May 2019
A Special Thanks to Our 2019
Direct Connection Sponsors!
Sponsor Spotlight
Continental Refrigerator
Designer Line Extra-Wide Reach-In Refrigerator Models
D1RENSS, D2RENSS, D1RENPTSS & D2RENPTSS
Low GWP Natural Refrigerant R-290

ENERGY STAR ® qualified, top mounted “plug” refrigeration system with thermal expansion valve (TXV) utilizing low GWP R-290 refrigerant. All condensate water is evaporated by an automatic, non-electric, hot gas condensate evaporator. Unique air distribution down duct system provides optimal air flow to all levels of cabinet. 3” non-CFC polyurethane foam insulation provides better energy efficiency and reduced reliance on refrigeration system. Electronic controller with digital display and hi-low alarm gives user better control and higher accuracy. Safe and efficient LED interior lighting. Welded door corners add strength and durability. Smooth, polished chrome workflow door handles. Stainless steel exterior and interior. 1-section reach-in door can be rehinged in the field. FLEX IBLE options include, universal pan slides, shelving variations, custom laminates, caster options and correctional facility package. Our products are American-made, engineered for food safety, optimal performance and built to last.  
Educational Foundation

The Educational Foundation is asking for our help. they would like to launch new programs and enhance existing programs for the future benefit of all members.

The Upper Midwest Chapter raised $1,200.00 for the Educational Foundation at their annual networking reception earlier this month. Much appreciated and a job well done! Thanks to Jay Bravinder and Tom Gatschet of Champion Industries and Chapter Co-leader, Katharine Mizla, for helping out with the 50/50 raffle. A special thank you to the winner, Travis Walker from Wood Stone, who was kind enough to give back his winnings to the Educational Foundation!

Ed Norman, FFCSI (PP), the FCSI Educational Foundation President, encourages members to consider donating to the Foundation to help them reach their 2019-2020 goal of $200,000. Keep in mind all donations are 100% deductible to business due to our 501 c3 non-profit status.
Member News
Welcome New Members!
Associate Members

Isabela Menezes
Mise en Place Arquitetura

Russell Rubinstein
NGAssociates

Marleen St. Marie
Davella Studios

Fredrick Gordon
Gordon Restaurant Consulting LLC

Sherri Myers
Foodservice Design Professionals

Congratulations to the following members pursing Professional Membership!

Senior Associate

Rick Palmer
DRS Food Service Design
FCSI The Americas Store

Check out our FCSI Store! You will find FCSI The Americas branded clothes, tumblers, and organizers. When you order from our store, 15% of all sales will go back to the FCSI The Americas Division!
Want to share your expertise with the Foodservice Industry?

Consider being a part of FCSI The Americas Foodservice Consultants Experts Network. The network is intended to be a research tool to search for Independent Foodservice Consultants who wish to spread their knowledge in the Foodservice and Hospitality Industry.

Consultants can be searched by location, areas of expertise, market segments, or experience. For more information or a list of contacts, visit the  Experts Network webpage. To be included in the network, contact Sydney.
Consultants Contributing Corner

Compass Restaurant Consulting & Research (Compass RCR) publishes a monthly pulse report on the Restaurant Industry. The information in this Business Summary is derived from Compass RCR’s monthly reports, the National Restaurant Association Research Department, and Black Box Intelligence. Click the image on the right to view the Monthly Restaurant Industry Snapshot - April 2019.

If you are a Consultant and would like to share your experiences with our Society and contribute to this section of the Direct Connection, please contact  Sydney .
Quick Links
Serving Up Solutions
Chapter Corner
Runners on your Mark!

The Pacific Northwest Chapter recognized a need to desire to become more active in the community and has joined forces to combat hunger. The Chapter has organized a run/walk event to raise money and awareness for the local non-profit charity, HopeWorks, based in Everett, WA.

The ERACE Hunger 5k will be held at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, WA on Saturday, October 5 from 8am-12:30pm (PST). The event will feature 3 different race categories - 5k run, 2k run/walk/wog, and a kid dash (ages 6 and under).

Runner rates are $25 for runners who pre-register online (includes t-shirt) and $30 for runners who register onsite. Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 runners in each age group.

Contact Tim McDougald or Janel Rupp for questions.
FCSI TA's Upper Midwest Chapter Networking Reception was a hit!

Over 200 foodservice professionals gathered together at the Upper Midwest Chapter's Annual Networking Reception on Sunday, May 19 at the Godfrey Hotel in Chicago. Mother Nature cooperated and the skies cleared up just in time for the event so attendees could enjoy the stunning rooftop view of the city!

During the event, the FCSI Educational Foundation hosted a 50/50 drawing. Big congrats to Travis Walker (Wood Stone) on winning the drawing. Travis generously donated back his winnings of $600 making the total raised for the Foundation $1200!
Northeast Chapter's Golf Outing and Lobster Dinner
On June 3, 2019, the Northeast Chapter is hosting their Annual Charity Golf outing and Lobster dinner at Andover Country Club in Andover, MA. Groups will tee off at 11:30am followed by cocktails at 6:00pm and Lobster Dinner at 8:00pm.

For more information, contact Jim Whiffen or Linda Bowden at 781.221.7276
Southeast Chapter - Revinar

The next webinar, taking place Wednesday, June 5, will explore filters and how to use them in plan and schedule.

What organizational tools do you use to create your MEP drawings? Join us in June for this interactive look into how to make the most of filters.
Industry News
NAFEM Advocacy Update

NAFEM publishes Advocacy Update monthly to keep members up-to-date on pending legislative, regulatory and technological issues potentially impacting the smallwares, middleware and hot- and cold-sides of the commercial foodservice equipment industry. For more information, visit the  Advocacy  section of  www.NAFEM.org .