DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS KEEP AREA THRIVING

There are few groups whose enthusiasm and optimism can match that of the Downtown Merchants Association. Recently the organization of businesspeople in the old downtown area near the Mississippi River held its annual auction to raise funds that will be used to further enhance the shopping area.

Proceeds from the auction help fund downtown restoration and beautification projects plus special events. This year's auction will help pay for new floodlights along the river floodwall between Broadway and Independence Street.

While much attention has been given to the expansion of commercial areas on the western edge of Cape Girardeau, the spirit and determination of downtown merchants would be hard to top. Downtown continues to thrive and attract visitors and shoppers because of their efforts.

In the 10 years the downtown merchants have been holding auctions to raise funds, the group has generated more than $125,000 for various projects, ranging from a Christmas parade to the construction of an open-air pavilion along South Main Street that is now a focal point, particularly when farmers bring their produce to sell

Congratulations, Downtown Merchants Association, for your efforts to make your business area successful.