Sioux District

Dexter was host recently to the 2008 Sioux District Appreciation Banquet for the Greater St. Louis Area Council of Boy Scouts and several area Scouting leaders were recognized for their efforts throughout the past year in the Scouting arena. Kyle Gillespie of Dexter was honored for his contribution to Scouting with the presentation by District Chairman Doug Kennedy, of the Sioux District's Award of Merit. The award is the highest volunteer award in the realm of Scouting and is decided upon through a nomination process and a judging panel. Gillespie was recognized for his "continuous unselfish contributions to the community of Scouting." Gillespie serves as Scoutmaster for Troop 200 in Dexter.

Rick Carl, representing KWOC in Poplar Bluff, was honored for the radio station's continued support of the local Scouting program. Carl was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation.

Noreen Hyslop, managing editor of The Daily Statesman, was presented a Certificate of Appreciation from the Sioux District for continuing media coverage of local Scouting efforts in Stoddard County.

Ray Jones from Van Buren received the New Unit Organizer Award, presented by John McDonough, District Commissioner from Poplar Bluff.

Virgie Alcorn from Ellsinore was credited by Kennedy for going "above and beyond" through her efforts in the Ellsinore community and the district. Described by Kennedy as "an exemplary candidate who is outgoing, loyal and trustworthy," Alcorn was awarded the Sioux District's Spearhead Award for 2008.

Randy Graves of Dexter, who has assisted in Scouting efforts in the area for all his adult life, was honored at the Sioux District Banquet for his continuing work in Boy Scout endeavors. Graves was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Doug Kennedy who serves as Sioux District Chairman. Along with his local contributions to Scouting, Graves currently serves as District Public Relations Chairman.

Jim Dachs of Dexter received the Sparkplug Award from Dr. Rick Blaich. Dachs is assistant scoutmaster of Troop 200 in Dexter. The Sparkplug Award is presented to individuals who, as adult leaders, have made an noteworthy contribution to the success of a unit or district and have exempplofied enthusiasm and cooperation with the district and Boy Scout Council. Brad Hubbard, another Dexter Scout volunteer, was not present at the banquet, but also named as a Sparkplug Award recipient.