70 years ago

december 20, 1951

The year-end Christmas and holiday business in Marion has been generally much better than expected, judging from a sample survey of business houses. A wide variety of opinions have been offered as to the reasons for this, but all can say that it has been sincerely appreciated, especially in a year when it was really needed

Although the building is not yet quite complete, according to Father Paul Meier regular services will start this Sunday, Dec. 23, in the new St. Mark Catholic Church.

Former residents Mr. and Mrs. Drue Groves of Odessa, Texas, have been informed that their son, Sgt. H.J. Groves, based in Japan, was seriously injured Dec. 4 when his plane, a B-29, exploded shortly after its takeoff on a mission over Korea.

The chaplain’s report to his parents stated that he was badly burned on his face, arms, and legs. He and a companion tail gunner were the only survivors of the explosion.

Groves attended Marion High School for three years before moving to Texas with his parents.

Marion city employees and their families enjoyed their fourth annual Christmas potluck supper and party last Friday evening at the City Building. Following supper, the children presented a short program and Mrs. Inez Ray told a timely story, “Home for Christmas.” The children enjoyed a gift exchange and the remainder of the evening was spent informally.

Dear Santa: Is it very cold up there? For Christmas I would like to have a boy doll, and a box of clay.

I have a big brother. He would like a water gun, and a pen and pencil set.

I go to Wren school. I am in the second grade. I like school. We have a good teacher. She lives in Saffordville. She would like a billfold for Christmas. Love, Deanna Kay Klenda.