You think Jose DaPonte was in his element Saturday night at the Bristol Sports Club “Man of the Year” banquet? You better believe it.

With all the pomp and circumstance befitting a native son of Portugal, Mr. DaPonte couldn’t thank the sellout crowd in attendance enough.

“I’m humbled by all of this,” he said. “I can’t thank everyone enough for all their support. This has been a night I’ll always remember.”

Accompanied by all of his family members, Jose, a well-known and accomplished businessman in the Bristol community, deserving of the honor.

Bristol Sports Club president Elisio Castro, who selected Mr. DaPonte for this prestigious honor, agreed that Jose was a most worthy “Man of the Year” recipient.

“He’s done a lot a great things in his life for his community, and is well-liked by everyone,” he noted.

Saturday evening’s program began with greetings by Bristol Town Councilor Antonio Teixeira, followed by invocation by the Rev. Vander S. Martins, pastor of St. Elizabeth’s Church, where Mr. DaPonte has been a communicant and supporter for many years. Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Arthur Cabral.

Before the speaking program got underway, Mr. DaPonte could be seen mingling with the capacity crowd offering his thanks and appreciation. Jose has always been that type of person, very community oriented and full of joy. That was followed by the playing of the Portuguese and American National Anthems.

The customary list of presentations included several from St. Elizabeth’s Church organizations, as well as citations from the Town of Bristol and from members of the R.I. General Assembly. In addition, previous Bristol Sports Club “Man” and “Woman of the Year” recipients were introduced, as well as sponsors of the evening’s program book. The Warren Soccer Club and Warren Holy Ghost Committee were also recognized, as well as Magazine Apraca.

Guest speaker on the evening was Mr. DaPonte’s cousin, Maria Cesario, who talked about Jose’s dream of founding CNC Fiberglass Components, Inc. and turning it into a reality.

“What began in a 4,000-square-foot garage has since grown into a thriving family business, where his sons, Cesar and Craig and his wife, Rosa, work alongside him,” she said. “But, Joe’s achievements extend far beyond the workplace. His love for his family and his faith have always been at the heart of everything he does. Together, they have remained deeply involved in their church and community, playing a pivotal role in events like the Holy Ghost Feast, the Fourth of July, and countless other celebrations that bring people together.”

She concluded, “Beyond all the titles and accolades, Joe’s greatest legacy is the love and respect he inspires in everyone who knows him. Whether he’s mentoring a colleague, supporting a neighbor, or simply sharing a laugh, Joe embodies the qualities of a true ‘Man of the Year.’ He is a man of faith, family, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.”

As the evening’s events concluded, Bristol Sports Club General Assembly president Herman Mello praised Joe for everything he has done in the community, while Elisio Castro, Bristol Sports Club president, thanked everyone for assisting in this special evening, including the kitchen staff who prepared another fabulous meal.

What has become a customary event at the conclusion of this “Man of the Year” event, Mr. Castro revealed the name of next year’s 2025 “Man of the Year” recipient, and it’s none other than Bristol Town Administrator Steven Contente. With that, the crowd roared its approval.