20 years ago in the Homer News

Longtime Alaskan Elmer Rasmuson, chairman emeritus of National Bank of Alaska, donated almost 10 acres of downtown property to the University of Alaska for us as it sees fit. The 9.8-acre parcel consists of 18 contiguous lots between Pioneer Avenue and the Homer Bypass. The university can sell, develop or use the property or proceeds for any purpose. One possibility is for the Kachemak Bay Campus to use it for a new campus, but it’s too early to speculate, said KBC College Director Carol Swartz.

— From the issue of March 18, 1999

30 years ago in the Homer News

Gas price wars raged in Homer after a new station at Quicky Mart on Ocean Drive opened in November 1988. After Quicky Mart dropped its price to $1.11 a gallon, Airport Texaco up the street matched it. Trailside General Store on the Sterling Highway also offered lower-price gas. Sunny’s Chevron Service had to lay off two attendants because of lost business.

— From the issue of March 16, 1989

50 years ago in the Homer News

For the first time ever, Alaska’s cross-country ski team won the Junior National Cross Country Relay Championships during national races at Mt. Alyeska in Girdwood. Larry Martin of Homer was one of four skiers who helped his team to victory. He had the third best time, just three seconds behind Bela Bodna of Anchorage and 21 seconds behind Canadian skier Fred Kelly. The Alaskans finished with a time of 71 minutes, 42 seconds — 29 seconds ahead of the Canadians.

— From the issue of March 21, 1969