On your mark, get set, GO! Well, not quite yet. But, you better be ready on May 02, 2015 - the return of the Color Me Cape 5K. Who’s ready? I am.

The Color Me Cape 5K is back with a vengeance — in a good way, that is! With an outstanding turnout last year, bringing more than 2,100 people to Cape Girardeau, the Color Me Cape 5K team has decided to return with an encore. This fun, colorful, 3.1 mile race will take place in the historic downtown center of Cape Girardeau.

Not only does this fun 5K benefit you, in so many ways, it also benefits others. By partaking in this run, you are actually helping to help others. This event supports the Quest Scholarship Program, which awards multiple scholarships to high school seniors who plan to obtain further education and have a plan to actively make a difference in their community. Talk about a great cause!

I have to say, I am pumped about this 5K — this is my very first 5K. What sparked my interest in participating in this event? My sister and I remember it like it was yesterday. Last year, on one sunny, perfect weather day, we were driving in Downtown Cape Girardeau when, all of the sudden, we saw a ton of people with tutus on and covered in some colorful powder. And, moreover, we saw big smiles upon each person’s face. As we slowly rode past them, it looked like (scratch that…they were) having a ton of fun. We didn’t know exactly what was going on at the time, but remember saying to each other, “We want to get in on that!” And guess what? A whole year later, my sister and I get to be in on all the fun, colorful action of the Color Me Cape 5K—all thanks to my dear friend Nicholle Hinkle.

My friend, Nicholle, approached me this year about joining her team. And, of course, I said yes and gave her my spill about what my sister and I encountered last year, and told her we definitely want to be in on it this year. So, what do you know?! We are! Our team is called Get Fit or Dye Trying. And let me tell you, we have been doing just that. We have been preparing for this 5K with the help of a handy, dandy little app called Couch to 5K. Boy, is this a wonderful app, especially if you’re like me. You know, your first-ever 5K. Wow! Pray for me! Without all of this support, I don’t know if I would have been able to do such a race. And, I would have probably been the very last to finish…but that’s just something that I refuse. So, I’m ready; we’re ready to finish this race—as long as it’s not last.

To learn more about this fun, exciting, colorful event, visit Color Me Cape 5K on Facebook.

One last thing - I’ll see you at the finish line.

This post was written by guest blogger, Kaleisha Walker.

"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself." -Josh Billings
 
Our 4-legged, furry friends are more than just loyal companions; they’re members of our family. They love us unconditionally, and only want the same in return. So the next time you’re headed out for a stroll, need to replenish your stock of puppy supplies or want to pick up a quick bite for lunch, consider heading downtown and bringing Fido along.

Did you know downtown Cape Girardeau is home to a gourmet dog boutique?  Mississippi Mutts is a friendly shop on Broadway that provides a place for you to take your dog to enjoy some well-deserved social interaction, to pick up a few toys and some new treats from their delicious bakery, while stocking up on his or her everyday supplies. If you and your dog can use a little help with obedience training, sign up to take part in their training classes.

Sherry Jennings, owner of Mississippi Mutts, says that people take their dogs to downtown Cape more than any other area. She calls our area ‘unique’ because you can take your dog for a walk, or you can take them to get wine or lunch with you. A variety of places downtown are available to explore with your dog. “More and more places are becoming pet friendly,” added Jennings.  She believes the growing dog friendly atmosphere makes downtown a more relaxing place, even for those who do not own dogs. 

Some of the downtown locals even bring their dogs to work. “It’s proven, when you take your dog to work it lowers stress and increases productivity,” Sherry noted. She definitely should know. Have you seen her dog Murphy out-and-about downtown recently? He has become a downtown fixture with enough love to for everyone. Dog-friendly work places are becoming more and more popular in our area. 

One example is Wynn from Cape Paint and Glass. He brings Harley, his golden retriever, to work every day. You’ll see them soaking up some fresh air and getting in some exercise around downtown almost every day during the lunch hour. If you stop in the shop, Harley is one of the first to say hello and welcome you in. ‘Harley has become our official greeter here at the office,’ commented Beverly, the office secretary. ‘He’s definitely brought some life and excitement to the business.’

Another famous downtown dog is Santino. If you haven’t seen Santino working in Sloan + Themis during the day with his owner Claire, you may have seen him wandering around many of our downtown Cape Girardeau shops. ‘People go nuts over him,’ Claire exclaimed! ‘He runs all types of errands downtown and he loves to get positive attention from everyone he comes in contact with.’ The girls at Mississippi Mutts will sometimes even keep him for a while after they are done grooming him to play.

Many downtown businesses have outdoor seating that helps make the area more dog-friendly. You can always see pups outside Cup ‘N’ Cork, Socials, Mediterranean on Broadway or Dynamite Coffee. What better way to relieve stress than a latte or a casual lunch with your best friend?

Another great downtown opportunity for dogs is the Cape Riverfront Market. During the warmer months this outdoor market plays host to local produce and craft vendors, musicians and an array of other specialized suppliers. Some vendors even have healthy dog treats for your furry family members. The casual, fun-for-everyone Market atmosphere is an excellent environment for these four-legged friends, so be sure to bring them along.

Downtown Cape Girardeau does provide a dog friendly environment and invites you to bring your dog to shop or eat downtown. But don’t forget your doggie bag!

This post was contributed to by Claire Bruce, owner of Sloan + Themis.

When looking at a map of downtown Cape Girardeau, one would notice listings for restaurants, antique and vintage shops, gift retailers, churches, clothing stores, and a dojo. Wait, what? Yes, a dojo. Also known as Black Dragon Karate studio, currently located at 10 N. Sprigg.

For Claire and I, former 80s and 90s kids obsessed with classics like The Karate Kid, a chance to blog about downtown and learn how to land a devastating kick like Ralp Macchio couldn't be missed. In the spirit of bringing you more information about downtown business diversity, we were happy to oblige in a few kicks and punches taught by Nathan Henderson, owner and sensei.

Black Dragon originally opened in 2006 next to the Corner Grocery Store on Broadway. As enrollment grew, Henderson began looking for a larger studio. Luckily, Black Dragon's new home is still enriching Cape Girardeau's downtown.

Henderson has earned a third degree black belt in Chinese Kenpo and has additional experience with jiu jitsu, hapkido, freestyle fighting, and even a little stick fighting from the Philippines. Cross-training in various styles means Henderson brings a lot to the table when teaching group classes.

"You don't study martial arts; you become a martial artist. It changes you. What I tell my students is that martial arts affects every part of your life, no matter how minute the changes might seem," said Henderson.

Classes are available for all ages at Black Dragon Karate. Henderson's students range from ages five to 74. He believes a strong foundation in martial arts can improve students' confidence and discipline. The training also teaches situational awareness and protecting those who are unable to protect themselves, which can be empowering for children and female students.

Unlike other studios, Henderson wants his students to focus on learning practical martial arts skills instead of constant tournament style training. "I believe how you practice is how you perform...we're more street applicable," he said. "When you constantly fight tournament style you revert to that. And, there's rules in competition. It becomes embedded in you. We train in a continuous fighting style so students can learn how to take advantage of opportunities." Some students do attend local tournaments. Henderson is happy to assist students preparing for competition at which, he says, Black Dragon has done well.

Henderson was kind enough to show Claire and I several self defense techniques. First, he showed me a front kick. Then, I learned a self defense technique designed to take down a mugger in close proximity. He then showed Claire how she could cause maximum damage in limited space to a potential jewelry thief.

"No one gets hit as much as the instructor. Students think the floor mats are for them, but they're actually for me," joked Henderson.

By the end, Claire and I felt amazing and incredibly stress free. Henderson laughed and said, "People often ask me, 'Nathan, why are you always in such a good mood?' I say that it's because I teach karate!"

Thank you, Sensei Henderson, for sharing your studio and your passion with us! Learn more about Black Dragon Karate by calling 573-388-3293 and by visiting them on Facebook.

Cape Girardeau, as a whole, is home to well over 20 parks and natural, green areas. Can you venture a guess on how many of these fabulous public spaces are in or near downtown?

Twelve. Yep, 12. That's about half of the city's most interesting public spaces and parks in a highly-concentrated, walkable, bike-able and fabulously historic area with tons of eclectic shopping and dining options.

Maybe you're one of the throngs of folks that already know and love downtown Cape Girardeau and are diligently following Old Town Cape's latest blog posts. Or, maybe you're one of the few stumbling upon the great things Cape Girardeau has to offer via Google. Whether visiting our gorgeous downtown is a favorite pastime or part of a planned future excursion to Cape, you'll not want to miss some of these free outdoor treasures that add sparkle to the historic district and surrounding area.

Boardman Pavilion
The Boardman Pavilion is conveniently located in one of downtown's largest parking areas along Main Street, across from Hutson's Fine Furniture, making it an excellent place for a break between shops. Grab a snack from one of downtown's restaurants, and then pull up a spot on one of the pavilion's picnic tables.

City Hall Park
This park, located behind Cape Girardeau's City Hall at 401 Independence Street, is a quaint green space with benches and flags.

Common Pleas Courthouse Gazebo
The site of the popular Tunes at Twilight during spring and fall, this park encompasses the grounds of the Common Pleas Courthouse, which wsa completed in 1854.

Indian Park
Indian Park is located at William Street and Lorimier Street. The park contains one shelter, two basketball courts and a play area. Several summer basketball tournaments are held at this park.

May Greene Garden
Tucked behind the former Federal Building, May Greene Garden is located in the heart of downtown at the intersection of Fountain and Themis Streets. Many varieties of flowers and plants grow in this "pocket park." Wooden benches in the park allow for a leisurely rest or a quiet spot to scan the pages of a good book.

Murtaugh Park
Murtaugh Park is a small green space located on a median across from the old St. Vincent's Catholic Church and the Red House Interpretive Center. Named for Rev. James A Murtaugh, C.M., the park was dedicated in 1928. A small section of Aquamsi Street once bordering Murtaugh Park was recently removed, nearly doubling the park's size.

Old Mississippi River Bridge Scenic Overlook and Park
Some of the area's most gorgeous views of the Mississippi River and the recently-constructed Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge have been photographed from the Old Mississippi River Bridge Scenic Overlook and Park, located at 100 Morgan Oak Street. Nestled next to the overlook is a small park and trail adjoining Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus, which incorporates the grounds of St. Vincent's College and Seminary. The seminary was founded in 1838.

Riverfront Park
While strolling down Broadway or Water Street, check out Riverfront Park. Riverfront Park is the docking site for the Mississippi River paddle boats and features a mile-long riverfront walking and biking trail. Murals depicting Cape Girardeau's history dot both sides of the flood wall bordering this park.

The following parks and historic areas are nearby downtown and worth a short walk to drive or visit:

Fort D
Constructed in the summer of 1861 by Union troops under the leadership of John Wesley Powell, Fort D is the only remaining one of four Civil Wat forts that protected Cape Girardeau from the Confederate attack. The earthwork walls remain intact, and historical signage throughout the fort's grounds bring its storied past to life. The Fort D site also contains a limestone building that was constructed in 1937 as a federal WPA project. Fort D is often the site of re-enactments and holiday celebrations. Self-guided tours are available daily from dawn through dusk. The fort is located at 920 Fort Street.

Missouri Park & Old Lorimier Cemetery
Missouri Park and Old Lorimier Cemetery are in close proximity to downtown. Missouri Park, at the corner of Fountain Street and Park Drive, is home to Cape Girardeau's skate park, a half basketball court, and a large green space perfect for outdoor fun. Adjoining Missouri Park, Old Lorimier Cemetery was established in 1808 on a five-acre plot of land set aside by founding father Louis Lorimier as the first public cemetery in Cape Girardeau. There are about 1250 gravestones marking burials at the cemetery, including gravestones associated with prominent family members to Cape Girardeau's history and potentially thousands more burials attributed to Civil War soldiers and unmarked gravesites.

Washington Park
Washington Park is a 3.3-acre neighborhood park located at Washington Lane and Middle Street containing a pavilion and large playground equipment. The park is about one block west of Missouri Park and adjacent to Old Lorimier Cemetery.

A walk downtown is unlike any others. I love pacing the sidewalks next to our beautiful streetscapes, historic buildings and local shops. And what I love most is that no two walks downtown are ever alike. That’s because downtown Cape Girardeau is alive with people and stories.

Just last night I grabbed two friends for a walk: Jessica, who first recruited me, and Jen, a newbie to the Downtown Walking Crew. We started our trek on Broadway where we made pit stops to window shop, enjoy some art and smell the roses.

Next we headed down Main Street to peek in a couple more shops, and enjoy the awesome silhouette of the two unbroken blocks of historic architecture. By this time it was starting to get dark, so Jen decided it was time for ice cream. Usually we walk downtown for the exercise, so ice cream doesn’t make the cut… but like I mentioned every walk downtown is different. This time we decided that exercise and ice cream went together.

We turned on Themis from Main and hit Water Street to grab some ice cream from Port Cape Girardeau’s, Sweet Sixteen window. (This is a must stop on any river visit.)

Close-by a young guy was jamming on his guitar, so we found a bench and chilled out to his sound before wrapping up our walk.


Thanks to my beautiful walking models Jessica & Jen!


Author: Toni Eftink is a Project Manager at Element 74 where she leads custom web projects. She has a huge love for downtown Cape Girardeau and small businesses. You can find her on Google+ and Twitter.