City will get Cape chamber award

~ The chamber broke with tradition by announcing the winner early.

The city of Cape Girardeau will be honored Oct. 4 with the Commitment to Excellence Award.

The Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce's award given annually to a chamber member demonstrating community involvement, leadership, longevity and economic contributions has never been given to a governmental body before. Area police and fire departments were given the award after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, and the not-for-profit United Way also has won the award.

Now it's the city's turn.

"I think a big part of it is the willingness of the council and city administration to act on economic development issues," said chamber president and CEO John Mehner. "Generally speaking they are extremely responsive when working with us on economic improvement and community betterment."

Mehner also pointed out that the time seemed right because of Cape Girardeau's recognition as an All America City finalist and the celebration of its bicentennial. He said the chamber broke with tradition by announcing the winner prior to the event to give city employees and residents a head start on reserving seats. The celebration dinner is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Plaza Conference Center.

Mehner said Cape Girardeau founder Louis Lorimier, played by George Dordoni, will appear at the ceremony.

Mayor Jay Knudtson said he wasn't even aware the city was eligible for the award but was "elated" when he heard about it. "To be chosen and to be able to accept this award on behalf of the city is just the icing on the cake of several terrific years," he said.

Knudtson added that he, the council and city staff have worked hard to bridge the gap between city hall and the Cape Girardeau business community.

"Without exception the city has subscribed to the culture that says the citizens and businesses in this area are our customers," Knudtson said.

"It brings a great big smile to my face," he said. "In a business like this there's not always a benchmark or a report card to gauge success. Things like this are at least tangible indicators that you're doing a good job."

tgreaney@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245