By Greg Stidsen
Photos (and a video) by John Rowntree
A PERFECT WINTER DAY was the backdrop for or Annual Winter Party. Saturday dawned cold and clear but with passing snow squalls that created a beautiful snow globe effect yet never seemed to stick. For the second year running, we gathered at the Weston Art & Innovation Center, right next to the old tavern that was our ‘club house’ for so many years. The Club provided a delicious Italian feast and members brought an incredible spread of desserts for all to share.
After dinner, our fearless leader, Greg Stidsen, brought the membership together to honor our outgoing President of 24 years, Tom Lesko. Our Board of Directors had voted to honor Tom with a plaque to commemorate his service. This plaque is something very special, as it was designed by Director Frank Anigbo, who provided the Giulia grille that formed the theme for the plaque. [Actually, it was a grill that Tom Lesko had previously given him to help with a project. What goes around comes around! —Ed.] Peter Walker penned an appropriate epitaph and Deb Donovan found a skilled trophy maker to realize our vision, replete with custom AONE logo by Dave Pratt. Tom was surprised by the award and very appreciative of the recognition for his outstanding service to AONE, over a period of Alfa being absent from the market and the disruption of the Pandemic.
There was lots of excited talk about upcoming events and winter projects. The vibe was convivial and relaxed as we all reconnected around our common Alfa passion. Old friends and some new faces made for a very enjoyable evening. Those with longer drives home started leaving about 8:30 as the leftovers were distributed and we concluded the evening. Thanks to all the Directors, especially Deb Donovan, for pitching in and making this such a memorable event. See you at the Eclipse in April!
Winter Party People
Tom & Kathi Lesko
Greg & Andrea Stidsen
Meg Anderson & Peter Walker
Frank Anigbo
John & Ki Basel
John & Lauren DeWaele
Fran O'Connor
George & Paula Dolak
Adam Dolak
Ricardo Lio
Deb & Dan Donovan
Dave & Arline France
Stefan & Sonchu Gavell
Jonathan Kirshtein & Paula Brait
Giorgio Kradjian
Mark & Martha O’Connor
Steve & Nancy Perry
John & Roberta Rowntree
Doug Sondak
Lisa & Gary Tashjian
Here’s a video taken during the award presentation: