GUN-FREE PROGRAM KICKS OFF TODAY

A program to step up enforcement of a 1990 law that imposes strict sentences on anyone carrying a gun within 1,000 feet of school grounds will kick off today with a ceremony at Franklin School.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. at 215 N. Louisiana in Cape Girardeau.

The gun-free and drug-free school zone program is the result of a cooperative effort of several groups in the community. Signs designating drug-free/gun-free school zones were purchased by the Cape Girardeau Optimists Clubs.

Other groups participating in today's ceremony include the U.S. Attorney's office in Cape Girardeau, Cape Girardeau public and parochial schools, city officials and representatives of Southeast Missouri State University. The public is invited to attend.