JENKINS, TURNER WIN TOP AWARDS AT CHS BANQUET

Cape Central High School recognized its top scholars and athletes at its annual All School Recognition Banquet at the A. C. Brase Arena Tuesday night.

The Darla Pannier and Lou W. Muegge Awards, presented to the senior female and male athlete who best exemplify the qualities of citizenship, scholarship and athletics, were bestowed upon Heather Jenkins and Otis "O. J." Turner.

An outstanding performer in the weight events in track and field, Jenkins finished second in the discus and fifth in the shot put at last year's state meet. With the track season still in progress, she won both of her specialty events at last week's district meet and will participate in the sectionals this weekend.

Jenkins, a three-year letter winner in basketball, was also named to the 2000-2001 all-conference second team.

On winning the award named in memory of outstanding Cape Central athlete, Darla Pannier, whose life was ended tragically in an automobile accident in 1989, Jenkins said, "I'm excited. It means the most to me. I played basketball and the Panniers were there all the time. I will never forget them."

Jenkins said she will wait until the track season is over to consider her college choices.

Turner, a Class 4A first team all-state football player as a linebacker, led the Tigers to a district championship in 2000, while leading the team in tackles. Also a running back for the Tigers, Turner was chosen first team All-SEMO Conference on both offense and defense.

In addition, Turner was a district and sectional champion in wrestling in the 189-pound class and participated in track and field.

Turner will attend Southeast Missouri State University on a football scholarship next fall.

"I'm very grateful," said Turner, regarding his landing the prestigious Lou W. Muegge Award. "Hard work pays off and I'm just grateful."

Four athletes from the past were inducted into the Cape Central Sports Hall of Fame: Don Koch, Paul Stehr, Mike Price and Alan Kesterson. The 1954 state champion basketball and baseball teams were also honored with acceptance into the hall.