NEW ON THE BUSINESS SCENE: AUTO DEALER OPENS SECOND DEALERSHIP ON KINGSHIGHWAY

A former Cape Girardeau used-car auto dealer who currently operates Mathes Motors in Perryville, has opened a second dealership at 1001 N. Kingshighway.

Mike Mathes, a founder and former partner in Cape Girardeau Motors, opened Mathes Motors II recently after purchasing Budget Motors, which was previously at the site.

Mathes had sold his interest in the Cape Girardeau company and had opened Mathes Motors at 601 S. Perryville Blvd. in Perryville.

Mathes Motors offers a variety of pre-owned vehicles at both sites.

"We have an inventory of 80 to 90 vehicles," said Mathes, who will manage both sites. "We'll specialize in utility vehicles -- four-wheel drive and sports vehicles -- at Cape Girardeau.

Mathes has a dozen years of experience in auto sales and management, nine of them in Cape Girardeau. Mathes, a native of Ironton, worked with Van Matre Buick more than six years.

Partners in the two operations include Tom Waller at Perryville and Betty Seabaugh at Cape Girardeau.