Mid-West Fastener Association | Winter 2023 Newsletter

Mid-West Fastener Association

CELEBRATING 77 YEARS COMMITMENT TO THE FASTENER INDUSTRY WINTER 2023

MWFA AWARDS $40,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS

On November 3rd, the MWFA held their annual scholarship award meeting. We are extremely fortunate to have given out nearly $900,000 over the years. In addition to the MWFA fund raising efforts, we thank companies and families donating scholarships making it possible to award larger scholarships to several of our applicants.

Guest speaker for this event was Dan Hampton, former NFL player. Dan was a first-round draft pick of the Chicago Bears in 1979 following an All-America season at the University of Arkansas. An outstanding and versatile defensive lineman, Hampton would play 12 seasons with the Bears. Six times he earned first- or secondteam All-Pro honors as either a defensive tackle or defensive end.

Nicknamed “Danimal” for his ferocious style of play, Hampton persevered through 10 knee surgeries and numerous other injuries as he became recognized as one of the game’s most dedicated players. Hampton was an impact player even as a rookie. In his first season he was credited with 70 tackles, 48 of which were solo efforts, as well as two fumble recoveries, three passes defensed, and two sacks. It’s for the 1985 season, however, that Dan and the Bears’ defense is best remembered. That year, the stingy Chicago defense allowed just 198 points and shut out both opponents in the NFC playoffs. The Bears went on to destroy the New England Patriots 46-10 in Super Bowl XX. He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

He spoke of the importance of goals while sharing great stories of his football career. You cannot complete a mission without goals that you see through.

MWFA congratulates this year’s Scholarship Winners.

$4,500

RICHARD S. PISKOTY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

(Donated by Clarcorp Industrial Sales)

Richard Piskoty’s life led him in many directions and every path he took he made an impact on many people, from the kids he taught and coached to the salespeople that worked for him. It is because of his devotion to his family, dedication to his career, and desire to pass on and give back to others that this scholarship is dedicated.

Sara Walsh, daughter of Bill Walsh of Brighton-Best International. Sara is a sophomore at Villanova University studying Civil Engineering. She has achieved several honors and awards during her school career while maintaining excellent grades. Because of her many high school AP credits she will be able to graduate in three years. She then hopes to obtain her Professional Engineering license and work to design and improve infrastructure.

$4,500 MORGAN OHARE SCHOLARSHIP

(Donated by Morgan Ohare)

Michael Guigliano, son of Thomas Guigliano of Star Stainless Screw. Michael is a freshman at New York University Tisch School of the Arts studying film and television production. He plans to further his technical and creative understanding of the movie making process at school as well as writing and directing his own narrative feature. He is very passionate about film and its’ ability to bring people closer as well as bring forth different perspectives.

Greetings and salutations to all of our wonderful members! The New Year is upon us and the MWFA is excited to bring you more fastener education, networking and scholarships opportunities.

Firstly, I need to share a few words about my predecessor, George Hunt III. Honestly, I could not have had a better

example for the position of President. I was able to watch and marvel while GH3 led our beloved fastener association. George has set the bar at the highest level possible. My commitment to you is that I, along with our board, will do everything in our power to make 2023 our best year yet. I know I am lucky enough to be constantly supported by such a passionate board who yearn to get the best out of each other for the benefit of our entire association.

Now, let’s dive into our next couple of months. I sure hope you will join us at Puttshack on February 21st, where the MWFA will be hosting a joint meeting with The National Association for Surface Finishing. Following our February event, we are going to turn our focus toward education. On Thursday, March 23rd, the MWFA will be holding our introductory class, called Fascination with Fasteners.

Finally, we are very excited about another event as we close out the 1st quarter of 2023. On Thursday, March 30th, we are all going back to school: Torciano WINE School! This truly will be a very fun and laid back evening, and I am pretty sure all those in attendance will walk out of Venuti’s TRUE wine connoisseurs. Read more about these great events in this newsletter or visit our website for the up-to-date details.

I am humbled to be able to lead this amazing board as we serve all of you, our valuable members. I know our board is going to put everything we have into 2023 and I can only hope you all will do the same. I look forward to seeing all of you throughout the New Year and wish all of you continued success.

God Bless,

2022 MWFA PRESIDENT

HuntGeorge III

BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL

I was walking down one of the aisles at the Donald E. Stevens Center in Rosemont, IL, during the last day of the MWFA Fastener Show, when a playful paw landed on the backside of my neck and the other warmly embraced my left shoulder pulling me in for a handsome embrace.

“George, when are you going to join our board?” The rest, as they say is history. For six glorious years I have held different

positions on our esteemed Board. None of which have been more gratifying than that of the past two, serving as your President. The networking, socializing, educating, frolicking, at times self-deprecating bond shared with all of you; will forever and always be held in a very special place inside of my soul. I have cherished every last minute serving our board and our members as President. My hope is that our actions during these past twenty-four months have made you all proud. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of our Associations success.

Enter your new 2023 President. They truly don’t come any better than Jake Davis. One of the warmest, sincere, generous, and loving individuals I have ever met. Our Association is in GREAT hands with the man

who simply has a heart of gold. Please join me in welcoming Jake to his newfound role and help us bring him much success in his future endeavors.

This band of industry misfits in which serve your Association is more than a simple board in which directs events. It’s a carefully selected TEAM of like-minded companions that embrace their roles as industry leaders. Forging ahead to put its members in the best position in which to succeed in our industry. Consider joining this fraternity. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

With a heavy heart, I wish you all the success in the world and hope our paths cross again soon.

MWFA AWARDS $40,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS continued

$4,000 BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP

(Donated by Brighton-Best International)

Teresa Sanchez, spouse of Abel Garcia of SWD Inc. Teresa is attending Chamberlain University College of Nursing while working and spending many hours volunteering. Teresa’s nurturing nature has led her to pursue a career she was not able to years ago. She learned from an early age on to help others and continues this in her adulthood as she volunteers helping with food pantries, packing meals, and at inner city women and men homeless shelters.

$4,000

XL SCREW CORPORATION

SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by XL Screw Corporation)

We would like to extend a special thank you to XL Screw for donating a scholarship for the 24th year. We are extremely fortunate to have given out $66,500 in the name of XL Screw Corporation.

The original idea of a scholarship program came out of XL Screw as a trial program & has had amazing growth over the years. Many students have benefited from this program since its inception. We appreciate XL’s continued support for this great program. We thank XL for the vision to begin this program, the generosity to continue to donate to it and the endless hours various XL employees have spent on the scholarship committee.

Victoria Nickens, daughter of Shari Nickens of Liberty Fasteners. Victoria is a sophomore at Grand Valley State University where she is taking Business and Video Production courses. She is not sure where her career path will take her but having grown up in the fastener industry, she

knows whatever she chooses she will always represent fasteners with the same vigor, honesty, and respect as her grandfather and mother dedicating a combined 65+ years in the industry.

$4,000 RAUL TORRES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Star Stainless)

Raul passed after spending 50 years in the fastener industry. He was a gentleman who mentored many. Raul spent several years on the MWFA Scholarship Committee. Because of Star’s generosity, this scholarship will continue.

Tri Nguyen, son of Hoa Nguyen of Star Stainless Screw. Tri is a sophomore at the University of Illinois majoring in Chemistry with a minor in Computer Science. After his first year of college and attending various volunteering events he realized his direction for the future. He knew he wanted to help people and pursue a profession in the medical field. He plans to enter medical school after receiving his bachelor’s in chemistry. He hopes to educate others to promote the awareness of good health.

$3,000 SOUTH HOLLAND METAL FINISHING/BRIAN CHRISTIANSON SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by South Holland Metal Finishing)

Kelsey Callahan, daughter of Annie Callahan of Continental Aero. Kelsey is a junior at Northern Illinois University where she is majoring in Political Science with a focus on law and minoring in Deaf Studies. She wants the opportunity to include the deaf community in her clientele once she is a lawyer. She is currently on the Mock Trial team at NIU.

$2,500 BTM SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by BTM Manufacturing)

Maria Chornij, daughter of Jane Chornij of 3Q Inc. Maria is a freshman at the University of Illinois studying Middle Level Education. She plans to obtain her teaching degree to pursue her passion for teaching. She has begun this year by going to schools and helping with homework and tutoring.

$2,500 SWD INC. SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by SWD Inc.)

Yoselyn Castro, daughter of Alex Perez of Brico Industries. Yoselyn is a senior at Columbia College studying Journalism with a minor in Latin American studies. Her goal is to launch a career in journalism in the city of Chicago after graduation where she can use her voice as a tool to build a successful career.

$2,000 HI-TECH SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Hi-Tech Fastener Corp.)

Allison Ronk, daughter of Jim Ronk of Endries International. Allison is a senior at the University of WisconsinLa Crosse. She is studying Biology with a concentration in Biomedical Sciences with Chemistry and Nutrition minors. She is planning to become a Physician Assistant.

$2,000 BRIKKSEN SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Brikksen)

Judith Rosland, daughter of Patricia Rosland of Brico Industries. Judith is a sophomore at Luther College studying music. With her love of music, she plans to pursue either music education or music therapy. »»

MWFA AWARDS $40,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS continued

$2,000 MARK DEBAKER MEMORIAL

SCHOLARSHIP (Donated by Richard and Karen Pease of RK Precision Products)

Mark DeBaker was a 31-year veteran of the Fastener industry working at both Imperial Supplies, in Green Bay, WI and Endries International in Brillion, WI. Mark made a large impact with both suppliers and customers with his ability to “get things done.” Mark carried several roles in his career and Marketing Product Management, Product/Vendor Management, Training and Quality Control. He will be remembered for his generosity and sense of humor. Mark was the kind of person that once you met him, you wanted to get to know him better.

Brianna Barile, daughter of Anthony Barile of Brighton Best International. Brianna is a senior at Rolling Meadows High School.

After college Brianna plans to become an elementary school teacher Once she has worked in her field for a few years she would like to work towards her master’s degree.

Illinois University. He aspires to move into management within the company and prove to be a great asset to the company.

$1,500 SCHOLARSHIPS

$2,000

MIKE & CAROL O’CONNOR SCHOLARSHIP

(Donated by Mike & Carol O’Connor)

Mike and Carol O’Connor owned and operated Innovative Components for more than 25 years. As strong supporters of apprentice programs and continuing education, they are pleased to fund this MWFA scholarship. The scholarship is intended specifically to benefit individuals who are interested in manufacturing and want to build a long-term career in the Fastener Industry.

Jaris James, an employee at Arlington Fastener. Jaris is pursuing his MBA from Eastern

Alex Peske, son of Kevin Peske of Metric & Multistandard. Alex is a freshman at Suny Brockport where he is studying Exercise Science. Studying his own sports injuries led him to this degree.

Connor Cooper, son of Sandra King of Kanebridge is a sophomore at the University of Rhode Island where he is studying Psychology with plans to become a sports psychologist. He hopes to work with athletes to help them with their mental approach to their sport.

Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 SCHOLARSHIP DONORS

Thank you to all those who donated to our 2022 Scholarship Fund.

Several companies have committed to a scholarship in their company name. A donation of $1,000 or more is automatically set up as a company named scholarship.

Anyone wishing to donate to this year’s scholarship fund may do so at any time by sending in a check marked scholarship fund or going online to www.mwfa.net and donating through our donate button on the home page.

THANK YOU SCHOLARSHIP SPONSORS:

» 3Q Inc.

» Abbott Interfast LLC

» All American Systems

» Arlington Fastener

» Avante Imports

» Brighton-Best International

» Brikksen

» BTM Manufacturing

» Buckeye Fasteners

» Central Wire Industries

» Chicago Hardware & Fixture Co.

» Clarcorp Industrial Sales

» Crescent Manufacturing

» Crown Screw and Bolt Corp.

» Crystal Engineering

» Daco Precision Inc.

» Darling Bolt Co.

» Delta Secondary

» EFC International

» Eurolink FSS

» Fastener Superstore

» Field Fastener Supply

» Foremost Fastener Co.

» Gateway Screw & Rivet Inc.

» Greenslade & Co.

» Hi-Tech Fastener Corp.

» Inland Fastener Inc.

» Issco Inc.

» J&M Plating Inc.

» Kanebridge Corp.

» Liberty Fastener

» Metric & Multistandard Components

» Mike and Carol O’Connor

» Morgan Ohare Inc.

» North East Fasteners Corp.

» Rick Rudolph Associates

» R. K. Precision Products LLC

» Screws Industries

» South Holland Metal Finishing

» SWD Inc.

» Sems & Specials Inc.

» Solution Industries

» Star Stainless Screw

» Wafios Machinery Corporation

» Wrought Washer Mfg.

» XL Screw Corporation

* Bold indicates a company or personal sponsorship

SANTA HELPS MWFA CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS

Part of the industry’s Holiday tradition, for many, is attending the MWFA Holiday party. The MWFA wanted to be sure to take the opportunity to visit with industry peers and collect Toys for Tots. The attendees donated a great deal of toys as well as almost $2,000 in cash for Toys for Tots. It’s very gratifying to see the attendees arriving with armloads of toys!

Santa stopped in to check his naughty or nice list. He couldn’t find any on the naughty list, so he stayed and enjoyed visiting and taking photos with the guests.

The casino returned to this year’s party allowing guests to have some extra fun and win prizes. Several members donated prizes allowing many guests to go home

with a prize. Who doesn’t like an extra present at the holidays!

All this added to music, cocktails and appetizers made for a festive evening. We thank everyone for an awesome year and look forward to sharing another momentous year with our members and industry.

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR GENEROUS HOLIDAY PARTY SPONSORS WHO MAKE THIS EVENT POSSIBLE.

Gold Sponsors

» Abbott-Interfast Corp.

» Angor Material Handling

» Beacon Fasteners & Components

» Brighton-Best International

» BTM Manufacturing

» Component Technologies Inc

» Crescent Manufacturing

» Hi-Tech Fastener Corp.

» Integrated Packaging & Fastener

» Metric & Multistandard Components

» Morgan Ohare

» Sems and Specials, Inc.

» Stelfast Inc.

» SWD Inc.

» XL Screw Corporation

Silver Sponsors

» Auto Bolt

» Central Wire Industries

» Delta Secondary

For more information and photos from the event visit www.mwfa.net.

GOOD TIMES AT THE HOLIDAY PARTY

View more photos at www.mwfa.net. View more photos at www.mwfa.net.

We appreciate the time our Scholarship recipients have taken to write to us in response to their awards. Here are some of the fantastic letters that we have received.

Dear Mid-West Fastener Association,

»»

“I am so incredibly grateful for this scholarship award. It has genuinely been my life-long dream to pursue a film degree, specifically at NYU Tisch School of the Arts, and this grant is helping to make that possible. I cannot overemphasize how thankful and appreciative I am to MWFA and Morgan Ohare Inc. for this award. I have been at NYU for almost two months and am loving it. While it has been a lot of work, it’s work that I love doing. The professors, as well as my fellow students, are exemplary. NYU, and its location in one of the most diverse and exciting cities in the world, has made me realize how important the creative environment is to an excellent education in the arts. It is so empowering to see my skills develop with each project. Once again, thank you so much for helping and supporting me in the pursuit of my

dream.”

Michael Guigliano

»» “Thank you so much for the generous scholarship award. Unfortunately, I am unable to attend the meeting due to school commitments. Thanks again!”

Sara Walsh

»» “I am sincerely honored to have been selected to be the recipient of the South Holland scholarship award of $3000 from the Midwest Fastener Association. Thank you for your generosity, which will allow me to further my education at Northern Illinois University.

I am a junior at NIU studying political science with a focus on law with a minor in deaf studies. I currently have a 3.4 GPA. I

am an active member of the NIU mock trial team and just completed our first competition in Minnesota. Practicing a trial helps strengthen my skills of critical thinking, public speaking and forming persuasive arguments. My goal is to become a lawyer focusing on clients who are unable to fight for themselves. Because of this scholarship award, I am a step closer to achieving my goals. Thank you again for this generous award.”

Kelsey Callahan

»» “Thank you again for helping me pursue my degree.”

Victoria Nickens

»» “I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for awarding me the MidWest Fastener Association Scholarship. The financial cushion this scholarship provides allowed me to continue to partake in the sport I love by providing the means to pay for all current textbooks and college fees. This award has and will continue to support me and my pursuit towards my degree. Attached is a picture of me in my Brockport Men’s Club Soccer uniform. “

Alex Peske

FASTENER TRAINING WEEK AUGUST 21st - AUGUST 25th

The Fastener Training Institute and the Industrial Fasteners Institute partner to present the week-long intensive version of FTI’s Certified Fastener Specialist advanced technical training program.

Fastener Training Week includes everything that a student would experience

in the regular seven-course CFS training, but all on consecutive days. MWFA Members receive substantial registration discounts.

What attendees had to say about.... Fastener Training Week

““As a newcomer to the fastener industry,

Fastener Training Week was an incredible experience that gave me a much greater appreciation of the industry and the engineering behind such seemingly simple items.”

For more information and registration, visit www.fastenertraining.org.

ANNOUNCED!

MWFA ANNOUNCES VENUE AND DATES

FOR 2023 FSTNR WEEK - FASTENER SHOW, TRAINING, NETWORKING, RECREATION ALL IN ONE WEEK

MWFA will hold FSTNR Week August 20th - August 24th. This event has proven to be a significant week of opportunities bringing the fastener industry together. This year’s show and golf will be at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Lincolnshire, IL. This venue offers attendees the opportunity to stay on site for both events, saving on travel time and allowing for more networking!

This upscale conference hotel is 18 miles from O’Hare International Airport. The resort has several areas for dining, indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, spa, theatre, and several other amenities.

The week will kick off on Sunday (August 20th ) when the MWFA again will partner with Sleep in Heavenly Peace. SHP works with groups/communities to build beds for kids who don’t have their own. On Monday (August 21st) Plant Tours, throughout the Chicago area, will be offered. Various companies will open their doors to tours. A schedule for each company will be posted allowing you to plan your day. Tuesday (August 22nd) morning a Print Reading Seminar will be held, taught by Darlene Collis of Solution Industries. Darlene will be teaching the basics to assist your employees in avoiding costly mistakes. The 41st MWFA Fastener Show will be featured Tuesday afternoon. This show will be a Table Top format

allowing for easy, economic exhibits. On Wednesday (August 23rd) the 70th MWFA Golf Outing will be held at Crane’s Landing located at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort. The week doesn’t end there as a MWFA Mixer will be held August 24th at Real Time Sports in Elk Grove, IL.

Fastener Training Institute will be participating in FSTNR Week by providing their Fastener Week program (August 21st25th) for those desiring to achieve their Certified Fastener Specialist certificate. This week class offers intense education and plant tours. Students may then take a final exam to be eligible for the Certified Fastener Specialist™ (CCFS) designation. More exciting details will follow soon, visit www.mwfa.net for more!

2023 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

The 2023 MWFA Scholarship is available online at www.mwfa.net (under scholarships). Download to complete the form and then submit. Eligible employees, their children, and spouses may apply. Scholarships awarded are a one time award. Awards range, in value, from $1,500 to over $4,000.

Companies wishing to offer a scholarship in their name, or name of their choice, may do so with a donation of $1,000 or more. MWFA will match a portion of the funds and add to our list of “named scholarships” awarded in November.

Jeffrey S. Henriksen

Jeffery S. Henriksen age 59, of Crystal Lake, Illinois passed away at Journey Care in Barrington on December 17, 2022 with his loving family by his side. He was born in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He was the loving son of Arne and Barbara (Reilly) Henriksen. He was the Vice President of Engineered Components Co. in Elgin, Illinois. Jeff had a passion for cars, he would race, build, and restore them. He was a man of many talents. There was nothing he couldn’t fix, repair, or build. He lived by the motto, “Do it right, or don’t do it at all”. When he wasn’t toying with his cars Jeff enjoyed watching football, hockey, and stock car races. He also enjoyed spending his free time boating on the Fox river. Jeff was often times the life

of the party. He was a well-spoken man, that also loved to make people laugh by being the jokester in the room. No matter what or when, you could always count on him being there for you. He was an amazing man not to be reckoned with but was always there with a smile that will never be forgotten. Throughout life, whatever he faced, amazingly enough fought and stayed strong till the end.

Jeffery is survived by his wife, Amber; his children Nicholas, grandson Michael, Thomas, Dylan, Devin, Aiden, and his step daughter Alexandria; his parents Arne and Barbara; his brother AJ (Jenny) and nephew Payton; also survived by aunts, uncles, many cousins and dear friends. Please consider memorial donations

to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennesse or to Shriners Hospital for Children in Chicago, Illinois.

INTRODUCING EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR 2023

This year the MWFA will host the most requested seminars. The year will start off with FASCINATION WITH FASTENERS (an Introductory class) on March 23rd. This popular class is a great tool for the newcomer in the industry as well as the veteran who wishes to acquire basic knowledge outside their everyday duties.

In late spring a HEAT TREATING AND PLATING SEMINAR will be offered onsite allowing the students to learn firsthand the processes, applications, and importance of understanding the various processes and applications.

August 22nd, prior to the opening of the MWFA Fastener Show, a BASIC PRINT READING SEMINAR will be held. This seminar is beneficial to anyone working with prints or desiring to understand the basics of print reading.

August 21st-25th Fastener Training Institute will be participating in FSTNR Week by providing their FASTENER WEEK PROGRAM (August 21st-25th) for those desiring to achieve their Certified Fastener Specialist certificate.

HELP US WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

The MWFA is fortunate to continue to grow as new members join the association. When new members are presented with their plaques, we also present them with a MWFA “goodie bag” with member company give aways. If you have any “SWAG” you’d like to share with new members, please contact Nancy Rich by email at mwfa@ameritech to make arrangements.

Our industry serves many areas and the best way to be sure your employees/peers are performing most efficiently is to be sure they receive as much education as possible.

What attendees had to say about.... Fascination With Fasteners

“Speaker was informative and kept class interested, fun & funny!”

“Love seeing the passion from the speakers about this profession!”

“Informative but not boring. Funny and entertaining!

“Informative, knowledgeable, and interesting!”

What attendees had to say about.... Heat Treating and Plating Seminar

“I enjoyed seeing and hearing the entire plating process. It was explained clearly.”

“The tours were an excellent means of understanding all the processes.”

“I enjoyed learning the onsite workflows in person. A visual learner’s dream!”

‘MEMBER HIGHLIGHT’ FEATURE FOR 2023

MWFA introduces a new feature called “Member Highlight” - allowing members to showcase their company in an upcoming MWFA newsletter.

The fee to feature your company is $400 which includes a company logo on front cover and a full page - layout can be ad, article or half ad/half article. The page will also be added to the MWFA website, under Member HIghlight with a link to the member’s website.

What attendees had to say about.... Print Reading Seminar

“I found the Print Reading Seminar class to be very helpful. In our Fastener industry prints have become more crucial to identifying a specific product. It seems now a days that almost every quote will have a print attached to it. The class provided me with the importance of knowing the different types of prints. I learned to be aware of the details and where this is located on a print. I enjoyed the experience of drawing our own print and labeling it. Since taking the class I have the ability to look at a print and be able to recognize what I am quoting. I used to dread reading prints but not anymore. I look at them with ease now from what I had learned and experience in the class.”

“I found the Print Reading Seminar to be very informative and well taught by the instructor. Since taking the class, I am more confident and find myself using what I’ve learned more on a daily basis now.”

For more information and registration, visit www.mwfa.net.

We are accepting reservations now - the maximum featured members per issue are two so requests will be scheduled in order of receipt. Showcasing your company allows you the opportunity to introduce yourself, in detail to fellow members and fastener personnel. Every company has a story, so share yours!

To secure your spot, contact Nancy Rich at mwfa@ameritech.net.

Mark Georgia

Mark J. Georgia, unexpectedly entered peaceful rest on December 27, 2022, at Waterbury Hospital, with his family by his side. Mark was born in Derby on August 9, 1958. Mark and his wife, Karen Loesche Georgia, were residents and raised their family in Beacon Falls for over thirty years. In his earlier years, “Coach Mark” spent countless hours coaching his children on the baseball field, and always watching his New York Mets and New York Jets. Mark was the President of Fascomp Electronic Hardware based out of Orlando and Naugatuck. He always enjoyed running the company with his partner and co-owner Jason

Bertone as well as his son Kyle and his daughter Ashley. He was a selfless man, always taking care of others. Everywhere he went, he knew someone, and would tease them relentlessly with the same corny jokes. “Marky-Mark” will be lovingly missed by all.

In addition to his wife Karen, Mark leaves to cherish his memory, a daughter, Ashley Scagliarini (David), a son, Kyle M. Georgia, all of Beacon Falls as well as siblings, along with several nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Contributions in Mark’s name may be made directly to: Tunnel to Towers at www.t2t.org. or to Wounded Warrior

Project at www.woundedwarriorproject. com.

If you would like To sign Mark’s guestbook or share a memory, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.

AFC INDUSTRIES HAS ACQUIRED

ERIE, PA BASED CHAMPION BOLT

AFC Industries has acquired Erie, PA based Champion Bolt. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Champion, established in 1986, specializes in custom-solutions and services for OEM assembly environments.

AFC CEO Kevin Godin said, “Champion Bolt has demonstrated a long-term commitment to providing excellent service to customers and deepens several unique capabilities for the AFC platform. We are happy to welcome them to the AFC family”

Champion President Dave Ott added, “Being part of the AFC group brings several resources that will unlock additional opportunities for us with both new and existing customers. We spoke with several

potential buyers and are confident the AFC culture and strategy will be the best fit for our team and our customers.”

Champion Bolt, a family-owned business established in 1986 and based in Erie Pennsylvania, is a global supplier of fasteners, related hardware, and many value added services to the Aerospace, Power Generation, Utilities, Wind, Oil, Pipeline, Industrial Hardware and Industrial Furniture sectors. Champion takes pride in theirr custom-tailored service approach and problem-solving capabilities.

Headquartered in Fairfield OH, AFC Industries is a dynamic organization dedicated to providing supply chain management solutions for fasteners, tooling, and assembly components to

original equipment manufacturers, assembly plants, and other users of these products. Their supply solutions include Vendor Managed Inventory, Stock and Release programs, Light Assembly, Kitting, and Private Labeling services amongst others. AFC supports a diverse base of manufacturers across a broad range of industries. Their experienced team has a proven track record of helping manufacturers and assemblers reduce cost, improve quality, and increase efficiency.

In April 2021 AFC Industries was acquired by Bertram Capital, based in Foster City CA.

For more information contact AFC Industries by Tel: 513-874-7456, Email: sales@afcind.com or visit them online at www.afcind.com.

Ciao, my friend! Get ready for a first time MWFA event that will bring the Tuscan countryside to Venuti’s Ristorante on Thursday March 30. Join us and the 300 year old Tenuta Torciano Winery Estate from Tuscany, as we enjoy a culinary event you won’t want to miss.

Invite your friends, colleagues and family members to join us for this unique Wine School event that will create lasting memories.

All of the Torciano Wine School Wine Instructors actually work at Winery, in Tuscany, during the rest of the year and between harvest and the growing season and will provide an authentic Tuscan experience.

Pierluigi Giachi, president of Tenuta Torciano Winery near San Gimignano says, “Our Wine Instructors have a genuine passion for wine education, exceptional people skills, and extensive wine

knowledge. And, as you know, the products that they will share with you are exclusive: they are not sold in any stores, anywhere in the world. They can only be purchased during a visit to our Winery in Tuscany, at one of our Italian Wine School Events, or through our Website.“

THE MWFA ITALIAN WINE SCHOOL EVENT INCLUDES:

» Antipasto Station- Capicola, Prosciutto, Soppressata, Parmesan Reggiano, Grilled Vegetables, Green and Black Olives, Artichoke Hearts, Pepperoncini, Fresh Baked Italian and Focaccia Bread -Bruschetta

» Complimentary tasting of 10 Tuscan Tenuta Torciano wines, oils and balsmic vinegar:

- Vernaccia of San Gimignano D.O.C.G.

- Morellino di Scansano D.O.C. or Malbec IGT Tuscan Red

- Chianti or Chianti Classico D.O.C.G.

- Bartolomeo Super Tuscan IGT

- Baldassare Super Tuscan IGT

- Cavaliere Super Tuscan IGT

- Brunello di Montalcino D.O.C.G.

- TT Extra Virgin Olive Oil

- TT Truffle Olive Oil

- TT Balsamic Vinegar Aged Select

- Rosato Wine

» Lesson on how wine is made in Tuscany: how the soil, climate and traditions converge

» Lesson on the etiquette of wine tasting, such as how to hold the glass and swirl the wine

» Explanation as to why certain foods are paired with certain wines

After the tasting you will have the opportunity to purchase anything you enjoyed or nothing at all. Ciao and Saluti!

For more information and registration, visit www.mwfa.net.

Mid-West Fastener Association Miidd-WWe t st Fastener As A so i ciatio i n

THE ASSOCIATION

A membership with connections that hold the world together, the Mid-West Fastener Association is one of the oldest fastener associations in the United States. For over 75 years, the association has expanded and evolved from a small local group, to the largest regional fastener association in the industry with members from coast to coast.

THE MISSION

The MWFA’s primary purpose is to serve and promote the fastener industry and the ever changing needs of its membership base. The MWFA is dedicated to representing all fastener industry segments: manufacturers, distributors, importers and industry suppliers.

THE BENEFIT

As a leader in the fastener industry, the MWFA continues to focus on educational programs. The association’s programs provide unsurpassed fastener industry training, utilizing industry experts with decades of industry experience, offering extensive knowledge and hands on training.

THE MEMBERSHIP

For membership opportunities, contact the association below or visit us online.

Mid-West Fastener Association PO Box 5, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 Tel: 847-438-8338 . Fax: 847-516-6728 Email: info@mwfa.net

OPPORTUNITY