By Diane McNitt , Rosati Ice Brand Ambassador
Last October the Rosati Ice team traveled to San Antonio, Texas for The Ice Cream Association (formerly IAICDV) Conference. Since IAICDV was a mouthful (but created some really funny videos), the International Association of Ice Cream Distributors and Vendors did some soul searching. The talented marketing and social media committees worked together to create a new logo as well as the new name… TICA. The Ice Cream Association, was a more simple and to-the- point name for this Fifty-four year old organization. Guess what? Everyone liked it.
You can guess that ice cream (and Italian ice) are all about fun. Ice Cream and frozen desserts are always staples at birthdays, graduations, picnics, community events and more. All fun stuff, right? Smiles all around. You can imagine that the Conferences are terrific. Not only because of the delicious treats and special products you can taste and enjoy. It’s really all about the people. You can feel the connection.
The business owners and reps for these member Ice cream, Italian ice, cold storage, refrigerated transportation, and equipment companies are good, decent, people. The organization has been around for over 50 years and many of the members have been in the business almost that long. The relationships which have been built and sustained are treasured. Everyone is having a wonderful time. Meeting for drinks after the show, participating in the networking cocktail hour, dancing with an illuminated robot on the lawn at an evening banquet.
These annual gatherings are not only about the meetings, the informational presentations, the banquets, or the product show. It’s also about the recognition of present and past presidents and leaders. And this year it was also about adding a few individuals to the Ice Cream Association Hall of Fame! There were some tears in the room as the story and legacy of one individual was told. Unfortunately, Michael passed away from ALS. He was inducted posthumously into the Hall of Fame and his story brought tears to many in that room. Michael was indeed a giver who never felt sorry for himself, but who worked as long as he was able, with a glad heart. There was lots of love in that room hearing Michael’s story and recognizing his life well led.
It’s always so good to see Matt Bauerhaus, the amazing and talented videographer for the Conference. Matt’s company, Editing Life is based in Maryland. Here’s a short video clip of Rich Trotter and Joe Ritinski’s intro video for our booth. Matt is not only a talented photographer/videographer, but an interesting and fun individual. Our Rosati Ice team truly enjoyed meeting fellow distributors and vendors while reconnecting with old friends and customers of America’s First and the World’s best Italian Ice company. Maybe we’ll see you at TICE in 2025?
3601 E Joppa Rd, Baltimore, MD
410-931-8100
