DOWNTOWN AUCTION RAISES OVER $18,000

Cape Girardeau's Downtown Merchants Association topped last year's totals for both money raised and attendance at their annual auction Saturday night.

The auction raised $18,031, up $2,000 from last year. Approximately 200 people attended, 50 more than last year.

Money raised pays for restoration projects downtown like streetlights and brick walkways. Money also is used for upkeep on Christmas lights that decorate Broadway and Main streets during the holiday season.