Thanks for supporting downtown Cape Girardeau

Downtown is everybody's neighborhood, and this past Saturday proved it. Those who were unable to attend the festivities at the River Campus missed a wonderful evening. The sell out benefit concert featuring Indiana University's Straight No Chaser and the sell out of the 24th annual Charles L. Hutson Auction was a true nod to the support the Cape Girardeau area gives to Old Town Cape and its mission in the revitalization of our downtown.

It was the support and energy created by our sponsors, Isle of Capri Casinos Inc. and Southeast Missouri State University, that made the night's success possible. They are truly committed to the success of our downtown.

Our local media sponsors provided exceptional exposure that certainly contributed to the sold out crowd. The Southeast Missourian, KFVS12, Withers Radio, Mississippi River Radio and DSW Signs provided outstanding media coverage to help spread the word about the concert to both old and new Straight No Chaser fans.

Other sponsors for the Charles L. Hutson Auction included Knaup Floral and Port Cape Girardeau with donations from Broussard's, Buckner Brewing Co., Bella Italia and Chartwell's.

The downtown merchants and other businesses in the area contributed items for the auction and a wide variety of donations added to the excitement of the evening. And, of course, none of the success could have happened without the volunteers who worked so hard, with particular gratitude to Jerra Hutson, event chair.

The events far exceeded our expectations. So thank you to anyone who touched these events in any way. Know that through your participation you are part of the revitalization of Old Town Cape.

Marla Mills is the executive director of Old Town Cape.