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.

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

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

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.

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

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.