The Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce announced its annual award recipients May 3. One of those recipients is SGBA member the Craignair Inn by the Sea and the Causeway Restaurant.
Small Business Of The Year – Craignair Inn by the Sea & The Causeway Restaurant
This award is given to a business of fewer than 25 employees that has been in business for at least five years, that is recognized as a leader in their field, and that makes a positive contribution to communities in the Camden-Rockland region.
Since purchasing the property and especially during the past two years, throughout the pandemic, owners Lauren and Greg Soutiea have renovated the Craignair Inn by the Sea and The Causeway Restaurant, transforming the property, the cuisine, and the guest experience. The Inn and Restaurant are open year round to the public for dining and overnight stays.
Congratulations to the following individuals, businesses and organizations that were celebrated as the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce Award Winners:
Small Business Of The Year – Craignair Inn by the Sea & The Causeway Restaurant
This award is given to a business of fewer than 25 employees that has been in business for at least five years, that is recognized as a leader in their field, and that makes a positive contribution to communities in the Camden-Rockland region.
For the past two years, throughout the pandemic, owners Lauren and Greg Soutiea have renovated the Craignair Inn by the Sea and The Causeway Restaurant, transforming the property, the cuisine, and the guest experience.
Other award winners include:
Community Person of the Year – Deborah Meehan
Deborah Meehan has been a leader and passionate advocate for education in Knox County for decades.
The Chamber’s most prestigious award recognizes and individual who has greatly enhanced the quality of life in the region through their civic and professional deeds.
Community Service Award – Organization – The People of Pen Bay Medical Center
This award recognizes a person, business, or organization whose activities have resulted in a significant community enhancement and/or positive contribution to the quality of life among local community members.
Covid-19 has impacted our lives in a variety of very significant ways. Collectively, the nurses, doctors, staff and leadership of Pen Bay Medical Center have been at the forefront of caring for our communities and shepherding us through this once in a lifetime experience. Our communities salute their dedication to keeping us safe and healthy.
Community Service Award – Individual – Shari Closter
This award recognizes a person, business, or organization whose activities have resulted in a significant community enhancement and/or positive contribution to the quality of life among local community members.
Shari Closter has been a fixture in Knox County for decades, and has dedicated herself to serving our communities both professionally and personally. Shari is a tireless volunteer for efforts to recover lost dogs and reunite them with their families, as well as single-handedly conducting roadside clean up efforts in the area. Shari also previously lent her talents professionally to community-serving nonprofits including the Chamber of Commerce and Trekkers.
Public Improvement Award – Rockport Public Library
This award recognizes a person, business or entity who has made a major tangible improvement to a property or program that benefits the general public.
The Town of Rockport joined together with generous donors to build a beautiful new home for the Rockport Public Library which opened in late 2020. The new library is a true community hub to showcase the library’s collection, provide community meeting space, and expand the availability of technology.
Awards will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Gala Awards Dinner on Friday, May 20 at the Samoset Resort.
