For 67 years, the Belhaven Community Chamber of Commerce has stood as an advocate for businesses and the community at large in eastern Beaufort County, and on April 18, the organization will hold its annual awards banquet.

The theme of the event is “Belhaven Strong” and Belhaven Chamber Director Diana Lambeth says the banquet will recognize the resilience of Belhaven residents and business owners in the recovery from Hurricane Florence.

“This town just really came together after the storm, and it makes you so proud to be a citizen of this community,” Lambeth said. “So this is going to be our celebration of surviving Florence.”

Chamber members are invited to submit nominations for honorees in six categories — small business of the year (1 to 10 employees), large business of the year (11 or more employees), entrepreneur of the year, nonprofit of the year, citizen of the year and young citizen of the year. Nominations are due by 5 p.m. April 11, and must include an explanation of why the nominee is deserving of the award.

“We try to recognize people who have given generously to the community, whether it be through volunteerism, business or nonprofits,” Lambeth said. “We think it’s always important to recognize our young people because they’re the future of Belhaven.”

In addition to those awards, the banquet will also feature a special surprise program.

Anyone from the community is invited to the banquet, which will be held at the Wilkinson Center, beginning at 6 p.m. that evening. Tickets are $35 and may be purchased at the Chamber office in Belhaven. Sponsors are also needed to help support the banquet, sponsorships are available at the $200, $250 and $500 level.

For more details, call the Chamber during business hours at 252-943-3770.