Experience counts. Add to that character, business acumen and technical expertise and you have a candy man’s candy man; in other words, Patrick Huffman. The president and ceo of The Warrell Corp became Candy Industry’s 68th annual Kettle Award recipient during a reception held at the exclusive Union League Club of Chicago on May 21.

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Kettle Committee Vice Chairman Russel Crosio congratulates Patrick Huffman upon becoming Candy Industry's 68th Kettle Award recipient.

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Kettle Committee Member Scott Funk brings in the envelope containing the name of this year's Kettle Award recipient in a black leather briefcase.

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Families and friends of the 2013 nominees gather for photo opportunities at the beginning of the reception, including Joseph Zanetos, Greg McCormack, and Bill and Jeff Birnn.

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Sarah Clair, chairwoman of the Confectionery Foundation, poses with Keith Sakomoto, president of Hawaiian Host, for a snapshot.

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Candy Industry's Kettle Committee members are all smiles prior to the reception. Visit www.kettleawards.com for a complete member listing. Also see Sweet Gravitas: Patrick Huffman, of the Warrell Corp. and winner of Candy Industry's Kettle Award, gives an inside look at his company.