Avon Couple Earns Massive Sweepstakes Win At West Hartford Pizza Restaurant

AVON/WEST HARTFORD, CT — An Avon couple's affinity for the pizza of Pepe's proved to be a winning combination that earned them a massive sweepstakes win this week.

Vince and Lisa LoPresti of Avon are regulars at the Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana restaurant at 1148 New Britain Ave., West Hartford.

So it was no surprise they decided to participate in the "Frank Pepe's & Tauck: A Century of Favor & Discovery" sweepstakes.

The contest united the popular, New Haven-based coal-fired pizza chain with Tauck, which is a Wilton-based luxury tour operator.

And, wouldn't you know, the LoPrestis won the grand prize — and "grand" is the optimum word to describe their winnings.

The LoPrestis won a six-day, $16,000 trip to Tuscany, Italy, and a $3,600 Pepe's gift card, enough for the couple to have 100 pizzas, according to both Tauck and Pepe's officials.

On Tuesday, Sept. 9, the couple was officially awarded their prizes at a special event at the West Hartford Pepe's.

In addition to the grand prize, Pepe's/Tauck awarded 25 first prizes ($100 Pepe's gift cards) and 100 second prizes ($25 Pepe's gift cards).

According to a release issued by both the pizza chain and the travel agency, the LoPrestis have been Pepe's fans since they started going to the Manchester restaurant after its 2007 opening.

When one opened nearby in West Hartford years later, the couple was elated.

Lisa LoPresti said her husband's family hails from Italy, so this trip seems natural.

“With Vince’s great-grandparents from Sicily, this trip is truly a dream come true," said Lisa LoPresti. "We are excited to experience the culture, history, and incredible food Italy has to offer.”

With both Pepe's and Tauck celebrating 100 years (both were founded in 1925), officials with both companies said it was only natural to collaborate on this event.

Said Jennifer Bimonte-Kelly, granddaughter of Frank Pepe: “This anniversary has been about more than just celebrating a number. It’s been about celebrating the people who have made Frank Pepe’s what it is today. The LoPrestis are part of that story, and it’s a joy to see them take home the grand prize in such a special year.”

“We’re grateful for the chance to partner with Frank Pepe’s during such a meaningful milestone and to give back to the community that has supported both of our brands for generations,” said Tauck Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Tombaugh.

“We’re thrilled for the LoPrestis to experience Italy with Tauck and to make memories that will last a lifetime.”