LOCAL MUSICIANS RECEIVE WELL-DESERVED AWARDS

Two local music legends were honored for their lifetime achievements at the Southeast Missouri Music Awards last week. Also last week, the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri honored Dr. Edwin Smith with its Otto F. Dingeldein Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts.

Homer Gilbert retired in 1998 after playing trumpet for 72 years in the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band. The former band leader was president of the municipal band for many years.

Leland "Freck" Shivelbine is a longtime partner in the Shivelbine's Music Store, which has helped thousands of young people perform in school bands. He was a trumpet player with the Golden Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps many years ago and also performed with the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band.

Smith has devoted 26 years at Southeast Missouri State University to inspiring students and future art teachers. He also plays an integral role in the annual high school art show, which drew more than 1,000 entries last year.

It is only fitting that the community take the time to toot the horn of these individuals who give so much to all ages. Smith, Gilbert and Shivelbine are well deserving of their awards as they continue to provide an inspiration to all they meet.