Attendees at RIBA's 62nd annual outing and clambake
After several years of lower-than-usual attendance, the Rhode Island Builders Association's 62nd annual outing and clambake came roaring back with a turnout of over 260, nearly twice last year's count.
The event took place at the traditional location: Francis Farm, Rehoboth, Mass., on August 10.
"There definitely is more energy this year. You can tell there's a feeling that things are getting better," said Ken Coury of Riverhead Building Supply.
There were more younger faces, too.
"This event marks the successful return of a tradition at RIBA, and it was great to see the turnout grow to such a level. Keeping the cost down and the energy level high had everything to do with our sponsors. The association is very grateful that they participated and supported it. Next year, our goals are the same - great event, great price, great food. Stay involved, stay tuned," said RIBA executive director John Marcantonio.
It was a pleasant day for the outing's typical contests and athletic events. And for the first time in over 10 years, there was an organized softball game - between USI/Mastors & Servant Ltd. and Riverhead Building Supply.
While an afternoon downpour did rain out a few of the traditional contests, it did nothing to dampen spirits. Gathering under the ample shelters at Francis Farm, attendees enjoyed conversation, card playing, and munching on hot dogs and fare from the raw bar.
In a first for the outing, new member Hurd Auto Mall sent some new GM work trucks for display, promoted a $500 GM offer for members, and raffling off a Garmin Navigation unit, won by Domenic Ruscio of J&A Electric Inc.
Winners of the day's events included:
*Horseshoes - Tyler Fiske and Geoff Reilly of Anchor Insulation
*Football Toss - Matt Blais of Jutras Woodworking
*Plywood Throwing - Evan Kerte of National Lumber
*Golf Chipping - Buddy Gemma
*Nail Driving - Mike Lareau of Michael Lareau Construction.
Many companies were well represented at the outing & clambake this year, including: Anchor Insulation Co., Inc.; Andersen Windows & Doors; Arnold Lumber Co.; Butera Building & Design; William J. Canning Management Co.; Consolidated Concrete Corp.; CRM Modular Homes; Davitt Design Build Inc.; DeMelo Construction; Douglas Lumber, Kitchens & Home Center; Dynasty Electric LLC; W.H. Holland Electric Inc.; Humphrey's Building Supply Center; Hurd Auto Mall; J&A Electric Inc.; Jaimar Building Co.; Jutras Woodworking Co.; Law Offices of Michael A. Kelly; Liberty Cedar Inc.; Mediapeel; National Building Products; Newport Plate & Mirror Glass; Renaissance Insurance Group; Riverhead Building Supply; Spaulding Brick Co., Inc.; James P. Tavares Construction Inc.; TradeSource, and USI/Mastors & Servant Ltd.
RIBA thanks the generous sponsors and donors who made the 2012 outing and clambake possible!