FALL 2024

66 THE DISTRIBUTOR’S

66 THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION PO Box 255, Park Ridge, IL 60068 TEL 847-438-8338 EMAIL mwfa@mwfa.net WEB www.mwfa.net FSTNR WEEK: A WEEK OF INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AND CONNECTION By Francesca Lewis FSTNR Week unofficially began on August 17th with the Rugged Nuts joining the 5K Distillery Run at Take Flight Spirits. Around 20 industry enthusiasts participated, followed by a lunch at Moretti’s Restaurant in Skokie, IL. The week officially kicked off on August 18th with a Bed Build event at Marriott Lincolnshire, in partnership with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, where over 100 volunteers built 100 beds for children in need. Food trucks sponsored by Brighton Best Int’l and BTM Manufacturing kept everyone energized. Monday, August 19th, featured plant tours at Morgan Ohare, SWD Inc., Big Bolt LLC, and XL Screw, providing attendees with valuable industry insights. Later, the new Welcome Mixer at Three Embers restaurant replaced the post-show gathering, offering a great opportunity for networking. Tuesday, August 20th, included a Fastener Failure Seminar led by Sean and Darlene Collis, an exhibitor lunch, and the Fastener Match Game hosted by Eric Dudas of Fully Threaded Radio. The exhibit show opened at 1:00 PM, with over 100 exhibitors showcasing fastener products and services. The day ended with the “Game On! Fastener Bash,” featuring sports team gear and a visit from South Paw, the Chicago White Sox mascot. Wednesday, August 21st, saw the 71st MWFA Golf Outing, with over 140 golfers enjoying a day of ASSOCIATION ARTICLE competition, followed by a dinner and awards ceremony. Throughout the week, the Fastener Training Institute held its Fastener Training Week program, culminating in a final exam for those pursuing the Certified Fastener Specialist certificate. FSTNR Week wouldn’t have been a success without the incredible support of our sponsors, volunteers, exhibitors, and guests. Your dedication and enthusiasm made this week of industry achievement and connection truly memorable. Thank you for being a vital part of FSTNR Week! MWFA Hits A Home Run At American Family Field On July 11th, the Mid-West Fastener Association (MWFA) hosted its July meeting at American Family Field, where members and guests enjoyed a day at the ballpark, watching the Milwaukee Brewers face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The day kicked off with an unofficial tailgate, bringing together fastener industry friends from near and far for some spirited cornhole games and a toast to a beautiful summer day. The camaraderie continued as the group made their way to the Johnsonville Party Deck. There, attendees enjoyed a festive atmosphere, indulging in great food, refreshing drinks, and the thrill of America’s greatest pastime. With family and friends in tow, the event offered fun and memories for everyone involved. MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

MWFA FSTNR WEEK ’24 TABLE TOP SHOW AND FASTENER BASH - AUGUST 20, 2024 CONTINUED ON PAGE 80