10 years ago: Sept. 14, 1992

Fair officials are pleased with Sunday's attendance at SEMO District Fair; they estimate that between 9,000 and 10,000 people took part in Sneak-A-Peek Day; that number is about double attendance during first day of last year's fair.

Jackson -- Group studying formation of countywide economic development organization decides to focus on drafting set of by-laws and organizational structure that will be used; decision is made after John Mehner, chairman of board of Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, tells organizing committee that his board has decided not to commit its $25,000 annual share until "procedural issues and an organizational structure is worked out."

25 years ago: Sept. 14, 1977

It wasn't as devastating as Kansas City flood, but rains yesterday morning nevertheless crippled opening day of SEMO District Fair with first general rain-out of activities in 14 years; about inch of rain Tuesday soaked parking areas so thoroughly that at emergency meeting of Fair Board that afternoon, it was decided to shut down evening opening; board feared lots would be come a quagmire; board simply left open gates with admission free.

Security at SEMO District Fair has increased twofold over last year, with between 15 and 20 law enforcement officers on hand during busiest hours; among reasons for beefed-up security are effects of recent upsurge in rapes reported and double homicide last month.

50 years ago: Sept. 14, 1952

David Crain, 7-year-old boy evangelist, speaks at Foursquare Church in afternoon and evening; youngster is from Poplar Bluff, and his father, the Rev. H.F. Crain, is Baptist preacher; he comes from northern Nebraska for two special services here.

Pulpit exchange has been arranged for morning services; the Rev. John C. Tierney, rector of Christ Episcopal Church, will preside at Holy Communion service at St. Paul Episcopal Church in Ironton, while St. Paul's rector, the Rev. James Clark, officiates at service here.

75 years ago: Sept. 14, 1927

Superintendent of Schools John A. Whitford says Cape Girardeau Public Schools will continue in regular session, despite hot weather which has caused number of nearby towns to suspend part or all of their classes; Whiteford explains, "In the schools it is no hotter than anywhere else in town. So if pupils must be anywhere at all, they might as well be at school."

Detroit -- Cape Girardeau and three other teams competing in National Baseball Tournament were eliminated in fourth round of play at Navin Field yesterday afternoon; Girardeans were swamped by Comellos of Cincinnati, Ohio, 19-0.

-- Sharon K. Sanders