“We are proud to salute those who contribute to a vibrant and thriving Alexandria business community.” — Chamber of Commerce CEO Joe Haggerty

It was the Academy Awards for local businesses as the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce presented its annual Business Awards Oct. 19, with Burke and Herbert Chairman and CEO E. Hunt Burke honored as the 2016 Business Leader of the Year.

More than 200 people attended the event at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, which celebrated the Alexandria business community.

“My heart is filled with tremendous gratitude for this incredible honor,” said Alexandria Cupcake owner Adnan Hamidi in accepting the Small Business of the Year Award. “Thank you to the Chamber and our fans for letting us serve you for the last seven years and making it possible for Alexandria Cupcake to be a part of this wonderful community.”

In addition to Alexandria Cupcake, the 2016 honorees included: The Campagna Center as Association/Nonprofit Business of the Year; Access National Bank as Rising Star Business of the Year;  Halt, Buzas & Powell as Medium Business of the Year; Carr Workplaces as Large Business of the Year; and Cotton & Company as Overall Business of the Year.

Alexandria Town Crier Ben Fiore-Walker was surprised with a special Spirit of the Chamber Award and received a rousing standing ovation from the crowd.

A reception with food prepared by Chef Cathal Armstrong, the 2012 Business Leader of the Year, and Chef Christophe Poteaux followed the awards presentation. Cupcakes featuring the image of Burke were provided by Alexandria Cupcake.

“The Chamber’s Business Awards is the flagship awards program in the community that recognizes excellence in business,” said Chamber president and CEO Joe Haggerty.  “We are proud to salute those who contribute to a vibrant and thriving Alexandria business community.”

For more information, visit www.alexchamber.com