LEE, Mass. — The Lee Chamber of Commerce last week recognized the accomplishments of its members and others work in the community. 

 

The awards were presented to John Toole, Kathleen DeVarennes, Laurie Norton Moffatt, Susie Brown and Joshua Bloom at the chamber's annual meeting held at Greenock Country Club. 

 

"We have the special honor of recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership and generosity make Lee such a remarkable place to live, work and visit," said Executive Director Alexandra Heddinger. "Each of our award recipients embodies the spirit of community and service that makes our town so special." 

 

Toole, president of Acrisure/Toole Insurance, was named Corporate Citizen of the Year.

 

"John played a key role in major projects that truly shaped our downtown from the Franklin Street parking lot, which solved decades-old challenges to the redevelopment of the Bookless Block, which gave Main Street a much needed facelift and new life," said chamber Vice President Erik Williams. "John continues to look ahead with the same energy and commitment championing projects like the Eagle Mill redevelopment, the reuse of our historic paper mills and even the creation of the Lee bike path, always with an eye towards a stronger future for Lee." 

 

Toole said he is very proud to represent Lee and that he had great parents who raised him to help people.

 

DeVarennes is past chamber director and was honored with the Distinguished Service Award. She taught at the Lee Elementary School for 35 years and also was a key volunteer who helped the farmers' market to grow and prosper, also by earning eligibility for SNAP and HIP food programs.