{"id":1749,"date":"2024-11-18T05:34:55","date_gmt":"2024-11-18T05:34:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lmgwebdesign.com\/new-irta\/?page_id=1749"},"modified":"2026-09-25T20:58:43","modified_gmt":"2026-09-25T20:58:43","slug":"hall-of-fame","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/irta.com\/staging\/hall-of-fame\/","title":{"rendered":"Hall of Fame"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Hall of Fame<\/h1>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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The Barter Hall of Fame is the highest honor the organized trade industry can bestow. The honor recognizes individuals of the highest professional character and ethical conduct who are regarded as indisputable leaders of the organized trade industry. An inductee must have a minimum of ten years of continuous industry service and have made recognizable and specific contributions to the industry as a whole.<\/p>

NOTE:<\/strong> The Barter Hall of Fame award is not necessarily given-out every year \u2013 the timing is purely based-on merit, ie., it is awarded if and when candidates have sufficiently distinguished themselves in the industry to warrant nomination.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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2026 Inductee: Mary Ellen Rosinski <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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Mary Ellen Rosinski, CPA, graduated with honors from Arizona State University and
began her career at Ernst & Young during one of the most dynamic periods in U.S. tax
history. As major tax reforms rolled out under President Reagan, she shifted from
auditing to tax research, helping large banks and corporations navigate rapidly
changing regulations.<\/p>


Among her contributions, she developed a pilot flight\u2010log system that enabled
executives to accurately document aircraft usage and reduce tax consequences
related to personal use of corporate planes.<\/p>


Her introduction to barter began in her teens when her parents joined a barter
exchange through their painting company. Her mother later purchased an ITEX
franchise, giving Mary Ellen early insight into the potential of alternative\u2010currency
systems.<\/p>


Mary Ellen co-founded Tradesource, Inc. in 1987 and became an active member of
IRTA that same year. For more than 35 years, she has served on the IRTA Global Board
Hall of Fame
Mary Ellen Rosinski<\/p>

of Directors, including many of those years as Treasurer. She has also held key
leadership roles as President and Vice President of the North American Board.
Throughout her tenure, she has contributed her time and talents to numerous
committees, including the CTB, Marketing, Membership, Executive, UC, and Money
Transmitter & Regulations Committees. Her leadership has been recognized with
several of IRTA\u2019s highest honors, including the David Wallach Outstanding
Achievement Award, the Paul St. Martin Distinguished Service Award, the IRTA
Outstanding Achievement Award, and the Barter Ambassador Award.<\/p>


A respected educator and advocate, Mary Ellen has led seminars and panels on
marketing, accounting, IRS reporting requirements, Form 1099\u2010B compliance, PCI
compliance, and barter\u2010related IRS regulations. She has consistently championed
free\u2010market currency systems and IRTA\u2019s mission of fostering an ethical, inclusive
barter community.<\/p>


A strong advocate for innovation, she has been at the forefront of developing new
technologies, including barter software, 1099-B microcomputer processing, and
collaborating with MasterCard to integrate barter transactions into existing payment<\/p>

networks. She continues to work with investors on the development of a barter-
backed stablecoin.<\/p>

Mary Ellen has assisted numerous barter exchanges in establishing sound
accounting practices, improving operations, implementing and designing software
solutions, and resolving non\u2010matching TIN and non-filing information returns
successfully abating all penalties. She has also participated in currency conferences
in the U.S. and Norway and served as an expert witness in U.S. court proceedings,
explaining how barter systems function alongside traditional currencies.
Across nearly four decades, Mary Ellen has shared her expertise generously,
mentored industry professionals, and helped strengthen the credibility and growth of
the modern barter industry. Her dedication and lasting impact embody the spirit of
the Hall of Fame Award.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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2025 Inductee: Ron D. Whitney - Bio <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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Prior to getting into the barter industry, Ron\u2019s background focused on the law, insurance and higher education.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ron grew up in Wilmington, Delaware and graduated from A.I. DuPont High School.\u00a0 Ron then graduated with a B.A. from George Washington University and was a claims adjuster for Hartford Insurance while attending night school at The Delaware Law School of Widener University, from which he received a J.D. in 1982.\u00a0 Ron then worked as the Risk Manager for Drexel University in Philadelphia and was named President of a for-profit real estate subsidiary of the University, (Academic Properties Inc.), which he was instrumental in forming.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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In 1993, Ron formed Delaware Barter Corp., (DBC) a retail barter exchange based in the Philadelphia, PA – Delaware region 1993, and built DBC into one of the largest trade exchanges on the east coast of the U.S. Ron served on the IRTA Global Board of Directors, and when sold his interest in DBC in 2007. He was immediately elected as Executive Director of IRTA.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Under Ron\u2019s leadership IRTA has taken a pro-active stand on preserving, protecting and enhancing the retail barter, corporate barter and countertrade sectors of the organized trade industry.\u00a0 Ron has more than tripled IRTA\u2019s membership between 2007 and 2019 and increased revenues in both IRTA and Universal Clearinghouse Inc, IRTA\u2019s wholly owned international trading platform. \u00a0Ron also spearheaded the writing of a tougher IRTA Ethics Code of Conduct which has been universally viewed as the model code of conduct for the barter industry.\u00a0 He continually is responsible for the completion of numerous important IRTA Advisory Memos on a wide range of critical legal, legislative and regulatory alternative payments system and barter industry matters.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ron aggressively advocates for the barter industry and articulates IRTA policy on difficult topics such as IRS treatment of barter, deficit management, franchising and licensing, ethics, alternative currency and countertrade policies. In 2018 Ron was promoted to President & CEO of IRTA and UC, in recognition of his leadership accomplishments.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ron was one of 28 national business leaders selected by the IRS to serve on the IRS\u2019 Information Reporting Program Advisory Group (IRPAC) from 2007 to 2009. Ron has received numerous outstanding achievement awards from IRTA, including the prestigious David Wallach Award, Paul St. Martin Award and a Special Global Board Recognition Award. Most recently Ron was named Marquis 2024 Who\u2019s Who of Top Executives in the U.S.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ron resides in Irvington, Virginia with his wife of 44 years, Carol, and their beloved Springer Spaniels, Sadie and Soully.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Congatulations Ron!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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2024 Inductee: Mary Ellen Rosinski <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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Mary Ellen Rosinski, CPA, graduated with honors from Arizona State University and
began her career at Ernst & Young during one of the most dynamic periods in U.S. tax
history. As major tax reforms rolled out under President Reagan, she shifted from
auditing to tax research, helping large banks and corporations navigate rapidly
changing regulations.<\/p>\n

Among her contributions, she developed a pilot flight\u2010log system that enabled
executives to accurately document aircraft usage and reduce tax consequences
related to personal use of corporate planes.
Her introduction to barter began in her teens when her parents joined a barter
exchange through their painting company. Her mother later purchased an ITEX
franchise, giving Mary Ellen early insight into the potential of alternative\u2010currency
systems.<\/p>\n

Mary Ellen co-founded Tradesource, Inc. in 1987 and became an active member of
IRTA that same year. For more than 35 years, she has served on the IRTA Global Board
of Directors, including many of those years as Treasurer. She has also held key
leadership roles as President and Vice President of the North American Board.
Throughout her tenure, she has contributed her time and talents to numerous
committees, including the CTB, Marketing, Membership, Executive, UC, and Money
Transmitter & Regulations Committees. Her leadership has been recognized with
several of IRTA\u2019s highest honors, including the David Wallach Outstanding
Achievement Award, the Paul St. Martin Distinguished Service Award, the IRTA
Outstanding Achievement Award, and the Barter Ambassador Award.
A respected educator and advocate, Mary Ellen has led seminars and panels on
marketing, accounting, IRS reporting requirements, Form 1099\u2010B compliance, PCI
compliance, and barter\u2010related IRS regulations. She has consistently championed
free\u2010market currency systems and IRTA\u2019s mission of fostering an ethical, inclusive
barter community.<\/p>\n

A strong advocate for innovation, she has been at the forefront of developing new
technologies, including barter software, 1099-B microcomputer processing, and
collaborating with MasterCard to integrate barter transactions into existing payment
networks. She continues to work with investors on the development of a barter-
backed stablecoin.<\/p>\n

Mary Ellen has assisted numerous barter exchanges in establishing sound
accounting practices, improving operations, implementing and designing software
solutions, and resolving non\u2010matching TIN and non-filing information returns
successfully abating all penalties. She has also participated in currency conferences
in the U.S. and Norway and served as an expert witness in U.S. court proceedings,
explaining how barter systems function alongside traditional currencies.
Across nearly four decades, Mary Ellen has shared her expertise generously,
mentored industry professionals, and helped strengthen the credibility and growth of
the modern barter industry. Her dedication and lasting impact embody the spirit of
the Hall of Fame Award.<\/p>

Congratulations Mary Ellen!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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2023 Inductee: John Strabley <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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John Strabley, CEO, International Monetary Systems<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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John Strabley has been the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Executive Officer of International Monetary Systems since 2011. He came on board in 1990 as the first trade broker hired by the company and became the Executive Vice President and Director of ITNM in 1992.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Over the last 33 years, John has served in all facets of the barter industry, ranging from retail and corporate trade and developing IMS\u2019s own intellectual software to taking IMS through a registered IPO in 2001. Through 37 strategic acquisitions and aggressive enrollment practices, IMS is the largest single exchange network in the U.S.
John served on the IRTA Global Board for 2 terms and served as the Chairman of the Board and Vice President during his tenure. He has been honored with the highest awards IRTA offers; the Paul St. Martin Distinguished Service Award, the David Wallach Outstanding Achievement Award, the Legend of Barter Award, numerous IRTA Outstanding Contribution awards as well as awards from NATE.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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He has been a lead contributor on many IRTA convention panels and seminars and played an instrumental role in drafting many of IRTA\u2019s important advisory memos and bylaws over the last decade.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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IMS has over 20 years of audited statements with the Securities and Exchange<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Commission and recently John navigated the company into a private entity. Today, IMS has more than 15,000 clients and 22,000 cardholders functioning in 52 metro markets throughout North America. With a nationwide broker network and national sales team employing 95 individuals and an annual trading volume in excess of $130M, IMS is an undisputed and respected leader in the industry.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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John resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and he is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys fly-fishing, gardening, and cruising on the lake with his wife of 32 years, Kim Strabley. He also serves as a board member on numerous other associations and over the course of his tenure, John and Team IMS have raised millions of dollars in trade for charities across the nation.
IRTA congratulates John for his much-deserved award and thanks him for his selfless contributions to IRTA, UC and the barter industry at large.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Congatulations John!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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2020 Inductee: Fred Detwiler <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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Fred Detwiler, President, Tradefirst<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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TradeFirst is one of the early pioneers of the barter industry\u2014formed in 1978! As a result, TradeFirst is one of the U.S.\u2019s oldest and most established trade networks.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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In the last 41 years, TradeFirst has taken a leadership role with implementing new innovations to the industry, including: installing our first computer in 1979, the introduction of 24-hour telephone authorizations in 1986, the use of broadcast faxes in 1990, online trading in 2000, swipe card technology in 2003, smartphone integration in 2009, and a member-driven online marketplace in 2018.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Fred recognizes the need for our industry to continue to innovate change so that we can effectively compete with the myriad of internet-based platforms that pose a threat to our traditional client\/member base.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Fred\u2019s background and additional achievements:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFred is an accomplished life-long sailor.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhile attending Wayne State University, he started a sailing school in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAfter college, Fred became a private boat skipper for a family. For the next three and a half years he sailed throughout North America, the Caribbean, across the Atlantic, and into the Mediterranean.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn 1975, Fred had his first experience with barter while working at a radio station in Ann Arbor, Michigan. $100\/wk salary and trade for apartment, gas, and dining.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn 1977, Fred moved into major market radio in Detroit, Michigan where he continued to make barter deals.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn 1978, Fred was introduced to Mr Jim Dyer, owner of the International Trade Exchange, by the family for whom he skippered for. Fred bought a barter franchise and \u201cofficially\u201d entered the barter business.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn 1981, Fred assumed control of The Toledo trade Exchange.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn 1988, Fred was introduced to a potential hotel barter deal in the Soviet Union. The hotel was unacceptable, but Fred did conduct millions of dollars of business in the Soviet Union including the establishment of one of the first hard currency stores, distributing Gerber baby food, and even construction of two 70 ft. yachts.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFred continues to build the trade, spanning Michigan, Northern Ohio, South Florida, and the Caribbean.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
  • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFred also continues to yacht race all around North America and even to Honolulu.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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    Congratulations Fred!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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    2017 Inductee: Annette Riggs <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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    Annette Riggs has over 30 years of experience in the Trade\/Barter industry including the retail, corporate and countertrade sectors. She has contributed to collaboration between sectors including new emerging Complementary Currency systems that are forging new models for the future. She is a recognized conference speaker, educator and writer in many different venues and publications.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Annette began her career in the Barter Industry in 1980 as a young college student for Barter Systems Inc. of San Diego. Barter Systems and most other exchanges at that time didn\u2019t have cash fees and struggled for survival until the TEFRA Act in 1982 changed the landscape completely. She took the lead in 1984 to convert the largest exchange in San Diego to a new business model that included cash fees, new management, sales and brokering structures.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    After selling the exchange in 1987, Annette consulted with other exchanges struggling to make the transition and became interested in Media and Corporate Trade. IRTA had a Corporate Barter Council at that time and the conventions were a rich environment for learning across fields that differed greatly in business models and approaches to Barter\/Trade. Annette embraced these learning opportunities and became one of the first professionals in the field to successfully develop trade opportunities between the retail and corporate barter sectors.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Annette had many retail and corporate barter company clients when she returned to her hometown of Denver, Colorado in 1992 as she continued to develop a niche business unique in the industry and a collaboration with the local barter\/trade companies. As the dot com era began, she and her two partners formed a company to develop Barter.com.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Barter.com was the first company to envision and plan for a technology oriented online bartering system, working with cutting-edge tech companies and the Venture Capital community in Silicon Valley. Many followed and were in varying phases of development when the dot com crash came after approximately $200 million had been invested in the Barter\/Trade sector. By then, Annette was living in the Bay Area as required by VC investors as President of Barter.com. The lessons learned from this experience were vast and as she says, \u201cwould fill a very thick book\u201d.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    During her 8 years in the Bay Area she became involved in Countertrade projects and on the complete opposite end of the spectrum became interested in Community\/Complementary Currency initiatives which were beginning to emerge. She worked extensively with Professors at Sonoma State University and was instrumental in introducing these fledgling systems and the academic community to the organized and well-established barter\/trade sector so that they had an opportunity to learn what could be of value to their development of more sustainable projects. She was on the first IRTA convention panel to introduce the Barter\/Trade Industry to these new concepts, the subject of which has continued since that time.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Annette has circled the world promoting IRTA and Complementary Currency, Countertrade and retail barter models. In 2015, she traveled twice to Saudi Arabia on IRTA\u2019s behalf to meet with executives of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation, (ITFC). The ITFC meetings led to the completion of the \u201cIRTA Report for the Development of an OIC Multi-Dimensional Credit Clearing\/Counter Trade system,\u201d of which Annette was the lead author. IRTA\u2019s comprehensive research report for the ITFC was the first of its kind in IRTA\u2019s history, and the report helped solidify IRTA\u2019s standing on the international barter\/trade stage.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Annette has also played a substantive role in IRTA\u2019s current negotiations with the Government of Dubai to develop an international barter financial hub in Dubai.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Annette has served on the IRTA Board of Directors for the past 8 years, as Secretary for 2 years and as President for two consecutive terms. She is currently Vice Co-Chair of the board. In addition to many Outstanding Service Awards, Annette received the first David Wallach Distinguished Service Award and the first President\u2019s Award for her accomplishments as President of IRTA. Annette lives in Denver, Colorado and is the Founder and Managing Director of Community Connect Trade Association.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    The barter industry has benefited greatly from Annette\u2019s limitless passion for our industry. Her 30 plus years of selfless work to improve our industry has clearly left our industry in a better place.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    IRTA congratulates Annette on her much-deserved Hall of Fame Award, and sincerely thanks her for all she has done for IRTA, UC and the entire industry!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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    2016 Inductee: Jack Schacht <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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    Illinois Trade Association Founder\/CEO President, College Funding Advisors Founder, My College Planning Team<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    Jack has over 40 years in marketing, management and business leadership. At age 24 he started his first business, Career Counselors, which launched the careers of hundreds of college graduates at major companies throughout the Chicago area. His most recent business, Illinois Trade Association, was started in 1984. Under his leadership, his company became the largest commercial barter exchange in the United States and was sold to International Monetary Systems in 2006.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    While at Illinois Trade, Jack mentored hundreds of business owners, teaching them creative financial strategies to reduce expenses, improve cash flow and boost their bottom line.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    As founder of My College Planning Team, Jack and his team have appeared on WIND radio WGN (FM) and have been featured in several major publications including The Chicago Tribune, The Daily Herald, U.S. News, Online Colleges and Daily Parent.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFounder, My College Planning Team<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t15 years of service on the N.A.T.E. Board<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMultiple Outstanding Service Awards<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
    • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tKeynote speaker at six major conventions<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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      Jack was featured in Inc and Forbes magazine (\u201cWhen Money Isn\u2019t Enough\u201d) which highlighted his unique ability to retain talented employees through the creation of a leadership culture within his company.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Jack now brings the same creative edge in helping families reduce the cost of their children\u2019s education. He and his extensive professional network of partner-businesses are committed to providing high value at affordable prices to middle income families struggling to pay for college.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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      2015 Inductee: Bob Bagga <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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      The Hall of Fame Committee is pleased to announce that Bob Bagga, Co-Founder, President and CEO of BizX with offices in Seattle, Oakland, and Dubai, has been selected to receive the 2015 Hall of Fame Award. This is the highest honor conferred by IRTA.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      The award will be presented at IRTA\u2019s 36th Annual International Convention being held September 17th through 19th at the Solmar Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Bob\u2019s accomplishments in the private currency and barter industry have garnered him international recognition. Over the last 20 years, he has built a number of successful trade exchanges. His first company, Barter Business Exchange, which he co-founded at the age of 22, went on to go public as Ubarter.com. He co-founded BizX in 2002 which has grown to be the leading trade exchange on the West Coast. BizX has been recognized by INC magazine as one of the fastest growing companies in the US for 6 yrs and winner of many regional and national awards.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      In 1992, he co-founded Barter Business Exchange (BBE), which expanded across Canada with offices in Toronto, Hamilton, Windsor, and Vancouver. Rogers Communication, Revlon and Kodak, along with 4,000 other companies were all members of BBE, trading in excess of $60 million a year. BBE went on to become one of Canada\u2019s fastest growing companies, and was rated at #46 in 1998 and #51 in 1999 by Profit Magazine. It even went on to be featured by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation Venture program. In 1999, BBE merged with International Barter Corp to create Ubarter.com, and later that year was acquired by Seattle-based shopnow.comand listed on NASDAQ.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Bob has been extensively involved with IRTA serving on the Board and holding numerous positions, including Chair of the Certified Broker Training (CTB) committee, Convention Committee, Vice President, Treasurer, and a member of the UC Committee. He was also a part of the IRTA Board that worked to create the Universal Currency (UC) system, a clearinghouse for trade exchanges that allows exchange members to buy and sell between one another, vastly broadening their reach. In 2005 IRTA recognized Bob\u2019s many contributions and accomplishments by giving him the Outstanding Achievement Award and the Legends of Barter Award.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Bob is actively involved in the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and a recipient of the Puget Sound Business Journal 40 under 40 award. He lives in Seattle with his wife Anita and 3 children Nikhil, Dylan & Mia.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      IRTA congratulates Bob on his well deserved 2015 Hall of Fame Award!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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      2014 Inductee: Michael Mercier <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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      The Hall of Game Committee is please to announce that Michael Mercier, founder and President of Metro Trading Association, has been selected to receive the 2014 Hall of Fame Award. This is the highest honor awarded by IRTA. He is a barter industry founder and past President of IRTA. The Hall of Fame Committee is comprised of all the former recipients of the Hall of Fame Award.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Michael started Metro Trading Association in 1978. He came from Investment Banking and was a principal in a NYSE member firm before starting Metro Trade Association in 1978. Metro Trading services the business community in Michigan and Ohio. He joined IRTA that year and attended the very first national convention in Memphis, Tennessee. In addition to being a past IRTA President, Michael has served as IRTA\u2019s Vice President (3 times) and Secretary. Mercier has chaired numerous IRTA committees and been recognized with the \u201cPaul St. Martin Award\u201d, \u201cLegend of Barter Award\u201d and numerous \u201cOutstanding Achievement Awards. \u201cNo person has served on the IRTA International Board of Directors for more years than he has.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Michael also played a leading role as the long-term chairperson of IRTA\u2019s Government Relations Committee. He authored, (with IRTA staff), legislation to regulate the industry that was twice introduced in the United States Congress. Additionally, he was deeply involved with lobbying Congress in response to the\u2022 John Doe\u201d summons activity of the IRS. This led to the government\u2019s recognition of the barter industry as a third-party record keeper via the Tax Equity and Fiscal and Responsibility Act (TEFRA). This record keeper designation was the first point cited by the Commissioner in the recent exemption obtained by IRTA from the CA money Transmitter Act.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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      Michael\u2019s passion and vision have always been and his dream for the future continues to be:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        As noted he was the primary force in 1984 when IRTA membership voted unanimously to be regulated by a board made up of industry representatives, the public and government, similar to the Securities Industry. Mercier says the industry today forgets that all trade exchanges then in existence would have been exempt from the $1,000,000 capital requirement that was written into the bill. That would have made each exchange worth a minimum of $1,000,000 in 1984 dollars. He understands that no business really wants to be regulated but he believes that a financial industry such as ours needs to be transparent to attract significant investment capital as well as to achieve the greatest market penetration.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Mercier more recently represented IRTA at the British Standards Institute Capacity Trading Workshop and the Capacity Trading Round Table hosted by the City of London. Mike believes that with the global growth of the industry the method to transparency and accountability is international standards certification. In fact, he believes that certification may be necessary for the industry to survive. Michael says \u201cWhatever an exchange\u2019s \u201cbooks\u201d (accounting) looks like today is of little or no importance. Standards need to be written so existing businesses in our industry can participate without exception. Standards will define a pathway to show how greater success in the future will be achieved by standard practices. These practices need to be certified by a credible third party. Then those who wish to do business with you will be confident. Equally as important, you will be able to transact business with any other exchange worldwide with the knowledge and assurance that they use the same standardized business methods as yourself. Mercier believes standards will unleash a volcanic growth that will raise the well-being of the industry. In addition, it will help participating businesses succeed and living standards improve in all countries.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        His other major focus of the last quarter of a century is industry unity in the United States. Primarily because of the IRTA membership\u2019s unanimous vote to support regulation in 1984 a splinter group was founded, the National Association of Trade Exchanges. The IRTA board sent him to the second NATE convention in Denver to try to negotiate reconciliation. Mercier joined NATE and has been a dual member since. Mercier was elected to the NATE board and became president; he is the only individual who has been President of both organizations. At one time he was President of NATE and elected to the IRTA board! \u20221 did this to dramatically show that we have so much in common: On more than one occasion it seemed that unity had been achieved only to see it break down. He has encouraged and participated in collaborative efforts between IRTA and NATE such as having the same Certified Trade Broker test, training and mutual recognition.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        He has fond friendships with members of both groups and hopes someday to not have to go to two meetings annually to see all of them! He also feels that we could do so much more to inform, enlighten and motivate the public and without the substantial costs of duplication.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Michael gratefully acknowledges that much of his contribution to the excess capacity trading industry is due to the support of (the love of his life) his wife and business partner, Lois Best\u00ad-Mercier. She has worked at Metro Trading Association for 26 years. She is the Chief Operating Officer and has made many contributions herself to our industry. Mike and Lois have four grandchildren. They have a very big cat, Ziggy and a King Charles Caviler Spaniel, Oliver. who also works at MTA as the official greeter.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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        2013 Inductee: Lois Dale <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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        Regardless of what career she chose to pursue, Lois Dale was destined to lead. Her ceaseless energy, industry smarts and amazing sense of humor combine to make her star shine brightly in any arena.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        As the founder and owner of Dale Carpet Center in 1978 she was one of the few women in the carpet business in the entire country. To no one\u2019s surprise, Lois was immediately elected as to the National Carpet Association\u2019s Board, and appointed its Vice President.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Lois formed Barter Advantage (BAI) in New York City and ran both the carpet company and the barter exchange simultaneously until she sold the carpet business in 1992. Lois was one of a small handful of women at the time who ventured into the barter business. Word traveled fast about the woman pioneer in the barter business and soon the BAI story was picked-up by every major news station, newspaper and magazine on the east coast!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        The famous American financial journalist and host of Wall Street Week even dubbed Lois as the \u201cFirst Lady of Barter.\u201d<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        BAI joined IRTA in the late 1980\u2019s and Lois quickly became immersed in IRTA at every level. She served on the IRTA Public Relations\/Marketing committee for numerous years and she was a key member of the UC Committee for over eleven years from 2001 to 2012. She served on both the NATE and IRTA boards for many years and held numerous officer positions within IRTA, Secretary, Vice-President and was IRTA\u2019s President from 2004 to 2007. Lois traveled the world spreading the good news about the barter industry and she was a welcomed ambassador for the industry wherever she went.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Lois received numerous awards over the years, including the prestigious IRTA Paul St. Martin Award, Ambassador and Sales Presentation Awards. After twenty-nine years in the barter industry, Lois sold her exchange to IMS and she retired from the barter world.
        Lois\u2019 energy is now directed at her newest venture, Dale Workforce Solutions, www. daleworkforcesolutions.com, a Certified Woman Owned Business, which staffs information Technology (IT) personnel to Fortune 500 companies.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Lois is a special person in the barter industry; yesterday, today and forever. She dedicated 29+ years to our industry and unquestionably was a major factor its growth and maturation.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Lois\u2019 four year old daughter got it right back in 1991 when she told the press, \u201cMy mommy got smarter, when she decided to barter.\u201d The reality is that the entire industry benefited from Lois Dale\u2019s unselfish contributions to it. We all are grateful to Lois for her three decades of support and commitment to our industry.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        The Hall of Fame Committee, comprised of all the former HOF recipients, is proud to name Lois Dale as the 2013 Barter Hall of Fame inductee. Congratulations Lois!<\/p>

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        2012 Inductee: Sally Selbman <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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        While employed as manager for a computer timeshare and software development company she met David Wallach. He came to her office to try to sell her a membership in his new barter exchange. This would later prove to be a life-changing encounter. Now a client of American Trade Association, Sally, along with a fellow Access Systems software engineer, developed a software package for trade brokering. This software revolutionized the workflow of trade brokers enabling quick and easy access to client information and significantly increasing productivity.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        In 1986 Sally Selbman joined partnership with David Wallach. Together they faced numerous challenges. Not least among them was the continuing fight against damage to the trade industry from unscrupulous trade organizations attempting to use barter to avoid taxation. American Trade Group was a highly successful trade exchange but it soon became apparent that there was greater growth potential by consolidation and acquisition. During this acquisition phase they moved their offices from Marin County to San Francisco. They successfully acquired three exchanges and by the time they sold the exchange in 2001, they had increased membership from 1600 to 3700 clients.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        In the course of her tenure she has earned the Paul St. Martin Distinguished Service Award and the Legend of Barter Award. As a member of IRTA Sally has lead several seminars including Credit and Collection, Trade Brokering and Accounting Procedures as well as serving on several committees. She also co-authored the trade brokering system entitled \u201cProject Management\u201d.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Despite Sally\u2019s retirement, she has remained active in the industry. She continues to attend conventions in the United States and Europe and continued her partnership, both professional and personal, with David Wallach until his death in 2011.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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        2011 Inductee: Perry Constantinides <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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        After six successful years with the Xerox Corporation, Perry began his barter adventure in 1977 by buying a franchise from a group in Salt Lake City. By the early 1980s the franchiser group began to falter so Perry took Barter Systems, Inc. of DC and went independent. At that time there were few trade exchanges and most were located on the West Coast. The East Coast had one exchange in the Washington, DC area that was selling franchises. Six months after Perry started up his exchange this local competitor went out of business creating bad press for the barter concept on the Washington Post\u2019s front page. Nevertheless, Perry managed to grow his business through the adversity.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        In 1979 he was the first trade exchange owner to become an organizer of the International Association of Trade Exchanges which later became the International Reciprocal Trade Association. He was elected to the original Board of Directors and became Finance Chairman. It was his duty to raise $75,000 in cash and $75,000 in trade to challenge the Internal Revenue Service\u2019s \u201cBarter Project\u201d in court and take the industry\u2019s case to the United States Congress. In those days the barter industry was besieged by tax authorities whose plans called for auditing every business who bartered. The use of barter to evade taxes though the \u201cunderground economy\u201d was given wide publicity; there were no known tax rules and trade exchanges had no clear status in commercial law. As a result, government regulators could use \u201cJohn Doe\u201d summonses to obtain the names of every barterer and investigate them for tax evasion.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Thus a handful of exchanges, most of them only a couple of years old, had to confront the Federal government with its immense legal resources behind it. The barter industry might well have been extinguished but Perry was an energetic leader in rallying resistance by the exchanges. He raised the cash that supported appeals to the Federal appellate courts in Philadelphia and Cincinnati. In addition, Perry\u2019s company, Barter Systems of Washington, DC paid off entirely the trade debt owed to the Washington law firm which represented the industry in its legal appeals. Being located in Washington where the Board of Directors had to come frequently to lobby Congress and enter into negotiations with IRS, someone had to provide accommodations, meeting rooms, and meals on trade for numerous meetings spanning two tumultuous years, and that duty fell to Barter Systems of Washington, DC. It was a duty that Perry performed without complaint and without asking for recognition or thanks, but it resulted in the friendly tax rules the barter industry enjoys today, and in the crowning achievement of passage by Congress of the \u201cBarter Bill of Rights\u201d, formal recognition of trade exchanges in law, third-party record keeper status, and granting exchanges the same rights and safeguards over their records as banks and credit card companies. In 1984 he was awarded IRTA\u2019s Distinguished Service Award for outstanding contribution to the commercial barter industry.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        During those early days Perry was also an IRTA Board member and Chairman of the Ethics Committee. During the last ten years Perry has served two additional terms on the Board, worked with the committee responsible for rewriting the CTB exam, he also has served on and led numerous panels at IRTA conventions. He is currently serving on IRTA\u2019s New Membership Committee, the Ethics Committee and is IRTA\u2019s Vice President. He has also been serving for many years on the UC Committee.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Perry is a clear thinker and a straight talker, a friend to everyone in barter, a man who keeps his word and gets things done. His exchange has been the barter industry\u2019s flagship in the U.S. capital for three decades and his achievements in the founding of our industry should not be forgotten.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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        2010 Inductee: Scott Whitmer <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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        Scott has been a member of IRTA since 1982. He served on the IRTA Global Board of Directors for more than 20 years, was IRTA President for two terms and held all other Board officer positions for a least one term.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Scott has been honored on three occasions with the highest award IRTA offers; the Paul St. Martin Distinguished Service Award. He has also received several IRTA Outstanding Achievement and Ambassador Awards as well as numerous awards from NATE. Always willing to share his expertise with others in the industry, Scott has led numerous Seminars and Discussion Groups during industry Conventions.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        He presently serves as the very active and effective Chairperson of the Universal Currency Committee.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Scott graduated from Georgia Tech in 1977 where he attended on a football scholarship and received his BA in Industrial Management.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        He is a dedicated husband and father and is active in local affairs and charities.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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        2009 Inductee: Don Mardak <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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        Donald F. Mardak has been the Chief Executive Officer, President, and a director of IMS since 1989. From 1970 to 1974, Mr. Mardak was a partner in Learning Unlimited, a division of Hal Leonard Publishing Corp. In 1974, he founded Don Mardak Piano & Organ Centers, Ltd., a chain of retail piano and organ stores in the Greater Milwaukee Area. In 1985, Mr. Mardak founded the Continental Trade Exchange barter network under the name \u201cContinental Trading Company,\u201d a sole proprietorship. Continental Trading Company was incorporated in 1988 as Continental Trade Exchange, Ltd., and is now the primary operating subsidiary. Mr. Mardak has served two terms as president of the National Association of Trade Exchanges (NATE) in 1995-96 and again in 1999-2000 and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the International Reciprocal Trade Association (IRTA).<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Accordion Champ to CEO\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Today, IMS is one of the largest full-service, membership-based trading networks in the United States currently serving 50 markets. But Mardak\u2019s first brush with fame occurred as a teenager, when he was crowned Wisconsin\u2019s accordion champ. At 20, he partnered with the state\u2019s #2 player and opened The Accordion School of Champions. But when Beatle-mania hit, the accordion became obsolete.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        He and his brother convinced Hal Leonard Publishing\u2014now the largest U.S. music publishing company\u2014to open a division in Milwaukee. While his brother would stay on to become CEO, Mardak left four years later to open an organ store. But history repeated itself in the 1980s, as organs were edged out by computerized keyboards. So, in his first barter transaction, Mardak traded the retail store for real estate and used his investment to launch his barter career.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        The First National Bartering Network<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        In 1985, Mardak founded CTE \u2013 Continental Trade Exchange \u2013 a modest barter organization located in the Milwaukee area. His business model: go door-to-door signing up local businesses, exchanging merchandise for trade certificates. His office: the trunk of his car. His showroom: the family garage. At night, his wife Judy\u2014who remains involved in the management of the business\u2014would type the day\u2019s certificates.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Initially, the business was small. But in 1989, they made their first acquisition, a small trade association in Green Bay. \u201cIt was a revelation for me,\u201d recalls Mardak. \u201cI spent four years growing our business to 300 members, then doubled our size with the stroke of a pen.\u201d<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Shortly thereafter, he created a holding company, International Monetary Systems, Inc. (IMS). His thinking behind the then-grandiose name: \u201cI didn\u2019t want to be perceived as just a barter network. I wanted room to expand.\u201d<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Capitalizing on the fragmented market, Mardak has since acquired more than 20 other trade exchanges, creating a first-of-its-kind national bartering network. Today, IMS spans 18 states, from New York to California, and includes Toronto, Canada.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        A Publicly-Traded Trading Company<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        In 2000, Mardak did the unheard of, making an initial public stock offering, making IMS one of two publicly-traded barter exchanges. IMS trade on the OTBB under stock symbol ITNM.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Today, IMS has more than 17,000 members, a national broker network, a national sales team, and an annual trading volume of more than $114M. Through strategic acquisitions and aggressive enrollment practices, IMS has grown to be the largest single exchange network in the U.S.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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        2008 Inductee: Sirri Simsek <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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        Today Ron Whitney Executive Director of the International Reciprocal Trade Association announced that Sirri Simsek will be formally recognized as the 2008 inductee into the Barter Hall of Fame on September 24, 2008 during the 29th annual IRTA Convention to be held at the Westgate River Ranch near Orlando Florida.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        \u201cSirri Simsek has truly contributed to the Modern Trade and Barter Industry in a universally recognized manor.\u201d Said Whitney; \u201cThe Industry is proud to honor him\u201dThe Barter Hall of Fame is the highest honor the Modern Trade and Barter Industry bestows. The honor recognizes individuals of the highest professional character and ethical conduct who are regarded as Indisputable leaders of the Modern Trade and Barter Industry. An inductee must have a minimum of ten years of continuous Industry service and have made recognizable and specific contributions to the Industry as a whole.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        Mr. Simsek is CEO of Turk Barter located in Istanbul Turkey. The company has over 10,000 participating business clients that are active in domestic and international Modern Trade and Barter transactions thru the Turk Barter system.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        As an active global speaker Simsek has addressed and educated audiences about the economic benefits of Modern Trade and Barter during several international conferences, including, the Eurasia Economic Summit, Conference of the Stroheim Foundation, the Kalder International Association and the ESBAS Conference.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        His other Industry accomplishments include:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAuthored an educational Industry related book \u201cMoneyless Trade: Barter\u201d<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHas served on the IRTA Global Board of Directors and Ethics Committee for several years<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFirst to apply swipe technology to barter transactions<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
        • \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWorking with the Turkish government to secure standards of operation of Barter systems for the benefit of all Barter clients.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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          \u201cWe congratulate Sirri for earning and receiving the Barter Hall of Fame Award\u201d said IRTA President David Wallach, \u201cHe exemplifies all of the best qualities our Industry has to offer.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

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          2007 Inductee: Art Goehring <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2006 Inductee: David Wallach <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2005 Inductee: Andrew Federowski <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2004 Inductee: Wayne Sharpe <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2003 Inductee: Steve Goldbloom <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2002 Inductee: Art Wagner <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2001 Inductee: Allan Hackel <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          2000 Inductee: Steve Webster <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1999 Inductee: Alan Elkin <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1998 Inductee: Susan Groenwald <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1998 Inductee: Col. Bill Austin <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1997 Inductee: Paul Suplizio <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1997 Inductee: Bob Meyer <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1997 Inductee: Mac McConnel <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1997 Inductee: Werner Zimmerman <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1997 Inductee: Paul Enz <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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          \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

          Hall of Fame The Barter Hall of Fame is the highest honor the organized trade industry can bestow. The honor recognizes individuals of the highest professional character and ethical conduct who are regarded as indisputable leaders of the organized trade industry. An inductee must have a minimum of ten years of continuous industry service and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1749","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nHall of Fame | Honoring Barter Trade Leaders with IRTA<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore the IRTA Hall of Fame, celebrating leaders who have shaped the barter trade industry and promoted ethical trade standards globally.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/irta.com\/staging\/hall-of-fame\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Hall of Fame | Honoring Barter Trade Leaders with IRTA\" \/>\n<meta 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