1991

U.S. Sen. Jack Danforth, in Cape Girardeau yesterday, told area Jaycees tax reform is needed before there will be any long-term economic recovery. Danforth also criticized a recent resurrection of "America first" isolationism and contempt for foreign affairs.

Southeast Missouri State University's "New Vision of Excellence" capital campaign ultimately will surpass its $25 million goal. At the end of November, the campaign was at 97 percent of the goal with more than $24.2 million having been raised in pledges, cash gifts, securities and in-kind contributions.

1966

A lone gunman, carefully concealing his weapon from the passing Christmas shoppers, took a set of rings and an undetermined amount of money and checks in an armed holdup at Lang's Jewelers, 126 N. Main St., last evening. The rings -- an engagement and wedding set -- had a retail value of $490, Hugo Lang says.

Cape Girardeau County Magistrate Roland G. Busch apparently has retreated at least part way from a pronouncement last week that all records in his office except the fee books and minutes books are to be closed to the public. In an interview with The Associated Press, the magistrate said persons may see "any affidavit, complaint, information, warrant or bond receipt."

1941

Originating in a dwelling, fire swept through four frame buildings in Dutchtown last night, causing damage estimated at $5,000 to $6,000. A bucket brigade, bailing water from a cistern, was able to save John F. Schwab's dwelling.

Sixty men, most of them of younger ages, have been assigned for training in the aircraft metalwork training school to open Monday at the Arena Building. The school will run 24 hours per day on 8-hour shifts.

1916

Thirty-five young women and matrons have been designated to take certain positions in the city Saturday to sell Green Tags to raise funds for the Provident Association. The ladies will be in Haarig and at spots along Main Street and Broadway.

A baseball scout was in town yesterday to look at Big Elam Vangilder, the Capaha pitcher who thinks he is another Jeff Tesreau. While the scout didn't see Vangilder, he did leave a contract from the Little Rock, Arkansas, club with the Capahas' manager, which guarantees the pitcher a $100-a-month salary. It's said Vangilder is refusing to sign, believing he is destined for a higher-class league team at a larger salary.

-- Sharon K. Sanders