WELCOME THE VISITORS

Even though riverboat gambling has yet to arrive in Cape Girardeau, the city continues to be a busy place for tourism.

"No vacancy" signs are common at area motels on weekends, especially when major sporting events are in town. In recent weeks Cape Girardeau has been the host city for the SEMotion Relays, collegiate gymnastics National Invitation Tournament and Ohio Valley Track & Field Championships.

The Mississippi River Valley Scenic Drive/Spring Working & Traditional Craftfest at Black Forest Villages and Motorama '95 also attracted big crowds to town this past weekend. And the Tour de Girardot Cycling Classic and Cape Sports Festival this weekend are expected to attract many visitors.

Another big sports weekend on schedule in May 6-7, when more than 1,000 young athletes will head to Cape Girardeau for the City of Roses Soccer Tournament. That is the same weekend as Southeast Missouri State University's graduation ceremonies.

So if the streets are packed in the weeks ahead, don't fret. Those visitors provide a substantial boost to the local economy. Let's roll out the welcome mat.