LETTERS: CHAMBER BOARD URGES YES VOTE

To the editor:

On Aug. 18, the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors unanimously endorsed the River Campus project being proposed by Southeast Missouri State University. I applaud the board for its decision. There are many good reasons to support this project. I note several below.

The preservation of St. Vincents Seminary and the improvements planned for the property would provide a real shot in the arm for redevelopment initiatives in the downtown and southside areas of town. The Downtown Merchants Association obviously believes this as well, having recently pledged $1 million toward the project.

A visual and performing arts school would support Southeast's goal for increased enrollment, enhancing Capes position as a regional education center and strengthening our local economy.

A relatively small local investment promises extraordinary benefits to our community and region. Our investment would constitute only 25 percent of the $35 million total investment in the project.

Southeast, led by Dr. Dale Nitzschke, has presented a credible plan that, although challenging, has the potential for turning a vision into reality. Bottom line, the River Campus offers a potential winning situation for the Cape area and an opportunity to expand our partnership with Southeast Missouri State University.

I urge your support of the River Campus proposal. On Tuesday, vote yes on the last two ballot issues.

DOUG GROESBECK, ChairmanCape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce

Cape Girardeau