Rose City: Renaissance! Local Citizens To Be Honored By Downtown Revitalization Group At July 11th Annual Meeting The success of the rebirth of Downtown and its historic waterfront depends upon the investment time, effort and funds of the many individuals and organizations that recognize potential, seize opportunities, and make a personal and business commitment to see a project through. It is this spirit that is at the heart of Rose City Renaissance in carrying out its mission to work for the revitalization of downtown Norwich through creativity, cooperation and community partnership. On Wednesday evening, 11 July 2007, Rose City Renaissance held its Community Annual Meeting at the Spirit of Broadway Theater to recognize the commitment and accomplishments of those individuals and organizations who daily engage in making this vision of revitalization a reality. The informative and interactive program provided a report to the community of the activity of Rose City Renaissance during the past year and where it hopes to go in the coming months and years. Attendees also had the opportunity to provide input and feedback on what was important to them when they think of downtown. The highlight of the Annual Meeting was the presentation of awards to four honorees whose work in Downtown Norwich made a significant difference during the past year. This year's honorees included: Bruce Becker, of Becker + Becker, recipient of the 2007 Face of Main Street Award, in recognition of his commitment to a development project in downtown Norwich that positively changed the face of downtown. The restoration of the Wauregan Hotel is a beacon as to what can be achieved through historic preservation. What was once a building in danger of complete structural failure now stands proudly at the heart of downtown as a showpiece of the rebirth of Norwich from its historic roots. Bennick Tan, of Red House Pan-Asian Restaurant, recipient of the 2007 Bringing Back the Bustle Award, in recognition of his contribution to the revitalization of Norwich by bringing people and commerce back to the downtown area. The quality of its food and service, combined with its location next to the new Otis Library, between Franklin and Burnham Squares, has helped to enliven a new section of downtown Norwich. Janny Lam, developer, recipient of the 2007 Heart of Main Street Award, in recognition of her positive impact in downtown Norwich and the surrounding area, and to the people who live, work, and do business there. Her many tools and keen business eye have had a significant impact on our structures, residential and commercial; and serve as inspiration to others to become involved in our city's renaissance. Jackie Quercia, owner of Norwich Coin and Jewelry Exchange, recipient of the 2007 Downtown Life Award, in recognition of a veteran business that has shown its commitment to Norwich by maintaining its operation downtown and working to make the city's core viable. Rising to the challenges facing her business throughout the years, her cheerful disposition and optimistic attitude have made her an invaluable element in the revitalization of downtown Norwich. For additional information on downtown Norwich and Rose City Renaissance, please contact Richard Bryan Kramer, Esq., Executive Director, at 860.887.3289 or rbryankramer@msn.com.