BOYD GROUP REPORTS ADDITIONAL SPENDING

JACKSON - Since May 20, the Boyd Group has spent $17,985 toward urging voters of Cape Girardeau to approve riverboat gambling for the city next Tuesday.

Based in Las Vegas, the company has indicated it will try to locate a boat on the Mississippi River here if voters approve the issue. The Boyd Group has promised a $37 million investment in a gambling operation if they are chosen as the licensed boat operator here.

The recent expenditure was outlined in a letter to the county clerk's office Wednesday, which is to comply with state campaign finance disclosure laws due 7 days before the election.

The recent expenditures are in addition to $16,472 that are included in a letter filed with the clerk's office May 21.

Southern Research Group, based in Jackson, Miss., has been hired by the Boyd Group to direct the campaign. All campaign expenses are being paid by the Boyd company.

In the latest report, the largest expense is $5,400 for printing cards and direct mail to voters. The report also lists expenses of $4,010 to KFVS and $1,475 to KBSI for television advertising, and $1,904 to the Southeast Missourian for newspaper ads.

The report lists $2,600 for yard signs and stakes, and $2,086 paid to Holiday Inn for meals and lodging.

Citizens Against Riverboat Gambling also filed a report this week showing receipts of $3,927, expenditures of $3,796 and a balance of $140.

The next campaign reports are due 30 days after the election.