COMMUNITY SHOULD HAIL BENEFIT BASKETBALL GAME

A first-time event scheduled here Saturday has the makings of something special. The Indian Alumni Shootout represents many of the good things going on in this community. Beyond that, it should be highly entertaining. We urge your attendance.

Don't misconstrue this commendation. True, the Southeast Missourian is a sponsor and organizer of this event, but its development as a community happening, along with the involvement of a great many dedicated citizens and athletes, has inspired us beyond that.

The game will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Cape Girardeau Central High School gymnasium. Proceeds from the event go to the Cape Girardeau Civic Center. Players from the Coach Ron Shumate era of Southeast Missouri State University basketball will participate in the game, coming from as far away as Washington, D.C., to pay homage to their former coach, to provide hoop fans from the region a bit of nostalgia ... in addition to playing some spirited basketball.

The cause is a good one. The Civic Center, under the capable and vibrant leadership of Calvin Bird, continues to carry on its function (started in 1959) of serving the needs of low-income, "at-risk" youths in Cape Girardeau and surrounding counties. Through a broad spectrum of programs, ranging from tutoring to teen pregnancy counseling, the center helps these young people in vocational, recreational and educational ways.

Obviously, though, there would be no game without the players. Their response to this effort has been overwhelming, and the spirit with which they approach this game is moving. A special section in today's newspaper includes comments from many of the players about their affection for Coach Shumate, the university and the community. Many have gone on to success off the hardcourt, and there seems a genuine willingness on their part to give something back to Cape Girardeau. Their participation is this game suffices.

The rewards of helping stage this game have far exceeded our expectations. The Southeast Missourian is pleased with its involvement. We hope the community embraces the event and is likewise pleased.