The Cape Girardeau County Chapter of the American Red Cross will be rechartered soon, it was announced at the chapter's 77th annual meeting Tuesday.

"We have been through a busy and exciting year at our local chapter," said Mary Burton, chapter executive director. "The Red Cross has accomplished so much for so many this year. We have done it with the lowest proportion of givers and smallest average gift of all major philanthropies.

"In other words," said Burton, "we haven't had an abundance of money to accomplish some monumental achievements."

Burton said the chapter ranked first in the state for individuals certified in health and safety courses per capita.

"We are reaching more individuals with life-saving education than ever before," she said. "All of these facts considered, I am proud to represent such an old and immensely respected organization. I am extremely proud of what our concerted efforts with the help of the United Way, volunteers and donors have accomplished."

New officers were installed and special recognition awards were presented at the luncheon at Drury Lodge.

Coy and Amos Coonts were honored as volunteers of the year.

Retiring board members Mike Kreuter, Dayna Powell and Chuck Stotz were honored for service.

Others receiving awards were:

-- Jeanne Hey and Aline Jedlicka, memorial recognition; Bill Engleman, 24 years volunteer instructor; Bill Wickham, most number of first aid courses taught (763); Dayna Powell, most number of water safety courses taught (2,003); Vince Powell, most number of lifeguard training courses taught (127); Janet Davis, most number of HIV/AIDS education courses taught (280), and Denise Stewart, volunteer instructor of the year.

Other honors include:

-- Disaster services -- Darlene MacCubbin, Morris Osburn, Marlene Osburn, Sue Goodge, and Mike Krueter.

-- Military social services -- Charles Woodford, Mike Kreuter, and Sue Goodge.

-- Blood services -- Virginia Criddle, Margaret Crites, Ben Borchelt, Sarah Borchelt, Mary Friese, Jenne Farrer, Dave Kaempfer, Helen Mosby, Carolyn Robinson, Meta Siemers, Eloise Roth, and Roger Scott.

Chapter clerical -- Mary Kreuter.