By Brenda Maguire
Correspondent
NEW BRITAIN — It may not rival the extravagance of a Hollywood party, but for the New Britain community the Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner is the social event of the season.
“It’s probably the most important dinner of the year,” said Bill Millerick, president of the New Britain Chamber, later adding, “It’s really a must-be-at event for the city of New Britain.”
The Chamber’s 98th annual dinner will be held Thursday, Nov. 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. at St. George Greek Orthodox Church on West Main Street.
The event will bring together nonprofits, businesses and organizations for a cocktail hour followed by a dinner and awards ceremony.
According to Millerick, the highlight of the night is the Distinguished Community Service Award, which will be given to attorney Stephen Anderson of the New Britain law firm Anderson, Reynolds and Lynch.
“It might be the most prestigious award in the city because a lot of prestigious people have won it,” Millerick said.
Anderson has worked with many local groups including the YMCA, Habitat for Humanity and the Manes and Motions rehabilitative riding program at the Hospital for Special Care.
He has also been doing work to help the homeless.
“The people he works with and the organizations really love him and really respect him,” Millerick said.
There will also be a special recognition of Mayor Timothy Stewart for his eight years in office.
Additionally, the Winged Victory Downtown Award will be given to the Ververis family and Capitol Lunch, the Beehive Business and Industry Award will be presented to Admill Machine of John Downey Drive, and the Non-Profit Organization of the Year will be awarded to the Boys and Girls Club of New Britain.
Sponsor tables are available from $750 to $1,500 and individual reservations are $75 per person.
For more information and for reservations, contact Teresa Riccio at (860) 229-1665, ext. 210, or visit http://www.newbritainchamber.com.
Brenda Pantano 