operators, Inc. Music Operators, Inc.
and thank these groups for their support, and encourage others not on the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call groups for their support, and encourage others not on the list to participate. Any business interested in joining should call fice (608-270-8591) for our brochure that lists the benefits of the different categories. Remember “Support those who support us.” 1) for our brochure that lists the benefits of the different categories. Remember “Support those who support us.”
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MAJOR SUPPORTER of
State and Local Tavern Leagues
PARTNERS IN PROGRESS TAVERN LEAGUE OF WISCONSIN • Co-Sponsor of TLW Legislative Day • Underwriter of TLW Video on Jobs and Employment • Provider of Coin-Operated Games at TLW Conferences & Shows to Benefit TIPAC • Sponsor of the TLW Trip Giveaway at TLW Spring Conference & Show • Donor of Large-Screen TV at TLW Fall Convention & Show
LOCAL TAVERN LEAGUE PROGRAMS (SafeRide, Golf, Others) • Contributions and Support from Individual WAMO Members • Matching Funds from WAMO to Tavern League Locals • Contributions to SafeRide Program, Golf and Others • Active Participation and Attendance
WISCONSIN AMUSEMENT & MUSIC OPERATORS PO Box 259506 Madison, WI 53725 www.WAMO.net www.tlw.org
P 608.709.1960 F 608.824.2205 E amanda@wamo.net
A complete list of WAMO members can be found at www.WAMO.net. Hosts of the World’s Largest Dart Tournament & the Nation’s Largest Pool Tournament.
with TLW
87th Annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show Summary
T
LW members’ spirits were high at the TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show that ran October 2 to 5 at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in Appleton. The conference drew more than 900 attendees and in excess of 100 vendors.
TLW members raised about $50,000 for the Wisconsin Tavern League Foundation through donations and participation in the Wisconsin Tavern League Foundation Raffle. In addition, approximately $53,000 was raised for the Direct Givers Fund and the Tavern Industry Political Action Committee (TIPAC), with about $45,000 raised at the Live Auction and $8,000 at the Silent Auction. Another $1,400 went to TLW Supports through the Bean Bag Toss, while $1,862 went to theHunger Relief Task Force.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 2 On Monday, the TLW Board of Directors met, while other TLW members participated in the food safety class and exam. In the evening, the Outagamie County Tavern League hosted a welcome party at The Grand Meridian in Appleton. Mistakes Were Made entertained onlookers with a variety of music.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3 The Nominating and Rules committees each held a meeting before everyone convened for the general session. TLW President Keith Kern (and owner of Jimmy’s Saloon in Superior) welcomed TLW members to Appleton. After the opening ceremony, Marty Decoster, president of the Outagamie County Tavern League and owner of Plan B in Kaukauna started off the session. Up next were reports from the TLW president, secretary and treasurer.
Kris Zappa, TLW secretary and owner of Bourbon’s Bar in Cumberland, summarized the Board of Directors meeting from the prior day. She reported that: • 790 attendees and 98 booths were preregistered for the convention. • The next convention will be held at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva. • Approximately 100 members participated in League Leaders Day. • Wisconsin Association Management plans to reorganize the TLW’s corporate member sponsorships. • TLW membership dues will increase by $100. • Th Fall Convention’s challenge coins will benefit the Center for Suicide Awareness. • The Madison building is still up for sale. • Leadership is looking into a Spanish version of the food safety course. • Rolling Meadows Golf Course hosted 172 in Fond du Lac, raising about $8,000 for the TLW Foundation. • There’s a new SafeRide commercial in production. Treasurer Todd Giraud and owner of Rite Spot Bar & Grill in Sparta gave an overview of the organization’s finances, assets, investments and more before handing the microphone over to Kern who was happy to recognize some past presidents in attendance. Then he handed out awards to the TLW’s Special Club Members. Kern introduced Jenn Gunning, owner of Re-Pete’s Saloon & Grill in Black River Falls, to present the TLW Member
Kern emphasized the TLW “passed a budget with a surplus. We’re protecting your money.” He also announced that the TLW is close to revealing its next executive director. The final determination will be made after all interviews are complete.
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87th Annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show Summary of the Year Award. After listing several achievements, she recognized Kris Zappa — TLW secretary, Barron County Tavern League vice president, membership chair and SafeRide representative, and animal lover — as the TLW Member of the Year. “With the connections bar owners have in the community, she shows what we can all be and do. She’s so deserving of this recognition,” concluded Gunning, inviting Zappa to the stage. “I’m totally shocked, amazed and grateful. I’ve been doing this since I was 16 years old and it’s been a wonderful ride. I appreciate everything you’ve all done for me,” Zappa responded, “Thank you all so much.” Then Kern introduced Don Mjelde, Eastern District vice president and owner of Richard Craniums in Green Bay, to present the keynote speaker. “It takes a special person to be a part of that team, 12 years, all with the Packers,” said Mjelde. “NFL Hall of Famer. Lambeau Leap creator. Super Bowl champion. Spokesperson for Leap Vodka, LeRoy Butler.”
The organization named Leap Vodka for the infamous Lambeau leap and distribute it through Capitol-Husting Company. “I want to be everywhere a Packer fan is,” explained Butler. After he wrapped up a Q&A with the crowd, Kern took to the podium to announce and congratulate all of the day’s drawing winners. At noon, the trade show opened for TLW members to explore, talk to vendors and sample products, while other members attended seminars. First, HSC Business Brokers presented a seminar on “Maximizing Business Value: Unleashing the Potential for Higher Sale Prices,” equipping attendees with the insights and tools necessary to maximize the value of their businesses and optimize the sale process. Then Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) presented an update on what’s new in the ever-evolving music licensing landscape, an overview of music licensing, what’s licensable and what’s not, and more. At the Tuesday Night Party, TLW members enjoyed the band A-Town Unplugged, the TLW Live Auction benefiting Direct Givers and each other’s company.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4 Kern began the general session with gratitude: “Last night was a great party. We raised about $45,000 at the Live Auction and we now have more than 900 [convention] registrants so far. I can’t thank everybody enough for your donations and support. Now it’s my great honor to introduce Larry McGinn, founder of Children of Restaurant Employees (CORE), a charity the TLW has supported for a long time.”
“I want to thank you for being good people. I love Wisconsin and being out in the community,” Butler began. He offered friendly banter and many anecdotes, including this one about his support system: “My uncle is the biggest Bears fan. When I get drafted, it’s 1990 and it’s my dream to play in the NFL. He said, ‘You better play for the Bears and, if the Packers call, don’t you answer it.’ As soon as he said that, though, the Packers called.
“Thank you to all who have donated to CORE through your leagues,” acknowledged McGinn. “After talking to a few of you, though, we’ve changed our model. We used to partner with Make-A-Wish, but we heard it’s not really the trip that gets us all going.” “Children and hospitality employees need to get through emergencies. So now we focus solely on that,” continued McGinn. “CORE steps in if one of your employees breaks their leg or gets sick, for things like rent, gas, utilities, groceries, anything to get them over the hump. Every dol-
“They said, ‘Before we select you, you have to talk to the head coach.’ So we spoke and then, before hanging up, he asked, ‘Do you have any questions?’ I asked, ‘Where’s Green Bay?’ Full disclosure: I was a Cowboys fan.” Now that Butler has retired from football, he’s working on some of his own endeavors, including speaking at antibullying rallies and as a brand ambassador for Leap Vodka. He said, “I didn’t know what tailgating was when I was a rookie, but during the pandemic, Minnesota Viking Chad Greenway calls me up and said, ‘We want to start a vodka company in Wisconsin.’ I said, ‘Why are you calling me? I don’t drink.’ He said, ‘Your branding is great.’ Then I said, ‘If I can be part owner and name it, I’m in.’” www.tlw.org
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 9
87th Annual TLW Fall Convention & Trade Show Summary lar you give us goes right back into the pot that helps the folks in your great state. We’ve helped get three Wisconsin families over the hump and back to work. We have another half a dozen in the queue. If you invest your hard-earned dollars in us, we reinvest our dollars back in you. Thanks again for your commitment to CORE.” Kern stepped back onto the stage to present McGinn with a $15,000 check in a further show of support for CORE, before addressing the audience, “The support we give to our local charities is just another example of the generosity of our association. You’ll see a recurring theme here today as we present a few charities that we support.” With that, Cindy Grunert, the Wisconsin district coordinator of Quilts of Valor, came to the podium to introduce the “nonprofit organization that provides healing and comforting quilts to veterans.” She mentioned that everything the organization does is through generous donations and volunteers, and that veterans can register to receive a Quilt of Valor at qovf.org. “Thank you for everything you do for our veterans,” transitioned Kern. “Now it’s my honor to welcome our government affairs director to give a report on everything that he’s doing for our association. Welcome, Scott Stenger.” While noting that Republicans are currently in control of the state legislature, Stenger started, “This year could be game-changing for our legislative districts in 2024,” referring to the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s recent decision to take a case to challenge the state’s current Republican-drawn legislative maps. “Then all 33 senators may have to face election. The point is we may lose some Republicans and Democrats could take control of both houses. These elections are going to dwarf anything we’ve done before.”
Stenger finished with a warning to legislators, “If you can’t get the votes for this bill, you won’t get our votes. We spent eight years putting this bill together and we’re confident that the governor would support the bill if it gets to his desk.” “There’s a lot to learn in this position and a lot of unknowns. A daily phone call from Scott about the fights he’s fighting every single day was one of the unknowns,” said Kern. “It seems like we’re on the defense all the time. But when we can get on the offense, we’re going to do it. Let’s get this bill passed.” Then Kern called on the directors to pass buckets for the Hunger Relief Task Force before calling Tina Conley, TLW managing director, to the stage to give her operational report. “As you all know, this organization has a lot of moving parts. When we started nine months ago, we heard loud and clear that we need to focus on the members,” said Conley. “Communication is vital. We’ve been holding quarterly meetings and plan to continue. We will also continue to make changes as they’re suggested. We’re sharing struggles and offering resources to each other. The first three quarters were very tactical in nature in regard to learning the intricacies of the organization. Now we can become strategic in our thinking. In the coming year, we can start to introduce new elements to our events, golf outing, League Leaders Day and more.”
Then Stenger turned his attention to Assembly Bill 304 (AB 304), saying, “Almost every state has a dedicated organization to regulate alcohol, but Wisconsin doesn’t. The three-tier industry came together to create a Division of Alcohol Beverages with a dedicated staff to be a partner when we make a phone call. Right now, I get different answers every time I call to ask a question. “There are only 400 wedding barns in the state, but they’re taking your business away. They serve food. They’re getting into parties. Everyone in here has private events. AB 304 passed the state Assembly by 90 to 4. We were very optimistic in mid-June. Well, the Senate has chosen to not upset the wedding barns. Our opponents are making us the bad guy,” explained Stenger. “The bill allows wedding barns to get a liquor license. We’re not putting them out of business or being anti-competitive. Chapter 125 should apply to everyone.”
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“The staff and Tina have been amazing to work with and they’ve done a great job for our association,” Kern concluded. The trade show, a game of Xtreme Bar Bingo and the district caucuses followed the general session before everyone headed to the President’s Reception to enjoy the rest of the evening.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5 After voting in the morning, the TLW kicked off the general session with the Spring 2024 Election Parade of Candidates and briefed members on the nominating committee report. The bylaw amendments were passed with a vote of 220-1. Then the Outagamie County Tavern League presented the Center for Suicide Prevention a check for $7,200 from its challenge coin sales. The general session concluded with a number of drawings and a video wrap-up of the conference. Shortly thereafter, TLW members took to Plan B to celebrate the end of the 87th Annual Fall Convention & Trade Show at the Outagamie Tavern League President’s Reception. TLW
TAVERN LEAGUE
MEMBERS OF WISCONSIN Thank You for Your Support Throughout the Years! BE SAFE with Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps/Pulltabs
NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT The following nominations were announced for the TLW elections in the spring of 2024.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Southern District Vice President
Keith Koehler
Southern Zone Vice President
Jennifer Collison
Eastern District Vice President
Don Mjelde
Central District Vice President
Bob Carpenter
Central Zone Vice President
Paul Salzwedel
Northern District Vice President
Nancy Lorbetske
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 1st District
Two Years
Renee Peterson
1st District
One Year
Ray Garreau
Wendy Coey
2nd District
Two Years
Eric Christenson
3rd District
Two Years
Doug Clausen
3rd District
One Year
Cait Hirsch
4th District
Two Years
Mark Puetz
5th District
Two Years
Sharon Kingston
5th District
One Year
Jim Billings
6th District
Two Years
Judy Vandenhouten
6th District
One Year
Ben Brunette
7th District
Two Years
Diane Schwartz
7th District
One Year
Mike Celt
8th District
Two Years
Russ Fisher
8th District
One Year
Chuck Anderson
9th District
Two Years
Lori Helm
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 11
League/Group
Number of Riders
Cost of Rides
Average Cost
Adams
291
$2,844
$9.77
Ashland/Bayfield
174
$3,064
$17.61
Brown
3,101
$43,809
$14.13
Chippewa
2,594
$25,240
$9.73
Clark
36
$370
$10.28
Columbia
3,465
$27,056
$7.81
Crawford
583
$4,503
$7.72
Dodge
471
$5,431
$11.53
Door
769
$9,254
$12.03
Eau Claire
1,151
$12,003
$10.43
Greater Northwoods
447
$3,875
$8.67
Green Lake Area
117
$2,270
$19.40
Jackson
115
$870
$7.57
Jefferson
439
$1,572
$3.58
Since 2004, the SafeRide Program has provided more than a million safe rides, proving its value to TLW members and patrons alike.
Kenosha City
137
$1,894
$13.83
Kenosha County
585
$19,415
$33.19
Kewaunee
1
$40
$40.00
La Crosse
2,558
$38,085
$14.89
Langlade
178
$3,560
$20.00
By Amanda N. Wegner
Lincoln
552
$8,280
$15.00
Madison/Dane
510
$10,030
$19.67
Manitowoc
2,700
$28,094
$10.41
Marathon
522
$8,164
$15.64
Marinette
1,084
$8,406
$7.75
Marquette
505
$11,228
$22.23
Milwaukee
994
$10,959
$11.03
Monroe
669
$3,036
$4.54
Oconto
38
$950
$25.00
Oneida
3,151
$23,370
$7.42
Oshkosh/Winnebago
3,029
$28,966
$9.56
Outagamie
331
$4,520
$13.65
Ozaukee
658
$9,886
$15.02
Pepin
167
$2,118
$12.68
Pierce
119
$1,445
$12.14
Portage
396
$4,675
$11.81
Racine City
0
$0
$0.00
Racine County
35
$768
$21.94
Rusk
71
$1,350
$19.01
Sauk
9,372
$24,778
$2.64
Sawyer
8
$125
$15.63
Sheboygan
145
$2,027
$13.98
South Central
54
$70
$1.30
St. Croix
280
$2,624
$9.37
Superior/Douglas
187
$2,411
$12.89
Taylor
32
$1,500
$46.88
Trempealeau/Buffalo
328
$21,771
$66.38
Vilas
136
$2,220
$16.32
Walworth
111
$4,365
$39.33
Washburn
0
$0
$0.00
Washington
57
$1,354
$23.75
Waupaca
288
$4,162
$14.45
Wood
1,247
$9,174
$7.36
Totals
44,988
$447,982
$9.96
Nothing Else
like a saferide
O
ne of the top priorities of the TLW and its more than 4,800 members is to keep its patrons safe. That’s why, for over two decades, TLW has offered its SafeRide Program, which aims to eliminate drunk driving on Wisconsin’s roadways by providing free rides home to patrons who need them. In fact, from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, the TLW’s SafeRide Program provided almost 45,000 free rides home from 52 local TLW leagues. “It is safe to say that there is nothing else like SafeRide in the nation,” says Don Mjelde, chair of TLW’s SafeRide Committee, president of the Brown County Tavern League and owner of Richard Craniums in Green Bay. “A lot of other states have congratulated us on our program, but none of them have been able to accomplish anything like what we have because they don’t have a league as strong as the TLW.” SafeRide began in 1994 when a small group of tavern owners committed to forming a program to provide safe transportation home for patrons. Since 2004, the program has provided more than 1 million safe rides home. It costs nearly $1 million annually to operate SafeRide, which is borne by both TLW members and funds generated by surcharges on operating while impaired (OWI) convictions. Tavern League administers the program, along with oversight from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. In 1999, Wisconsin Act 109 established a small $5 surcharge on every OWI to be used for alternative transportation from Class B licensees to a customer’s home. The surcharge is now $50 per OWI, and the Tavern League strongly supports AB 304, which would, among other benefits, increase the OWI surcharge to $75 per conviction.
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The SafeRide Program has more than proven that it is a valuable program worthy of the investment. Over the last six years, not including the most recent reporting year, SafeRide has provided an average of more than 73,000 rides per year, which translates to 200 per day. Since 2007, OWI convictions have declined by 44% and alcohol-related facilities by nearly 50%. Mjelde notes that these incredible statistics are not just because of SafeRide, “but it’s another tool we can utilize in keeping our roads and patrons safe.” While the number of rides provided during the pandemic dipped, numbers are slowly building back to previous levels, according to Mjelde. However, a reduction of cab services in many communities is presenting challenges and making partnerships with ride-sharing companies more of an imperative. “We are seeing the paradigm shift in ride-sharing and we need to be as vigilant as possible to maximize the SafeRide Program,” says Mjelde, who successfully brokered a partnership with Lyft in Brown County, and can provide insight and instructions to other county leagues to set up their own partnerships.
To help boost awareness and utilization of SafeRide, the TLW has committed additional support to marketing the program, including more digital advertising and a new commercial, Mjelde notes. Members may not see this marketing because it’s not intended to target bars, but individuals to help keep SafeRide top of mind. “We are trying to boost SafeRide as a whole,” adds Mjelde, “and ensure patrons know this incredible service is available to them as they visit our member establishments.” TLW
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 13
ABL DISPATCH — THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS FROM WASHINGTON BY JOHN BODNOVICH, ABL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
A
merican Beverage Licensees (ABL) will hold its 2024 annual conference in San Antonio, Texas, July 28 to 29. The meeting will be held concurrently with the Texas Package Stores Association meeting (TPSA), and ABL attendees will have access to the TPSA trade show and other hospitality events. ABL’s meeting hotel, the San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk, is located on the vibrant San Antonio River Walk downtown, and is ideal for both business and leisure. Stay tuned for more information about the 2024 ABL Annual Meeting soon.
From the Capitol Congress was partially paralyzed due to the absence of a speaker of the House following the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). A new speaker, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA), was elected to the position on October 25. The top legislative priority now is funding the government before it runs out of money on November 17. Congress can do this by either passing a continuing resolution to extend current funding levels, or through the appropriations process and regular order, which would entail passing 12 individual appropriations bills in the House and Senate, and then negotiating the differences between the House and Senate versions. Given the looming deadline, another continuing resolution is likely necessary. Complicating all of this is the desire for foreign aid to Ukraine, Taiwan and now Israel, not to mention support for U.S. border security.
Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) to introduce S. 1838. Meanwhile, Reps. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) and Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) joined House Democrat lead Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) and Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) to introduce H.R. 3881. The most likely path to passage lies through the Senate and that is where ABL is focusing its efforts. ABL hosted Merchants Payments Coalition managing director Stephanie Badger as a guest speaker at the ABL Annual Meeting in June to brief members on the issue. In July, ABL initiated targeted outreach and asked some of its members to contact key senators to push for the CCCA to be offered as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Due to Sen. Durbin being out with COVID-19 and other factors, Sen. Marshall agreed to withdraw the amendment (and his hold on the NDAA) in exchange for an assurance that the CCCA would receive a vote in this Congress. In September, the CCCA was once again offered as an amendment to a “minibus” funding bill that combined the three least controversial appropriations bills. Before the minibus could be considered, Congress passed a 45-day continuing resolution to keep the government funded until November 17, rendering the minibus moot. ABL continues to work with the Merchants Payments Coalition to lobby Congress to support the CCCA. Bar and tavern owners can keep the pressure on by continuing to send messages, attend local events and host small business roundtables with senators in their community.
Dietary Guidelines While the noise and macropolitical issues are stalling progress in Congress on some issues, ABL remains undeterred in pursuing its legislative agenda, and will continue to actively advocate and lobby on behalf of its members. The number one issue has been advancing the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) in the Senate, while also monitoring other issues and legislation.
The process for revising the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans has begun. ABL has been working with a coalition of partners to understand that process and make sure that the current 2020-2025 guidelines that recommend “that adults of legal drinking age can choose not to drink, or to drink in moderation by limiting intake to two drinks or less in a day for men or one drink or less in a day for women” are not changed.
ABL Seeking Senate Floor Vote on the CCCA In June, Congress introduced the CCCA. Sens. J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Peter Welch (D-VT) joined issue champions Sens.
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In August, George Koob, director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, who is sometimes also www.tlw.org
Impaired Driving Technology Since the enactment of the law calling for the future implementation of impaired-driving detection technology mandated by Congress in the 2021 infrastructure bill, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking. The legislation mandates a final rule not later than November 2024, though there are contingencies for delay. ABL staff is keeping in contact with industry partners who share concern about the policy and urging them to stand opposed to any de facto lowering of the federal blood alcohol concentration for drunk driving to 0.05%.
PRO Practices Discussed at Music Licensing Hearing referred to as the Alcohol Czar, stated that the U.S. could follow the lead of Canada and reduce what is considered moderate consumption to no more than two drinks per week. His comments were met with a swift rebuke by members of Congress and the White House, but that does not mean that a sharp reduction is not being considered by those working on the updated dietary guidelines.
ABL continues to work with the MIC Coalition to highlight the challenges facing music licensees and possible solutions given the proliferation of the number of performance rights organizations (PROs). ABL has met with members of Congress to discuss its concerns and is hopeful that interested legislators will work with licensees on a legislative solution to their concerns. TLW
ABL participated in advocacy efforts in 2020 to make sure that the dietary guidelines for moderate alcohol consumption were not reduced then and is actively engaged to make sure they are not changed this time around.
ABL is the voice of America’s beer, wine and spirits retailers in Washington, D.C. ABL represents the TLW and its many members, as well as thousands of other on- and off-premise retailers of beverage alcohol across the United States.
OTHER BILLS AND ISSUES •T he American Data Privacy and Protection Act (ADPPA) has yet to be reintroduced. ABL continues its membership in the Main Street Privacy Coalition and monitoring of the bill. Previously, ABL weighed in on the legislation’s treatment of customer loyalty programs, private rights of action and preemption of state privacy laws. • The Main Street Competes Act (H.R. 5424) was introduced on September 26 and would examine how the competitiveness of small businesses is affected by the enforcement of federal antitrust laws. ABL is a member of the Main Street Competition Coalition and supports this bill. • The Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act (H.R. 3734), introduced by Reps. Lloyd Smucker (R-
www.tlw.org
PA) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX) on May 31, would “amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for an H–2C nonimmigrant classification” as a means to address hospitality industry staffing challenges by creating a program of nonimmigrant three-year visas for workers. • The Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act was passed in September, marking the first time the Senate has advanced the bill out of committee. It would provide banking services to legitimate cannabis-related businesses. Despite overcoming this hurdle, the bill faces an uphill battle to get Senate approval or advance in the Republican-controlled House thanks to political considerations on the right and left. ABL does not have a position on this bill.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 15
BY THE BOOK WHY DOES THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WANT TO KNOW WHO OWNS MY BUSINESS? BY BRIAN L. ANDERSON AND NEIL S. SCHADLE
I
f your tavern, bar or restaurant is organized as a corporation, limited liability company or other business entity created by the filing of a document with a secretary of state or similar office (e.g., the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions), then your business will likely be required to electronically file a beneficial ownership report with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) of the U.S. Treasury Department in 2024. Why? Because your business will be subject to a rule recently issued by the FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act passed by Congress in 2021. FinCEN explains, “Designed to protect U.S. national security, and strengthen the integrity and transparency of the U.S. financial system, the rule will help to stop criminal actors, including oligarchs, kleptocrats, drug and human traffickers, and those who would use anonymous shell companies to hide their illicit proceeds.” Of course, the rule imposes reporting burdens on innumerable legitimate businesses as well. While most businesses will be required to file a beneficial ownership report, there are some exceptions. For example, a business that is organized as a sole proprietorship or general partnership is not required to report, because it does not file any organizational document with a secretary of state or similar office. A “large operating company” is also not required to file the report. A large operating company is any entity that: employs more than 20 full-time employees in the U.S., has an operating presence at a physical office in the U.S., and has filed a federal income tax return for the previous year showing more than $5 million in gross receipts. The report is required to include not only the business’ name, address and employer identification number, but also, for each individual who is a beneficial owner, a full legal name, date of birth, current address and unique identifying number from a non-expired passport, government-issued identification document or driver’s license, plus an image of the document showing the unique identifying number. In other words, if you provide your driver’s license number, you will then be required to attach to the report a photograph of your driver’s license.
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With respect to each reporting business, a beneficial owner is any individual who exercises substantial control over the business, or owns or controls at least 25%. Senior officers and members of the board of directors are considered to have substantial control. Therefore, even if your business were to have five or more equal shareholders, with no one owning at least 25%, the report would be required to include the name, date of birth, address and unique identifying number of each officer and director. If any of the information in a report were to change, the business would be required to file an updated report within 30 days after the date on which the change occurred. For example, if your business were to move its location (or if you, as a beneficial owner, were to move to a different residential address), then your business would be required to file an updated report with the new address within 30 days after the move. The database of all reporting businesses and their beneficial owners will be accessible for certain purposes by federal and state agencies (primarily law enforcement), but not by the general public. Beneficial ownership reports may be filed starting on January 1, 2024. Reporting businesses formed before this date must file by January 1, 2025, while reporting businesses formed after this date will have only 30 days to file. A willful violation of the reporting rule can result in a civil penalty of $500 per day and a criminal penalty of up to two years imprisonment. The key word is “willful,” so an unintentional violation should not result in penalty. Business owners preparing for the impacts of the Corporate Transparency Act should keep in mind the importance of examining reporting requirements for all of their business entities. As many taverns, bars and restaurants consist of several different business entities (such as separate real estate and operating entities, or separate entities for each retail location), it is crucial to make sure that each business entity is following its reporting requirements. Business owners should reach out to their attorney with any questions or concerns regarding the impact of the Corporate Transparency Act on their business. Additional information can also be found at fincen.gov/boi. TLW For any inquiries, please contact Brian Anderson (bla@dewittllp. com) or Neil Schadle (nschadle@dewittllp.com), attorneys at DeWitt LLP in Madison. www.tlw.org
LEGISLATIVE
NOTES
2024 IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER BY SCOTT STENGER, STENGER GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
W
hile it seems like it just started, the 2022-23 legislative session is already winding down. There is a scheduled floorperiod (during which legislators formally debate proposals) through March 14 before the 2022-23 session is scheduled to conclude.
The remainder of the session’s scheduled floorperiods and other important dates are: January 16 to 25, 2024 - floorperiod; February 13 to 22, 2024 - floorperiod; March 12 to 14, 2024 - floorperiod; April 4, 2024 - bills sent to the governor; April 11, 2024 - last general-business floorperiod; April 16 to 18, 2024 limited-business floorperiod; April 25, 2024 - bills sent to the governor; May 14 and 15, 2024 - veto review floorperiod; March 15, 2024 to January 6, 2025 - interim committee work; June 5, 2024 - bills sent to the governor; and finally, January 6, 2025 - 2025 inauguration.
2024 Elections After the legislative session ends, our attention turns to the 2024 elections. Since it’s a presidential election year, Wisconsin is again expected to play a central role. Plus all eight congressional seats will be up and Tammy Baldwin’s U.S. Senate seat. On the state level, all 99 Assembly seats and half of the state Senate seats are up for election. Currently, Republicans hold a 22-11 majority in the state Senate and a 64-35 edge in the state Assembly. However, a case pending in the Wisconsin Supreme Court could result in new legislative maps for the 2024 election. The case is asking the court to redraw all 132 legislative districts as well as seeking to require all 33 state Senate seats to be on the November 2024 ballot. New maps must be in place by April for nomination papers to be circulated. A change in districts could result in a tremendous shakeup in the legislature, with the potential of significantly changing the political makeup of most every district in the state.
Legislative Day 2024 One of the longest running and biggest Tavern League legislative events in Wisconsin continues to be TLW Legislative Day! We have scheduled our annual event for March 5 at the Best Western Premier Park Hotel in Madison. This year’s event will be free to all TLW members. Mark your calendar and spread the word to make this premier Legislative Day event in Madison! TLW www.tlw.org
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 17
LEAGUE PROFILE PIERCE COUNTY TAVERN LEAGUE
W
ith dozens of miles of shoreline along the Mississippi River, Pierce County is home to 60 TLW members who thrive on tourism while still serving its resident patrons. “We have a lot of small towns. And we’re known for our river towns — Bay City, Maiden Rock and Prescott. Ellsworth is our hub and we’re spread out from there,” says Mike Celt, president of the Pierce County Tavern League and former owner of Mike’s Bay Town Bar & Grill in Bay City. “We get many people from the Twin Cities and surrounding areas in the spring, summer and especially the fall. We call them the ‘leafers,’ the people who come for fall color, and there are a lot of them,” according to Celt.
“I’ve been president up here for 26 years, and I owned my bar for 26 years and one month, so I know the strength of this organization.” — Mike Celt, Mike’s Bay Town Bar & Grill
The Pierce County Tavern League has a keen focus on fundraising and charitable work. Celt, who has been president for 26 years, notes that the league shared about $85,000 in charitable giving just last year. One of the league’s primary fundraisers is its annual holiday party. Held in February, it’s open to members and the public, and features raffles, a silent auction and other opportunities to give. The league also holds an annual golf outing every August.
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“We do a lot of giving out of Pierce County Tavern League. Whatever money that we raise from these events is funneled to our league, and we turn around and give it to different charities,” explains Celt. The Pierce County Tavern League regularly donates to a variety of organizations that serve county residents, including the local food pantry, women’s shelter, law enforcement and emergency response departments, and the Wounded Warrior Foundation of Pierce County, which serves veterans. Celt adds that Pierce County Tavern League’s individual member establishments also heavily contribute to charities. “They will have fundraisers for families and organizations, do benefits and give money to families in need,” he acknowledges. The Pierce County Tavern League meets the first Monday of each month, and meetings focus on business needs, what’s happening in the county and how to best disseminate fundraising dollars. At present, like other county leagues and the state organization, Pierce County is focused on AB 304, which will be up for a vote in November. Among other things in the bill that are supported by the Tavern League, the bill would create a dedicated Division of Alcohol Enforcement in the state Department of Revenue; require event venues, including wedding barns, to obtain an appropriate liquor license; and increase the operating while impaired SafeRide surcharge from $50 to $75 for increased revenue for the SafeRide Program. “That would be a big one for us to get over the line and we’re doing our part to support it,” says Celt. He also says that being a member of the Tavern League means you have someone who has your back, no matter what. “I’ve been president up here for 26 years, and I owned my bar for 26 years and one month, so I know the strength of this organization,” shares Celt. “All you need to do is look at the pandemic to see how the Tavern League supports its members. That was a tough eight weeks, but you saw how they had our backs.” TLW www.tlw.org
CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT XTREME BAR BINGO
T
odd Korves says, “This isn’t your grandma’s bingo.”
He owns Xtreme Bar Bingo, one of the TLW’s newest corporate sponsors. The company offers a fresh take on the classic game. Players have the chance to win deluxe prizes from Visa gift cards to TVs to sporting event tickets and more over the course of nine games. There is also a progressive jackpot. “Players love the prizes and the game, and bars love the draw of it,” according to Korves. Bingo is in Korves’ blood. His family has been in the bingo business as a distributor of bingo and raffle supplies since 1971, and Korves previously worked in marketing in the bar industry. “In 2017, we put two heads together and created Xtreme Bar Bingo,” explains Korves. The company started with five bars in the company’s hometown of Belleville, Illinois, and has now expanded to 250 bars in six states, including Wisconsin. At present, Xtreme Bar Bingo is in about 65 establishments in Wisconsin, with those concentrated in the Milwaukee, Lake Geneva and Delavan areas. However, Korves hopes to expand the reach of Xtreme Bar Bingo with its new connection to the Tavern League. “We see Wisconsin as one of our best markets,” says Korves. “When I saw how influential the Tavern League is, how it backs its own, especially during the pandemic, and how it’s a well-run organization, it was important for us to partner with it.” With Xtreme Bar Bingo, a weekly fee provides establishments with the software, equipment, cards, daubers, most prizes, the jackpot and marketing support, while partner establishments provide their own bingo callers, three game prizes, and the space and time for patrons to play.
“Our goal is to turn a bar’s slowest night into its busiest night.” — Todd Korves, Xtreme Bar Bingo www.tlw.org
It’s also free to play. Aside from being free, a huge draw of Xtreme Bar Bingo is the cash jackpot. The jackpot, which is for all participating bars, starts at $3,000 and grows by $1,000 weekly until there’s a winner. The largest jackpot prize to date is $11,000. “Our goal is to turn a bar’s slowest night into its busiest night,” says Korves. Moreover, players have the chance to win game prizes. The company has given away $950,000 in prizes since 2017. These aren’t your typical games either. While some of the nine games are played normally, others are designed to get bingos from unique shapes, like field goal posts during football season, or combinations like all Bs and Os. Korves estimates, in addition to supporting repeat visits and helping attract new customers, sales can increase by 20% to 30% through nine rounds of bingo. “In some areas, it’s become a community thing,” says Korves. “In Delavan, there’s bingo three to four nights per week, and there are some people who bounce around and play at all the bars. We have heard stories of people who have never stepped in to a participating bar before and becoming regulars.” “We make it as easy as possible, providing the marketing, all of the equipment and the prizes,” explains Korves. “The best thing is that everyone knows what bingo is, and you can either sit there and casually play, or be all in.” Korves looks forward to expanding Xtreme Bar Bingo’s footprint throughout Wisconsin. “This is the place to be,” he concludes. TLW XTREME BAR BINGO Todd Korves (618) 234-0388, ext. 3 todd@xtremebarbingo.com | xtremebarbingo.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 19
NEW MEMBERS As of October 10, 2023 DISTRICT 1 Kenosha City BB’s Pub Christine Cantrell Kenosha Gerber’s Pub Mark Gerber Kenosha
Walworth County Grand Geneva Resort & Spa Adnan Khan Lake Geneva Luis’s Pizza Jose Sierra Lake Geneva
DISTRICT 2 Columbia County Rock N Wool Winery Shaun Lapacek Poynette Dodge County Angel’s Bar Angelika Schwantes Beaver Dam
Otter’s Bar & Grill LLC Karla Stibb Randolph
Oshkosh City/ Winnebago County Wilzke’s Pub Melissa Sandry Menasha
La Crosse City/ County Dewey’s Side Street Saloon Jeff Connelly La Crosse Latino Bar & Grill LLC Ruben Cruz Arcadia LAX Food Hall LLC Zachary Switzer La Crosse Monroe County The Elbow Room Caitlin Henry Tomah
Sauk County Galeros Catering, DBA Draft City Taproom & Eatery Elena Hildebrandt Baraboo
DISTRICT 4 Calumet County 40 West DJ Payne Chilton
The River Tap Michael Wolf Watertown Waukesha County Bluemound Bowl Henry Posnanski Brookfield
DISTRICT 3 Crawford County Tin Shed Michael Ducharme Eastman Dells/Delton Area Rockin Chicken Shack Keith Koehler Wisconsin Dells Grant/Iowa County Kieler Mall Makenzie Jochum Kieler On Premise
Fishy’s Bar & Grill LLC Jim Fish La Valle
JAC’s Steakhouse Jennifer Popp Tomah
Mugshotz Sports Bar and Grill Heidi Uebelacker Randolph
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Twisted Pair Saloon Matt Geib Kewaskum
The Landing Ben Schaitel Mauston
Kenosha County Pookie’s Sunset Saloon Joshua Spooner Genoa City
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Juneau County Big Franks Rob Gerleman Necedah
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Mr Brews Taphouse Kara Day Appleton Waverly Beach Brady Stanzel Menasha Fond du Lac County The Outpost Pamela Biertzer Eden Third and One Brant Bornemann Fond du Lac Throwback Pockets Selena McCord Fond du Lac
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Ozaukee County Jen’s Place Jennifer Welch Fredonia Washington County The Goose Is Loose Nicki Saxon Sussex
DISTRICT 5
Oconto County Angie’s SideTrack LLC Angie Dehn Oconto Dawg Haus Frank Herrera Oconto Outagamie County Anduzzi’s Sports Club Brady Stanzel Kimberly
Jackson County Deerview Lori Bixby Meridian The Humbird Hotel Bar & Grill Matthew Hawkes Humbird
The Bar on the Avenue Kyle Willenkamp Appleton
Mooch’s Pizzeria LLC Brittany Bue Alma Center
Broken Chandelier Kyle Jones Appleton
Vojtik’s Stockyard Rick Vojtik Fairchild
Adams County Happy Place Fish Farm & Watering Hole Jeremiah Conley Adams
OB’s Brau Haus Christopher Nelis Appleton
The Mill of Arkdale Brenda Winchester Friendship
Xtra Innings Nathan Maves Appleton
Green Lake Area Goose Blind Grill & Bar Mary Rowley Green Lake
Eau Claire City/ County Casa Margarita West LLC Cesar Lopez Eau Claire
Vaudette LLC Gregory Vandehey Kaukauna
DISTRICT 7 Chippewa County The Edge Pub & Eatery Al Grube Chippewa Falls
Wayside Inn Sarah Buschman Fairchild Pierce County Bullwinkle’s Bar Scott Mitchell Ellsworth St. Croix County Hop & Barrel Brewing Justin Terbeest Hudson
Wood County 4 Stools Short LLC Amber Manthey Wisconsin Rapids
Foster’s Riverview Inn Jennifer Hess Cornell
Trempealeau/ Buffalo County Brad’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill Brad Norland Fountain City
DISTRICT 6
Old Bloomer Brewhouse Jager Hofstedt Bloomer
Burlington Hotel & Bar Jennifer Griffith Alma
Sakura Japanese Cuisine Kai Tao Lin Chippewa Falls
Waumandee Country Bar Andrew Sendelbach Waumandee
Brown County De Belgian Saloon & Eats Randall De Greef Greenleaf Great Lakes Arcade & Vending LLC Ashley Yealey Green Bay Little Tokyo Restaurant Vanoudom Lee Green Bay Forest County Pine Grove Pub LLC Jared Baughman Pickerel
SS Road House LLC Glenn Hudack II New Auburn Clark County Behind Barrs Dawn Geisslet Greenwood
DISTRICT 8 Burnett County Red Stag Saloon Laura Chamberlin Grantsburg
Happy Beeerz LLC Dawn Geiger Spencer
Greater Northwoods Albe’s Bar Albert Oestreich Mercer
Little Club Donnie Smith Spencer
Doogie’s Dugout Cathy Houtari Hurley
SK Frontier Inn LLC Kenneth Hornick Green Bay Price County Friends of Fred Smith Inc. Ann Grzywnowicz Phillips Sailor’s II Brian Floyd Prentice Rusk County Adventure’s Resort Jason Rafko Ladysmith The LO Bar Blake Doud Ladysmith Tee Away Golf and Grill Ladysmith Sawyer County Moxi Lodge & Lounge Matt and Roxi Plath Winter Superior/ Douglas County Charlie Brown’s Bar Mark Fulda Superior Nemadji Golf Course Tom Beaudry Superior Taylor County Kolve’s Corner Bar Jerry Kolve Lublin Wild Bill’s Tap Melody Best Medford
DISTRICT 9 Milwaukee County Central Standard Distillery Evan Hughes Milwaukee U-Bar LLC Josephine Crossley West Allis
www.tlw.org
AFFILIATE MEMBERS
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
As of October 10, 2023 Core Cabling & Integration
Doug Ebert 3310 Miller St., Ste. B, Eau Claire, WI 54701 (715) 492-7255
office@cci-wi.com | coreintegrationwi.com Gardner Entertainment
Jeff Williamson 1415 Johnson St., Janesville, WI 53548 (608) 758-0730
jeffswilliamson@sbcglobal.net Restaurant Technologies
Joshua Hogan 2842 Coventry Lane, Waukesha, WI 53188 (262) 347-8605
jhogan@rti-inc.com | rti-inc.com
Southern Wisconsin Northern Illinois (SWNI) Biker Guide Thomas Thomsen 933 North Ave., Waukegan, IL 60085 (224) 440-4999
tt022864@gmail.com
Stools, Tables, Outdoor Furniture, Kitchen Equipment, Booths, Glasswashers and Full Line of Bar Supplies.
5 Year Frame Warranty Available 29 Year Affiliate Tavern League Member
7100 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis
414.259.9161
contact@bandkbarsupplies.com
www.BandKBarSupplies.com www.tlw.org
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 21
NATIONAL CERTIFIED FOOD SAFETY MANAGER LICENSE TRAINING CALENDAR Small Operator Permit To see details and register online, please visit tlw.org/food-safety-courses. Have questions? Call the TLW Food Safety Hotline at (608) 296-9226. Date
Location
Site and Address
Wednesday, November 8
Milwaukee
Dugout 54, 5328 W. Bluemound Rd.
Monday, November 13
Green Bay
Stadium View, 1963 Holmgren Way
Monday, November 13
Wausau
Dale’s Weston Lanes, 5902 Schofield Ave.
Tuesday, November 14
Fond du Lac
Radisson Hotel and Conference Center Fond du Lac, 625 W. Rolling Meadows Dr.
Wednesday, November 15
Madison
Doubledays, 4586 Baxter Rd.
Wednesday, November 29
Kenosha
Brat Stop/Parkway Chateau, 12304 75th St.
Monday, December 4
Hudson
Best Western Plus Hudson, 1200 Gateway Blvd.
Monday, December 4
Appleton
Club 38 Bar & Grill, 3220 W. College Ave.
Tuesday, December 5
Eau Claire
Elks Lodge No. 402, 3411 Stein Blvd.
Wednesday, December 6
Janesville
Elks Lodge No. 254, 2100 N. Washington St.
Monday, December 11
Wisconsin Dells
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, 1305 Kalahari Dr.
Tuesday, December 12
Plover
Springville Sports Grill, 2811 Plover Springs Dr.
Wednesday, December 13
Milwaukee
Dugout 54, 5328 W. Bluemound Rd.
Wednesday, December 13
Dodgeville
Dodger Bowl Lanes, 314 King St.
Monday, December 18
Ashland
Pine Creek Pit Stop, 68690 Pine Creek Rd.
Tuesday, December 19
Antigo
Northstar Lanes, 400 Prosser Place
Wednesday, December 20
Madison
Doubledays, 4586 Baxter Rd.
Register at tlw.org Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps
PULLTAB PROMOTIONS Great Profits Employee Incentive Program Wisconsin’s Only CourtApproved Legal Private Pulltabs
More Info: 262-336-9624 daytonyoung@wimilkcaps.com www.wimilkcaps.com 22
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I Buy Vintage / Collectible Spirits! Do you have old bottles gathering dust? I collect older (and some newer, harder to find/allocated) bottles of whiskey (bourbon, scotch) and other liquors.
Call/Text Bryan @ 608-213-5847 to discuss.
Starr Mobile Recycling LLC Make money on the cans you are giving away! Servicing Northeast Wisconsin, Dodge, Sheboygan, Washington, and Ozaukee Counties
Call/Text 920-737-9203 starrmobilerecycling@gmail.com www.tlw.org
ADVERTISER INDEX
A Frackin’ Good Liqueur!
Anheuser-Busch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 anheuser-busch.com Ansay & Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 ansay.com B&K Bar Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 bandkbarsupplies.com Badger Amusements. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 badgeramusements.com Bryan Paull. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Cornerstone Processing Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 cornerstoneps.net Crude Spirits/ Doodlebug Beverages. . . . . . . . . . . . 23 crudespirits.com/doodlebugbeverages.com Mass Appeal Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 massappealinc.com Molson Coors Beverage Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 molsoncoors.com Society Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 societyinsurance.com Starr Mobile Recycling. . . . . . . . . . . 22 Wisconsin Amusement and Music Operators (WAMO). . . . . 7 wamo.net Wisconsin Souvenir Milkcaps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11, 22 wimilkcaps.com
Badger Amusements Older Poker Machines 80/20 Split NO UPFRONT CONTRACT
Call or Text Us TODAY! (608) 977-0685 info@badgeramusements.com www.tlw.org
100-year-old family recipe
Auburn Hussie
Dakota Nog
CrudeSpirits.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 n On Premise n 23
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