PEOPLE TURN WORDS INTO ACTION FOR SOUTH CAPE

As the old saying goes, if you want something done, you have to do it yourself. That's just the attitude of a group of residents from South Cape Girardeau. The citizens are spearheading a commendable effort to clean up the south end of town.

Several months after its formation, clean-up remains the main focus of attention for SEA (Southeast Area) Cape Cleanup Committee. But the group hasn't limited its resolve to words alone.

Members of the group marched to a Cape Girardeau City Council meeting in September in support of a plan to clean and fill an abandoned railroad right-of-way that aligns with Fountain Street. Three weeks later, 67 volunteers hit the streets to clean up the area, picking up trash from streets and sidewalks from Sprigg Street east to the Mississippi River, and from Independence Street south to Highway 74. The volunteers represented a number of age groups and organizations.

The city of Cape Girardeau worked with the residents, providing trash bags and trucks to haul away debris. City crews also worked to clean up trash and weeds, and target trouble spots.

The effort is not one of rich or poor, white or black. It's a cooperative effort that should interest all Cape Girardeans. It is another way for our community to come together for betterment.

Obviously, those who live in the region are the most directly affected and the most vocal. But by sharing their concern with others, we can all assist with the effort to improve the historic areas of our town. Several businessmen in the region have also taken the message to heart, and have cleaned up their properties.

The group is now searching for block captains to coordinate specific clean up projects throughout the region.

Other, loftier goals are being targeted by the group, such as improved housing, education, and employment opportunities. The group is wise to tackle one problem at a time. Their successes can then build on each other.

Instead of simply pointing a finger of blame, these people have put words into action. That's an admirable approach. Committee members have wisely attacked the clean up problem with both diligence and patience. They realize the problems weren't created overnight and solutions won't be instantaneous. But by working together, answers can be found and action taken.