3 S.C. businesses recognized for operational intergrity.

A Lexington County pet boarding service and two Lowcountry organizations have been recognized for operational integrity by the Better Business Bureau Serving Central SC and Charleston.

Chapin Pet Lodge was named the BBB's Business of the Year Torch Award recipient for small businesses, while Cohen Brand Management, a Charleston-based marketing agency, won the Torch Award for medium-sized businesses. The Charleston Animal Society, an animal protection organization based in North Charleston, was named the Torch Award recipient for large businesses.

Each year, the BBB presents the awards, open to all for-profit businesses in the Midlands and Lowcountry, to companies that exemplify ethical behavior. Nominees submit entries for review by a panel of judges from small business mentoring organization SCORE.

"This is always an inspiring event," Chris Hadley, president and CEO of the BBB Serving Central SC and Charleston, said in a news release. "BBB is committed to its principles of trust and ethics in the marketplace. We...