Out of the past 4/8/05

25 years ago: April 8, 1980

Emphasizing what he calls "a need for absolute secrecy," Circuit Judge Stanley A. Grimm yesterday impaneled the first county grand jury to be called in 11 years; Grimm called the grand jury to investigate the county sheriff's department.

While a tornado heavily damaged at least 40 homes in Florissant, Mo., last night, the Southeast Missouri area escaped major storm damage; west of Fruitland, high winds demolished a wooden and metal structure on the property of Ervin Kranawetter; damage was also done to the roof of the Circuit Court Division III building in Jackson.

50 years ago: April 8, 1955

BELL CITY, Mo. -- Residents along rock-ribbed Crowley's Ridge in Stoddard County have been sought out for mineral leases on their land by those wanting to prospect for uranium.

75 years ago: April 8, 1930

Edward L. Drum officially became mayor of Cape Girardeau at 3:16 yesterday afternoon, succeeding James A. Barks, who served in that position eight years; simultaneously, Louis Wittmor and Phillip H. Steck became city commissioners, succeeding Martin C. Krueger and A.P. Behrens.

Joe Sandman, a tinner who has had his shop in the Houck building at 508 Independence St. for eight years, is moving to 617 Independence St.; the latter structure is a former residence that belonged to the Hutton heirs.

100 years ago: April 8, 1905

The stockholders of the Rock Tobacco Co. issued an encouraging report last night; the big, three-story building will be completed next week, and the machinery will be installed at once; the principal product of the new factory will be a twist for both smoking and chewing, and it will also make plug tobacco.

The children of Cape Girardeau are encouraged to start saving their pennies; the Forepaughs-Sells Circus will be here May 10.

-- Sharon K. Sanders