Out of the past 1/24/10

25 years ago: Jan. 24, 1985

The recent decision by General Motors to manufacture a new "Saturn" subcompact car is creating a virtual bidding war in states where officials are shifting into overdrive in their efforts to obtain the Saturn car plant; among communities vying for the plant and its 6,000 new jobs are Cape Girardeau and Carbondale, Ill.

An internal investigation at the Cape Girardeau Police Department has concluded that the escape last week of two federal prisoners from the city jail wasn't a result of incomplete or inadequate department policies.

50 years ago: Jan. 24, 1960

Dr. Dan B. Cotner of Cape Girardeau is the guest speaker in the evening at the Zion Methodist Church, west of Gordonville; he discusses medical missions in Africa; Mrs. Cotner also appears on the program, wearing a North African costume.

Marking its anniversary, St. Andrew Couples Club celebrates the occasion at a supper served by hosts Mr. and Mrs. Bob Ludwig and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Kibler at St. Andrew Lutheran Church.

75 years ago: Jan. 24, 1935

Another new winter record for the season is established early in the morning as the mercury sinks to 4 degrees in Cape Girardeau.

The Memphian, Frisco Passenger train operating through Cape Girardeau between St. Louis and Memphis, will be equipped with air-conditioning facilities, the railroad company announces; work already has started at the shops at Springfield, Mo., to make all the better trains of the company air-conditioned.

100 years ago: Jan. 24, 1910

Capt. Henry Leyhe returned Saturday to St. Louis from Paducah, Ky., where he had been inspecting the boats of the Eagle Packet Co.; he reports that all are in good condition; the company will start its packets as soon as weather permits.

William M. Kirby of Livingston County, Ky., through Bowman Brothers Realty, buys eight lots in the Red Star Addition; he intends to build a fine residence on one lot, and on the others will build seven dwelling houses for rent.

-- Sharon K. Sanders