Out of the past 7/7/03

10 years ago: July 7, 1993

Farm experts say corn should be knee-high by Fourth of July, but in some Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois fields water is that deep; Jess Cushman, director of U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service in Alexander and Pulaski counties in Southern Illinois, estimates between 18,000 to 20,000 acres of farmland are under water in Alexander County.

Cape Girardeau City Council gives first reading approval of ordinance that will place on Nov. 2 ballot question of whether to legalize riverboat gambling in city; measure now awaits final approval July 19.

25 years ago: July 7, 1978

Four people, believed to be Nebraska residents, are killed in fiery, one-car accident on Interstate 55 about three miles north of Scott City interchange; none has been identified; two adults and two children are trapped in burning vehicle after it plunges down embankment in median, overturns and bursts into flames.

Gray's Point, Mo. -- Industrial spotlight is being focused on 50-acre tract as Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority continues to seek tenants for proposed docking facilities along Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau and Scott counties.

50 years ago: July 7, 1953

A $90,000 bond issue to build gymnasium-auditorium and additional classrooms at high school was passed yesterday by voters of newly organized School District C-6; vote was 338 for and 83 against; also passed was 35-cent school tax above $1 tax which is set by board.

Second town hall meeting of year is held at Courthouse Park, and discussions in generally harmonious manner are held on proposed garbage-disposal ordinance, city manager form of government as opposed to commission form, industrial development, city sewers and city engineer, city finances, traffic bridge and other subjects of community interest.

75 years ago: July 7, 1928

Nearly quarter of million dollars were spent in public school education in Cape Girardeau during past year, according to annual financial statement of school board, published today; total cost was $246,503; greater part of this expenditure came from general school fund, which is supported largely by state and district revenue receipts.

Paving of roadway on Cape Girardeau traffic bridge over Mississippi River begins, and with favorable weather work should be completed by Sept. 3, date set for formal opening and dedication.

-- Sharon K. Sanders