East, west sides need to work together more

To the editor:

I note with interest the city leaders' search for a regional identity that will make Cape Girardeau a destination location.

Economically and culturally we are two cities: a thriving retail and medical community primarily centered in west Cape and culturally homogeneous, and on the east a small university and charmingly diverse historical community set on the Mississippi River. Neither has both the character and the resource to be a destination that draws visitors for several days.

Most importantly, the two communities, like brothers at odds, live in conflict. No catchy phrase or sharp ad campaign will answer this dilemma.

When will the de facto leaders of the two communities begin to "own" one another's success? When will each realize that Cape Girardeau will never realize its potential until the other reaches his? Which side will be the first to acknowledge the contribution and potential of the other?

This type of cooperation only starts with words. It reaches fruition with material involvement and sacrifice. Who wants to go first?

MIKE WOELK

Cape Girardeau