Cimarron Couple Wins Kansas Small Buiness Of The Year

Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has proclaimed National Small Business Week, which recognizes the contributions of America�??s entrepreneurs and small business owners and took place May 20-26 this year. As part of National Small Business week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others from all 50 states. On Wednesday, Sen. Jerry Moran was in Cimarron to attend the awards reception for Gordon and Mary Jenkins, the 2012 Kansas Small Business Persons of the Year.

Gordon and Mary are owners of White�??s Foodliner in Cimarron, offering �??big city�?� choices with small-town service and friendliness. Since purchasing the store in 2007, they have continued to innovate, update facilities and expand product offerings, attracting the attention of Patty Richardson, Executive Director of Great Plains Development, Inc. of Dodge City, who nominated the Jenkins�?? for the SBA award.

Small businesses, the backbone of our economy, employ more than half of Americans and create nearly two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. Grocery stores, in particular, are a cornerstone for any rural community. Necessary to the survival of any small town, grocery stores often represent not only a place to purchase food and necessities close to home, but also serve as a social institution for a community.

Thanks to Wayne Bell, District Director of the Wichita SBA office; Al Hatch, President of Great Plains Development, Inc.; and the good folks of White�??s Foodliner for their hospitality. Thanks also to State Senator Garrett Love for joining at the special event. Moran offered his sincere congratulations to Gordon and Mary Jenkins, for their exceptional work and dedication to Cimarron and the Gray County community, on this tremendously well-deserved recognition