Historical clue formulations

• Came close to — 2012-07-22
• Closed in on — 2010-04-04
• Approached — 2010-02-17
• Drew nigh — 2006-07-23
• Got warm — 2006-02-26
• Closed in on — 2001-04-15
• Closed in on — 1999-12-12
• Approached — 1997-03-02
• Verged toward — 1995-12-29
• Approached — 1995-08-07
• Drew nigh — 1995-05-13