Jim Maurer recently won the Stick Your Neck Out Award at the 2015 Missouri Main Street Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Old Town Cape nominated Mr. Maurer for his work in the creation of the Cape Girardeau CID. As a business owner with a regional presence, Jim risked inviting negative reactions from the inevitable naysayers in the community who would be opposed to his advocacy of a new tax. Despite this risk, Jim believed that it was the right thing to do for downtown and for our entire community, and so he was willing to stick his neck out… repeatedly… to ensure that the job got done, and got done right.

Jim started his work with Old Town Cape in 2004 when he began his first of two, three year terms on the Board of Directors. At the end of his second term, he agreed to continue volunteering as chair of a steering committee to facilitate the formation of a downtown community improvement district (CID)-- a process that ended up being almost 5 years in the making and more than controversial at times.

Jim was not a chair in name only. He engaged in all the work of the committee, helping set the boundaries and services that outlined the petition. He helped facilitate and coordinate in kind or delayed payment of a survey for a legal description, legal work and the business side (office supplies and other needed items). He was involved in most all legal, city council and media discussions.

The steering committee originally had 13 members but eventually only about half of those were active and did the work of the committee. The group was facilitated by Old Town Cape’s Downtown Development Team which included the Director and a board member of Old Town Cape, a Chamber representative and a City representative. This group acted as a resource to the steering committee and did much of the research, facilitation of meetings and timeline.

After serving on the Old Town Cape Board, Jim knew the importance of keeping the formation of the new district and Old Town Cape separate. He took the lead position on public and council presentations, media inquiries and discussions and property owner inquiries. He continually protected Old Town Cape and the Development Team and at the same time helped people understand that this was a way to provide needed services that likely Old Town Cape could facilitate. Even though the whole process was facilitated through Old Town Cape and Development Team, Jim made sure the steering committee had its own presence through his representation.

The original boundaries outlined in the petition included almost 460 properties. (In comparison, the other CID in Cape Girardeau boasts 1 property owner.) Jim owned property with a business in the district, a gas station/quick shop. There were 2 other similar businesses owned by other individuals in the district. He took the lead on gaining their support even though the extra tax would create discrepancies in pricing/margin in relation to their stores in other parts of the town. This was by no means an easy sell and became quite controversial with one owner. But Jim persisted and finally came to an understanding with the other two business/property owners.

After the petition was finalized, Jim spent many hours coordinating and personally gathering property owner signatures, traveling as much as 90 miles for one signature. When almost enough signatures were gathered to deliver to City Council, Jim facilitated a difficult decision with the steering committee to redraw the boundaries. This decision resulted in voiding the signed petitions. A new petition had to be drafted with new boundaries and the steering committee had to start over on gathering signatures.

The reason behind the decision was that a section of the original boundaries was simply not supportive of the CID concept and had very different expectations of service than the rest of the proposed district. It was determined that should the CID pass, those property owners would likely be disappointed in the service because, no matter how presented, they had unrealistic expectations. In addition, there were a number of residents in that area who were not supportive and could have negatively influenced the vote to pass the taxes. Although it was not the easy thing to do, redrawing the boundaries was the right thing to do.

This was a difficult decision resulting in disappointment and some discouragement as the group had to start over. But Jim was not deterred. With his property and one of the other quick shops left out of the new proposed boundaries, he made sure not to include the third quick shop so they were not at a disadvantage. This was a testament to Jim’s integrity as that property would have provided a large amount in tax to the district had it been left in and likely the district and tax could have passed with it included. He had given his word that they would all do it together and when that situation needed to be changed, he made sure it was fair for everyone.

Jim went back and asked for additional survey work and rallied the tired volunteers (and Old Town Cape staff and the rest of the Development Team) to get the signatures needed to form the district. The new boundaries contained 268 properties and 180 property owners. 180 signed petitions, representing 64.35% of the properties in the district and 52.78% per capita were delivered to the City Clerk on December 5, 2013. The signed petitions were verified and the request to form the district was approved by City Council on May 5, 2014.

Now it was time to “get the vote”. The petition called for a .5 % sales tax and a small property tax to fund the services outlined. The property tax was included because a section of the district was already part of a Special Business District that was funded through the exact property included in the Petition. It was set up that the Special Business District would be dissolved when the property tax was passed for the CID. So those property owners would experience a “wash” in their property taxes while properties in the other part of the proposed district would only see a slight increase in their property tax. It was used as a selling point, noting how much had been done within the boundaries of that Special Business District and explaining that would continue in the expanded area.

It was a complicated vote. The steering committee was originally advised that the property and sales tax could be combined in one ballot. But in reality this had never been done before in the state of Missouri and when it came to working with the County Clerk, her research found that the ballots had to be divided. Two ballots. Two different time frames. Two different requirements for passage.

Again, none of this deterred Jim. He worked with the steering committee and Development Team, discussing the best way to insure success the first time. The group agreed the help of a consultant was needed. This was an expense that was not reimbursable by the CID, should it be finalized. Jim helped the team brainstorm and eventually fundraise, donating some of the investment himself to make sure the vote was successful. The consultants helped frame the vote and develop strategy. And Jim helped implement the strategy, again taking time to make some of the contacts himself and facilitating a public meeting of the residents within the district to help answer questions. Taxes are never popular and both the sales and property tax proposal had their detractors. Jim stood strong and took the lead in facing the opposition.

The September 16 mail in ballot election was certified by the County Clerk with the sales tax passing with a total of 51 votes (out of 180 voters), 31 in favor and 20 against. However, the property tax failed on a close vote with a total of 54 votes, 28 opposed and 26 in favor. The budget was rewritten and the process moved forward. Sales tax began being collected on January 1, 2015 – 5 years after the first informational meeting of the steering committee in January of 2010.

Jim helped facilitate the transition of the formation to execution and the running of the CID by named Board of Directors. He was willing to even be a Board member but became ineligible when the boundaries were redrawn. But Jim was intent on seeing it through and attended Board meetings and held discussions for the first six months after the establishment of the Board. He helped frame the request for qualifications that would lead to a contract for services providing management of the district.

For his unwavering leadership and commitment to the formation of the Downtown Cape Girardeau Community Improvement District in the face of adversity and possible personal damage and insult, Jim Maurer is more than deserving of the 2015 Missouri Main Street Connection’s Stick Out Your Neck Award. Congratulations, Jim!

Pictured below: Marla Mills, Old Town Cape Executive Director, accepts the 2015 Stick Out Your Neck Award on behalf of Jim Maurer, from Dr. Steven Hoffman, Missouri Main Street Connection Board of Directors President and Old Town Cape Board Member.

The Former Federal Building recently won the award for the Best Adaptive Re-Use Project at the Missouri Main Street Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Old Town Cape nominated the Former Federal Building because this project turned a white elephant property into a viable space for new businesses. This building has become a hub for quality businesses that may have not existed if this project was unable to happen.    

 

The Formal Federal Building was designed by St. Louis architect Marcel Boucicault, who was noted for his mid-century modern designs. This building had many positives and negatives, which made its redevelopment both essential and challenging. This quality built, classically modernist building that opened their doors in 1968 was a great addition to the thriving downtown landscape.

 

The Former Federal Building was in use until 2007 when the construction of the Rush Limbaugh Federal Courthouse was completed just a few blocks away. After the move of all the federal offices and court, the building was slated for many different uses; from a homeless shelter to municipal offices. None of these routes were taken and in 2012 the Old Federal Building was sold by the Federal Government to an out of state buyer. The new buyer had no plans for development and the community believed that it would continue to deteriorate and sit vacant.

 

One of the challenges with the redevelopment of the building was the massive size of the structure. The 46,000 square foot building needed a creative solution that would make it fiscally possible for someone to undertake. Luckily a local developer, the Janus Development Group, had the vision and the resources needed to turn this white elephant property into a fabulous office center in Old Town Cape.

 

In 2014 the Janus Development Group purchased the building with the intent of putting it back into service. By providing critical upgrades to the building, yet retaining the historic look and feel of the public areas, Janus Development Group and their managing partner Athena Property Group, have indeed given this historic building a new beginning. In the short time they have been open; they have filled 13 leases and in the process brought a number of new businesses to downtown Cape Girardeau.

 

This project created a buzz in the community. The Former Federal Building houses businesses from lawyers to photographers. Their first lease was signed before they even opened the doors. Codefi is a creative co-working space that focuses on entrepreneurship, business development and helping startup businesses reach their full potential. They have been a great addition to the district by giving people a place to work and network. Codefi has been open for under a year and already has over 100 members.

 

Although the façade needed minimal work, extensive work was done to the interior structure because of the time it sat vacant. The heating and cooling of the building turned out to be a massive undertaking. During construction, the water lines to the radiator had burst, leading to the complete overhaul of the system.

 

A really nice addition to the Janus Development Group’s effort is their preservation of the old courtroom. The judge’s bench and witness stand remain, giving it a unique and historic feel, and as event space available for both business and public use, it will be responsible for bringing all sorts of people downtown for all sorts of reasons. Their vision is to rent out the courtroom to community members that need a unique venue for events.

 

In addition to the courtroom, many other historic features were kept in order to preserve the history of the building. The marble walls and terrazzo floors were preserved in the lobby, and the original doors throughout the building were saved. This shows the commitment to historic preservation and how adaptively reusing buildings can be a strong economic driver.  

 

Looking forward, the Former Federal Building will be retrofitted with LED lighting in order to comply with LEED standards and technology. The Former Federal building is a great example of a rehabilitation project that is able to adapt and progress while staying true to preservation standards. This once white elephant property has become a model for preservation based practices in Old Town Cape.

 

This project demonstrates everything that Old Town Cape promotes; economic development, people working together to reenergize and revitalize downtown and setting an example of good preservation practice. For these reasons and many more, the Former Federal Building is well deserving of the Best Adaptive Re-Use Project award. Congratulations!

Pictured below: Marla Mills, Old Town Cape Executive Director, accepted the 2015 Adaptive Reuse Award Award on behalf of Janus Development Group, from Gayla Roten, Missouri Main Street Connection State Director. Also, before and after photos of the Former Federal Building's revitalization.

Thomas R. Higgins Accounting, LLC recently won the 2015 Business Excellence Award at the Missouri Main Street Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Old Town Cape nominated TRH Accounting because for more than 30 years, this accounting firm has called Downtown Cape Girardeau home, and has rooted itself as a community supporter and advocate for Cape Girardeau’s historic district. From the top down, this small business exemplifies the attitudes and behaviors of an outstanding, successful entity and is more than deserving of the Business Excellence Award.

Opening its doors in a rented space along a major downtown corridor in 1977, TRH Accounting was ready and eager to serve the accounting needs of the community. Their very first client was a downtown business – a theater. They were able to work through the financial highs and lows with this business, and started witnessing firsthand the rewards that come with being a part of a downtown community.

As business picked up and their clientele base continued to grow, TRH Accounting decided it was time to make a change, a permanent change. Official downtown roots were established when a building just a few blocks down the road was purchased and became the entity’s new home. Steps from the picturesque courthouse, across the street from an established jewelry business, just up from the community clock, TRH Accounting settled into the place it would call home for more than 25 years.

While an accounting office isn’t what you might think of first when analyzing a typical downtown ‘retail landscape’, this organization has a multitude of services and talents to offer the community. From tax preparation and payroll services, to bookkeeping, financial statement preparation and more, this staff is equipped to help properly manage some of the ‘behind-the-scenes’, not-so-glamorous elements of area businesses. During busy seasons or when a big project is coming due, the lights in this downtown building will be on into the late evening hours as this team diligently defends their motto, ‘Accurate and timely service to small business has ALWAYS been our promise.’

TRH Accounting is led by Cape Girardeau resident, Thomas R. Higgins. Although not a native of our area, Tom considers Cape to be home and can think of no better place to own and operate a business. Moving from a high traffic area to a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly location, Tom loves the fact that he can walk out of his business, talk with others and get to know his neighbors, and loves the sense of community that downtown offers. He has often remarked that his business neighbors and partners are more like family than associates. His hometown values of commitment to clients, superior customer service, dedication to the community and putting client needs first, resonates throughout his 4-person staff and, in turn, throughout the community as well.

Speaking of the community, Tom is actively vested in various organizations. He serves on the finance committee for the United Way of Southeast Missouri and also contributes to the development of the organization in several different capacities. He serves on the Board of Directors of EPIC, Early Prevention Impacts Community, a substance abuse prevention program for youth in Southeast Missouri. The Knights of Columbus and St. Vincent’s Church are also organizations he invests his time and resources into to further each of their missions, as well as to contribute to their collective community impact.

Tom was active in the Downtown merchants Association for years before its merger into Old Town Cape. When Old Town Cape was formed, he served as one of the organization’s founding board members. Throughout his 15-year tenure, he served as Vice-President, President and, for 3 years, Treasurer. To keep the revitalization movement going strong, he continues to actively be involved in various committees and events. His accumulated gamut of ideas and strategic input has built a legacy of influence to Downtown Cape Girardeau’s revitalization that will be realized for years to come.

Aside from his leadership capacity, Tom is committed to helping his business peers be successful. He realizes the skills and talents TRH Accounting offers are extremely valuable to the success of a small business, and often offers them for free or at a reduced rate. While some business owners would take time away from their establishments to make these community investments, this entire organization is involved in such development and every employee contributes what he or she can.

Building revitalization is near and dear to Tom’s heart. He has owned and lovingly maintained one of the ‘old’ downtown buildings, keeping it an active facet of the area. Embracing the upper story development that’s classic of the Main Street Approach, Tom created an upstairs apartment (perfect for a son in college) with his business operating out of the first floor. As his family matured, so did the building, and the upstairs was transformed into more office space.

When asking his staff, his family and friends why downtown is so important to Tom and why he continues to keep his small business in this area, they will undoubtedly tell you that downtown is what keeps his pulse going. The history that’s kept alive through revitalization efforts is what’s making his journey special and unique; you can’t just walk into this environment anywhere. It’s businesses like Thomas R. Higgins Accounting, LLC and business owners like Tom that create this special culture. Congratulations, Tom!

Pictured below: William Zickfield, fellow downtown business neighbor and Old Town Cape volunteer, accepted the 2015 Business Excellence Award on behalf of TRH Accounting, LLC, from Dr. Steven Hoffman, Missouri Main Street Connection Board of Directors President and Old Town Cape Board Member.

As crazy as it is to believe, it has already been almost 10 years since we dedicated the Mississippi River Tales Mural. This landmark attracts people from around the area who are interested in art, the river, our history and heritage, and serves as a landmark for our downtown. A celebration coordinated by the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau and Old Town Cape is set for Thursday, July 30, at 2pm to commemorate the anniversary and celebrate everything it has brought to the community. This event is open to the public, so please plan to join us.

Did you know there are 25 panels that make up this mural? Each section depicts a significant event in Cape Girardeau's history, dating back to 900's when the Native Americans explored our area. To help cover the monumental cost of planning for and creating this masterpiece, sponsorships of each panel were offered to the public. Our community rallied around this effort and all 25 were sponsored.

Jim and Teresa Maurer stepped up to the plate when the sponsorship opportunity presented itself. Their sponsored section depicts a scene from the flood of 1927. Read below to find out why they decided to invest in this project and what the mural means to them.

"We wanted to be a part of it, and the sponsorship of a downtown mural seemed a very fitting opportunity. Apparently the rest of the community agreed because there were only a few panels left by the time we decided to definitely participate. But what a commemoration of an event that shaped our community – The Big Flood of 1927.

"We love the details that helped make up this section. From the flapper dresses and period-specific vehicle, to the marking of the actual water level with the fish swimming at the bottom. It’s such a historic moment of our past that’s beautifully captured, this was the prefect section.

"We often drive down Water Street and observe people studying the panels, and I am again reminded of the unique history - told in the panels on the flood wall - that Cape Girardeau has given us. We have the origins, growth, successes and heartaches of the history of Cape Girardeau told in pictorial fashion all along the flood wall. The wall is a legacy to all the people who have lived, are living and who will be living in Cape Girardeau."

This post was co-written by guest blogger Teresa Maurer and Christa Zickfield, Old Town Cape Project Manager.

Nourishing your creative spirit is easy in an area like Downtown Cape Girardeau. Evidenced by the number of art studios, galleries and specialty shops within the 131 blocks of downtown, art is very much alive in the area's culture. One studio exemplifies this and is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Here is a little peak into the creative world at The Artist Studio with Owner/Artist, Judy Barks-Westrich.  Being an artist is more than simply creating pieces, cleaning paint brushes and sharpening pencils; it's about sharing your talents and showing the rest of the world how to be creative. 'Iwanted to share with others some fundamental basics that my profession of teaching had taught me about the visual arts,' commented Judy. This premise is the foundation of The Artist Studio that opened at 38A North Main on March 5, 2005.
A full-time Art instructor at Cape Central High School at the time, she participated in every First Friday with the Arts event, worked Saturdays at the studio and conducted evening workshops. After a 39-year teaching career, she retired from public education in 2011 “to” the studio and simply continued her passion with the arts.
Her space is multifaceted. It's a working studio - walk by the storefront and you can almost always catch Judy in the middle of a masterpiece with paint on her fingers. It's an instructional studio - more than 60 workshops have been held on everything from acrylics, watercolor and printmaking, to weaving and paper making.  It's also a display studio - stop in anytime to peruse and purchase her original creations.
'I remember when I sold my first piece of artwork - it was a handmade paper casting. I almost felt a loss... sounds odd doesn't it? But then, I also felt a compliment and realized that someone liked my work - great feeling for an artist!'
With the exception of large stretched canvases, most of Judy's paintings are created in the studio. Inspiration and stimulation motivate her when surrounded by these beautiful pieces. 'I actually seem to gain positive energy from my art.'
Spontaneity is also key to her creativity, allowing her compositions to evolve over time and through experimentation. Acrylics and latex are her typical 'go-to's' with the palette knife on close standby. 'Texture - I love texture,' she expressed. This signature element is always visible in her works whether it be a subtle addition or an intricate expression of the focal point.  
'I express my style through nonobjective, abstract design. I see ideas everywhere and derive inspiration from personal pleasure.' This concept is truly evident when stepping into her studio. Her abstract landscapes - or 'landshapes' - and abstract florals allow you to see a setting or a beautiful flower in a completely different way than you imagined. 'I create to please myself because I love the creative process! When I feel successful, my art reflects that moment.'
If you'd love to create your own masterpiece but don't know where to start, don't know what to do or think you aren't creative enough, give Judy a call. 'I still get excited and gain energy when I instruct workshops and help others appreciate their talents and the arts,' she added. 'The artwork that is created is always amazing . . .'
   'My requirement for a workshop or special instruction is the desire to take time for creative pleasure. Preconceived talent is not important.' By stressing the creative process, people are able to gain a greater appreciation for being an artist and can understand art as more than strokes on a canvas. All workshops are offered upon request - morning, afternoon or evening.
'No, I have not made a fortune; but, my mission of sharing my knowledge and ability with the arts with others has made for a fantastic 10 years!' Her passion with the arts is still in her heart – for that reason, she feels fortunate!
Another year brings new excitements and unlimited creative potential. 'I invite everyone to visit The Artist Studio – let’s talk art!'

This post was co-written by guest blogger and owner of The Artist Studio, Judy Barks-Westrich, and Old Town Cape Project Manager, Christa Zickfield.

        
        

Thursday evening, February 19, friends, volunteers, board and committee members of Old Town Cape gathered in the Event Center at Isle Casino Cape Girardeau for an evening of fun and to make some well-deserved recognitions. This annual spectacle helps raise awareness of what this organization is all about, highlights some of the downtown happenings of the year prior and looks forward to the excitement of the coming year. At this year’s Annual Dinner, we did just that!

Isle Casino Cape Girardeau, one of our main event sponsors, always helps pull together a fantastic event. Dinner started with a lovely beet and mandarin orange salad, which, I learned, is a work of art in itself. Each salad was adorned with cucumber slices in a specific arrangement. When the salads were set, the cucumbers had to be at particular positions in the place setting. Little details like this really make the event over-the-top! After salad came a mouth-watering entrée of beef marsala with crimini mushrooms and crispy sesame chicken with asian pesto. Perfectly manicured carrots adorned each plate and made for a stunning presentation. Last, but certainly not least, individual Chinese takeout boxes were brought out that housed two chocolate covered strawberries, glistening with shimmery gold dust. If you weren’t able to make it, you definitely missed a spectacular dinner!

The Isle does have a beautiful Event Center, but the help of volunteers Teresa Maurer and Sally Suchman, owner of Muriel’s Garden, the space was transformed into an elegant venue. Towering centerpieces of painted branches nestled in eifel tower vases gave each table dramatic personality. The black and silver color scheme kept the palette very clean and professional.  A lighted ice sculpture, generously donated by Mark Dirnberger, owner of Bella Italia, helped give prominence to the stage and awards area. Low lighting and soft dinner music added to the warm ambiance. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect setting to honor the achievements of some of our most dedicated volunteers.

Speaking of honors, we presented four recognitions during the main program. While our organization is overflowing with talent, dedication and love from some of the best volunteers around, a handful of them stood out for their accomplishments in 2014.

Did you know Old Town Cape sponsors two scholarships? Well, now you know. The primary funding source for both allotments sprouts from the tender loving care that Bill Dunn pours into Old Town Cape’s Scholarship Garden. It seems only fitting to honor the one who helps sustain this offering by renaming the Old Town Cape Scholarship to the Old Town Cape William Dunn Scholarship. Volunteer for us and you never know what kind of recognition you may receive!

If you were as skeptical as we were about the future of the ‘Old Federal Building’ at 339 Broadway, things didn’t look good. They didn’t look good until Janus Development Group swooped in and transformed what was once a white elephant property into a booming hub of commerce and creativity. Since they purchased the building in May 2014, critical structural and cosmetic upgrades have transformed this historic structure into a vibrant opportunity for 13 businesses. Have you heard of Codefi, Cape Girardeau’s first co-working community? They call this building home, along with a group of attorney’s, several photographers, and other specialized retail and professional entities. The excitement these changes have brought to the building are now spilling over and spurring development around the building as well. We couldn’t think of a better fit for the Adaptive Use recognition than Janus Development Group.

When you think of an excellent downtown business, probably an established retail outlet or one of our awesome restaurants comes to mind. While we do have some exceptional businesses that fall under these categories, this year’s Business Excellence Award went to a slightly different recipient. Thomas R. Higgins Accounting, LLC has thrived in downtown for more than 30 years. Tom Higgins, owner, has immersed himself and his business in all things downtown by being involved in several of our organizational committees, staying active in downtown development, his ownership and revitalization of one of downtown’s ‘old buildings’, by offering his business services to a host of area groups and entities, by being one of the first board members of our organization and serving his post for fifteen years. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to everything Tom and TRH Accounting has contributed to downtown, Old Town Cape and our community. Job well done, sir!

What does it mean to be a visionary? Someone who is dedicated, committed, a leader, someone who helps develop opportunities – what it takes to earn the Charles L. Hutson Visionary Award. This individual is someone who is immersed in what they’re passionate about, often leaving a lasting impact on the groups and entities they support – the basis of our Volunteer of the Year Award. For only the second time ever, we have combined these to honor the efforts of one special volunteer, James D. (Jim) Maurer. Jim has been involved with the Discovery Playhouse from the very beginning. He and his wife Teresa are major supporters and organizers of Christmas in Old Town Cape. Jim has served on our Board of Directors and numerous committees for six years. After that, he became Chairman of the Downtown Cape Girardeau Community Improvement District steering committee and worked tirelessly for four years establishing the district, services and funding. Jim has embraced what it means to love and nurture our downtown, and we are truly blessed to have him as an advocate and ambassador for our organization.

We welcomed two new board members:
                            
Trae Bertrand – Bertrand Law Firm            Emilie Stephens – Annie-Em’s at Home

The evening was perfect! A great dinner, a great venue, a fantastic group of attendees and some well-deserved recognitions. We are incredibly lucky to have such a fantastic team of supporters and volunteers. 2015 is sure to be fantastic with such dedication and support!

Thank you to our wonderful event sponsors:

     

Do you love downtown?
Are you looking to be involved in a worthwhile organization?
Do you want to know more about some of the changes and updates that happened in 2014?
Are you curious about what’s in store for the 131 blocks of our downtown district for 2015?
Have you asked yourself - what does Old Town Cape really do?
This pretty much includes everyone, right? Make plans to attend our Annual Dinner on Thursday, February 19, at Isle Casino Cape Girardeau.

Social hour kicks off the evening at 6pm in Isle Casino Cape Girardeau’s Event Center, located at 777 N Main, with dinner and the program to follow at 7pm. If you haven’t had the opportunity to dine at the Isle, you’re really missing out. We guarantee Chef Ray and his team will have a delicious dinner ready to tantalize your taste buds while learning more about downtown.

Learning more about downtown - what more is there to know? Main Street, Broadway, Spanish Street, we have a court house, fantastic businesses and there are some good restaurants… Our downtown is so much more! Did you know that in 2014 alone there were 85 net new jobs added just in our 131 downtown blocks? Our organization was instrumental in helping pull together 54 events. Over $6,000,000 was invested by our downtown businesses and investors in building and area improvements. That’s just a portion of the puzzle - RSVP for the dinner today to learn more.

This event also gives our organization the opportunity to honor significant downtown achievements and improvements, as well as those businesses and volunteers that have made a major impact on our area and the organization. This year’s recognitions include: Adaptive Use - highlights the creative utilization of a downtown building, Business in Excellence - spotlights an organization that has gone above and beyond to further the collective efforts of downtown revitalization, Volunteer of the Year - pretty much speaks for itself, and the Charles L. Hutson Visionary Award - shines a light on one volunteer, one of the many, who has made a substantial impact on downtown.

Tickets are $30 each or tables of 8 are available for $240. If you have special dietary needs, please let us know when reserving your spot. Reservations can be made by calling Old Town Cape at (573) 334-8085.

Special 'Thank you's' go out to our Annual Dinner sponsors - First State Community Bank and Isle Casino Cape Girardeau. Without their support, and the support of all of our sponsors, events like these and downtown revitalization wouldn't be possible. 

Old town is your town - come find out about the excitement!

Question and Answer time with Happy Slapowitz's Toy Bash organizer, Ryan Eftink

What happened in 2001 that caused you to make a commitment to recruiting toys for kids at Christmas?
We wanted to have a Christmas party with our friends. My good friend, Davey, and I decided we’d make it a toy donation party. If you brought a toy to the party you could participate in the beverages and food that was provided, if not we asked for a cash donation. That first year at our house we had close to 100 people stop by… It was time to get a venue!

How did you come up with the name “Happy Slapowitz’s Toy Bash”?
We wanted something that gave tribute to the people that helped keep the event going. All the patrons of Rude Dog pub have always helped from the beginning and never asked for anything in return. That first year Mark and Todd wrote a check at the end of the night and gave cash from their tip jars to help. Another friend of ours, Nathan, brought several bags of toys to the event and one gentleman donates a bike every year. So I talked with my friends and decided to name it the “Happy Slapowitz’s Toy Bash” in honor of the unselfishness of the patrons of Rude Dog and the owners from that first year.  It is a name that means something to those that know it. 

What is your relation to Smokin’ Brothers?
Smokin Brothers is my family’s company. I have always been in charge of cooking the food for the event with help from a couple of friends. I am not into name recognition, and thought that it would help the cause if a business was named rather than a person. Smokin Brothers is a Seasoning, Sauce and Grill Manufacture Company. Double D Supply is the distributor for Smokin’ Brothers products. They provide all the supplies needed to cook from the seasonings, sauces and wood pellets, to, most importantly, the bbq grills used to cook the food.

What can we expect on this year’s menu?
We are cooking for all 8 bars this year. We’re providing pulled pork, BBQ baked beans, cole slaw and baked potato casserole. Food will be served before the bands take stage, from a 6-8pm, on December 11th.  

How do you buy tickets? What does it take to enter? 
The admission is a new unwrapped toy or a $10 cash donation at the door. ‘Bashers’ will receive a wristband to wear, allowing them to get into all locations for that one donation. If you purchased a t-shirt ahead of time, wear that and you’ll get in free.

What else is happening the evening of the 11th to support Toys for Tots
We’re having raffles for each bar that will be drawn at 12:30 at each location. Only 100 tickets will be sold at each bar for $5 apiece. It will be winner takes all. Each bar will have their own raffle box that will be given away, and the tickets can be purchased only at that bar that is giving that raffle away. The raffle boxes are made up of donations from our awesome sponsors. We’ll post on our FB page what each bar will have in their box.

New this year, we have one big prize to be raffled off. For a $20 entry you can win a Smokin Brothers BBQ grill valued at $900. Or, if you manage to make it to all eight venues and get your grill card punched at each location, you can enter for $10. The grill punch cards will be handed out at all venues, but Bel Air Bar and Grill will be where you can enter for the grill only. If you would like to purchase a chance to win the grill but are unable to attend, head over to Smokin Brothers at 1923 N. Kingshighway and enter there until Thursday, December 11th, at noon. We will be giving the grill away the following day on K103.

So you grew from changing the location from your home to Rude Dog to 8 pubs this year-is this correct?
We started in our home the first year and then quickly realized that it was too large of an event to have there. I’m good friends with the owners of Rude Dog Pub (Mark and Todd) and approached them about helping me out and having it at their location. The event changed from a Saturday night to a Thursday night. Also the free drinks went away, but we kept the food and added entertainment.

I have some good friends in several bands who came to help by donating their time. Jeremy Burford and Mike Renick were key contributors that first year at Rude Dog with their music connection.

That first year is when I got my right hand man on the cooking to start helping me, Kieth Seyer (Jr.).  2011 was the first year we added t-shirts and 2 other bars as well: Pour House & The Library. And this year we have committees helping with everything and we are an official 501C3! We also have had several businesses step forward and donate money and products to be given to the raffles.

We can’t wait for this year’s night - December 11th. 8 bars and 10 bands – don’t miss it!

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It’s officially Red October! Cardinal baseball postseason is filling the air. Located 100 miles south of St. Louis, it may be hard to find the rowdy, upbeat Cardinal spirit that we, as Cardinal fans, yearn for. Luckily, Downtown Cape Girardeau has many outlets for you to enjoy the games at and partake in the wild Cardinal atmosphere.

Autumn is finally here - let the crisp, cool breeze blow through your hair while taking in the game on the patio at Bel-Air Bar & Grill. Delicious food and drinks round out this venue for a delightful outdoor viewing experience.

Newly opened Katy O’Ferrell’s Publick House provides a casual, cozy environment along with delicious Irish food and a bar for your baseball viewing pleasure.

Looking for a tasty margarita to warm your stomach while taking in our next Cardinal win? Head to El Sol for delicious Mexican fare.

Hotshots has your hot wings and large beers to wash everything down. TV’s line the walls so there’s not a bad seat in the house.

For some romantic flair, head down to Bella Italia. Televisions above the bar provide prime viewing for just about any visitor in the restaurant while sopping up their delectable oil and cheese mixture with a piece of crusty bread.

Pull on your Cardinal gear and make your way to Broadway Biergarten to indulge in their fabulous appetizers and craft beers. The ambiance in this place is pretty close to first-base-line-in-Busch-Stadium quality.

Feel your Cajun roots and enjoy some red beans and rice or a shrimp po’boy while taking in the cardinal game in Broussard’s bar area.

Take in the games at each of these downtown bar destinations, Lodo’s, Last Call, Pour House, Rude Dog, That One Bar and D’Ladiums, for the ultimate party destination.

Cardinal Nation is a family - we love our fantastic team. We love the playoffs. We love the chase for victory. And we love coming together to celebrate. Pick one of these downtown hotspots, bring your team spirit and show our rival fans what it is to be part of Cardinal Nation!

With the recent decision to bring the annual Fourth of July fireworks display back to downtown Cape Girardeau, we thought it a pertinent time to discuss the beneficial impacts that events such as this have on the downtown area.  

 

The list of events taking place downtown during a given period is lofty, and includes the fireworks display, Tunes at Twilight, First Friday, Parade of Lights, and The River Tales Classic Car Show…among many others. These events have the capacity to draw thousands of people (local and regional) into the Old Town Cape area that might not have otherwise visited. When combined with the areas multitude of retail, dining, and entertainment options, it’s an obvious winning situation for downtown merchants of every variety.

 

A recent study conducted by The Maine Center for Economic Policy examined a cities’ economic impacts when comparing local versus chain stores. The city of Portland, ME that was chosen has a population of just over sixty-six thousand people, which is comparable in nature to the Cape Girardeau and Jackson regional area. They analyzed data collected from 28 locally owned retail businesses, along with corporate filings for a representative national chain. The researchers found,

 

“That every $100 spent at locally owned businesses contributes an additional $58 to the local economy.  By comparison, $100 spent at a chain store in Portland yields just $33 in local economic impact.”

The study concluded,

 

“That if residents of the region were to shift 10 percent of their spending from chains to locally owned businesses, it would generate $127 million in additional local economic activity and 874 new jobs.”

 

Cape Girardeau is obviously not Portland, ME, but even if we were to assume a fraction of the benefits they found, we can come to the conclusion that local spending and events are a winning combination for Cape Girardeau. This is why we as downtown merchants, of every variety, should feel the need to champion events such as our recent fireworks display, while also applauding those who chose to patronize local retailers while in attendance.  Of utmost importance though, is to come to realization that events such as these can come to a close at a moment’s notice without support from the local community. We don’t like to imagine a downtown free from the sounds of an acoustic guitar at Tunes at Twilight, the uproar of a hot rod revving its engine during the car shows, or seeing the first set of Christmas lights parading down Broadway. We certainly hope that everyone in our area feels the same!