Money Mailer of Simi Valley, the local office of the nation's leader in the $62billion direct marketing industry, was awarded The Kris and Marilee Friedrich Franchisee of the Year award during the company's annual franchise convention in Miami in December.

The local franchise is owned by Steve and Laura Sojka.

Owners of more than 250 Money Mailer franchises across the United States were on hand for the three-day convention and award ceremony.

Recipients of the award receive a $5,000 monetary contribution that will be donated to the charity of their choice. The Sojkas plan to give their donation to the Simi Valley Police Foundation.

The Sojkas joined the Money Mailer system nearly 24 years ago. They expanded their franchise from four to five mailing zones and have joined their neighboring franchisees to increase their mailing frequency to 10 times a year.