by Industry figures will be recognized during Midwest Furniture Show
CHICAGO, IL – September 18, 2025 – The Midwest Furniture Club has announced the recipients of several prestigious awards, recognizing both retailers and manufacturer representatives for their exceptional service and dedication to the Midwest furniture community. The Awards Ceremony will be held on Wednesday September 24, during the cocktail reception of the Midwest Furniture Show.
Celebrating Excellence in the Furniture Community
Brent Jones, President of the Midwest Furniture Club, remarked, “There are so many great things that our retail community, manufacturers and independent representatives do day in and day out that matter to the community. Our Club has chosen to draw attention to these positive things and thank some of the folks helping and inspiring others.”.
Community Service Award
The Community Service Award is presented annually to a retailer or manufacturer who demonstrates remarkable service to the community through charitable initiatives, innovative involvement, and meaningful partnerships that address and improve needs within towns and cities throughout the Midwest.
This year, Walter E. Smithe is being honored for their wide-ranging charitable endeavors. The company has supported organizations such as the Honor Flight Network, PAWS (a pet adoption service), the Jesse White Tumblers, and the Chicago Furniture Bank. These groups have also featured in Smithe’s famous commercials, granting further recognition to the civic organizations and charities involved. Walter E. Smithe Jr. served in the US Army, reaching the rank of Captain before returning to the family business. In conjunction with the Community Service Award, a contribution to PAWS will be made in Walter E. Smithe’s name by the Midwest Furniture Club.
Generational Legacy Award
The Generational Legacy Award was established to honur Midwest furniture retailers who have remained in the business across several generations. Wright’s Furniture and Flooring, headquartered in Dietrich, Illinois, is now in its fifth generation and operates four locations in Central Illinois. The company’s roots trace back to 1889, just 24 years after the end of the Civil War. Over the decades, each generation has contributed to the communities they serve, providing employment to scores of people for more than 130 years.
Mary Sobel and Arthur Serck Professionalism Award
This award honors current members of the Midwest Furniture Club whose professionalism and work have contributed significantly to the well-being and continued success of the furniture business in the Midwest. This year’s honorees are Brad Cofoid and Bill van Kat, business partners known throughout the region as the “B team.” Brad and Bill are celebrated for their hard work, professionalism, and for mentoring many younger sales representatives in the Midwest. Marty Sobel and Arthur Serck, both past Presidents of IHFRA and the Midwest Furniture Club, are legendary for their dedication to the Club. The Board of Directors has unanimously voted to recognize the best members in the name of these foundational figures.
The awards ceremony will take place during the Midwest Furniture Show on Wednesday, September 24 between 5 and 7 pm. The celebration will take place at the White Eagle Convention Hall, 6839 N Milwaukee Ave. in Niles IL. The 18th Annual Midwest Furniture Show runs from Tuesday night, September 23rd though the evening of Friday September 25.
