NEW LEGISLATORS VISIT SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Every two years following the November election, newly elected members of the General Assembly are taken on a tour to learn more about the business and budget of Missouri. For a couple of weeks the not-yet-sworn-in lawmakers traverse the state in a chartered bus to learn more about state government by becoming more familiar with its many parts: state universities, junior colleges, penal and mental health institutions, parks and conservation centers, social service delivery offices and the myriad of other outposts of Show Me State government.

This week the incoming lawmakers arrived in Cape Girardeau to visit Southeast Missouri State University, the Cottonwood Treatment Center and other points of interest. Last night they were guests of the university for a reception and dinner. It is to be hoped that time will permit at least a trip to Trail of Tears State Park to drink in its incredible beauty. And if time doesn't permit a trip down to Malden to tour the Bootheel Education Center, then at least lawmakers should be made aware of this innovative, cooperative approach between Southeast and Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff.

We wish the newly elected lawmakers well as they learn more about state government.