Service makes a difference and earns awards for Jackson`s small businesses.

Winners of the 2002 Emerging Business award were named Tuesday afternoon. Sitters and More, West Tennessee Eye Care, P.C., Employee Benefit Solutions/Benefit Advantage, Lynnwood Wine & Spirits and SERVPRO of Jackson and Crockett County earned the top honor for new businesses.

"If I were to instill anything it would be to start your business, let in grow and get involved in the community," said Pat Merchant, president of First Class Limo, who started her business when her daughter could not find a limo for her wedding.

"Wal-Mart can underprice anyone, but those with small businesses in Jackson, Tennessee, have service," she said.

The Emerging Business awards are given to awarded to those who have been in business for less than five years and ownership resides in Madison or a contiguous county. These award winners will be mentioned at Thursday`s Pinnacle Awards Banquet/Gala.

"Service is key, and that is how we built our business," said Lynn Hughes, co-owner of SERVPRO, a professional and restoration service business that opened in 1998.

Kelli L. Ross, (731) 425-9644