Out of the past 5/22/12

25 years ago: May 22, 1987

Tragedy struck the 1987 NCAA Division II track and field championships here yesterday afternoon, when a University of California-Pennsylvania distance runner collapsed at the conclusion of the 1,500-meter run; he was pronounced dead shortly after he arrived at Southeast Missouri Hospital, when repeated attempts to revive his heart failed.

A study shows a $75 million to almost $100 million bond issue would be needed to finance city acquisition of Union Electric utilities here and provide initial operating capital.

50 years ago: May 22, 1962

The Methodist Men's Club of the church in Whitewater is growing a crop of soybeans to help pay for a new church the congregation is building; yesterday, members plowed and planted 25 acres on the John Thoma farm.

The Cape Choraliers are going ahead with rehearsals these hot evenings, getting ready for their performance June 11 at Missouri Day at the Century 21 Exposition at Seattle; a fund drive is underway to raise money to make the trip.

75 years ago: May 22, 1937

Art Goebel, the first man to fly over the Pacific Ocean, was an overnight guest in Cape Girardeau; he was a guest at a dinner at Colonial Tavern hosted by H.G. Simpson of Charleston, Mo., the Southeast Missouri member of the State Highway Commission.

Maj. Giboney Houck has filed a motion for a new trial in circuit court for the Aquamsi Land Co. in its injunction suit against the city of Cape Girardeau to stay development of the new park on U.S. 61; if the motion for a new trial is overruled, an appeal may follow.

100 years ago: May 22, 1912

In the evening, the wives of the Normal School teachers entertain the unmarried members of the faculty at a picnic on the Normal grounds.

The first graduating class of Cape Girardeau High School to make the complete four-year course receives diplomas in the evening, the exercises being at the First Presbyterian Church; delivering the commencement address is Dr. L.B. Wickersham of Des Moines, Iowa; members of the class are Cecil A. Lorenz, Mamie E. Pickens, Ethel M. Masterson and Gladys E. Welborn.

-- Sharon K. Sanders