Rain began falling Tuesday morning, swiftly changing to freezing rain and sleet as temperatures dropped into the 20s. By afternoon, most of Marion was without electricity because of downed power lines. As the afternoon wore on, ice built up and trees could not withstand the weight. Several homes in Marion received structural damage from falling tree limbs.

Birth announcements include those of Xavier Lee Hurt, son of Crystal Hager and Gerald Hurt, born Dec. 1 and Mandi Jo Heinz, daughter of Dan and Jenny Heinz of Scott City, born Dec. 20.

A farewell reception was held Tuesday morning at the Marion Courthouse for outgoing county commissioners, Howard Collett and Leroy Wetta.

Khanh Do, a Vietnamese exchange student at Centre High School, is pictured checking out a book at the school library from librarian Tambra Owens. Khanh’s host parents are Marcus and Peggy Carlson of Lincolnville.

Dick McLinden, local pilot, recently participated in a Young Eagles program at the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Aviation Center in Oshkosh, Wis. McLinden joined other pilots who donated free demonstration airplane rides introducing a new generation to the world of flight.