Roger's Marketplace, Berlin Lions Club Among Chamber Honorees

Michael W. Tomasso, a Principal & officer of The Tomasso Group, who has spent years volunteering his time to support and serve local organizations, charities and community efforts, is this year’s recipient of the Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce: New Britain, Berlin Distinguished Community Service Award.

The recognition, one of the signature awards in the city annually, will be presented to Tomasso at the Chamber’s upcoming 99th Annual Meeting and Dinner.  The event will be held Thursday, Nov. 15 at 5 PM at the CCSU Student ballroom.

This year’s annual Family Business Award will be presented to Berlin’s very own Roger’s Marketplace and its owner, Roger Perno.  “Under Perno’s management and leadership, Roger’s Marketplace has not only become one of the busiest, most successful grocery stores in Connecticut, it has also become a staple in the Berlin-New Britain community.   Roger’s strong relationship with local organizations & charities sets his store apart from the rest” William F. Millerick, Chamber president, said.

In 2009, the Chamber inaugurated its annual Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award in response to the many outstanding non profits located across the community.  Considering the chamber’s recent merger with the former Berlin chamber it seemed rather fitting that this year’s Non-Profit Award be given to the Berlin Lions Club.  “The Berlin Lions host annual events & festivals that have brought individuals and families from all across Connecticut to the town of Berlin for generations. Their generosity and philanthropic efforts have assisted a great number of local charities and foundations and will continue to do so for years to come.”

Millerick said of Tomasso, “Michael is a true leader within the community and is depended upon by many. He has dedicated countless hours volunteering and supporting local philanthropic efforts, in which he has been a tremendous asset.  He is a wonderful addition to the legacy of individuals who have been honored by the Distinguished Community Service Award.”

“From the Mayor’s Homeless Employment Initiative to the Hospital of Central Connecticut’s future Cancer Treatment Center to his longtime support of the New Britain Museum of American Art, Michael has attributed to the positive growth in our community and for that we are grateful” Millerick stated.

The Chamber dinner, which has been a sellout attracting some 300 people for the past five years, is also an occasion for the Chamber to recognize several other businesses and organizations.

The Beehive Business and Industry Award will be presented to Peter Paul Electronics.  “This organization is one of the largest, most technologically advanced manufacturers in New Britain.  Their continuous growth and development is to be admired by industry businesses not only in this city but across the state” Millerick said.

The Winged Victory Downtown Business Award intended to recognize a business or organization that has invested in the downtown and has quickly become a part of the downtown community will be presented to H.J. Development.  “H.J. Development, a general contractor of luxury residential properties in Manhattan, has invested time and millions of dollars into the City of New Britain.  They have revitalized our downtown by bringing to life one of the key buildings in the area” said Millerick.

The 99th Annual Meeting of the Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce: New Britain, Berlin will begin with a 5 PM social hour with dinner and awards following at 6 PM. Reservations are $75 per person and group and corporate tables and sponsorships are available. Further information and reservations may be obtained by contacting Teresa Riccio at 860.229.1665 or teresa@newbritainchamber.com. Information is also available at www.newbritainchamber.com.