Out of the past 12/24/05

25 years ago: Dec. 24, 1980

Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority has announced the master plan for a multi-million dollar port development at Scott City will be published in January; port director Charles Clodfelter says negotiations with the first production company to locate in the so-called Grays Point On-River Industrial Park are being finalized.

A brush and grass fire in Shawnee Park off South West End Boulevard burned about two acres yesterday before it was extinguished by firefighters; there are no structures in the area of the fire.

50 years ago: Dec. 24, 1955

Arrangements are being made for the Cape County Farm, soon to end its function as a residence for the county's aged and infirm, to be rented on a year-by-year basis until some more definite use of value to the entire county can be established; the court has agreed that the 250-acre farm should be retained for county use.

The Salvation Army distributes 250 Christmas baskets to the city's needy families and to individuals; in addition, the Elks Club yesterday distributed 22 baskets to needy families.

75 years ago: Dec. 24, 1930

Postmaster H.H. Haas says he will shortly advertise for bids for painting the exterior of the Federal Building, which houses the post office and federal court offices; he estimates the project will cost between $500 and $600.

Fire Chief George D. French, in a Christmas warning, calls attention to dangers from fire hazards which commonly occur during the holidays; last Christmas, two Girardeans were severely burned while playing Santa Claus, when their false whiskers were ignited; French also urges residents not to use candles in Christmas trees, but only electric lights.

100 years ago: Dec. 24, 1905

The Evangelical Church has called the Rev. O.J. Gilbert of Chicago, Ill., who will take charge of the congregation about March 1; he is recommended as an excellent man and preacher.

No preaching services are held at the Methodist Church because of sickness in the pastor's family; the Rev. E.T. Adams, in a message to the congregation, thanks members for their thoughtfulness and expresses the hope that he will be back in the pulpit by Dec. 31.

-- Sharon K. Sanders