State awards

Recently the Missouri Main Street Conference was held in Kansas City, Mo., and two Cape Girardeau women were honored for their efforts in the revitalization of downtown Cape Girardeau.

Heather Brooks, city of Cape Girardeau assistant city manager, was recognized with the Missouri Main Street Outstanding Public Official award. Brooks, who began her service on the Old Town Cape board of directors in 2003, has served on the city's DREAM Development Team as well as a resource for the Downtown Community Improvement District Steering committee.

Annie Laurie's Antiques, owned by Laurie Everett, was the recipient of the Business Excellence Award. Everett purchased the businesses in downtown Cape Girardeau in 2006. Her contributions to the community include participation in First Friday, the Old Town Cape Downtown Historic Home and Garden Tour, and her Top Model and Dorm Room Makeover contests. She also serves on the Downtown Community Improvement District Steering committee. Annie Laurie's Antiques is the second Cape Girardeau business in two years to receive the business award. Last year The Southeast Missourian/Rust Communications was honored.

Congratulations to Brooks and Annie Laurie's Antiques for their well-deserved statewide recognition, and thank you to all the city leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries who fervently work to better the downtown community.