Richmond County residents have a few more days to nominate their choices for both Business and Businessperson of the Year.

“This gives area residents a little extra time to make sure that local businesses or businesspersons have the opportunity to get the recognition they deserve,” said Emily Tucker, president of the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber has extended its nomination deadline until Tuesday.

Tucker urges all members of the community to participate in the nomination process. Any county business or office professional is eligible to receive the chamber awards.

“There is a common misconception that only chamber members can make nominations or be nominated,” Tucker said. “That simply is not the case. Anyone can come by our office for nomination forms. Those forms are also available through mail or e-mail. All one has to do is contact us.”

Winners of the annual recognition will receive an award plague and flowers in addition to donated gifts from area chamber members.

While the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce has only recognized Business of the Year for the last two years, the Businessperson of the Year award dates back to 1978.

“This is more than just a secretary award,” Tucker noted. “The award shows appreciation for those unsung heroes that do a lot of work behind the scenes.”

Suzanne Timmons, winner of last year’s Businessperson of the Year award, has been employed by local attorneys Deane, Williams and Deane for more than 30 years. She can personally speak to the significance of winning the chamber honor.

“People still come by my desk and comment on the award,” Timmons said. “While my employers show me appreciation on a daily basis, the award serves as a great form of public recognition. It’s nice to be appreciated.”

This year’s presentation ceremony will be held in conjunction with the Richmond County Business Expo — a local event designed to heighten interest in local business.

“We hope that attendees of the Business Expo will come over to the luncheon and take an interest in the awards ceremony,” Tucker said. “Hopefully, that will help with the perception of the Business of the Year Award.”

The Richmond County Chamber of Commerce awards ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Cole Auditorium on April 21.

For more information on making nominations, contact the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce via Emily Tucker at (910) 895-9058.

Staff Writer Daniel Starling can be reached at (910) 997-3111 ext. 19 or by e-mail at dstarling@yourdailyjournal.com.