Columns

I'm sure that you've heard the old saying, "One man's junk is another man's treasure." Well, a case of that came up lately. An elderly gentleman who lived in the area began a collection that spanned nearly seven decades. After his health began to deteriorate, he became sick and passed away about two months ago. It was rumored that his collection existed, but those who had seen it told the story as fact.

What was it this man had been collecting for more than 60 years?

If you had any doubts about the Catholic roots in Marion County, you'll find plenty of evidence in the next few weeks.

April 22-26, the Sisters of Loretto will be celebrating their 200th anniversary with a homecoming for members of their community at the Motherhouse in Nerinx.

April 27-29, the Ursuline Sisters of Mt. St. Joseph will hold a centennial celebration, marking 100 years of service in Marion County.

By Ken Begley

The Bronze Star: the fourth highest wartime medal in the United States Armed Forces, authorized by Congress, awarded to soldiers for heroism or meritorious service in combat.

That's one heavy medal for a soldier to carry on his chest.

I've served over 37 years in the military and I can count on one hand the number of soldiers I've known that are Bronze Star award winners.

A love for milk and tomatoes might have been Aileen Ferrell's secret to longevity.

At least, that's what she told me when I interviewed her back in 2002.

She was ONLY 95 years old at the time.

I can vividly remember sitting in the kitchen of her huge, historic home on Main Street in Lebanon, and talking with her about her love for milk, vegetables (her favorite being tomatoes), dancing and being a mother.

She was just delightful, and funny, too.