2011 Family Business-of-the-Year

Necessity is the mother of invention. No one knows this better than Joe Calato, who revolutionized the drumstick industry in 1958. That's when Joe, a professional drummer and woodworker, stepped in. He decided to try to make a stick that would last longer and would offer a new, cutting-edge sound.

He invented a drumstick with a nylon tip that stayed attached, didn't shatter and produced a sound pleasing to the ear. In fact, the sound was so pleasing that it helped define the musical styles of the day with its signature clarity on the drumheads and ride cymbals. His contribution to the percussion industry was recognized by the Percussive Arts Society when the organization inducted Joe into its Hall of Fame in 2001. To this day, the drum world credits Joe Calato with establishing modern standards in drumstick design and crafting.

The creativeness and innovation of Regal Tip continues to this day. At the PAS convention in 2003, Regal Tip introduced Joe's revolutionary new nylon tip drumstick, the "E-Series," a nylon tip stick which offers a darker, warmer, wood tip sound on a cymbal.

Most recently Regal Tip was honored with m.i.p.a.'s Best Drumsticks Award for its X-Series sticks. This international recognition was the decision of representatives of 55 magazines from 40 countries around the world.

For its commitment to hard work, determination, service and innovation, the Niagara University Family Business Center is pleased to honor J.D. Calato Mfg. Co. Inc. as the 2011 Family Business-of-the-Year.