Looking Back 9/12

SIKESTON - Miss Marjorie McCoy has opened a stenographic and bookkeeping service in the Paul Jones building.

SIKESTON - Only two persons objected to the proposed plan to widen Highway 61 at a meeting in the Security National Bank Tuesday. The widened highway would run from the intersection with Business Route 61 south to the Greer Street intersection.

20 years ago -- Sept. 12, 1986

POPLAR BLUFF - A Union Pacific freight train derailed early today east of Poplar Bluff, causing chemicals to leak from three cars, authorities said. The leaks were stopped a few hours after the derailment, said Highway Patrol Sgt. Robert Miller.

CHARLESTON - Sandra Smoot, who won the Democratic nomination for Mississippi County treasurer in August, said she would resign her position as clerk in the county clerk's office effective Oct. 31. Shortly after the Aug. 5 primary election, an anonymous letter was sent to various persons in the county and included Chapter 54 of the State Statutes regarding eligibility for county treasurers.

SIKESTON - After being located in the old church building on Kingshighway for several years, Scott County Juvenile Services has taken up residence at the corner of Trotter and South New Madrid streets. "I wouldn't say these are permanent facilities but I do anticipate that we will be located here for the next five years," said Juvenile Officer Bill Lawson.

SIKESTON - Rebecca Dixon used her talent of writing to communicate to her peers at Sikeston Junior High the importance of staying away from drugs. Her ability to spread the word and make people listen has earned her the 1996 Young Journalist Award, the first-ever honor given by the Centers for Disease Control.