55 years ago

december 5, 1963

Marion’s first opening of the Christmas season Friday was attended by near capacity crowds in almost all stores, and was counted as a big success by both businessmen and shoppers. Winners of the children’s awards were Teresa Case, Barbie’s Dream House; Sandra Wall, Barbie Sports Car; Jeff Kline, bazooka gun set; and Leslie Lunderman, basketball and goal set.

Dear Santa: I am 5 years old. I wish you would please bring me a rifle and also some slippers. Also 3 more turkeys for my farm set you gave me last year. I will have cookies and milk set out for you. Thanks for the gifts you brought last year. Love, Jim Koslowsky, Marion, Kansas.

New railroad crossing gates, with ringing bell and flashing lights, have been installed by the Rock Island Railroad at the Aulne crossing. This has been one of the county’s most dangerous unprotected crossings and the new safety equipment is much appreciated.

Donkey basketball will return to Marion Dec. 14 for a one-night performance. Local men with more courage than talent, as one man put it, will be astride the donkeys. Sponsored by Marion Kiwanis Club, proceeds go into their boys and girls fund.