Air festival

Over the years, the annual Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival has become a big attraction for Southeast Missouri. Some of the most interesting and popular air-show attractions have made regular appearances here to the delight of thousands of enthusiasts.

A slow economy, job layoffs and a last-minute decision by the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels that prevented the precision team's participation in the Cape Girardeau show this year all contributed to a decision to hold off. Hopes are that conditions will improve in time to plan for another air show in 2010.

In the face of all the factors that go into making each show a success, the decision to not have an air festival this year is prudent. Organizers have had some discussions about holding the event every other year instead of annually. This year's hiatus may help that decision-making process.