Out of the past 4/26/04

10 years ago: April 26, 1994

Twelve Japanese nurses are visiting St. Francis Medical Center this week to learn about American nursing practices; in Japan, nurses work under specific directions from physicians and do many of tasks technicians complete in United States.

Exactly one month after her death, Sue Lusk is honored for her service to Cape Girardeau and Mid America Teen Challenge; she is one of four volunteers honored at United Way-CyberTel Volunteer Recognition Luncheon.

25 years ago: April 26, 1979

Floodwaters are receding in Southeast Missouri, but aftermath of flood -- countless homes damaged and people forced out of work -- is far from over; Federal Disaster Assistance Agency is processing applications for federal assistance loans at Arena Building; staff of 45 to 50 people representing 12 to 15 government agencies is in Cape Girardeau to assist flood victims.

Missouri Pacific Railroad officials reaffirm their interest in abandonment of track spur which serves industries on west end of Cape Girardeau; MoPac also expresses interest in eventual abandonment of 5.6-mile stretch of track between Allenville and Whitewater.

50 years ago: April 26, 1954

Foes of daylight-saving time built up commanding lead over weekend in straw poll being conducted by Retail Merchants Association; Chamber of Commerce reports count is 684 votes in opposition and 528 in favor of switch of time.

Workers begin tearing down burned-out shell of John S. Cobb School, hit by fire in early morning just over year ago; work is being done by Burton Gerhardt for Gerhardt Construction Co. at cost of $2,750; school will be removed, but gymnasium will be saved.

75 years ago: April 26, 1929

Apparently hopelessly smothered under avalanche of negative votes, proposed daylight-saving plan for Cape Girardeau seems to have faded away, if results of the Missourian's straw vote is any indication.

Rising rapidly as swollen Mississippi at upstream points reaches this section, river stage at Cape Girardeau is 34.3 feet and is expected to crest early next week around 37 feet; water has reached Frisco railroad tracks on portion of Water Street, but has caused no damage.

-- Sharon K. Sanders