RIBA's 56th annual outing and clambake a big hit again

Jutras Woodworking and William J. Canning Management Co. took the top volleyball honors this year as the Rhode Island Builders Association's 56th annual outing and clambake unfolded at Francis Farm in Rehoboth, Mass. It was a mild August 17th, with some 290 members and guests signed up for the association's oldest and most popular annual social event. The weather was perfect, with warm temperatures but overcast skies that kept the day from becoming hot. The outing returned to Francis Farm last year after a nine-year absence, and members once again enjoyed the snazzy new facilities and the outstanding, varied and abundant food. The association's first outing and clambake took place at Francis Farm in 1951. Several companies were especially well represented, with large contingents from Jutras Woodworking, New England Drywall, The Preservation Cooperative, John F. Nilan Plastering, Pella Windows and Doors, Tavares Construction and more. Along with volleyball, members enjoyed the usual athletic contests, including horseshoes, golf chipping, bocce, plywood throwing, the football toss, and nail driving. But there were other attractions too, notably the air-conditioned lounges and bar, where many were able to take in the Red-Sox/Angels game. Members also took advantage of the extensive grounds, comfortable patio seating and the Francis Farm Sweet Shoppe and museum. Food included chowder and clam cakes, hot dogs, the raw bar and, of course, the famous Francis Farm clambake, complete with fish, potatoes, corn, steamers, sweet potatoes, onions and a barbecued half chicken. Lobster also was available. On the sports scene, Luis Mateos of Norbury Construction retained his all-time plywood-throwing record of 36' 11", achieved in 2005. A.J. Gargaro of Greenville Insulation took the title this year, with a toss of 33.3". Plywood throwing is an event believed to have originated with RIBA and is now featured at the outdoor events of several other HBAs. The day ended with tables full of door prizes, and attendees walking away with everything from assorted tools, shirts, gift certificates, Red Sox tickets, Adirondack chairs, and a circular saw. RIBA offers sincere thanks to all sponsors and donors. William Geddes of Geddes Builders and Steven Gianlorenzo of Gianlorenzo & Sons Construction Corp. once again co-chaired the event this year, assisted by Carlos Ferro of P.J.'s Carpets & Window Fashions; Dick Welch of Apple Construction Corp.; Charlie Curci of The Preston Agency; Frank DiPrete; and Cisco Correia, Steven Gianlorenzo Jr. and Andrew Gianlorenzo of Gianlorenzo & Sons Construction Corp. Also assisting at the event were RIBA executive director Roger Warren, and staff members Nancy Jenkinson, Elizabeth Carpenter and Joanne Mattos. Paul Eno is the owner and editor-in-chief of New River Press, Woonsocket, which produces the RIBA monthly newsletter.