It's an annual tradition to recognize all of the great people and businesses that make Hartford what it is - a great place to live, work and play.

The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Dinner and Awards on Thursday, January 29 at the Chandelier Ballroom in Hartford.

The theme was A Night at the Derby.

Derby attire was encouraged.

This annual event serves as a celebration of achievements, community spirit of local businesses, and provides an opportunity to fund programs and initiatives that support the chamber's mission: fostering economic growth, networking, educational workshops, advocacy for businesses, and local community events.

"This is an annual fundraiser for us," according to Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kate Carroll. "We appreciate all of our donations, sponsorships and support. It means so much."

The annual dinner was open to the public, along with Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce members.  

Awards were handed out, including the Emerging Business of the Year to Gino's Pizza. The Flower Cafe and Oscar's Wine Bar were also nominated.

Red Apple Cafe won the Entrepreneur Excellence award, with B's Bouquets, LLC and Forward Remodeling receiving nominations in that category.

The Outstanding Non-Profit of the Year went to St. Vincent De Paul. Hartford Community Service, for Terror on Rural Street and the Medical Center Foundation of Hartford were also nominated.

Quad was recognized as the Industrial Partner of the Year. Other businesses that were nominated include HED, Inc. and JD Laser, Inc.

Ane and Bill Ohm were winners of the Jim and Dorothy Algiers Service of Dedication Award. The other nominees were Tom Hostad and Ralph Kuepper.

MJ's Market and Catering were recognized with the Legacy Award. Laufer Trucking and Wayne's Barber Shop were also nominated.