The Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce bestowed honors on two local residents Friday: Tom Reynolds—a person whose "love of Ridgefield is extraordinary"—and Allyson Catanzaro, who "quietly motivates everyone in her midst."
The pair were named businessperson of the year and volunteer of the year, respectively, at the chamber's where First Selectman Rudy Marconi also presented a "State of the Town" address and new chamber officers were installed.
Marion Roth, the chamber's executive director, presented the honors.
She described the "chamber choice" award as one given to an individual or business who has "educated, celebrated and inspired the people of Ridgefield to create a transformational change found in an economically and culturally thriving community."
In presenting the award to Reynolds, a partner in the accounting firm Reynolds & Rowella, she said he was a person whose love of Ridgefield is extraordinary. "He is everywhere, but in such a discreet and low-key manner most people don't know of his presence," she said. Reynolds is a loyal friend, she added, who is kind and generous with his time and energy to support the business community.
In accepting the award, Reynolds said getting involved is something that is personally satisfying, makes a differene and provides learning opportunities. "I couldn't do it without my spouse—my understanding partner of 43 years—and great staff," he said.
Roth cited Catanzaro's achievements with the Ridgefield Rotary and the Women's Forum, and her service and dedication to the chamber as reasons for selecting her as volunteer of the year. Catanzaro, who owns the travel agency All Destinations, was unable to accept the award personally.
New officers and board members took an oath of service in front of the audience—about 100 members of the local business community—and include the following board members: Nancy O'Connell, Bob Cascella, LouAnn Daprato, Arnold Light, Patt Alexander, Shane Casey, Allyson Catanzaro, William Craig, Patty Dyer, Christy Kinsman, Pamela Miles, Nita Mohler, Charles Rio, Tish Vredenburgh and Judy Wilson.
