PEABODY — The only thing surprising about Tom Paras winning this year’s Harry Ankeles Community Service Award might be that he hadn’t already been honored.
For a quarter century, the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized a chamber member who exemplifies the spirit of Harry Ankeles through a strong work ethic, being charitable, and being an active member of the community.
“Each year we receive a number of outstanding nominations for many individuals worthy of consideration of the Harry Ankeles Community Service Award which is a true testament to the business community,” said Deanne Healey, Chamber president and CEO. “While many probably know Tom Paras as a someone who can always make you laugh, he has a heart of gold and is serious about serving the city of Peabody and helping out in any way he can.”
Like Ankeles, Paras was born and raised in Peabody and has operated Paras Electric for over 50 years. Healey said he has been a long-time member of the Chamber and an active member of its Government Affairs and Economic Development Committee.
The list of community organizations Paras has been involved in is a long one and includes the Peabody Lions Club, Saint Vasilios Church Men’s Club, Aleppo Shriner, 9th District Massachusetts Freemasons, Peabody Ancient Order of Hibernians, Peabody Italian American Club, Peabody Portuguese American War Veterans Post #1, Peabody Elks 1409, Peabody Veterans of Foreign War and the Peabody Knights of Columbus.
“It’s surprising that Tom Paras hasn’t been nominated before,” said Arthur Holden of Holden Oil and recipient of the Ankeles Award in 2000. “Tom is very generous and helps so many people in the community, however, he does it with little fanfare or recognition. I am glad to see him get this well deserved recognition.”
Paras has also been a Peabody Municipal Lighting Commissioner since 2004, serving as chairman of the commission several times over that time. With his experience in the electric field, Paras has donated countless hours with his staff bringing electricity from the utility poles to help power events like the International Festival and Kids Day at East End Veterans Memorial Park.
Paras said he was surprised and honored when he first got word about the Ankeles Award.
“You have no idea how happy I was when I received notification that I was selected for this honor,” he said. “It was such a surprise. I am used to always being a supporter and seldom a recipient. It is an even greater honor to be placed in such distinguished ranks as those of the past honorees, most of whom have been colleagues at one time or another, all of whom have made important contributions to life in our city and state and all of whom I consider to be friends.”
The Chamber is honoring Paras at its annual dinner on Wednesday night at the Doubletree Hotel by Hilton in Danvers.
