Out of the past 5/5/08

25 years ago: May 5, 1983

The soggy pendulum of Mississippi River flood crest predictions has swung again; the revised prediction calls for a crest of 45.3 feet tomorrow afternoon at Cape Girardeau, slightly less than what had been predicted yesterday.

A retired Cape Girardeau businessman, Alois W. Zimmer Jr., 86, dies following an extended illness; Zimmer, a lifelong resident of Cape Girardeau, was secretary-treasurer of Federal Materials Co. for more than 40 years; he was also active in civic and church affairs.

50 years ago: May 5, 1958

The Missouri Pilots Association, meeting this weekend in Sedalia, Mo., voted special awards to John T. Seesing and John E. Goodwin, operators of Cape Central Airways; the awards are given annually for outstanding contribution to aviation in the state.

There will be a wait for the harbor survey in Cape Girardeau; according to Rep. Paul C. Jones of Kennett, Mo., an appropriation of federal funds for the survey isn't expected during this session of Congress.

75 years ago: May 5, 1933

A hail and rainstorm — the most severe in seven months — swept Cape Girardeau last night and early today, flooding streets and low-lying areas, and sending streams out of their banks; telephone communication is crippled.

Everett Litton, who has played with the Municipal Baseball League, is spending a few days in Cape Girardeau seeking a job in order to play in the league again this summer; Litton is an outfielder, bats left-handed and throws right.

100 years ago: May 5, 1908

At the city council meeting Monday night, the fire board presented a report advising that a fire department be established as soon as possible; it recommended that a combination hook and ladder and hose wagon and team be purchased, two men employed to be on duty at all times, and that an electric alarm service be provided; the council ordered the board to investigate and report on the expense the city would incur if it followed these recommendations.

The sale of the Jackson Brick and Tile factory at Jackson caused much interest Saturday; the factory was sold by order of the bankruptcy court to Hugh R. Quinn of Jackson.

— Sharon K. Sanders