NEWSPAPER CHRONICLES AREA WITH `PROGRESS'

As the 21st Century fast approaches, the Southeast Missourian newspaper took a look at the region with an eye on the past, present and future.

The annual Progress edition, which appears as part of today's newspaper, includes six sections and 68 pages.

The special report takes a look back at the news stories that shaped the region from as far back as 100 years ago.

The report also looks at the current situation facing local governments, businesses and organizations.

And the Progress edition takes a peek at what lies ahead.

Remember when

One hundred years ago, Senator R.B. Oliver's home was built at 740 N. Fountain, a bicycle race track opened, and phone lines first linked Cape Girardeau and Jackson.

Seventy-five years ago, the steamer "Cape Girardeau," was launched on the Ohio River at Louisville, Ky., and a nitro-glycerin blast rocked the Hercules Powder Company near Fayville, Ill.

Fifty years ago, an early morning blaze destroyed Houck Field House, and Cape Girardeau installed parking meters.

Twenty-five years ago, more than 1,000 attended the dedication of Jake Well's mural at Kent Library, and St. Francis leaders broke ground on a new building.

Ten year ago, "Cowboy" Ronald Reagan charmed crowds in Cape Girardeau, and Southeast Missouri State University Regents approved the move to Division I sports.

Five years ago, flames consumed the 101-year-old Hobbs Chapel, Cape Girardeau voters approved a change to ward elections, and riverboat gambling was sunk by voters and then salvaged at a second vote the same year.

In 1997 and 1998, governmental officials in Cape Girardeau County, including the two largest cities, Cape Girardeau and Jackson, are experiencing unprecedented cooperation.

Similarly, the two hospitals in Cape Girardeau are investigating a permanent alliance.

In the future, the war on drugs is expected to intensify. Medical experts say managed care will likely grow.

Recreational trails and facilities are set to expand, and technology continues its race to the next century.

As it has in the past, the Southeast Missourian will be here in the future to chronicle the region's progress.