VISION 2000 PUTS CITY IN BLOOM

Cape Girardeau is blooming. More than 42,000 daffodils are in bloom across the city, part of an ongoing beautification project of Vision 2000.

"The flowers are beautiful," said Melvin Gateley, coordinator of Vision 2000. "We hope that people take the opportunity to drive around the city this weekend and enjoy the beauty."

The first flowers were planted in 1988. Gateley hopes to have 50,000 bulbs in the ground by 2000.

Planting flowers, especially daffodils and roses, is part of the Vision 2000 goal to increase community pride. In addition, the project serves as a way to encourage volunteer participation in the community.

Over the years a variety of service clubs and organizations have participated. Boy Scouts have earned merit badges. Some groups have purchased bulbs and fertilizer. Others have volunteered to plant the bulbs.

"We've been growing together," Gateley said.

Beds can be found on Morgan Oak near the Mississippi River bridge, at Broadway and Kingshighway, and on several locations on Kingshighway, Bertling, Route K, Mount Auburn, Big Bend, Bertling, East Cape Rock Drive and at the city water plant.

The additional bulbs are scheduled to be planted this fall to be ready for the 2000 blooming season.

Within a few weeks, 300 new rose bushes will be ready for planting, and Gateley is looking for volunteers to plant, prune and care for the rose bushes.

Already, 3,000 roses are growing in beds across the city.

"No city money is used for this project," Gateley said. "It's all volunteer and donation. It's a wonderful way to spend an hour or a day in the sun."

To volunteer, call Gateley at (573) 334-1303.

"These beautiful flowers belong to the citizens of Cape Girardeau," he said. "I hope people will take the time to enjoy."