A panel of independent judges, including previous winners, evaluated nominees on common criteria. The businesses were to have demonstrated exceedingly high standards of behavior toward customers, employees, shareholders and their communities; adhered to truthful and honorable advertising and sales practices; and, earned a reputation for noteworthy contributions to their industries and the communities in which they do business. The companies were presented with the awards at a reception before 200 Maryland business executives. Five companies including CARCHEX, Carroll Landscaping, Preston Automotive Group, Reznick Group, P.C. and The Thomas Roofing Company were also selected as finalists for distinguished commitment to ethics and integrity.
"This year's winners and finalists were subjected to intensified scrutiny," emphasized Angie Barnett, BBB | Greater Maryland president/CEO during the awards ceremony. "In fact, these ten companies underwent the most in-depth review in the history of this competition in our service area. We are proud and confident of our criteria, selection practices and un-biased judging," added Barnett.
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About the 2011 Torch Award winners:
Main Street Oriental Rugs
Mojan Bagha founded Main Street Oriental Rugs in Ellicott City in 1997 after years of working in the Oriental rug business. The business provides high quality repairs and cleaning services, and fair-priced luxury products. Bagha requires high standards from his employees, and manufacturers to keep customers coming back.
Lisa Corona; Angie Barnett; Mojan Bagha, Owner, Main Street Oriental Rugs
Prometric, Inc.
For 40 years, Prometric has provided the world with reliable and credible testing and assessment. More than nine million test takers use Prometric's thousands of test centers every year. Expecting the highest standards from employees, Prometric understands that trust and credibility are paramount to their success.
Michael Brannick, President/CEO, Prometric, Inc; Angie Barnett; Mike Croxson
River Crest Design Build
Founder Joe Duval has been designing, building and remodeling homes for 25 years. Understanding that the foundation of River Crest's success comes from a combination of quality work and lasting relationships, this family-owned business always works to put customers first. Whether it's a client's vision or a structured time and budget, River Crest strives for clear communication to earn satisfaction and repeat business.
Jeanne & Joe Duval, Owners, River Crest Design Build; Lt. Colonel Ronald Edwards; Angie Barnett
Merritt Properties
Merritt Properties is a full-service commercial real estate firm with more than 70 commercial properties in the Baltimore/Washington area. It has quietly developed the largest privately owned commercial real estate portfolio in its service area and bases business on trust and respect. Merritt Properties emphasizes and values excellent customer service, community philanthropy, employee service, and strong work ethic, which significantly impacts on tenant satisfaction.
Angie Barnett; Rob Merritt, President, Merritt Properties; Bradley Callahan
Chesapeake Telephone Systems
The Millersville based company has served over 5,000 customers in the Mid-Atlantic region. Chesapeake Telephone Systems is a second-generation, family owned business that values the customer over a quick buck. Chesapeake has countless examples of sacrificing time and profits on behalf of their customers and the community, which is why they were awarded the 2010 Maryland Small Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Association.
Angie Barnett; Jeff Nolte, President, Chesapeake Telephone Systems; Ellie Meyd