Interim director announced for Old Town Cape

Old Town Cape has tapped Heather Haynes as its interim director while the organization narrows its search for a new leader.

Haynes, originally from Kansas City, relocated to Cape Girardeau three years ago after her husband, Josh, was transferred to the area to work for U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson.

Last May, Haynes earned a master's degree in history at Southeast Missouri State University. That's where she earned the attention of Dr. Steven Hoffman, who doubles as president of the executive committee for Old Town Cape. This spring, while the organization encountered a longer-than-expected absence of a director, Hoffman asked Haynes if she would be interested in giving the job a try.

"I knew the quality of work she does," Hoffman said. "I knew she was bright and talented and dedicated and does absolutely the best job possible on anything she takes on. We're lucky to have someone of her caliber during this transition period."

Haynes, who has a 10-month-old daughter, said she is not interested in taking on the job full time. Hoffman and the rest of the OTC director search committee will begin reviewing applications for the vacant spot Thursday.

Haynes, who has been working 20 hours per week in the OTC offices, said the job keeps her plenty busy. "I've been doing a little bit of everything," she said.

"With Tunes at Twilight kicking off a couple weeks ago, Libertyfest coming up and the Charles L. Hutson auction this Saturday, it's a busy time for us."

Haynes stressed that volunteers are needed for the annual Libertyfest celebration. Those interested can call the Old Town Cape offices at 334-8085 or e-mail director@oldtowncape.org