Burke and Margery Bayer, and Barbara Wilson received the Manhattan Legacy Award on Monday, May 20, at the Meadowlark Hills Legacy Banquet.

Reverend Ben Duerfeldt, retired pastor from First Christian Church where he served for 26 years, was the speaker for the evening. Rev. Duerfeldt was serving First Christian Church, one of the six founding churches, when Meadowlark Hills began. “Giving people are grateful people, and grateful people are happy people,” Rev. Duerfeldt said. “Those of you who have chosen to make your estates a part of Meadowlark Hills will be thanked by generations who you may never know – but you will be thanked.”

The Bayers and Wilson were presented with their awards, a jade glass circle with a burgundy base, by Meadowlark Hills Foundation Chair, Dr. Ralph Richardson, and Foundation Board members, Russ Briggs and Jackie Hartman. “All of us gathered in this room are here because of our connection and passion for Meadowlark Hills, the elder community and philanthropy,” Richardson said. “I encourage you to spread your philanthropic values throughout our community. Together we can make Manhattan and Meadowlark Hills a great place to live, work and retire.”

Burke Bayer served on the Meadowlark Hills Board for several years. Wilson is a long-time Meadowlark Hills supporter and current resident. The Bayers and Wilson were recognized for their long-standing history, dedication and support of Meadowlark Hills.

Rev. Duerfeldt shared about growing up on a family farm among family farms where people learned to work hard and learned to give. “Giving is as American as baseball and gospel music. When we didn’t have much money we gave of ourselves. Giving is an American tradition.”

Two other awards were given at the banquet: The Good Samaritan Award and the Johanna Lyle Excellence in Service Award. Don Emley, Meadowlark Hills resident, received the Good Samaritan Award, which is given to individuals for donating their time, talent and resources to Meadowlark Hills and for support of the Good Samaritan Fund. Dirk Daveline, current Meadowlark Hills Board of Trustees Char, received the Johanna Lyle Excellence in Service award in recognition of his leadership and support during the recent CEO search process. Meadowlark Hills residents and staff appreciate his service and gifts of time, talent and treasure.

The Legacy Society is a group of individuals who have included Meadowlark Hills as a recipient of charitable support through their estate planning efforts. In planning for their future with contributions, Meadowlark Hills is able to better plan for its future.

Previous Manhattan Legacy Award recipients include Margaret Wheat, Arthur Loub, Dennis and Sally von Waaden, Joye Ansdell, Steve Shields, Phil Howe and Jack Goldstein.

The banquet was located at Hilton Garden Inn, 410 S. Third Street.