SEMO IS LOOKING FOR PRIVATE FUNDING FOR MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS AT HOUCK

Southeast Missouri State University has plans to add some snazzy suites and club seating, along with some other major improvements and a general facelift, at Houck Stadium.

In a way, the stadium's facade facing Broadway is a front door for the university. Right now, it looks kind of like the Clampetts' old home place. Plans announced earlier this month would make Houck a showplace.

Over recent months, there have been several announcements regarding Houck. First was the installation of artificial turf at a cost of about $750,000, all from private funding. Later announcements have pushed the price of the latest refurbishment to $10 million or $12 million.

Once again, university officials are emphasizing that private funding sources are needed for this major project, which comes as good news to many taxpayers who would rather see their money go for academic needs.