Each year the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce chooses an individual or couple to be honored in May as the Business Person of the Year.

“Our business community is blessed with many talented and dedicated people,” said Chamber President Sheri Watson. “The Business Person of the Year is one way we honor those who have gone above and beyond in their business lives and civic involvement.”

The distinguished award is a double honor, Watson said. Not only do those selected serve as the focal point of the Chamber’s annual banquet in May; they also are asked to be Grand Marshall of the Chamber’s Grand Old Fourth of July Parade so the whole community can acknowledge their achievements and thank them for their contributions.

Recent recipients have included Fred and Willie Grimm, John Rudolph and Bill Barrow.

This year’s banquet will be held May 16 at Wing Point Golf & Country Club and will serve as the Chamber’s May membership luncheon. The cost is $25 per person and the general public is welcome.

The winner does not have to be a Chamber member but must be a person of high moral character and flawless reputation, who supports the Bainbridge Island business and civic communities in myriad ways. The person nominating a candidate need not be a Chamber member either.

Any citizen of Bainbridge Island and any person doing business on Bainbridge Island are welcome to participate. Nomination forms are available at the Chamber office, 590 Winslow Way East or by calling (206) 842-3700.