Vision 2020 honors volunteer efforts of area organizations and people

Five individuals and two organizations were honored for their service and contribution to the growth of Cape Girardeau at a recent awards ceremony held by Southeast Missouri Hospital.

Recipients were presented with the "Melvin Gateley Award of Excellence," for excellence in volunteer work, positive leadership and proven track record of success.

Gateley, a former Cape Girardeau councilman, initiated the efforts of the original Vision 2000 group in 1987.

The groups created a strategic plan in five areas--community services and enrichment, chaired by Wes Wright; transportation and infrastructure, chaired by J.J. Williamson; arts, culture, leisure, chaired by Paul Nenninger; economic development, chaired by John Mehner; and education, chaired by Stan Stough.

Award recipients were Cheryl Klueppel, Frank Nickell, Laverne Nothdurft, Old Town Cape, SEMO Network Against Sexual Violence, Truman Smith and Buz Sutherland.

Doug Austin will serve as chairman of Vision 2020 for 2007; Connie Hanner, vice-chairwoman.