Area small businesses honored 

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce announced its small business of the year awards Wednesday. This year's winners by category are:

* Small Business Owner of the Year, sales exceeding $1 million annually: J. Garth "Butch" Elzea of Quincy Automotive Supply Co., a Springfield-based automotive parts and wholesale paint supply company.

* Small Business Owner of the Year, sales up to $1 million: Alison Novak of AIFD Flora Scape floral and gift shop.

* New and Emerging Business, for businesses established for two to five years: Susan Clause and Stephen Briggs, owners of ErgAdoo, which specializes in educational toys and games.

* Home-based Business Owner of the Year: Michelle Tjelmeland of "e-websmart."

* Not-for-profit Business Director of the Year: Dalitso Sulamoyo of Illinois Community Action Association.

* Small Business Advocate of the Year: management consultant Debbie Cimarossa of Springfield.

Recipients were named during the 17th annual awards luncheon held at the Crowne Plaza.