NATION CONTINUES TO GRAPPLE WITH DEATH PENALTY: TASTY FOOD, SMART PUBLIC RELATIONS

Southeast Missouri State University recently awarded Morrison's Hospitality Group a three-year, $6 million contract to provide food service at the institution. Morrison's is a solid company that's provided quality food service to schools and hospitals since the early 1950s.

Not only is the Board of Regent's decision a good one because of the caliber of Morrison's Hospitality Group, the decision also affirms the university's role as a benefactor in Cape Girardeau's business community.

There was some concern in the business community that the university might use name brand fast-food restaurants on campus. We're opposed to any such direct competition with area food establishments on the part of the university, which benefits from the taxes and contributions of area businesses. Hopefully, the food service contract will be as beneficial to the university as their decision not to compete directly with area restaurants is to the community.