Winter 2008 President's LetterFrom Angelo Iafrate... There has been an unprecedented amount of change within the last five years or so, and I firmly believe that the success of any politician (don’t think for a minute that we board members are not political animals—we are) is determined by the skill of his or her predecessors. In which case, I have many people to thank for their good work. Any success we have had as a board during my tenure as president is due largely to the work of others. One of the people who stands out in my memory is, of course, Phil Brennion. His outstanding work as our previous president made the board’s current course an easy one. I thank him for his wisdom and foresight. David Ellsworth has been a constant force since the beginning of the AAW. His strength of moral character, insight, and advice have been essential to the successes of this board. Whenever I could not work out an issue, I called John Jordan for an “in-your-face” opinion. I could always count on his honesty, objectivity, and clear vision. Jacques Vesery was always available to lend an ear. His help has been noble and righteous. |
(Letter continued) Mark Sfirri was a resident intellectual for me. He seemed to have the politically correct answer or viewpoint on everything I asked. Bonnie Klein lent a sympathetic ear with an endless supply of kindness. Mark St. Leger has been a stalwart supporter throughout my time on the board. It is his countenance and rock-solid personality I wished to emulate while I served on the board. I hope I did him justice. John Hill, when he was a board member and even now, has a boundless supply of energy and ideas. I hope that he will contribute well into the future. Last but not least are Alan and Mary Lacer. Together they have provided an unmatched sense of history and memory for the AAW. For more than two decades, Alan and Mary could always be trusted to provide good advice based on their experiences with this association. I’ve named only a few people who sprang to mind. I apologize to the many others I have not credited. I extend a sincere thank-you. And finally, I would like to send a big shout-out to Larry Genender. Shortly after he left the board this autumn, Larry suffered a serious fall, breaking his leg and tearing up his knee. He is just starting physical therapy after spending many weeks flat on his back. I enjoyed Larry’s time on the board; he has a very funny personality and always kept us laughing. Please join me in sending Larry warm get-well wishes for a speedy recovery. Angelo Iafrate |
