By WIBW TV's Becky Goff
MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - Manhattan area businesses were honored by the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce at the second annual business awards Luncheon.
In 2020, the awards were presented virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions, but today, more than 100 Manhattan area business leaders gathered to honor local businesses.
Business members were recognized for the successes and achievements in five categories, including Cornerstone, Tourism Development, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Women, or minority owned and small business of the year
More than 35 businesses were nominated for an award, with one selected in each category, based on their achievements, and successes throughout the pandemic, or the lifetime of their business.
Business owners attributed their continued successes to the communities they serve.
“There are so many people to thank, and the community is one, K-State…the town of Manhattan, Junction City, Fort Riley, they…all have been clients of ours.” Bockers II Catering, retired owner, Bob Limbocker says.
Bockers II Catering was awarded the Legacy award, which recognized businesses who have been members of the Chamber of Commerce for more than 50 years.
Walmart in Manhattan was also recognized with a Legacy Award, for their service to the community since 1971.
The Tourism Development award was given to Wildwood Adventure Park, known for its ziplining and obstacle trail run through the Flint Hills south of Manhattan.
“We’re happy that we’ve had the opportunities that we’ve had and that we’re in this community. We appreciate all the support.” Wildwood Adventure Park, owner/operator, Dan Springer says.
Weddle and Sons’ Roofing was awarded the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award for their continued growth and success over the last year.
“We love hiring people that grow up, learn how to work hard in the Midwest, so everything about any award that you win, as a company is reflective of your employees and we are just tickled with how many top-notch, talented employees we’re able to find here in Manhattan and around our state.” Weddle & Sons Roofing Inc, CEO, Allyn Weddle says.
LaFarris Risby with Loving Arms Enterprises Childcare and preschool was honored with the Women/Minority Owned Business Award, for trailblazing to provide a much-needed service to the community.
“I am deeply honored, I am just elated actually, I think our children are our greatest resource, so with that being said we need to give them the very best start, the very best beginning, and just being able to be recognized and being a part of families stories is amazing.” Loving Arms Enterprises Childcare and Preschool, owner, LaFarris L. Risby says.
The 2021 Small Business of the Year Award was presented to Borck Brothers Menswear, for their continued support of the Manhattan community, as a leading menswear store, unlike any other in northeast Kansas.
“It’s the backbone of the community, you know we have our big businesses, but it’s the backbone of the community, and we employ so many people.” Borck Brothers, owner, Fred Borck says.
Manko Window Systems Inc. was officially presented with the Cornerstone Award, after being announced as the recipient last week. You can find the preview story here.
“We’re very fortunate that they chose us…We started this company basically a hobby, 32 years ago, two employees and today we have way in excess of 400.” Manko Window Systems, President & Owner Gary Jones says.