Editorial

Red Cross volunteers

Volunteers who devote their time to worthwhile community organizations provide a wealth of energy, knowledge and support. Earlier this month, many of those individuals were recognized by the Southeast Missouri chapter of the American Red Cross. Volunteers contributed 21,034 hours over the past year.

Among other things, the Red Cross helped 286 families following home fires, trained 14,797 people in lifesaving skills classes and coordinated communication during emergencies for 360 military families.

Receiving special awards were Teresa Neely of Dexter, Robert Wake of Malden, Trena Novak of Benton, Robert Cox of Cape Girardeau, ServPro of Cape Girardeau and Scott Counties and the Noranda Aluminum Emergency Response Team of New Madrid.

Also commended were those who raised or donated $1,000 for the Heroes for the American Red Cross fund drive: Regions Bank, Midamerica Hotels, Bank of Missouri, ServPro of Cape Girardeau and Scott Counties, Saint Francis Medical Center, the Red Cross board of directors, Southeast Missouri Hospital, Tetra Pak and Bikers Against Child Abuse.

With guidance from executive director Cheryl Klueppel and the local board, the Red Cross assists in many ways across Southeast Missouri with the help of volunteers who give their best.

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