Consider supporting Discovery Playhouse children's museum

Parents appreciate safe, wholesome places to take their children, places where they interact with others, have fun and learn at the same time. Discovery Playhouse in downtown Cape Girardeau is one such place, and it is now close to taking the not-for-profit children's museum to the next level -- literally.

Executive Director Pansy Glenn told the Southeast Missourian that with three project bids out, construction may soon begin on the building's second floor. That addition will provide kids with attractions from 65 exhibitors, who will provide such things as an airplane/control tower, a miniature theater and basketball court and, what will surely be a crowd-pleaser, a bubble-blowing room.

Though plans are underway, it will take more than plans to get that second floor, well, off the floor. As we are all too aware, not much ever gets done without funding. That's what's needed to complete a party room upstairs that will adjoin the two main exhibit spaces. The party room will be "a big revenue generator," Glenn said, which will be helpful in maintaining the museum, since currently, Discovery is struggling to pay the mortgage and remain in the black, despite the $5 admission fee.

Your help will make a difference.

People often discuss the need for opportunities for children to develop educationally and socially. Discovery Playhouse is a positive family destination. Continued and increased community support will make expansion possible.

Business owners, have you taken advantage of the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) tax credits from the Missouri Department of Economic Development that will help fund the upstairs construction? The state will reimburse you up to half your investment, and you will be eligible for a federal tax benefit, as well.

"The NAP credits keep tax money in the community," said Glenn.

But time is running out. We previously reported that "the original grant proposal for the credits officially ends at the end of December," and "if significant progress isn't made, the two-year grant will have to be extended for another year, the maximum amount of time allowed." Last year's NAP credits yielded more than $150,000. This year, however, the amount stands at a net of only a little more than $15,000.

Please consider adding your support to this much-appreciated, family-friendly environment for our children.