Urban Mission, barber shop honored as best businesses

Downtown business leaders kicked their feet up Saturday at the Paddock Arcade for, what I’m being told, was a fairly laid back gathering to hand out the Downtown Business Association Business of the Year award.

The Watertown Urban Mission, 247 Factory St., and Paddock Barber & Beauty Shop, 102 Washington St., look like they both took the award home this year.

Last year, Waterbury Fine Jewelers, 105 Court St., and Lyng's Office Center, 150 Factory St., earned the distinction.

A wheelbarrow full of other awards was given out at the event. Check tomorrow’s paper for more information or the DBA’s Web site.

If you have a tip concerning new businesses opening throughout the county or a business taking an active roll in the community, contact either myself Robert or our business reporter, Nancy.