Andrea Power Wichman and Angela Power — aka, The Power Twins — are self-described “Coupon Carnies,” seasonal employees who sell those all-important coupons from a booth sitting in the shade of the Texas Star Ferris Wheel.
You know those coupons: the currency required to purchase corny dogs, Midway games, rides on the Texas Star and pretty much everything else at the Fair. And you know the booths: the little structures dotting the grounds that usually have a long line of people waiting to hand over a lot of money.
The Power Twins grew up attending the Fair with their parents and then, as adults, attending “as often as humanly possible,” Andrea says. So about 15 years ago when a friend involved with the Fair referred her to seasonal work, she jumped at the chance. She, in turn, recommended her twin, Angela, a few years later, and the two have worked together in Booth 11 ever since.
Both have other full-time employment on weekdays, so they work the Fair every Sunday during its run from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fortunately, they have no complaints about their booth. “Ours fits two people sitting comfortably, and we can squeeze in a couple of people standing if necessary,” says Andrea, smiling. “It’s no luxury hotel, but it’s our home away from home,” complete with padded swivel chairs and an A/C unit. “State Fair supplied us with a nifty windbreaker a few years back, and we turn the temp down and enjoy the cold air.”
Over the years, they’ve learned to be prepared. “We actually have a kit for the days that we work. It has thermoses for our food and coffee, chamois to dry the counter if it’s raining, snacks, utensils for our eating adventures,” explains Angela. During busier times, they bring along a small slow cooker to prepare meals.
So how’s the view from the booth’s windows? “We get to see the excitement on the Fairgoers’ faces,” Andrea says, “and we love to talk to customers. We don’t get a lot of time with them, but we try to squeeze in some conversations. Some talk about how many years they’ve been coming to the Fair, what they plan on seeing and eating while they are there.”
As fellow Fair enthusiasts, they can relate to their customers. “So many people have long histories with the Fair, and it’s great to share the excitement with them. When we meet folks that are visiting for the first time, we try to fill them in on a few things in the short time we have their attention.” Each year, the twins make it a point to familiarize themselves with the grounds, particularly the food. “We like to have firsthand knowledge of some of the goodies so we can share it with anyone who passes by our window.”
And they understand that buying coupons doesn’t fall under the entertainment category. “Waiting in line for coupons isn’t fun,” Andrea admits, “but we try to make it fun when you’re at our window.” They make an effort to “calm the sting of prices” with jokes. “Angela always makes customers laugh when she says ‘see you in an hour’ after they purchase their coupons.”
As fun as the booth can be, they remain vigilant for fraudulent activity and are trained to watch for and recognize counterfeit money. It doesn’t happen often, but Angela recalls an attempt. “The guy was in a hurry, and he looked a bit nervous and asked for $40 in coupons. I told him if he would give me real twenties, I would be more than happy to sell them to him.” On the rare occasion when it happens, they call the office to let them know and provide a description of the person.
Angela adds this caution: “There’s also a problem with counterfeit coupons. It’s best to buy coupons from a coupon booth and not from an individual.”
One of their favorite activities during lulls is people watching. “Years ago a man came with his emotional support dog, a dachshund, dressed in Dallas Cowboys gear and sunglasses,” Andrea recalls. “The dog was incredibly laid back.”
“Also, we get to see interesting photo shoots in front of the Texas Star. One time there was a gymnast doing a backbend. And we’ve had cowgirls with cotton candy, dancing around.” The Power Twins have also seen photo shoots featuring ballerinas and other dancers.
The multitude of sights and sounds at the Fair, The Power Twins enjoy it all. “It’s loads of fun, lots of people watching. I love watching people walk around having fun, riding rides, trying foods,” says Andrea. “It can be hard work, especially when the crowds get big, but we have the time of our lives in that booth. The State Fair of Texas is my happy place.”
