Matthews, Pullen headline SRC award winners

SIKESTON -- The Sikeston Regional Chamber of Commerce honored local citizens at the 65th Annual Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet held Thursday night at the Sikeston Armory.

Leading the list of honorees was Scott Matthews who accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award.

In presenting the award, Charles Ancell said Matthews has done more to help Sikeston grow with regard to commercial, residential and community development as well as educational expansion than any other in Sikeston's history.

"The landscape of Sikeston would look much, much different if it were not for his decision to cultivate, build and generate a new economy on the south end of town," Ancell said. "He has helped to recruit and solidify retail business, creating jobs and sales tax."

Ancell pointed out that over the past 15 to 20 years, the Sikeston population may have substantially declined if it were not for Matthews opening land for residential development for middle-income citizens and newcomers.

"His willingness to take risks, to break the ranks of landowners is what has helped transform Sikeston, given it new life and helped others see us in a progressive light," Ancell said. "His leadership in educational attainment has been immeasurable with regard to the Three Rivers College-Sikeston campus and a recent donation to the SPS Foundation for future use by Sikeston R-6 Schools."

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SRC BANQUET AWARD WINNERS

Jerry Pullen accepts the Citizen of the Year Award during the Sikeston Regional Chamber Awards Banquet held Thursday night at the Sikeston Armory. (Bob Greenlee, Staff)

Jerry Pullen accepts the Citizen of the Year Award during the Sikeston Regional Chamber Awards Banquet held Thursday night at the Sikeston Armory. (Bob Greenlee, Staff)

Educator of the Year: Gloria Houston

Law Enforcement Officer of the Year: John Blakely

Jaycee Distinguished Service: Ryan Merideth

SRC Member of the Year: Michelle Reynolds

Small Business of the Year: Personal Expressions

Business of the Year: Three Rivers College

Civic Individual of the Year: Kyla Evans

Citizen of the Year: Jerry Pullen

Lifetime Achievement Award: Scott Matthews