The Iola Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated some of the community’s biggest champions Thursday, the centerpiece of its annual awards dinner.
Six awards were handed out during the evening, the most prominent of which — Business of the Year — went to TLC Garden Center.
Presenter Lindsey Shaughnessy of O’Shaughnessy Liquor pointed to TLC’s 25 years of being a community staple, from supporting other business groups and programs, on top of developing a reputation as being one of the premiere shops for green thumbs across eastern Kansas.
But those accolades are a precursor of what’s to come.
Equipped with a grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce, TLC will soon add a pair of attractions certain to draw visitors near and far: the “world’s largest watering can” and a landscaped miniature golf course.
WATERS Hardware, which recently celebrated its first anniversary in Iola, already has distinguished itself for its friendly faces greeting customers at the door to helping them tackle various home improvement projects of any size.
As such, Waters received the Excellence in Customer Service Award.
“It’s an award that recognizes businesses that truly understand what it means to take care of your customers,” presenter Jessica Sager of CDL Electric said. “They quickly built their reputation for being helpful, knowledgeable and always ready to lend a hand. Whether you’re tracking a long project, or just need a quick fix, their team is there with a smile, and the kind of service that keeps customers coming back.
“They remember great customer service isn’t just a part of their business. It is the business.”
ALLEN Community College received the Chamber’s Visionary Award.
“They don’t just adapt to change; they help to lead it,” declared presenter Mandy Moyer, executive director of the Bowlus Fine Arts Center.
She pointed to Allen’s educational opportunities and workforce training programs, as well as the college’s willingness to partner with local businesses and the Chamber on various events.
“They are always finding ways to support the community,” Moyer said.
HOPE UNLIMITED was named the Chamber’s Outstanding Club or Organization for 2026.
“They provide vital support to individuals affected by violence and sexual assault,” noted presenter Lynsey Champion of Champion Cuts. “They are deeply committed to educating and empowering our community, working every day to create a caring, more supportive, and more connected community for all.
“Through their compassion, dedication and tireless efforts, they assist individuals and bring hope to our entire community,” Champion continued. “The difference they make is real, lasting and truly inspiring.”
