Out of the past 4/4/04

10 years ago: April 4, 1994

Southeast Missouri State University wants to offer students name-brand food on campus as part of new food service contract that's being worked out; everything from McDonald's to Pizza Hut is being considered, school officials and food service vendors say.

Emotions run high as Scott City residents meet again to discuss riverboat gambling; the Rev. Lee Holland invited gambling proponents to forum to defend themselves against claims that riverboat gambling promotes corruption, poverty and social destruction.

25 years ago: April 4, 1979

Fire originating in kitchen of Sunny Hill Restaurant on South Boulevard causes extensive damage to roof and ceilings of two-story structure; firefighters from both Fire Station No. 1 and 2, plus many reserve firemen, respond to 9 a.m. alarm.

In hopes of enhancing appearance of Cape Girardeau riverfront, Chamber of Commerce is investigating feasibility of riverfront park.

50 years ago: April 4, 1954

The Rev. S.S. Borum, pastor of Red Star Baptist Church, observes fourth anniversary of his coming to Cape Girardeau, April 2, 1950; topic of his sermon is "Growing a Greater Church."

Christian Church members hold ground-breaking ceremony in afternoon at site of new church, North Boulevard at Dunklin Street; participating in ceremony is Mrs. A.W. Bergmann, who has longest continuous membership in congregation and who moves first shovel of earth.

75 years ago: April 4, 1929

Jackson voters approved proposal Tuesday to levy one-half mill tax for support of municipal band; vote was 302 for measure and 189 against; proposal will make it possible for town to pay members of band and to guarantee weekly concerts during summer months.

Another necessary step in plan of Missouri Pacific Railroad to build its line to Cape Girardeau is taken when road files application with Public Service Commission for permission to cross Cotton Belt tracks with its new line near Thebes bridge; Cotton Belt, which owns track near bridge, joins Mo-Pac in filing application.

-- Sharon K. Sanders