South Florida Fair CEO keeps ‘county’s biggest party’ going
After 35 years of working at the South Florida Fair, this is Vicki Chouris’ first year as president and CEO. She joined the fair in 1985 as assistant to the CEO.
In July, she moved into the lead from her position as vice president and chief operating officer after former CEO Rick Vymlatil’s retirement. She’s the first woman to serve as CEO in the fair’s 108-year history.
The fair opened Jan. 16 with the annual Ride-a-Thon. It runs through Feb. 2 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. This year’s theme is “Play Ball, Play Fair!” in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution and the Florida Humanities Council. The celebration of sports includes interactive and educational exhibits at the Expo Center.
Chouris calls the fair “Palm Beach County’s largest party,” and with that comes the challenge of keeping all the “balls in the air.”
“There are so many aspects to putting on an annual 17-day event that attracts over 400,000 visitors. It is also an everyday learning experience in operating a facility that is used year-round hosting events for our community,” Chouris said.
The fair has a partnership with KultureCity for the first time this year to make the fair sensory inclusive. People with autism, dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder and other similar conditions sometimes experience sensory sensitivities or challenges. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise.
Equipment such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads are available. Two rooms have been set aside as quiet rooms, one in the Bink Glisson Museum in Yesteryear Village and the other in the Artist Alley in Building 2 on the covered concourse.
“Knowing that we are able to serve the needs of families who have a sensory challenge and who may not have previously attended is heartwarming,” Chouris said. “We feel gratified knowing that we are going the extra mile to be all-inclusive.”
The fair is always being reinvented, and this year features several new events and activities. It includes new shows such as Cirque Dreams’ “Carnivale” and “Team Big Air,” an acrobatic basketball show.
“Parking at the facility is our biggest challenge. People want to come to the fair on weekends and parking becomes very limited. We are implementing a shuttle bus transportation system this year for the first time,” Chouris said.
Here are some of Chouris’ top weekend tips for fairgoers:
— Use Park & Ride, a free shuttle from the Mall at Wellington Green. The designated parking lot is between Dillard’s and Macy’s. It’s available only on Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 9:30 a.m. All pre-fair activities, including buying tickets and going through the security check, will take place before boarding the bus. Every rider with a paid admission will receive a $5 food voucher valid at any food stand at the fair.
— Beat the crowds by arriving early. The fair opens at 10 a.m., and the rides open at 11 a.m.
Weekday tips:
— Hit the fair on Tuesdays when admission is $2, and most rides are $2. Every vendor has a food or beverage item that is just $2 as well.
— Bike Night on Wednesdays features more than 200 motorcycles in a parade that starts at 6:30 p.m. People riding a motorcycle and one passenger will pay $5 each for admission.
Chouris also recommends visiting the agricultural area where people can see farm animals up close and enjoy a daily horse show.
— Take advantage of the shows that are free with admission, such as the Leaping Lotus Chinese Acrobats, and of course, don’t forget the Midway, operated by Wade Shows.
Name: Victoria “Vicki” A. Chouris
Job title: President and CEO, South Florida Fair
Hometown and where you live now: Massillon, Ohio. I reside in unincorporated Palm Beach County.
Family: Husband Toby Notman
Education: MBA from Palm Beach Atlantic University
What do you like most about your job? The dedication of our staff and our board members and our volunteers. Everyone involved gives their hearts and souls to this organization.
About your nonprofit: We have just over 50 full-time employees and host more than 100 events a year. We were started in 1912 by community members who had extraordinary vision for the residents and businesses of Palm Beach County. We also have a living history park on the Fairgrounds in Yesteryear Village, which is now open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year.
First paying job and what you learned from it: I worked for my dad at his neighborhood pharmacy in Ohio and I learned, even your dad can fire you if you are not dependable!
First break in the business: My first big break in the fair industry was when I was asked to serve on the Florida Federation of Fairs Board in early 2000. I moved through the officer positions and served as chair in 2007. In 2011 I was inducted into the Florida Fairs Hall of Fame. I now serve as a board member for the International Association of Fairs and Expositions. This is a huge honor as there are 1,800 members.
How has the fair has changed in recent years? We continue to grow. The biggest change is adding new events and activities for the fair visitor. We have some great ticket promotions that help to keep it affordable for families. An advance admission ticket to the fair is only $10. This is a great deal and has been that same price for many, many years.
Best business or leadership book that you have read: Although not a leadership book, many years ago when I read “It’s Always Something” by Gilda Radner, I learned great insight as to how to communicate with people when life is a struggle.
Best piece of business advice you have received: I did not get my college degree until I was 40. Our CEO at the time, Buck Christian, encouraged me to accomplish that goal.
What you tell young people about your nonprofit: We are a nonprofit and although we do not have a specific cause, we touch many, many lives in ways we will never know. Our job is to put smiles on people’s faces who often do not have much to smile about.
What do you see ahead for Palm Beach County? Palm Beach County is the best way to experience Florida! We have great leaders serving on our County Commission and I believe we are headed in the right direction. I think Palm Beach County will continue to be a place where people want to work, live and play.
Power lunch spot: My desk. I get more done at my desk during the lunch hour than most other times of the day.
Where would we find you when you are not at the office? Either playing golf or on vacation with my husband. We have visited every state in the US.
Favorite smartphone app: Southfloridafair of course!
What is the most important trait you look for when hiring? The willingness to do what it takes to get the job done. Of course, integrity and passion are right up there.
