MIDDLEBORO — Lorenzo’s, the venerable Italian restaurant in Middleboro, was honored with the Legacy Award at the Cranberry Country Chamber of Commerce’s annual meeting. And Value Store It Self Storage in Lakeville, which opened in 2023, was named Business of the Year at the March 25 gathering.

Lorenzo’s is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Angela Maffeo and Peter Maffeo received the award on behalf of their business. 

The Lorenzo’s team was honored for understanding the importance of being a business model in a community. Chamber officials said the restaurant builds relationships with many business leaders and extends beyond a traditional business relationship, not only “building relationships as each others’ customers, but also as each others’ friends.’’

They also received praise for sponsoring local sports teams, and donating to fundraisers, church events, and activities. 

Value Store It Self Storage in Lakeville was named Business of the Year. The business was represented by Eric Green, the general manager.

The business was saluted for taking part in many of the chamber’s projects, including serving as a drop off center for the food and electronics drive and donating labor and two storage units to collect non-perishable food items and waste for recycling to benefit the Sacred Heart Food Pantry.

Brian Hoffman of Red Ball Partners in Sharon was named Business Person of the Year. 

This award is presented to someone who exhibits best business practices, looks for ways to grow their business responsibly, reaches out to help the community and those in need and is well-respected by the community.

Hoffman, who serves on the chamber’s Community Involvement Council, has been involved in many chamber projects through School on Wheels and My Brother’s Keeper, and has his company’s own mission, “Red Ball Cares.’’

Pam Snell of ACT Smart IT in Wareham received the Engagement Award. This award is given to someone who has been outstanding in helping to educate chamber members, and developed strategic alliances and cross marketing opportunities.  

State Senator Michael Rodrigues, State Senator Kelly Dooner, State Rep. Norman Orrall and State Rep. Kathleen LaNatra attended the ceremony.