50 years ago

april 13, 1961

L.A. Powell, general chairman of the Old Settlers’ Centennial Celebration, has called a meeting of retail merchants and industrial organizations for Friday in the basement of the City Building. Powell said it will be explained how the celebration will operate and the timing of the daily events.

A retirement party is being held this evening at the Elgin Restaurant for Mrs. Marie M. Dixon, who for over 37 years has been a valued employee at the Marion exchange of the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company.

The winning entry for the Centennial seal contest was designed by W.G. (Jerry) Higgins. It tells the story of early settlers, who came here on the advice of government surveyors who described the place “where three rivers meet” as the finest spot in the entire area.

A good turnout met in the basement of the Marion City Building Monday evening and organized a Marion City Bowling Association. Richard Lundgren was elected president, with Junior Ehrlich as vice president, and Robert Brooks as treasurer. B.J. Allen, manager of MarBowl Lanes stated that Marion’s new bowling alley will be opened about May 1st.

“Blithe Spirit” by Noel Coward will be presented by the Senior Class of Centre High on Friday. Members of the cast include Allen Steely, Rita Urbanek, Linda Gutsch, Carol Miller, Leon Nelson, Doris Richmond, and Janie Jirak.