WICHITA — Steve and Christi Lungren of Ark City were recognized by the Kansas Department of Commerce last week as part of the state’s annual “To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards” ceremony and banquet, this year at the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center in Wichita.
Steve and Christi, owners of Doxa Wave, LLC — the umbrella company that includes KSOK radio and Cowley Post — won the regional award in the “Welcome Back” category for South Central Kansas.
Overall 11 businesses across the state were nominated for the Welcome Back award, which recognizes Kansas business owners who came back to the Sunflower State to set up shop again.
Nominees were reviewed and scored for various criteria such as business expansion, employee recruitment and retention practices, training and educational programs, capital investments, and support of local community events. A total of 245 Merit Awards and 43 Regional Awards were presented at the event.
Additionally, one nominee in each category was designated a Statewide Winner, making them finalists for the Governor’s Award of Excellence.
Doxa Wave was nominated by Cowley First — an economic development partnership that encompasses the county and cities of Ark City and Winfield.
“The nomination by Jessica (Falk) of Cowley First was heartwarming in itself,” Steve Lungren said. “But to win the (regional) award — I have to be honest, brought some tears to my eyes. It is so rewarding to be noticed for some good that you try to bring to your community.”
The Lungrens raised a family in Ark City before moving to Grove, Oklahoma.
In October 2021, Cowley County Broadcasting announced the sale of its radio stations to Steve and Christi, who moved back to Ark City soon after, along with daughter Sadie and son-in-law Matthew Spurlock and their children, who were living in Hays before they joined Steve and Christi in the operation of Doxa Wave in Ark City.
“It was an honor to receive this award,” Christi Lungren said. “I am grateful to be back home and to have our family business here in Cowley County. We thank everyone for their support.
“I am excited for the future as we continue to look for ways to help this community grow.”
Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland told attendees Thursday night they were the fuel that powers the state.
“The Kansas economy is booming because of these innovative entrepreneurs,” Toland said. “When we talk about Kansas being the best state in the nation to live, work and raise a family, we know it is possible because of great companies driving success in their communities. It is an honor to celebrate their achievements.”
Gov. Laura Kelly, who was scheduled to attend but was unable to make it to Wichita Thursday night, addressed attendees via a video message to begin the ceremony.
Regional and state winners also received personalized letters from the governor that shared her appreciation.
