40 years ago

july 23, 1980

The five-week-long heat wave has caused many problems for the city. Residents are being asked to use major appliances during cooler hours in the morning and evening and to cut down on water usage.

After 18 years of delays, protests, and promises — plus over 30 years of discussion— the Kansas Department of Transportation has approved plans to relocate a 14-mile stretch of US-56 between US-77 and K-15. The new route will follow a path one mile north of Marion.

Kelly Humphries snapped a photo of Jeff Harris and Robbie Hett as they chugged along south of Marion in an old jalopy. The pair were joy riding in the contraption, but it looks like they will be walking before long.

Gena Helmer of Marion won the title of 1980 Tri-County Junior Miss at Monday’s pageant in Herington. The 17-year-old won both the poise and appearance and talent competitions, defeating 15 other girls to advance to the Junior Miss contest at Belleville in November.

Republican Doug Westerhaus is pictured as he awaits his opportunity to speak at Aulne of his candidacy for county attorney. Pictured with Westerhaus is Democrat candidate Ed Wheeler as he contends with young son Jason who is probing his father’s pocket for a campaign card.