35 years ago

october 4, 1973

Dawn came in a clouded sky Saturday but there was no gloom cast over the annual Old Settlers’ Day proceedings. An estimated 8,000 participated or watched the 40-minute parade. The larger than usual crowd here for the day then crowded into the basement of Marion Municipal Building were food was served and a program was presented in the auditorium.

Arthur Leallen Lewerenz, who has been in Larned State Hospital for evaluation, was returned to Marion County District Court Monday for sentencing under conviction of Class C Felony, voluntary manslaughter, in the death of his wife, Susan Nancy Lewerenz in July 1972. Judge A.B. Fletcher Jr. sentenced Lewerenz to an indeterminate one to 20 years in the state penitentiary.

Queen Bev Backhus was crowned at halftime during the Centre homecoming game Friday night. Her attendants were Rosie Bina, Grace Noone, Jacintha Konecny, and Connie Kerbs. Queen Bev is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Backhus of Tampa.

Sheriff June Jost is in Wichita attending sessions of the Kansas Criminal Justice Technical Assistance Unit for Civil Disorders.

Two local businessmen received “beauty for business” awards at the Marion Chamber of Commerce meeting held Sept. 21. Dorothy Varenhorst presented certificates to Gerry Harris and Walt Oelschlager for remodeling of Marion Motor Center and Oelschlager Furniture, respectively. The awards are part of the PRIDE program.

Out of a possible attendance of 35, there were 24 present Saturday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the MHS Class of 1923.