Give your favorite local business a boost by voting for it to win a Manheim Chamber award.

"Every year at our annual membership meeting, we celebrate the past year of business in Manheim. For the past four years, this has included celebrating the recipients of our Chamber Awards," said Kristie Schmid, executive director of the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce. "The categories vary by year, but they are always acknowledging the hard work and effort that's put into creating, managing and sustaining business. We are proud of our business community and what they bring to the table here in Manheim."

This year's categories include "Spirit of Manheim," focusing on the "biggest cheerleader for Manheim," Schmid said. "Social Media Champ" will honor a business that has used its social media accounts to grow its business and stay on top of trends. "Cornerstone of Manheim" will recognize a Chamber member that has longevity in the community and has supported Manheim by creating jobs and fostering economic growth. "New Business of the Year" will acknowledge a business that has thrived in Manheim for three years or less.

The voting is open to members of the public, who can place votes by emailing info@manheimchamber.com by Wednesday, Feb. 8. Any Manheim Chamber member business is eligible to win. A full list of members can be found by searching the business directory at http://www.manheimchamber.com.

Schmid said the award categories change each year depending on what best describes the current membership. "This year the Chamber has members that have been around since the beginning and some that have recently chosen to open in Manheim," she explained. "We have some that have taken the time to volunteer and who spend a great deal of time to help behind the scenes for the greater good of all our members. And, we have some that are putting Manheim 'on the map' through their social media."

Business is booming in Manheim, she noted, and the awards offer a way to honor that growth. "Manheim is definitely in a revitalization period," she remarked. "We now have enough retail and food establishments that locals and visitors can spend a good deal of time in town. These businesses are owned by your friends, family and neighbors. Supporting them is so important and makes a huge impact on our local economy."

The Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce moved locations last August and is now housed at Supply, 280 S. Oak St. "We are really enjoying all the space has to offer, including event space for our 2023 programs and events," Schmid said. "We are getting ready to launch a new events website. This will feature our members that have businesses where you can shop, dine or attend an event. We are consistently growing and looking for ways to help spread the word about what Manheim has to offer."

Manheim-based Stiegel Glassworks creates the Chamber awards each year. Winners will be announced at the Chamber's virtual annual meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 15, and will be announced to the public afterward.