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Wang Chung Award:
(Moment of the Year)
Nominees:
Soutiere Wedding - It certainly was great to see all the love at the Soutiere Wedding. As Nick
and Amy celebrated with their family and friends I was honored to be apart of Nick's groomsmen. It was a great way to
kick off the wedding year and certainly did not dissapoint. From the before night gathering to the reception, and even
the after-party, it was truely a fun couple of days!
Stata Wedding - Another wedding in which I got to be a groomsmen. This one featured Nicki and
Aaron, both of whom I've known pretty well for a long time. It was a nice intimate wedding which featured some good
dancing, good friends, and of course jovial times. The after party was pretty crazy too!
Maynard Wedding - I attended as a guest, who also missed the actual wedding due to tardiness because
of weather. However this reception was the "Bees Knees" as they used to say. There was plenty of booze, dancing,
and even some excellent DX themed moments that will probably never be duplicated at any wedding ever again. I also snagged
my first garter and my date, Rachael scored the bouquet. Despite my own issues it was a fantastic event!
And the Winner is........ The Maynard Wedding! No offense to
the other great weddings, which the fellas lovingly made me apart of, but even they might agree that the DX moments were tough
to top. The happiest couple in Lyndonville and myself have also become a lot closer since their excellent day and it's
been great to see that the 2006 Pich' Award for the Most Memorable Moment is in good hands!
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Mary Samsonite Award:
(Trip of the Year)
Nominees:
Albany, NY for America East Championship game - Ed Companion and I embarked on the weekend journey
to see if our fellas could pull off the upset. Despite getting our butts handed to us, it was still a lot of fun as
traveling with Ed always is. We took in some Long John Silver's, and a fine local "establishment," where we met a reincarnated
Kelly Kapowski from Saved By the Bell.
East Coast Swing Road Trip - Again Ed Companion joined me but also Cara Gorman who lent her
ride up for the trek. We started by going down to Roanoke so I could see my family and inevitably say goodbye to my
grandfather. Then we headed across Virginia to the District of Columbia. It was my first time seeing most of our
nations sacred monuments. Then we back tracked a tad to scout at the Virginia State Lacrosse finals, and then spent
the night on campus at the University of Maryland. Finally we met up with Carl Aube, and Terry and we all took in the
NASCAR race from Dover, Delaware. Then we finally headed home. Alot of fun was had on this trip despite the somber
tone set early for me.
Roanoke Trip for Grandfather's Memorial Service - Some people might think it's odd that I would
even include what should be a moment most would not honor as being a "Trip of the Year" candidate. However this was
the perfect way to honor my late grandfather. My Dad drove down with me, which was huge because of my then
money situation. The service was very nice with personal touches spoken by my cousin Christie, and myself. Then
we all gathered together. This side of the family had not been together like this in years, and it was great to have
everyone around even if it was for a somber cause. I really felt like the day complemented who my grandfather was, and
the people who loved him the most.
And the Winner is........ The Roanoke Trip for My Grandfather's Memorial Service!
Although the East Coast Swing trip meant the world to me, it simply can't compete with a weekend that really touched me personally
and will always be a fond memory. For more on this check out my area entitled "I Will Remember You." That section
has a lot more on this and all the people I've lost over the years. Yeah.. it's hard to imagine that a trip to one of
the worst cities in America comes out on top, but this had more to do with the people than the place.
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Lactose Intolerant Award:
(Performance of the Year)
Nominees:
Shawn Sicard wins Street Stock Rookie of the Year Award - When you set a goal for yourself
that is attainable, yet difficult, and you complete it... well that's a great way to earn my respect. Although
I only took in the final winning moment race, I always heard of the trials and tribulations through my roommate, Ed, who was
Sicard's crew chief. It's got to be pretty satisfying to back up what you set out to do!
Phil Bosley wins 1600 in local poker tournament - Although the WPT started to fall apart in latter
'06, it's players enjoyed nice seasons away from the Weav'. Pat Dakin, Donald Fuller, and Jason Hebert all enjoyed big
time wins both online and in local tournaments. However Phil Bosley's take down of this huge purse put him to the head
of the WPT class. Now if we can only get him to show back up for a game if he's done "big timing" us?
OK GO for their music video for "Here it goes again" - I'm sorry but I just think this is probably
one of the greatest videos of all-time. I mean this was truely a stroke of genius. The use of treadmills is by
far beyond anything Bally's Fitness ever did with them. "Hot chicks run on them," you say? Well give me four fellas
in syncronized dance fun over that anyday. That doesn't make me gay mind you...just a fiend for fresh, new entertainment.
Check it out on the home page, and coming soon the videos page, if you haven't seen it!
And the Winner is........ Shawn Sicard! Sure those other things
are great but the recently new proud papa was a lock for this great achievement. I was happy to be there for his winning
moment. Hey win one award, and it leads to another! Way to go Shawn!
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| Trust me...inside that hoodie is "F" and "U" which Pat adds to Fun |
The F U in Fun Award:
Nominees:
Pat Dakin - Pat's presence a what became a down year for the WPT was really what made it fun.
No matter the size or mood of the crowd, Pat was always quick with a joke, or funny anecdote. The lack of solid WPT
games was without a doubt one of the worst things about '06 for me, but when we did have it Pat made it the fun time it always
was.
Ed Companion - There might not be another fella I had more fun with over this year that my
roomy. Whether it's video games, cards, or a night out on the town Ed is all about fun. We done quite
our fair share of traveling this year including Albany for the AE Championship, Dover for a NASCAR race, Mohegan Sun,
and several trips east to Barre, and Lyndonville. Ed's always a dude that can make me laugh, and anytime is enhanced
by his presence.
Aaron Stata - Weeman loves to have fun. Which works out for us this year to get together
on things like Talking Trash, video games, working at Wal-Mart, catching sporting events, shopping, food....hell anything
really. It's been hard to find time to spend with my friends on my shift however Weeman excelled at finding time to
make sure we could still "get after it."
And the Winner is........ Pat Dakin! It tough to beat out my
two best friends when it comes to fun, but Pat's demeandor and spirit at the WPT is enough to grab him the hardware!
Pat's card playing also enjoyed a nice year as he won a local poker tournament netting himself a huge cash payday. I
feel he, like many others, carries the WPT flag with him whenever he competes. Hopefully, along with Pat as a key centerpiece, the
WPT will rise back to prominence in '07.
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The Fontaine Award:
(Couple of the Year)
Nominees:
Nick and Amy Soutiere - These kids got married this year (see The Weddings), got a new house in
Swanton, and really seem to have a nice life carved out for each other. The celebrated their wedding down at Disney
and the couple is always up for visitors for the big screen TV experience.
Aaron and Nicki Stata - This duo alos got married this year and really grew as a couple.
Weeman is one of my closest buds and it's been great to see how happy he is with Nicki. Be it playing cards, planning
gatherings, lending us appliances, or bringing over food from the Izzo household..it's always a good time with this pair!
Shawn and Katie Jacobs - Last year's winners are still a stand out couple. They are always
about having a good time and this year they moved back to town from their New York adventures. They got their own place,
and really seem to continue to radiate the kind of happiness the marriage should be about.
And the Winners are........ Aaron and Nicki Stata! Not that the
other couples aren't great but this pair was key this year with their wedding, pool gatherings, WPT appearences, and much
more. Needless to say it holds true for all the nominees that with great role models for the married life I'm making
sure my hunt brings out my perfect match! Congrats to you all!
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The Mr. Kotter Award:
(Comeback Male of the Year)
Nominees:
Shawn Jacobs - Shawn's return from upper New York was a welcome site. It was great to get
back in touch with him as he returned to Wal-Mart when I worked there. Since his return he's taken over the Wal-Mart
Pharmacy, bought a place with his wife, and made himself available for video gaming and several lunch outings. One could
argue his return was a "Perfect 10?"
Karl Gilbeau - Although Karl never really goes away, and I would never want him to, it always
seems there are big stretches of time in between our visits. Less so in the more recent future as he prepares to wed
next year. We also took in many wrestling PPVs at his crib and I enjoyed his hosting of the Greg James bachelor
party. Even though there can be those lulls in our hangouts Karl and I always pick up where we left off
with our love of all things 80's, wrestling, and sports.
Kyle Goyet - Kyle and I would hang out almost by default back in the days when I would spend time
with his bro, Josh. This year Kyle really stood out apart from his brother by joining the team at UVM on our staff. Not
only does he help me by doing my areas when I'm otherwise disposed, but he also is that little kick that I used to get from Carl
back in the "glory days." Aside from that I invited Kyle to become my regular co-host on Talking Trash
which he has done very well.
And the Winner is........ Kyle Goyet! It's tough to beat out
two of my better established friends, but Kyle's impact was too important for me to ignore and in doing so
he has become one of my new best buds. He came around during the times when I was going pretty crazy and he really helped
me level out at work and he breathed new life in to the Talking Trash project as well. Super work keeping the Comeback
Male of the Year Award in the family good sir!
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The Nicola Izzo Award:
(Comeback Female of the Year)
Nominees:
Stephanie Humphrey - At the beginning of the year her and Justin moved out of the Weav'.
I didn't fully appreciate what a good person Steph was until she was gone. Although I might have treated her unfairly
in the past recently we have become pretty good friends. Now I see her more than I see and Justin, but it's good to
know he's in good hands with Steph and their offspring known as Landon.
Katie Jacobs - Katie returned to the area with hubby Shawn Jacobs. The duo lived in
northern NY, but came back to their home area this year and settled down with a new place of their own. It's definitely
good to have the 2005 Couple of the Year back within shouting distance!
Miranda Dauphinee - Mir had been a mystery for along time...and then there was MySpace. Although
I haven't physically seen her in '06 her impact has been felt through the online site. Reading her blogs taught me alot
about not only her doings but alot about myself too. Also it was great to catch up with a former roommate and keep up
with her as she balances life, and single mothering with a smile and great "real" attitude.
And the Winner is........ Steph Humphrey! A late surge in '06
wins it for Ms. Stephanie. As stated I don't believe I gave her enough credit in the past. Perhaps I was tad harsh
with somethings. After all a friend should support another no matter what the circumstance and she was nice to me even
at times when she had no reason to be. She's always been on my side and now that I've woken up to her point of view
I've gained a friend that I should have had all along.
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The Ronald Fontaine Award:
This award, the Most Inspirational to Pich', has been renamed after one of the most influencial people ever
to me. He won the award last year and this year passed away after losing a battle with cancer. To read more
on him please check out "I Will Remember You" in Pich' Stuff.
And the winner is....... Ruth Fontaine! My grandmother has always been
there for me and the award's namesake. She inspired me with her personal strength through difficult times, and also
her encouraging words after seeing her first episode of Talking Trash which I think about before every show... "That's your
bag." What better recipient for the newly named award than my grandmother, Ruth Fontaine...congrats and thanks for everything!
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The Newbette Award:
(Rookie of the Year Female)
Nominees:
Terrill Thomas - Although I met her last year I didn't really start hanging out with her until
this year. Terrill's impact was felt by her frequent need to go out and do something, joining me at the Soutiere Wedding,
and being my eye contacts hook-up at Advanced Vision.
Kelly Grugnale - I don't hang out with Kelly much, but any gal that your buddy picks
up at a wrestling event has to kick ass right? Right. Kelly got engaged to Karl Gilbeau (A past Rookie of the
Year himself) this year and they plan to wed in '07. Whether it's tolerating our love for video games, wrestling PPV's,
or grabbing us snacks to enjoy those things Kelly is, as they say, "a good shit."
Laura Bailey - The other half of Team ADD (with Ed Companion), this gal introduced me to the
hot chick breeding ground that is Lydonville. Who knew fun could be had there other than with the Maynards? I
met her at their wedding even though she doesn't remember. When you want to talk about your completely random, silly,
funny folks Laura better be involved in the conversation.
And the Winner is........ Kelly Grugnale! In one of the tightest
races of the 2006 season Kelly takes home the award. "Staying power" was a big factor in the choice and Kelly, along
with Karl, could be in the running for much more hardware in '07! No knock on the other ladies who continue to be important
parts of my social life. In fact I broke in the early moments of the New Year with both.
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The Newbie Award:
(Rookie of the Year Male)
Nominees:
Jason Hebert - Although I met Hebert in '05 I didn't really see him regularly until this year.
Aside from his strong poker prowess, I also worked with Hebert at Wal-Mart, and joined him on one of my softball teams. He
also joined me on an episode of Talking Trash, is always ready to play any sport, and won a qualifier for the
World Series of Poker Main Event!
Rhett Williams - Rhett became the guy that took over what was my old shift at work.
Because of my new schedule I work with him everyday. His combonation with Steve Hall on second shift reminds most of
the Carl-Pich' team of a couple years ago. For me it's been a relief to know things are in good hands with this duo.
Steve Hall - The other half of the new team on second shift Steve is the motivating "Carl-like"
figure that keeps things moving on second shift. Steve and I worked together for awhile before I moved to my new shift
and I knew his presence would be a great edition to the department. Along with Rhett, Steve has made me feel comfortable
about the way second shift gets done.
And the Winner is........ Jason Hebert! Another tight race sees
Hebert come out on top. Once he returns to Vermont from Liberty University full-time I expect to see more of him.
Whether it's athletics, poker, or simply taking this county by storm I'm sure he'll be game! It was tough to not award
Rhett or Steve with this one. Perhaps they should have been Best Couple nominees? But seriously their efforts
at work make my life a lot easier and I appreciate all they do!
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Specialty Award - For Being an Impact Player:
I created this specialty award to honor a man who got me involved in perhaps the biggest thing I was involved with
in '06. While working at Wal-Mart I met him and we hit it off pretty well. Before you knew it we were talking
about getting his former show back on the air. Then on the first Wednesday of 2006 Talking Trash was back. Although
he later left the show for family reasons he assured me that the show was safe in my hands and with his blessing I drove on.
The show had many co-hosts, guests, and helpers but still plows on into 2007.
It is for those reasons that the winner is....... Mark Trombley! I
continue to thank him everytime I realize how important the show has been to me over the past year. It will continue
to be of great importance to me in '07 as well. Mad props to you "Grand Poobah of Talking Trash." I couldn't have
done it without you!
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Lifetime Achievement Awards:
My parents have always been very important to me, like most people. Often times I tend to forget that behind them
stands two important people that keep them going. Almost like their MVP's. For me, knowing that my Mom and Dad
have people there for them to help them through things when I can't, or simply to just enjoy life with, makes me rest easier.
So to thank them for their positions with my parents I award these two Parental Support Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Jill Piche & Don Wildes. Thanks for all you've done, and will continue
to do in the future! I love you guys!
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The Sue Piche Award:
(Most Valuable to Pich' Female)
Nominees:
Cara Gorman - One of my best female friends of all-time made the biggest splash in '06 by joining
the "East Coast Swing trip." My car wasn't working right and I had to visit my grandfather in Roanoke. We did
that and managed to have a pretty good time with everything else all while in Cara's rig. She's one of the few people
I can call on the phone and chat with about anything and we will always be close no matter how often we hang out.
Rachael Horne - Huh? I never removed her as a nominee you say? Well that might
be true. Perhaps the argument could be made for Least Valuable to Pich'. However that's sort of unfair.
Rachael and I may not be meant to be, but we certainly did teach each other alot along the way, and we can still talk which
is better than some people. For all the problems created by our situation, there is still some good, and besides I need
a sewing extraordinare!
Clara Piche - Hey come on. Do I need to further toot the horn of the regining two-time MVP
female? Well my grandmother continued to allow much flexibility as I got back on my feet financially and offered to
cover a few costs. The food supply when she's in town is pretty solid too.
And the Winner is........ Cara Gorman! Well it's tough to beat
Grandma out but Cara definitely did more than enough. Dispite her small size Gormania stood tall for me in '06.
I can never thank her enough for being a solid female presence in times of little female involvement for me. It's
good to know that no matter what happens that we can always debate life, and shoot the shit with complete honesty. Thanks
a million Cara!
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The Bernard J. Piche Award:
(Most Valuable to Pich' Male)
Nominees:
Ed Companion - Honestly the list is too long for Ed involvment in '06. However most importantly
was his car knowledge and skills in fixing the Volvo, being apart of virtually every trip I took, and moving in to the Weav'.
It's always good times with this fella and his impact in '06 really got me through some tough times.
Aaron Stata - Sweet god, the Weeman was abundant in '06 once again. He honored me with
a spot in his wedding party, always is up for a food outing, and was a pretty cool boss at Wal-Mart. The Wee always
comes through in moments of need and is always one of my go-to-guys.
Dave Rogers - Dave took over the lead helm at UVM in our department and brought me back in an interesting
role. However he's always kept my best interests at heart and has allowed me a great deal of flexibility to stay sane
at work. It's always been a pleasure to deal with him and having a boss that you can talk to about anything, and will
work with you instead of against has been very key in my return this year. As long as he's at the helm I look forward
to being on his staff as a key cog in the machine.
And the Winner is........ Ed Companion! My mechanic in a polo
shirt and khakis comes through as the MVP! His rent support, comedy support, fun support, and all that Ed Companion
is really helped me through a re-building year. I've always felt like we have a lot in common and this year I think
we leaned on each other to get through some rough times. I look forward to doing business with Ed, and Seth White, in
the coming years as well!
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MORE ON THE WAY SOON!!!!
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