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FeaturesMarch 12, 2013

Cape Girardeau and our immediate surrounding area is the regional hub between St. Louis and Memphis. A large part of my election platform stated the need to nurture and expand that regional status. I feel we continue to accomplish that goal. The most obvious large economic drivers that fuel this status are retail, medical, educational and industrial. ...

Cape Girardeau and our immediate surrounding area is the regional hub between St. Louis and Memphis. A large part of my election platform stated the need to nurture and expand that regional status. I feel we continue to accomplish that goal.

The most obvious large economic drivers that fuel this status are retail, medical, educational and industrial. These industries enhance a regional attraction of consumers and visitors from a wide area that includes parts of four to five states. All the leaders in these industries continue to excel in growing their businesses to reach more consumers, which translates into a growing economy for our area.

I am now becoming aware of yet another area that continues to grow that is becoming more and more important to growing that regional status. I am referring to single destination events that last only a day or a relatively short period of time. These events add variety and excitement for our local citizens and bring hundreds, if not thousands, of visitors to our city.

These include a variety of events that are scheduled and promoted through the efforts of our Convention and Visitors Bureau under the leadership of Chuck Martin. However, there also are individuals and clubs that initiate some of these events. These events require many volunteer hours to make them successful. The next paragraphs highlight upcoming events that truly make a difference in the growth and excitement of our community.

I will begin with the recent announcement of the American Junior Golf Association's national tournament this June, which will feature 72 of the top junior female golfers in the country. Thanks to Cord Dombrowski for his vision and leadership that has made Dalhousie a golf destination for tournaments and regional play. This event will be the week of June 10 and is predicted to have an economic impact of more than $500,000 to our local economy.

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Also in June, Cape Girardeau will host an overnight stay of antique cars as they pass through our city in what is called "The Great Race." Downtown Cape will be lined with approximately 90 of these cars as we host their drivers and supporters for the evening. This event should draw huge crowds into the downtown area.

Riverboat stops always create excitement and interest as we welcome national and international guests to our community for a day. Good prospects for an increased number of stops in 2013 and beyond will add to tourism and our overall economy.

Many other events during the year also add to overnight stays, visitor exposure to the many attractions throughout our area, and generally enhance our economy. Space does not permit listing a large portion of events, but a few of the key events include state Special Olympics, state volleyball championships, Cape Comic Con, arts and craft shows, Fort D Days, Barbeque Fest, storytelling events and Shawnee softball tournaments.

Each of these events adds to our regional importance and collectively become a major driver in our strong local economy. I would like to add a special thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who spend many hours ensuring the success of each of these events.

Harry E. Rediger is the mayor of Cape Girardeau.

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