Arts Council enriches our community

The Arts Council of Southeast Missouri's recent announcement that it is looking for a new executive director gives the community an opportunity to think about the organization and all the fine things it does.

Founded in 1962 as the Christian Arts Council by Otto F. Dingeldein and other Cape Girardeau residents, the council has evolved from an all-volunteer organization to one with a paid staff and national juried exhibitions. The Arts Council is the oldest community arts council in Missouri.

Today, while one may not think of Cape Girardeau as a mecca for artists, many come here and enrich our lives thanks to the efforts of the Arts Council. The group organizes bus trips to St. Louis to see displays there. It encourages participation in the arts by people of all ages, including those living with disabilities. It sponsors craft fairs and a music festival and, in the spring, will help bring the Miami City Ballet for our enjoyment.

Those who have helped make the Arts Council a success deserve our appreciation and support.