Selma and Dallas County Chamber of Commerce representatives surprised their new Rising Star Monday morning.

Butler Truax Jewelers employee Kent Bearden’s face of confusion quickly turned into a smile when Sheryl Smedley, Selma—Dallas County Chamber of Commerce executive director, announced he was receiving the March Rising Star Award. The honor is given to nominated individuals or businesses that practice outstanding customer service to the community.

“I read about it in the paper and everything like that, but I never thought I would be getting it,” Bearden said.

Bearden, who has been working at the store for a little more than a year and six months, said it felt good to know his hard work brought about good outcomes for the store.

“It’s good to see that people are paying attention to what I’m doing, even though it’s working a jewelry store,” Bearden said. “It’s good to know people out there appreciate me.”

Butler-Truax owner Doris Truax said it was Bearden’s positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond to make sure customers get quality service that inspired them to nominate Bearden for the honor.

“He takes care of the customers that he helps and goes the extra yard to make sure that they are happy,” Truax said. “He’s always polite.”

Smedley said Bearden was well deserving of the award.

“He doesn’t’ wait for someone to ask him to do something,” Smedley said. “He steps up.”

Nominations for the Rising Star award can also be made at the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce office on Selma Avenue near the Dallas County Courthouse.

For information on the program, contact the chamber at 875-7241.