Joe Hurd, president of the Blair County Chamber, announced that Ron Perretta, owner and operator of Professionals Auto Body in Altoona, Pa., has been honored with the “Excellence in Small Business” award.

Strict judging criteria was met for this award such as “community service, flawless background of the business, growth of the company and continued plans of meeting the needs of the community.”

“This is more than an award for the company,” said Perretta. “This is also for the hard, loyal and dedicated work of our staff. Our entire staff is the backbone to the business. Without them, we would not be who we are today. This award also belongs to our customers who have stood up for their rights and have supported us for the last 37 years.”

The Blair County Chamber of Commerce recently named Perretta the “Small Business Person of the Year.” Professionals Auto Body has also received the “Home Town Favorite Body Shop” award six times.

“I love our community and its people,” said Perretta. “There can’t be a better place to live and do business.”