401 Tavern, Experience Hampton Win Big Chamber Awards

has been named the Hampton Chamber of Commerce's Business of the Year and was among several local businesses and individuals to take home significant recognition during the chamber's recent annual awards dinner.

The 401, co-owned by Desi Lanio and Mark LaRoche, is a frequent sponsor and supporter of downtown and Hampton Beach festivals and programs, and has played a significant role in the , the , and other cornerstone events in the community.

The business was given this year's top business prize in "recognition of continued innovation and positive energy greatly enhancing the local business community," said Dean Merrill, the chamber's chairman.

Experience Hampton, Inc., received the "Faith in the Future Award" for their work on the parade and their efforts to further community revitalization, while several individuals took home awards during the ceremony, which had a St. Patrick's Day theme and entitled the St. Patrick's Day Shindig.

Paul Lacourse, an active volunteer with several local groups including the Boy Scouts and the Red Cross, received the "Volunteer of the Year Award" in "recognition of years of volunteerism and steadfast dedication" to the community, according to Merrill.

Rusty Bridle, a retired fire captain and state representative, received the "Community Service Award." Bridle, who started the and serves on many boards of directors, including ones for Experience Hampton and , got the honor in "sincere appreciation and recognition" of his "unfailing support" to the community, said Merrill.

John Morgenstern received the "Seafood Festival Award" for his "dedication, volunteerism, and support" to the festival, while the received the "Special Recognition Award" in honor of the hotel's 100 years of operation on Hampton Beach.