Since 1976, the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce has celebrated the spirit of the free enterprise system with the Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year award.

This honor is one of South Baldwin's most coveted awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to business and community.

The award is given to individuals who are active in business, have a good moral reputation, are involved in civic and community affairs and are committed to helping others succeed. The recipient is celebrated at the Free Enterprise Person of the Year Luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, an event attended by more than 100 of the area's top business leaders and community members. The luncheon includes a catered meal and speeches from the previous year's winner and the newly honored Person of the Year.

"The Free Enterprise Person of the Year award is highly prestigious in this community. Being nominated and voted on by your business peers, and recognized for your efforts, is a tremendous honor," South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Director of Events Rachel Spears said. "My favorite part of planning this event is seeing the emotion on the winner's face each year."

Last year's winner, Chad Watkins of WAS Design Inc., will deliver a speech alongside this year's honoree.

The Free Enterprise Person of the Year Luncheon will take place on Friday, Sept. 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Foley Civic Center.

To register for tickets or to nominate someone, visit www.southbaldwinchamber.com/free-enterprise.