Top ISPA awards go to Diamonstein, Malechek
David Perry -- Furniture Today, March 27, 2006
San Antonio — The International Sleep Products Assn. presented its two highest awards to a veteran bedding producer and a veteran supplier.
The Russell L. Abolt Exceptional Service Award went to Richard Diamonstein, executive vice president of King Koil Mid-Atlantic. The Robert MacMorran Memorial Award was given to Ed Malechek, executive vice president of The Carpenter Co.
ISPA presented the awards, a closely held secret until they are announced, at its Industry Breakfast, held during ISPA's Expo 2006 here.
Diamonstein and Malechek both have long histories of service to the industry.
Nominated by his peers for having exemplified the highest level of career devotion to the well being and betterment of the bedding industry, Diamonstein served as chairman of ISPA in 2002. His service also has included participation on the Sleep Products Safety Council board and ISPA's finance, nominating and trade show committees, as well as its fall conference task force.
"Richard Diamonstein is an outstanding executive, an outstanding ISPA member, and an outstanding person," said David Orders of Park Place Corp. and ISPA's immediate past chairman, who presented the award. "He is, in fact, one of the great leaders of our industry."
Orders also described Diamonstein as his "friend, mentor and one of the great lights" of bedding.
Malechek was hailed by Orders as being "a champion for the bedding industry" and "an exemplary individual." He added, "Ed has worked tirelessly to raise public awareness of better sleep through better mattresses. He truly embodies the spirit of partnership in the bedding industry."
The MacMorran award is given by ISPA's Suppliers Council to recognize outstanding service to the mattress industry.
Malechek's record of industry service includes leadership positions on the Better Sleep Council, the membership task force and the trade show committee.
The awards, a highlight of the ISPA Expo, are presented every two years.
