The San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce celebrates the success of local businesses with its first annual Recognition and Celebration Banquet, April 29 in Friday Harbor House’s San Juan Room.

The evening will start at 6 p.m. with a no-host bar. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m., with the program and awards to follow.

Reservations must be made by April 22, but are limited by space, so make reservations early. Tickets are $50 for chamber members and $65 for non-chamber members.

Nominations for four awards to be presented that evening is April 16. All forms can be found at www.sanjuanisland.org.

— “Business of the Year” four or fewer employees.

— “Business of the Year” five or more employees.

The criteria for these awards is based on involvement with the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce and the community, and how the business’ presence adds to the economic vitality and quality of life on our island.

— “Nonprofit of the Year.” This award will also be based on involvement with the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce, the community and other organizations and how the non-profits’ presence adds to the economic vitality and quality of life on our island. It will also be important to for this non-profit to demonstrate a level of excellence in service and growth.

— “Promotional Campaign Award.” Did you have a successful promotional campaign in 2009? Nominate your business for the “Promotional Campaign Award.” The campaigns may include all forms of media and target visitors, locals or both. Submit samples of the campaign, with details of the success of the campaign.

Cakes by Felicitations will serve hors d’ oeuvres during the social hour; no-host bar will be provided by Friday Harbor House. The dinner will be catered by Cynthia’s of Course.

The twist of the evening will be the dessert auction, where you can either purchase a dessert to share with your table, or take it home and enjoy later.

“A few businesses have already committed to donating desserts, but some of you have that secret recipe that everyone would love to eat,” Chamber Executive Director Vernadel Peterson said. “Maybe you treat your guests to a special cookie when they arrive or the dessert that everyone orders from your menu or maybe you enjoy baking.”

If you would be interested in promoting your business through the dessert auction, contact Peterson at the chamber office, 378-5240.

You can also be a banquet sponsor and receive some special benefits at the event. The name of your business will be displayed on your table with the opportunity to add your special decorations. You will have a listing in the program and be announced at the event as well as be included in the media presentation playing during the evening.