HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS RETURN TO CAPE JAN. 26

Hello "Sweet Georgia Brown," goodbye "Sweet Lou" Dunbar.

The Harlem Globetrotters' famous theme song will ring through the Show Me Center at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26 when the basketball magicians return to Cape Girardeau. The 1995 "Salutes the Family" tour is a farewell tribute to Dunbar, the so-called "clown prince of basketball."

In the tradition of past Globetrotter stars "Goose" Tatum and "Meadowlark" Lemon, the 6-10 former University of Houston star has entertained more than 10 million people on six continents during his princely reign.

Besides their customary audience-involving comic antics and dribbling wizardry, the Globetrotters' new show also includes a contemporary musical score and special effects.

Founded 69 years ago, the Globetrotters have been overhauled by Mannie Jackson, a former member who bought the team in 1993.

Jackson, who was born in Illmo (now called Scott City), was a prep All-American at Belleville, Ill., who played at the University of Illinois.

The Globetrotters' previous appearances at the Show Me Center were in 1988, 1990 and 1992. "We've always had a nice crowd," said David Ross, director of the Show Me Center.

Tickets go on sale Tuesday. They are $15,50, $12.50, $10.50 and $8.50, and are available at the usual outlets.

Premium-priced golden circle tickets also are available courtside.

Upcoming events at the Show Me Center include an indoor soccer tournament .Jan. 13-15, a rodeo Feb. 17-19, and country music stars Brooks and Dunn April 14.