DANBURY — The Women’s Business Council of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce will present special Honorary Recognition to Newtown First Selectman Patricia Llodra and former Superintendent of Schools Janet Robinson at its 3rd Annual Heart of Women Award reception.

The awards will be presented during a cocktail and dinner reception on Thursday, October 17, at the Ethan Allen Hotel, 21 Lake Avenue Extension in Danbury.

“The Heart of Women Award recognizes women who have made a lasting impact on their community and have inspired others into action,” said JoAnn Cueva, coordinator of the Women’s Business Council and a member of the nominating committee. “Both Pat and Janet have been driving forces for the residents of Newtown and we are honored to recognize their extraordinary efforts and accomplishments.”

“Pat considers service to the community a calling of the highest order, said Bill Brimmer, a Newtown Savings Bank Board of Trustees member. “She is focused on teamwork and bringing people together.”

Regarding Janet Robinson, longtime friend Betty Hensal of Hensal Realty said, “Janet has been an inspiration to the community throughout her career as an educator. Her compassion and leadership skills were keenly evident as she faced the aftermath of December 14th as Newtown’s Superintendent of Schools. Janet never ceases to amaze me.”

In addition to Mrs Llodra and Ms Robinson, Wilda Hayes, recently retired president and CEO of Ann’s Place, The Home of I Can, will receive the 2013 Heart of Women Award.

“We received dozens of outstanding nominations this year; however, in light of her years of dedication and the comfort she and Ann’s Place have provided to thousands of individuals affected by cancer, plus the fact that she did all of this without ever accepting a salary, our compass kept directing us to Wilda,” Ms Cueva said.

“Wilda set an extraordinary example for others to follow by personally contributing significant time and resources to make this facility [Ann’s Place] a reality,” said David Nurnberger, chairman of Ann’s Place. “She provides guidance and leadership to all and has been successful in getting the most out of people while at the same time making them feel good about their support for such an important cause.”

Tickets are $55 ($45 for Danbury Chamber of Commerce members). Reservations are requested and can be done online.

For more information about the reception contact JoAnn Cueva at 203-743-5565.