On Saturday, December 7th Manchester Alive hosted the 8th Annual “Light up the Town” Gala at Manchester University.
The festive night included Spirit of Community Awards. These awards were nominated prior by the recipients peers. Manchester Alive wanted to celebrate the people and organizations that make our community special.
The “community impact award” went to Precision Medical Technologies that opened a location in 2018 in a vacant North Manchester building and now employees 70+ and is currently expanding. Pre Med Tech has partnered with our local school system and Hartland Career Center for hands on training. Pre Med Tech has inspired us with their growth, partnership and commitment to North Manchester.
“Outstanding Small Business” award went to Rhinestone & Roses. A local boutique and floral shop owned by two young entrepreneurs, Sisters, Jentry Cripe and Josi Cripe – Lambert. These two grew up in North Manchester and are committed to giving back to the community they call home. Their small business is continuing to grow and helps to bring visitors to North Manchester.
Both Dan Naragon with Naragon and Purdy CPA, Inc. and Karen Fawcett received Partnership Awards from Manchester Alive Board of Directors for their years of service to the North Manchester Chamber board and Manchester alive board. Karen has served many years on the board of directors and headed our FunFest celebration. Dan Naragon with the help of Daughter Nicole Naragon – Lane has done the taxes for both organizations for countless years. Nicole also served 8 years on the Chamber Board. These were special awards given to thank these two from our organization for their years of service to not just the North Manchester Chamber and Manchester Alive but to our community.
The “Outstanding Corporate Award” went to the Midwest Poultry. Midwest Poultry is a 6th generation family owned business since 1875. They have always been committed to the North Manchester community and Wabash County but recently relocated their headquarters to North Manchester. Midwest Poultry was recognized for their growth, innovation, leadership and community engagement. Thank you to the Strauss and Grant Families and the many employees that make Midwest Poultry an Outstanding business.
And the “Legacy Award” recipient was awarded for their lifetime of dedication to both the community and their profession. This award was given to Wilbur McFadden. Known to many has their family doctor. Many commented that evening that he delivered them! Wilbur currently resides at Timbercrest but continues to share his stories and knowledge with Wabash County. Wilbur is an inspiration to our community!