OFFICE MANAGER RETIRES AFTER 37 YEARS AT JOB

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- Martha Estes, who worked in insurance and real estate at Thomas L. Meyer Real Estate & Insurance, 230 N. Sprigg for almost 37 years, has retired.

"I started as a secretary at the firm in March of 1954," said Estes. "I learned quickly how to issue insurance policies and type up contracts."

Estes, who announced her retirment recently, was serving as office manager.

She said one of the biggest changes in the office was the switch to computers.

"Everything has gone to computers, and especially in real estate property management," she said.

Estes, a native of Cairo, moved to the Cape Girardeau area in 1940 with her family.

"I'm going to enjoy my retirement," said Estes. "I'll be doing some traveling, fishing and reading."

Estes' husband, Everette ("Red") Estes, retired last year.

"He's doing some part-time work now," she said, "but we'll still take time to fish."