Officials of the Douglas County Free Fair said the Aug. 2-6 event had more full commitments at an earlier date than ever before and predicted a banner turnout. The Demolition Derby and the Tommy Cash country-western show were to be the featured attractions and more booths than ever before had been reserved.

City Manager Buford Watson received his first merit pay increase in three years on a split vote by the City Commission. Watson, city manager since 1970, was to receive a 2.5 percent merit pay hike Sept. 1 in addition to the 5 percent cost-of-living raise all city employees would get in January. His current wage was $58,629. Including a life insurance policy, an annual retirement fund payment and a car allowance, the combined raises were to put his salary at $63,026.