Fourteen businesses in Lawrence are being lauded for their stability, growth, accomplishments, community involvement and employee cultures – earning them spots as finalists for the community’s 2006 Excellence in Commerce Awards.

“We’re excited to be able to offer this well-deserved recognition to our businesses that give so much to the community,” said Jamie Blaylock, director of business retention and attraction programs for the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce. “These businesses are the best of the best in our area.”

The finalists, listed by category:

¢ Manufacturing/Distribution: Amarr Garage Doors, Berry Plastics, Sauer-Danfoss Co.

¢ Service: Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center, Callahan Creek, Douglas County Bank.

¢ Retail/Hospitality: Crown Chevrolet-Toyota-Scion, The Eldridge Hotel.

¢ Technology: Neotopia Inc., Pinnacle Technology.

¢ Small Business: Peggy Johnson, a certified financial planner and senior financial adviser for Ameriprise Financial Services; KU Credit Union; Legends Drive Dental Center; James F. Otten, an orthodontist.

More than 40 businesses were nominated for this year’s awards, to be presented during a breakfast ceremony Oct. 3 at SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Sixth and New Hampshire streets. Previous winners are not eligible for future awards.

The program is sponsored by the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, Kansas University Small Business Development Center, Lawrence Regional Technology Center, KU’s School of Business and Minuteman Press.

Winners of the awards will be nominated by the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce for the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Business Appreciation Month Awards in June 2007.