UNITED WAY SIGHTS SET ON $1 MILLION

The countdown toward a million-dollar campaign is on at the Area Wide United Way.

"We will be a million-dollar community. The question is when," said Nancy Jernigan, United Way executive director.

Jernigan spoke at the United Way's annual meeting Wednesday. New board members and officers were elected.

During the 1998 fund-raising campaign, more than $690,000 was raised, surpassing last year's $625,000 goal.

"If we are to become a million-dollar community, which is what we have our sights set on, some quantum leaps are going to have to be taken," said Kevin Govero, board chairman for 1998.

The 1998 fund-raising campaign was one of those leaps, Govero said, thanking campaign chairwoman Edythe Davis.

Davis said, "I hope you have a sense of joy for the efforts you put into the campaign and that it enriched your lives."

New chairman of the board is John Holcomb. The 1999 campaign chairman is Craig Wells.

The goal for 1999 will be announced next fall at the start of the official campaign. Work will continue throughout the spring and summer.

Holcomb said the United Way will continue to evaluate its mission. "We are primarily a fund-raising organization," he said. "But should we get involved in other activities in the community?" he asked.

Jernigan said the basic mission of United Way has been simple: Connect people with something to give with those who have a need.

The United Way distributes money collected from the community to 26 service agencies. It serves Cape Girardeau, Jackson and Scott City.

New directors joining the board are Kathy McLain, Biokyowa; Paul Sander, Mercantile Bank; and Steve Taylor, NationsBank.

Returning board members are Dan Berry, Southeast Missouri Hospital; Davis, ED Creative Services; Jackie Griffith, AmerenUE; Dennis Marchi, Schnucks; Kevin McDonald, Procter & Gamble Co.; Don Sherwood, retired executive; Al Spradling Jr., Spradling and Spradling law firm; and Clare Urhahn, LeeRowan.

Roy Van de Ven was recognized for his service on the board as an outgoing board member.

Officers for 1999 were approved. The are Holcomb, retired physician, board president; Griffith, vice president; Bill Miller, retired executive, treasurer; and Jernigan, secretary and executive director.