Bennett named Missouri Cherry Blossom colonel

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- A local woman is among the inaugural members of an organization dedicated to serving as goodwill ambassadors for Missouri.

Marci Bennett, executive director of the St. Joseph Convention & Visitors Bureau, has been named a Missouri Cherry Blossom colonel by the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival in Marshfield, Missouri. She also will serve as the group's treasurer.

The Order of the Missouri Cherry Blossom Colonels was established this year to mark the 20th anniversary of the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival. It honors people who have made a significant impact on the state's cultural, civic and historical legacy. Membership is limited to 100 people at any given time, and the colonels serve as goodwill ambassadors for both Missouri and the festival.

“This new order not only honors distinguished Missourians like Marci Bennett,” said Rev. Nicholas W. Inman, president of the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival and honorary chairman of the colonels, “it helps ensure that their stories are preserved and passed down for generations to come. We are proud to recognize individuals whose leadership and service have shaped the heart of Missouri.”

The governor of Missouri serves as Honorary Commander of the Cherry Blossom Colonels, and the state's living former governors, first ladies and lieutenant governors are given honorary membership.

The Cherry Blossom Colonels will gather each year for a lunch the day before the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival. The inaugural meeting is on Wednesday, April 23, and members will be “coated” with an official pink suit coat.

For more information about the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival, visit www.cherryblossomfest.com.