Downtown embraces past, future

To the editor:

I am writing to applaud Frank Nickell's outstanding article on the murals of Cape Girardeau. I moved here in 2000 and did not realize the depth of hardships that downtown Cape Girardeau has overcome to become what it is today.

It was fascinating to learn about the history of the floodwall and the visionaries who were determined to create a visual testament to ensure that future generations will remember the events that have shaped and defined our town.

These events are our character lines. They are the milestones that have determined our heritage. They are the very foundation on which Cape Girardeau was formed. Most importantly, they are a part of our future, for they are the very essence of what this town has become today and what it will become tomorrow. I'm glad I am here to witness the progress and become a part of it.

Someone once told me he thought that all of the old buildings downtown should be razed that that we should build casinos in their place. How sad that we could become so small-minded.

Before I moved here, I would visit my family. Part of each trip was set aside to visit and shop downtown. I would go home and tell my friends about the delightful downtown district in Cape. I still love it. I feel our community is fortunate to be able to embrace our past, preserve our history yet be large enough to grow without sacrificing the integrity of who we are.

LOLITA HAYES, Jackson