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Bookstore Owners Honored for Giving Back

Despite a fire that destroyed Dallas Texas’s Journeys of Life in November, owners Jean and Henry Haller found a way to give back to the community that rallied behind them.

Haller donated more than $8,000 –– both in money and merchandise –– to local charities. The store’s insurance company allowed her to salvage some of the store’s items provided she didn’t make a profit. She donated some smoke-damaged items directly while selling others and donating the proceeds to local nonprofits.

The Hallers have been honored with two awards in “The Next Big Give,” a Dallas Market Center contest that recognizes retailers who give to and impact their communities.

“In this disaster ... 23 years of my life and my husband’s life was going up in flames, and out of it came unbelievable gifts to us personally,” Haller told TribLive. “Our staff is phenomenal. The community rallied and showed me how much we were really loved and appreciated. Through this disaster, we gave back.”

Water Street Named Business of the Year

Last Friday night, the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business of the Year awards, reported Seacoastonline, and among the winners was Water Street Bookstore, a 22-year-old Exeter staple, which was named Business of the Year in the retail/wholesale (under 25 employees) category.

“Twenty-two years, a lot of wonderful booksellers, a lot of wonderful patrons,” said store owner Dan Chartrand. “We’re imbeded in an incredible community, I can’t imagine doing this bookstore that I’ve dreamed about doing my entire professional life anywhere but Exeter; it’s truly the best town in New Hampshire and it’s my hometown, not by birth but it’s my hometown.”