Over 560 representatives from movie theatres, college and universities, amusement parks, zoos, park and recreation departments, golf courses, roller rinks, stadiums and arenas, and other venues attended the 1999 Regional Seminar Series. Held at 10 locations across North America, the "Speed of Service" seminar was received by seasoned concessionaires and newer operators looking to brush up on their operating knowledge and learn valuable tips and advice from a seasoned concessions professional.
Vince Pantuso, a foodservice professional with over 30 years of concessions industry experience at venues such as stadiums, movie theatres, the Olympics and consulting, taught the 10 seminars and was met by many challenging and eye-opening questions and experiences posed by the audience. In turn, attendees took away some good points against which to evaluate their own operations.
Evaluation forms given to attendees highlighted the seminar strengths, as well as serving as a tool in developing the 2000 Seminar Series. The course "was a great refresher experience and opened new ideas for improving the operation I manage," according to an attendee in Los Angeles. Another attendee in San Francisco said "(Vince) has excellent knowledge of food concession skills—this validated the seminar." Training and implementing standards at concession stands were a major part of Pantuso’s presentation, and one manager said, "I can use the packet provided as training material for my concession managers." An attendee in Milwaukee raved, "Vince was very informative, easy to listen to and a great teacher."
John Evans Jr., chairman of the Regional Vice Presidents, the board group responsible for organizing the seminars, was pleased with the turnout of the fourth seminar series offered by the National Association of Concessionaires. "The seminars allow the association to branch out to a wider audience and teach industry professionals at a regional level," said Evans. "While not everyone can attend the national convention, the seminars are geographically accessible and very cost-effective."
President Skip Stefansen of Liberto Management said, "I want to especially
thank the Regional Vice Presidents and their volunteer committee members for
their diligence and hard work in putting together some very high-quality seminars."