Plans are being made for the 200th anniversary celebration of Cape Girardeau. Committees have been appointed to plan interesting and meaningful events, and Martha Bender is chairperson of the Centennial Commission.

1793 is the year the city was founded by Don Louis Lorimier and the year he was made Spanish commandant of the settlement. He was the only commandant that served Cape Girardeau from the time of his appointment until his death on June 26, 1812. He lost his position as commandant in 1804 when the United States informed residents they were part of the United States.

The location of the city on the west bank of the important Mississippi River served to stimulate the desire of many Europeans to migrate to the area even before it became part of the United States in 1803. The allure of the wilderness brought a mixture of workmen and trained craftsmen, which was good because it provided a work and a teaching force.

The new settlers knew their lives would be a challenge. They accepted that because they were given an opportunity to acquire land for little and often no money; they only had to promise to improve it within a year. It was a start towards building something for the future and to give advantages to their children that were not possible in countries ruled by monarchies.

In 200 years the growth that has taken place in Southeast Missouri has been astounding. Old records prove steady growth began in agriculture, manufacturing, business both wholesale and retail and all lines of endeavors. Some years the gain was slight; other years it was remarkably high.

This growth is noticed over periods of 10, 20, 50 and 100 years. Now, the convention business has brought new business and new families to this part of Missouri, and tourism has become a business that is giving a thrust of vibrant life to the area.

It is not unusual to hear the comment: "You can tell Southeast Missourians. They are appealing and you want to know them better. They are loyal to their section of the state. Maybe that's why the area is so progressive."

A nicer compliment could not be given to those of us who call this part of Missouri home.

We have learned to be more friendly to outsiders. The number of foreign students who enter Southeast Missouri State University has made us aware of their need for a smile, a sincere handclasp, and a welcome because they are far from home and often lonely. The churches of Cape Girardeau have taken this responsibility to heart, and members of the various congregations have made life for students away from their native home more pleasant.