On a brighter river-related topic, we are always pleased to welcome back the annual Riverfest, which celebrates Cape Girardeau's heritage, shows off downtown and supplies thousands of residents and guests with a good fill of food, drink, crafts and entertainment.

The revelry begins this afternoon and continues through Saturday night.

We salute the organizers of this event, who began their work not long after last year's event, and wish the guests to this city a wonderful visit. Cape Girardeau remains permanently linked to its river roots, and this festival provides an ideal opportunity to pay homage to that heritage ... and have a good time besides.