Think back. No doubt a handful of exceptional teachers stand out in your mind. These men and women may have contributed to your profession today.

For many, a great teaching can have a lasting positive impact on an individual's love of learning.

Each year, the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce honors top educators. It is a wonderful program that pays tribute to well-deserving teachers at all levels.

This year's honorees:

-- Donna Ellis, a teaching veteran of 29 years who has taught at Central High School the last nine years.

-- Joan Haring, an elementary school teacher at St. Mary Cathedral Grade School for 27 of her 39 years of teaching.

-- Dr. David Kunz, a finance professor at Southeast Missouri State University for eight years.

-- Barbara Blanchard, principal of Washington Elementary School, where she has worked the past 30 years. She has been an educator for the past 36 years.

These teachers will be recognized at a banquet May 7 which is open to the public.

It is wonderful opportunity to pay tribute to teachers who have excelled in their field and daily make a difference in the lives of our children.