How Time Flies for July 20, 2009:

100 years ago

July 20, 1909: William Arndt wondered if there was natural gas in that dry water well on the Whitcomb School grounds near Brokaw. So he threw a lighted match down the shaft. The resulting gas explosion left him with slight burns. (Brokaw is where Towanda-Barnes Road and the railroad cross, south of Ireland Grove Road.)

75 years ago

July 20, 1934: Mamie Stombaugh, the 12-year old ISSCS girl who recovered from a broken neck, won't be able to dance in Friday's recital. She's a talented tap dancer. It was feared her "comeback" would be too much for her, so Mamie will have to sit and watch others perform.

50 years ago

July 20, 1959: Two fourteen-year old sophomore girls are spending their summer learning to fly. Mary Stoutamoyer of Bloomington and Vera Lynn Meiners of Anchor are "ready to solo" but will have to wait. Pilots flying solo must be at least sixteen years old.

25 years ago

July 20, 1984: Normal Police Chief David Lehr issued a commendation to Sergeant Dan Saddler for his role in the standoff at Brokaw Hospital. Fellow officers nominated Saddler for his "fine display of leadership." The gunman surrendered peacefully.