Exeter chamber hands out Business of Year awards

PORTSMOUTH — The Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce presented its annual awards Friday at the Sheraton Harborside Hotel.

The "red carpet" event honored local businesses, nonprofits, schools and community volunteers.

"This is kind of like our Academy Awards," said Marketing and Events Director Krysta Seckendorf. "It's our chance to recognize everyone."

Award winners were:

Education/nonprofit: Tie between Great Bay eLearning Charter School and Exeter Rotary Club. Retail/wholesale: Water Street Bookstore (more than 25 employees) and Churchill's greenhouse (less than 25 employees).

Business services: Leone, McDonnell & Roberts professional accountants. Tourism/hospitality: Karimah's Kitchen. Financial services/insurance: Optima Bank.

Seckendorf said more than 95 businesses were nominated.

The ceremony saw the presentation of the President's and Chairman's awards, given to chamber members who have made an outstanding commitment to the chamber and community. The President's Award went to coach and youth mentor "Murph" Henderson, while the Chairman's Award went to volunteer Allison Field of The Provident Bank.

The second annual Citizen of the Year Award went to Langdon Plumer. The third annual Lori Breard Achievement in Leadership Award was presented to Pam Cameron of Better Homes & Gardens The Masiello Group and Breard's co-worker.

Gov. Maggie Hassan attended Friday night's ceremony congratulating the winners on their commitment to the Exeter area and the state.

For complete coverage, see Tuesday's Exeter News-Letter.