50 years ago

september 1, 1960

The first unit of a $1 million natural gas cracking plant and compressor station started operation this week northwest of Marion. Two more units will be in operation within the next 60 days, and the full plant in about six months.

Rex Berry of Valley Center, an experienced oilman, has leased the recently completed Texaco service station on East Main Street.

John Webster, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Marium Webster and a senior at Marion High School, narrowly avoided death Wednesday noon when the car he was driving was demolished by a westbound Rock Island freight train at the crossing north of Marion on the Cedar Street road.

Warren Gardner and Lane Broadstreet returned Sunday from an eight-week tour with the Sterling Ambassadors, a select group of four representing Sterling College.

Richard Francis Stuchlik, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stuchlik of Lost Springs, is leaving today, Sept. 1, for St. Stanislaus Jesuit Seminary at Florissant, Mo.

A group of girls enjoyed a slumber party Thursday night at the home of Deanna Klenda in honor of Pam Hamlin, Karen Dunn, and Janet Whitlock. Others present were Diana Goertz, Donna Newsom, Connie Fisher, Carol Kline, Georgia Helmer, and Jean Williams.