C of C recognizes area businesses
About 550 people turned out Monday for the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Gala, where businesses were presented with the Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence.
The black-tie event at Lackawanna College recognized the achievements of dozens of businesses that were selected by a committee of volunteer judges.
"It's a high-caliber recognition of some of the tremendous work that is being done in our community," said Paula Rochon Mackarey, chairwoman of the chamber board.
Turnout at the third annual gala and the high volume of nominations for awards reflect the event's growing popularity, said Austin Burke, president of the chamber. In 2010, about 400 people attended the gathering.
"It's exciting for the membership," Mr. Burke said. "It kind of feeds on itself. It's a good way to make connections."
State Secretary of Revenue Dan Meuser said the affair helps create support for small business.
"This is going to be a fun night," he said. "I will do a heck of a lot more listening tonight than talking."
By recognizing successful business practices, the awards generate ideas for other companies, Mrs. Mackarey said.
"It gives smaller businesses something to aspire to," she said. "It's good for entrepreneurs."
Daniel Santaniello, vice chairman of the chamber board, said the outing promotes economic development.
"When you see 500 people out, it's terrific," he said.
The gala, though, also extends recognition to proven companies, Mr. Burke said.
"Developing the new businesses is important, but building on your established base is just as important," he said.
Contact the writer: jhaggerty@timesshamrock.com
2012 Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce SAGE awards celebrate the outstanding efforts of the local business community.
Small business of the year
- Sculpted Ice Works, Lakeville
Solo-preneur of the year
- Maggie Calpin, Nibbles & Bits, Scranton
Woman of excellence
- Dr. Ann Pipinski, Johnson College, Scranton
Young entrepreneur of the year
- Katrina Foster, KKPR Marketing & Public Relations, Milford
People's choice
- PPL Electric, Scranton
Best practices in community involvement
- PPL Electric, Scranton
Best practices in customer service
- Pennstar Bank, Scranton
Best practices in professional development
- Tobyhanna Army Depot, Tobyhanna
Best practices in marketing and communications
- Halibut Blue Advertising, Forty Fort
Best practices in technology & innovation
- Sculpted Ice Works, Lakeville
Green practices
- Green Field Energy Solutions, Greenfield Twp.
Healthy workplace of the year in continuing excellence
- Astro Apparel, Inc., Scranton
Healthy workplace of the year
- Paper Magic Group, a division of CSS Industries, Moosic
Hometown star
- Greater Scranton Jaycees: Santa Parade, Scranton
New and emerging business of the year
- Lavelle Strategy Group, Scranton
Nonprofit organization of the year
- Voluntary Action Center, Scranton
Pride and progress: exterior renovations
- United Neighborhood Centers: Willow Apartments, Scranton
Pride & progress: interior renovations
- The Palumbo Group: Nazareth Student Center, Marywood University, Scranton
Pride & progress: landscape & site design
- Lackawanna County: Moosic Boundless Playground, Moosic
Pride & progress: new construction
- Quandel Construction Group and The University of Scranton: Loyola Science
Center, Scranton
Pride & progress: project of the year
- Quandel Construction Group and The University of Scranton: Loyola Science
Center, Scranton