The evening was kicked off with a spectacular social hour, complete with a red carpet walk photographed by Melissa Hurley of Memories by Melissa Photography, a Hollywood-themed photo booth provided by Alana Ranney of Alana’s Fine Art Photography and appetizers courtesy of Aramark.

Board President Scott Landry, of Shiretown Insurance, welcomed guests and spoke about the Chamber’s progress over the past year. He then introduced new Executive Director Erin Arthers who stood up to recognize event partners, Franklin Savings Bank — Platinum Partner; Complete Dentistry — Gold Partner and Comfort Inn & Suites — Silver Partner.

Arthers also recognized and thanked Robin’s Flower Pot of Farmington, which donated all table centerpieces for the event. Arthers then introduced the night’s entertainment, local comic actors Teachers Lounge Mafia Improv Comedy. Teachers Lounge Mafia had guests laughing as they entertained the group with their improvisational games and sketches, even getting members of the audience involved in the skits.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner before the evening’s transition to the annual business meeting. Board President Scott Landry recognized outgoing board member Jill Gray of Franklin Community Health Network.

Landry also welcomed new board members to fill open board positions: new treasurer Pam Dixon of Franklin Savings Bank; Kirk Doyle of Key Bank and Joanna Backman of Franklin Community Health Network.

Landry will remain on the board as Past President and Mike Blanchet of Sun Journal will step into the role of Board President.

The evening culminated with the presentation of the Chamber’s annual business awards – “Celebrating Stars in Business & Community.” The top three nominees in each category were recognized in a slideshow presentation on the big screen for their achievements and with a certificate of appreciation.

The overall winner from each category was announced and presented with a plaque from the Chamber for their commitment to excellence. Nominees and awards were presented as follows:

LARGE BUSINESS – Franklin Savings Bank

Comments submitted via the nomination process described Franklin Savings Bank as a wonderful community partner over the years. This business was recognized for their role in opening a stairway connecting two streets in downtown Farmington to enhance foot traffic between businesses. They were also commended for their donations to support causes throughout Franklin County including their strong support of education. Peter Judkins, president of Franklin Savings Bank, was joined by a number of FSB employees to accept the award for Large Business of the Year.

An honorable mention also went to both Care & Comfort and Farmington Walmart for being close contenders in this year’s process and deserving of accolades for their dedication to our local communities.

SMALL BUSINESS – Shiretown Insurance

This business was nominated because owner Scott Landry has demonstrated that Shiretown Insurance is a cornerstone in the local community through contributions of both time and money to many charitable causes over the years. Some of these important causes include: Franklin Community Health Network, Celtic Crossroads Festival, Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, UMF’s 150th celebration, Kingfield POPS and numerous youth and high school teams. Landry was joined by his dedicated team to accept their award for Small Business of the Year.

An honorable mention also went to both Calzolaio Pasta Company and Falls Road Veterinary Clinic for their outstanding service in the communities of Franklin County and beyond.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION – Rotary Club of Farmington

This organization was nominated by many community members for their support of numerous events in our area, their active leadership role in Franklin County, and their dedication to introducing leadership to students of all ages. They were highly regarded for their role in leading support efforts to help the community of Lac Megantic after the fire. Tom Sawyer, president of Rotary, was joined by several Rotarians to accept the award for Non-Profit Group of the Year.

An honorable mention also went to both United Way of the Tri-Valley Area and Wilton Fish & Game for the amazing effort they put forth to meet the needs of residents of Franklin County and their work with the youth of our region.

New Chamber member Nancy German, owner of “Voiceabilities,” was recognized for her hard work and donation of her voice talent in the production of the awards show media presentation.

Nancy Chase, board member and volunteer administrative assistant at the Chamber, was presented with a bouquet and thanked by Arthers for her dedication to volunteering on a regular basis at the Chamber of Commerce.

As the evening concluded, lucky attendees were presented with a lovely seasonal centerpiece as a door prize gift, courtesy of Robin’s Flower Pot; a Walmart gift card, courtesy of Farmington Walmart; and a ticket for the Amtrak Downeaster, courtesy of Franklin County Chamber of Commerce.