Too bad we can't travel back in time to assure everyone involved that not only would the new designs be well accepted but the Nissen reputation for quality and durability created a loyal fan base around the world. Even now over fifty years later, original Nissen equipment is still in use!
Note: The name Panelite wasn't used until 1964 when the patent was issued. Until then these mats went by the simple name: "Nissen Tumbling Mats."
Chrome was on everyone's mind as my father showed off the factory's new chrome plating tanks to the members of the American Electro-Plating Society.
This page also references the Russian Olympic gymnast's visit to Cedar Rapids earlier in January, 1961.
It was a sure bet that field testing of the new chrome line of gymnastics apparatus took place at New Trier High School in Chicago under the supervision of distinguished coach Giallombardo. My father and Joe Giallombardo (Joe "G") knew each other from their university days; Joe was both a gymnast and tumber for Illinois and won the Big 10 tumbling titles in 1938, 39 & 40. This LINK is the bio of Joe's athletic accomplishments, but I like this LINK better as it describes the kind, friendly Joe "G" that I remember.
Moving into a new factory is only fun if you can drive up to it! This page shares some humor towards a "mucky" situation.
Do these newsletters spark a memory?
I invite you
to share your own stories and comments below.
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"Nissen's - - a great place to work!"
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