'Levi's Adventure Trail'

Children have incredible imaginations. One place that helps cultivate this gift is the Discovery Playhouse in Cape Girardeau. In addition to inspiring creativity and learning about different things, the exhibits provide much fun for children.

Several exhibits have been added to the facility, and another one could soon follow. Recently a fundraiser was held in Sikeston to benefit "Levi's Adventure Trail." The exhibit is named after Levi Stephen Collom, who died at age 3 earlier this year. Combining his love for the Current River and Discovery Playhouse, the exhibit looks to be a great addition to the children's museum.

Having raised more than $43,000 at the Sikeston event -- surpassing the expectations of organizers -- the fundraising is well on its way to meeting the initial goal of $100,000 for phase one of the exhibit. Gina Crabtree, a friend of the Collom family, said upward of $60,000 has been raised so far. She added that the response to this project from the community has been amazing.

Next month a fundraiser will be held in Cape Girardeau. The Summer Cocktail Soiree is scheduled for 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. Aug. 3 at the Concourse, 429 N. Broadview St. in Cape Girardeau. The event will feature live music, a silent auction, gourmet appetizers prepared by a chef formerly of the Ritz Carlton in Orlando, Fla., and surprise entertainment. Crabtree said a surprise element to the exhibit will also be unveiled.

Seating is limited, and those planning to attend are encouraged to make reservations. For more information on how to get involved or to donate, contact Gina Crabtree at 573-225-5714 or Viney Mosley at 573-450-9415. Reservations can be made online at razoo.com.

Another opportunity to contribute to the exhibit will be Tuesday at Chick-fil-A. From 3 to 9 p.m., 10 percent of sales from those who mention the Levi Stephen Collom Fund will be donated to the effort. There will also be T-shirts and bracelets for sale, among other attractions.

We hope you consider these opportunities to support the exhibit. The family and friends of Levi are to be commended for their efforts. Losing a child is incredibly difficult. While we certainly wish Levi was still here to enjoy his favorite activities, including the Discovery Playhouse, the effort underway in his memory will benefit many children in the years ahead.