Myrtle's owner recognized as Citizen of the Year

Debbie Sliger was named Citizen of the Year on Saturday by the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce.

DAR/Alicea Hull

The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce awarded Citizen of the Year to Debbie Sliger, owner of Myrtle’s Place on Broadway Street. The award was announced Saturday during the Chamber’s annual banquet at the Black River Coliseum.

Sliger received last year’s Poplar Bluff Downtown Gamer Changer award as well.

This accomplished citizen heavily invested in her business’ appearance and efficiency as part of her commitment to Downtown’s success, according to the announcement. Sliger also shows continued support for the nearby Rodgers Theatre and Poplar Bluff’s historic heritage.

Debbie Sliger

Chairman Steve Halter described her as someone who, “embodies the spirit of success, unwavering determination, and a heart that beats for the betterment of our beloved Downtown.”

Myrtle’s Place has faithfully served Poplar Bluff since 1996. Sliger’s daughter and co-owner Leanna Alexander stated in a July 2023 interview with the DAR that her mother has high standards for her staff and, “her grit and determination drives us.”

One of her nominators said, “She is the most consistent businessperson in town and is fair, firm, and friendly to all her customers.”

After the program, a line of people converged at her family’s table to praise her, shake her hands and give her hugs.

She said she feels “blessed and honored. I want to thank the chamber and the town.”

She thanked her family, her customers and great employees.

“I was shocked, overwhelmed, appreciative and grateful.

“I was shocked. I was not expecting it.”

Sliger has owned Myrtle’s Place for 40 years — before being downtown was popular, she emphasized. She has always loved it.

“I want to thank my customers and the community, my friends, my family and my great employees.”

She said, “I have always loved my business and downtown.”

The chamber also awarded Ambassador of the Year to Morgan Moffit of Southern Bank.

Tamara Persons, Samantha Bacon, Amy Deken, Amanda Hughes, Laura Dumey, Sierra Pickard, Madison Russom, Josh Pritchett, Sarah Garner, Kellie Brown, Kelly Lee, Ashley Carr, Levi Casey, Nicole Jones, Ashley Childress, Kat Hall, Ervin Nance, and Taylor Dunn all were honored as graduates of the Gateway to Leadership program.

This article was updated at 1:40 p.m. Jan. 29.