25 years ago

september 11, 1996

Workers scrambling across the steep roof of Marion County Courthouse provided an awesome show for spectators this week. The roof on the courthouse is being replaced as part of a renovation project to bring the stalwart old stone building into the 21st Century.

Sherwin Ammeter, well known retired Marion County Highway Department supervisor, died Tuesday when the grain truck he was driving was hit by a Union Pacific freight train three miles south and 1½ west of Peabody on the Walton blacktop road.

Centre High School senior Nikki Bina has been invited to play on the Kansas All-Star Basketball team in the Down Under Hoops Classic in Australia next summer.

Edith Helmer has retired following a career as a long term care worker with an enviable record on the staff of Social and Rehabilitation Service in Marion. Her official retirement took place Aug. 22.

Fruechting Farms has been named 1996 Marion County Farm Bureau Farm Family of the Year. Fawn Hett is pictured presenting the company’s plaque to Don Fruechting, Mike and Nancy Fruechting and children Jennifer and Josh, and Don’s father, J.L. Fruechting. The rural Aulne farm of 2,500 acres includes wheat, corn, milo, soybeans, and alfalfa. They also operate a small feedlot.

Violet Richmond and other Marion Chamber of Commerce ambassadors presented a First Dollar of Profit plaque to Cottonwood Valley Tan and Tone owners Connie and Tony Pascal. The business, offering tanning booths, exercise equipment, massage therapy, and reflexology, is located at 330 East Main in Marion.