Greater Trenton’s 6th Annual Caren Franzini Capital City Award Celebration, happening on December 4th at Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza in Trenton, NJ, will present the 2023 Caren Franzini Capital City Award to John Hatch of Clarke Caton Hintz and David Henderson of Hx2 Development. In addition, as a part of this year’s initiative and overwhelming feedback from the community, Greater Trenton will also recognize Executive Chef Reggie Hallett of Trenton’s 1911 SmokeHouse BBQ with this year’s Business Impact Award.
“It’s a big honor. It makes me feel like, after all my hard work, somebody is noticing. We do a lot for the community, which we’ve always wanted to do from the beginning, so it’s great to know that somebody recognizes it,” said Hallett. “I feel honored to accept this award alongside John Hatch and David Henderson.”
While discussing the motivation behind 1911’s commitment to the community, Hallett said, “I’ve been gone for 30 years – went to college, stayed in New York, and then moved to Ohio. And coming back and seeing the changes, I know that Trenton can be better. We’re geared towards seniors and helping children, as children are our future. As a kid growing up in Trenton, there was always something to do – there’s nothing for kids to do now. If somebody can do something for kids, I’m there. So that’s the motivation. I see it as part of coming back and knowing it can be changed, so I’m just trying to do my part to help.”
When asked if he had any motivation for other business owners looking to give back to the community, Hallett noted, “Just let local churches and local organizations know that you’re willing to help. A lot of times, they don’t know that there are people willing to help, and so many non-profits and organizations and young entrepreneurs are doing things from feeding the homeless to a kid’s event. All you need to do is reach out – once you let one person know, word of mouth will travel.”
After discussing what lies ahead for 1911 SmokeHouse BBQ, Hallett said: “I’m hoping we’re all over the place. Our first franchise is in the [Newark] airport; we have a new location in Willingboro, and we just released a bottle of barbecue sauce. So we’re just trying to move over and make everybody happy – I like to say, I like to take over the world one mouth at a time.” If you’d like to learn more about 1911 Smokehouse and get your hands on some of their delicious dining, you can check out their website here: 1911 SmokeHouse – Home.
If you are interested in participating in this year’s Caren Franzini Capital City Award Celebration, additional information regarding purchasing tickets can be found here: Franzini Celebration. You will also find more information about sponsorship opportunities, event details, and insights into this year’s honorees. Secure your tickets today!
