THE BALLOON MAN

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Family says carnival great way to raise funds

The Super Shot is one of the Alpine Amusement Company rides. Submitted photo

By Kristen Kucharski For The Sun Jan 9, 2011
Selling cookies, candies and magazines are stereotypical ways to raise funds for an organization, but one Naperville family gives organizations the chance to really create magical memories while earning money for a cause.
“People are usually amazed that it costs absolutely nothing to host a carnival for their fundraiser,” says Michelle Massie, wife of Donnie Massie, who co-owns Alpine Amusement. “They usually assume they cannot afford us, when it’s truly the opposite; we offer them the greatest fundraising profit margin since they do not assume any expense!”
Michelle says Alpine Amusement actually pays a percentage to the sponsoring organization to entertain on their property.
Alpine Amusement Company began operations in May 1994. While Massie’s dad, Don, owned a few pieces since the 1970s and booked in with larger shows, it wasn’t until Donnie graduated from Northern Illinois University that they became a full-service amusement company. Alpine Amusement is based from south Naperville where Michelle and Donnie have lived for 12 years. They have a warehouse in Union Grove, Wis.
Donnie handles the day-to-day operations, including human resources, payroll, management of operations and marketing for the company. Don handles all the accounting and the behind-the-scenes analysis of the company. Michelle oversees accounts payable and assists with payroll.
“Otherwise, we depend greatly on our staff,” Michelle says. “We have been blessed with a manager who has been with us since 1994, along with other committed employees who remain loyal to us over the years.”