The Stamford Old Timers Athletic Association held its 66th annual dinner Monday night, an event that honors former Stamford athletes for not only their athletic exploits on the field of play but for giving back to our community. ...

[Bobby] Valentine introduced Rivera, calling him "The best pitcher in the modern era of baseball. "You know what I love about Mariano Rivera? For more than 10 years he played baseball Stamford style - he comes right at you. For most of his career he threw one pitch. He's saying 'I got it. Here it comes. What are you going to do with it?' " Valentine remarked.

Rivera, who was invited to the event by the Yankees' former massage therapist, Stamford's Scott Yellin, said he was honored to be at the dinner. "This is a wonderful cause because you help out so many young people," he said. "If we don't invest in our youth, who will? This is just a tremendous dinner. You're helping youngsters by being here. "