CANOGA PARK, Calif. – Performers, producers, pleasure products manufacturers and others are among the recipients of the 2016 FSC Awards. The awards, presented annually by adult industry trade association Free Speech Coalition, recognize professionals and companies that have made significant contributions to the business environment and/or present the industry in a positive way through advocacy and action.
Award-winners are determined by the board of directors.
The 2016 recipients are:
Legacy Award: Kelly Holland (president, Penthouse)
The Legacy Award is given to an individual who has built a solid presence in the adult entertainment industry through innovative ideas and successful business practices. The individual has gone above and beyond not only to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals and businesses within the industry, but also to improve the stature of the industry as a whole.
Performer of the Year: Ela Darling
This positive-image award goes to industry performers who have gone out of their way to dispel myths and misconceptions about the adult entertainment industry through advocacy, public awareness programs and community service.
Woman of the Year: Susan Colvin (president and CEO, CalExotics)
Man of the Year: Steve Orenstein (founder, Wicked Pictures)
The Man of the Year and Woman of the Year awards go to individuals who have displayed exceptional leadership qualities both within their own business and throughout the industry. In addition to his or her success in business, the individuals named FSC’s Man of the Year or Woman of the Year have made a significant positive contribution to the overall welfare of the adult entertainment industry.
Pleasure Products Company of the Year: The Screaming O
Retailer of the Year: Good Vibrations
Production Company of the Year: Mile High Media
Internet Company of the Year: BaDoink.com
Recipients of company of the year awards have demonstrated constant and unwavering innovation and excellence. Their success benefits not only themselves, but also the industry as a whole. In addition to creative innovation, these companies conduct business with high ethical standards and integrity.
Christian Mann Courage and Leadership Award: FSC staff, including Diane Duke, Joanne Cachapero and Julie X
The Christian Mann Courage and Leadership Award is given to a member or members of the adult entertainment or pleasure products community who has shown exemplary courage and leadership in fighting for the rights and image of the industry. The award is not given annually; instead, recipients are named only when extraordinary efforts exemplify the values and honor the memory of late FSC board member Christian Mann.
Leadership Award: Frank and Michael Kay (owners, IVD/East Coast News)
The Leadership Award is presented to the adult entertainment industry business or individual that demonstrates excellence in leading by example. The award may be given for community service, activism, creating a positive and outstanding work environment, innovations or other qualities that lift the business or individual above the rest.
The FSC Awards presentation will take place at noon Jan. 15 at the Andaz Hotel in West Hollywood, Calif. Active FSC members are invited to attend.
For more information, email info@freespeechcoalition.com.
