Sammy Snail and Hatchling Studios Take best of Show NHIA, March 9, 2005- A Web site for children, Sammy Snail and Friends, was chosen as Best of Show at the Seventh Annual New Hampshire Internet Awards March 9th at the Center of New Hampshire in Manchester. NH.com, the state's premier site for news, information and events, created and hosted the Internet Awards to recognize online excellence in New Hampshire. The site, designed by Portsmouth-based Hatchling Interactive, was recognized in the Best Site for Kids category and selected as the Best of Show by all 13 judges. More than 200 sites were nominated in 22 categories representing every economic sector in the state: health care, automotive, real estate, public service, government, media, retail and service, as well as sites related to schools, kids, manufacturing, hospitality, tourism and business in general. Ninety-two different designers and companies were represented in the contest. Visit nh.com/internetawards for a complete list of winners. "This year's contest was extremely competitive," said Kathy Schwartz, NH.com new media manager. "All of the sites entered were excellent and the Best of Show selection was particularly difficult for our judges. Once again, we're very proud to be able to offer this awards program for the state." Gov. John Lynch addressed the crowd, highlighting key issues affecting the technology industry and business in general. Ektron Founder and President/CEO William Rogers was the keynote speaker and shared his vision of what's ahead for the industry. Mike McDonald, local comedian, was the Awards emcee. Beyond promoting Web sites as an integral part of any company's business plan, this year's Awards also raised awareness of the Children's Hospital at Dartmouth (CHaD). CHaD staff members were available to answer questions and accept a donation on behalf of the NH Internet Awards to help further the hospital's use of technology in the care of their pediatric patients. Launched in 1995, NH.com is New Hampshire's premier information source, providing visitors, residents and newcomers an easy-to-use, comprehensive guide to events, attractions, lodging, jobs, recreation and life in the Granite State. Back to News Headlines © 2004 "Sammy Snail and Friends". Sammy Snail, all puppet characters of Lesley Smith's Theatre of Life Puppets and logo are trademarks of LAF productions. All rights reserved.