After struggling to get city approval for $1.75 million in industrial revenue bonds, Bowersock Ltd., a group seeking to renovate the Lawrence Opera House, began a 120-day race to get the project off the ground. Lee Barnett, Topeka, said his firm would become the opera house’s primary tenant if plans worked out. The city resolution gave Bowersock four months to get moving in the right direction and investors were being sought.

It was an “anniversary” few relished. The Lawrence area had received its last measurable precipitation exactly a month ago and region was severely parched. There was no relief in sight, either, officials said. Substantial and soaking rains were needed immediately. Corn, milo and soybean crops were in critical shape.

Stanley Eckert, an unsuccessful candidate for the Republican nomination for 2nd District Congress, continue to attack the credibility of the man who beat him by more than 10,000 votes in the primary, Jim Van Slyke. Eckert contended he had been adviser to presidents and congressmen via letters he had sent to them.