(KLZA)-- During the Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Annual Banquet on January 8, the Investor of the Year Award was presented to Southeast Community College.

Southeast Community College opened a 9,500 - square foot, high-tech regional learning center in Falls City in September of 2019. 

The project had been in the works since August, 2015.

In making the presentation, EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer called the learning center a beacon of hope to those seeking to upgrade their skills and earnings potential. 

Two new inductees were presented their awards and will be part of the  Falls City EDGE Business Wall of Fame.  The award honors those who have been instrumental in making Falls City and Richardson County the place it is today.  They are individuals who dedicate themselves to excellence to help make Falls City a vibrant place to do business, work and live. 

The 2019 honorees were the Towle family which through four generations have pioneered business savvy and entrepreneurial spirit providing a strong foundation helping anchor Falls City.

Edwin S. Towle settled in Falls City and was the towns first Mayor.  He created the Towle Realty Company in 1913. The next generation of the Towle family purchased the Falls  City Telephone Company which became SNC and also First National  Bank.  Edwin H. Towle also served as Mayor f Falls City and was the City Engineer when the bricks were laid on Stone Street and also was active in brining Missouri Pacific offices and shops to Falls City. 

Edwin S. Towle The 2nd continued to purchase farm ground and downtown buildings for the Towle Realty Company and also owned the Independent Pipeline Company, the General Loan Company and the Missouri Valley Poster Advertising Company. 

The 4th generation of the Towle family was at the helm of many business interests under the leadership of the late Edwin S. Towle the 3rd and his wife Dorothy Towle.  Under the direction of Dorothy, SNC completed a fiber optic project placing fiber to every home and business in its rural areas.

Also honored was Mildred Appleoff who started a business of private piano, organ and voice lessons in her home.  She taught hundreds of students and touched many lives.  She and her husband Bob started Mutt & Jeff  Drive Inn and operated Appleoff Appliance for more than 50 years.  

In addition, Midlred taught vocal music for 25 years, working at both Falls City Public and Sacred Heart Schools.