25 years ago

FEBRUARY 5, 1997

The first lady of Kansas, Linda Graves, made a one hour visit to Marion Elementary School Thursday, meeting students and parents in Ginger Becker’s classroom in recognition of Kansas Day. The original invitation was to Gov. Bill Graves, who was unable to attend because of the legislative session. He asked his wife to attend in his place. She made a big impression on the children, as they did on her.

Groundbreaking ceremonies will be held Friday for a new residence hall at Tabor College in Hillsboro. It will be located at the corner of B and Madison streets and will house 72 students in double and single occupancy rooms.

Marion’s newest convenience store, Casey’s General Store, opened Thursday with little fanfare. A grand opening is planned in three or four weeks, said manager Joy Edwards.

“Beary Special Babies” born at St. Luke Hospital during the month of January were Cassidy Ann Pawloski, born Jan. 2; Taylor Dawn Henderson, born Jan. 10; Tyler Joe McCartney, Jan. 15; Seth Richard Snelling, Jan. 23; Quinton Daniel Hett, Jan. 25; and Cameron Drew Hendricks, Jan. 29.

Centre High School winter homecoming candidates are Emily Belton, Mandy Ryff, Jennifer Backhus, Michelle Hajek, Jay Fenske, Mike Webb, Martin Skitte, and Andre Ebaben. Coronation will take place Friday following the junior varsity girls’ basketball game.

Steven Waner placed first Jan. 28 at the Florence Middle School spelling bee. Melissa Moffitt was second and Jesse Shippy third. The county spelling bee is set for Feb. 13 at Marion Elementary School.

Leon Suderman, 77, farmer and Marion County commissioner, died Saturday. Services will be held Wednesday at Ebenfeld Mennonite Brethren Church.