Out of the past 7/21/03

10 years ago: July 21, 1993

Cape Girardeau police closed Big Bend Road early yesterday, giving up battle to keep water off roadway between Olive and First streets; barricades were set up at intersection of Roberts street and Big Bend, allowing only residents to enter; river is expected to crest tomorrow at 47.7 feet and remain at that level three days.

Ste. Genevieve, Mo. -- Missouri Army National Guardsmen, Coast Guard reserve personnel and townspeople of Ste. Genevieve remained watchful Tuesday as Mississippi River held itself at all-time high; authorities warn river will remain nearly stationary for some time, or fall only very slowly; that means tremendous pressure being exerted on hastily constructed temporary levees will continue for at least another week to 10 days.

25 years ago: July 21, 1978

Continued high river stage and decision to hold free concert of American Wind Symphony on barge moored at Themis street floodgate keeps Southeast Missouri Council on the Arts and Cape Girardeau Police Department busy coping with seating and traffic details; decision to keep 40-member symphony aboard vessel, Point Counterpoint II, was made yesterday by its director, Robert A. Boudreau.

Dedicated patron of Jackson Municipal Band, who for many years has voluntarily provided host of services for band, was paid surprise tribute at last night's concert; band presented march entitled "Tribute" to Carl Penzel, owner of Penzel Construction Co.

50 years ago: July 21, 1953

Cape Girardeau man was wounded in action last Wednesday while serving with Marine Corps in Korea; he is Pfc. William D. Scholl, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph E. Scholl; Scholl, whose twin brother, Howard, is also serving with Marines in Korea, has been in combat area since Feb. 3.

Large barn of Owen Estes near Fruitland was destroyed by fire Saturday afternoon; Herbert Schlegel, neighbor, discovered blaze about 2:30, when he noticed smoke billowing from structure; by time he and neighbors reached barn, there was no way to save machinery or contents; Estes family was in Jackson shopping; only person at home was Mrs. Estes' father, Will Mason.

75 years ago: July 21, 1928

Editors and publishers of Southern Illinois newspapers, on their annual trip down Mississippi River, arrive in Cape Girardeau aboard Steamer Cape Girardeau; 65 visitors are taken on sight-seeing tour of city by Chamber of Commerce.

Possibly in order to make payment of toll at Cape Girardeau traffic bridge as painless as possible -- even though it will be below the average -- beautiful toll house is being constructed; it will be of concrete, with ornamental tile roof, decorative trimmings, well illuminated and with ample facilities for business.

-- Sharon K. Sanders