Business briefs 3/2

ESSEX - Ron Ledbetter of Essex, a district representative with Modern Woodmen of America, was Membership Leader in the Missouri East Agency for the month of February. During January he was named the "Agent of the Month."

Ledbetter joined Modern Woodmen's Rainwater agency, located in Farmington in June 1991.

For more information contact Ledbetter at 573-283-5925.

SIKESTON - Fashion Bug chain is searching the nation for a new plus-size model to appear in Fashion Bug advertising.

Eligible plus-size women (sizes 14-32) can enter the contest by submitting an entry form and two photographs to the Sikeston Fashion Bug store through March 21. Entry forms and contest rules can be obtained by visiting the store, located at 1305 S. Main St., or by downloading one form the store website, www.fashionbug.com. All entrants must participate in the Plus Size Fashion Show held in every Fashion Bug store across the nation on March 22.

The grand prize winner will receive transportation for two to a Fashion Bug photo shoot, two nights accommodations and meals, a $500 gift card to Fashion Bug, a spa treatment, professional styling the day of the photo shoot and will be featured on a printed advertising vehicle for Fashion Bug.

SIKESTON - Gayle Weisenborn was named the "Employee of the Year" for Bootheel Counseling Services.

Weisenborn, who was described as "a dedicated employee of Bootheel Counseling Services for 13 years," received a plaque from Chuck Grant, chairman of the board of Directors, to recognize the honor.

Bootheel Counseling Services' main office is located at 760 Plantation Blvd. in Sikeston with a branch office at 25 N. Walnut St. in Dexter.

SIKESTON - Hunter Acres Caring Center's Employee of the Month for January and February

Kay Hanks was the January honorary. The activity director for the center, Hanks is described as "completely dedicated to the well-being and happiness of the residents." Her nominator added: "She works hard to keep our residents busy and to involve family, friends and the community in the activity programs."

Honored for February was Angela Brown, a certified nursing assistant who has been employed at the facility since July 2002.

Brown's nominator wrote: "Angela always gives 100 percent to our residents. She is always patient and caring." Her nominator added that Brown works diligently to see that Hunter Acres Caring Center residents' needs are met and praised her energy and enthusiasm.

Hunter Acres Caring Center is located at corner of Northwest and Wakefield.