2017 Parks & Recreation Activities Brochure

2017 Guide To All Things
Parks And Recreation

Marion Parks & Recreation Department

Recreation Office | Lowe Park | 4500 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302 | 319.447.3590
Administrative & Operations Office | Thomas Park | 343 Marion Boulevard, Marion, IA 52302 | 319.447.3580

•Recreation Office 447–3590

Staff and Boards Department Mission Statement: Stay Connected

To enrich Marion and the lives of our residents and There are many ways to stay up-to-date on the latest
surrounding communities by providing a wide-range parks and recreation news, programs, events & more
1. City Website―www.cityofmarion.org
of recreational and educational opportunities for 2. Facebook―Marion Parks and Recreation Department
people of all ages that encourage healthy, active 3. Monthly E-newsletters―Contact the Parks and
Recreation office at 447-3590 to be added to the distribution
lifestyles and life-long learning. list and receive our monthly e-newsletter.
4. Phone―Call us at Lowe Park, 447-3590 or
Call us at Thomas Park, 447-3580
5. Visit Us―At Lowe Park, 4500 N 10th Street or
At Thomas Park, 343 Marion Boulevard

Staff Directory Who Do You Call?

Administrative & Operations Office: To better serve your needs, please review
the topics and which office to contact...
Thomas Park Administrative & Operations Office―447-3580
343 Marion Boulevard, Marion, IA 52302 ☑ Cemetery or burial information
319-447-3580 ☑ Weed and snow complaints
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. ☑ Trail questions or issues
☑ Park equipment and information
Mike Carolan Director of Parks & Recreation ☑ Tree permits
Aaron VanMilligan Parks Operations Manager ☑ Right-of-way tree issues
Ed Chalstrom Maintenance Supervisor ☑ Adopt-A-Spot program
Darcie Coberly Administrative Assistant ☑ Memorial tree program
Mike Biechler Parks Operations ☑ Facility rentals (pavilions and Safe Room)
Broc Dobling Parks Operations
Eric Mathis Parks Operations Parks & Recreation Office―447-3590
Matt Nissen Parks Operations ☑ Recreation programs, leagues, & events
Scott Sagers Parks Operations ☑ Swim lessons and pool information
Josh Storla Parks Operations ☑ Facility rentals (A&E, pavilions, Safe Room, fields)
Craig Zachman Parks Operations ☑ Community garden plots
Mike Cimprich Urban Forestry ☑ Farmers’ Market
Ryan Hays Urban Forestry ☑ Senior programs at Lowe Park

Recreation Office: 2017 Park Board

Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center The Park Board meets at 4 p.m. on the second Wednesday
4500 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302 of each month at the Parks Administrative and Operations
319-447-3590 office in Thomas Park. All meetings are open and the public
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. is welcome to attend.
If you have an item that you would like to have discussed
Karlene Hummel Recreation & Aquatics Coordinator by the Marion Park Board, please contact the Marion Parks
Tony Ireland Recreation Supervisor and Recreation Department in advance at 447-3580.
Mary Ann Bries Administrative Assistant
2017 Tree Board
Marion Municipal Swimming Pool:
The Tree Board meets at 7 a.m. on the second Wednesday
Willlowood Park of each month at the Thomas Park Safe Room. All meetings
1855 35th Street, Marion, IA 52302 are open and the public is welcome to attend.
319-377-1654 (During Pool Months Only) If you have an item that you would like to have discussed
Pool Open: May 29–September 4 by the Marion Tree Board, please contact the Marion Parks
and Recreation Department in advance at 447-3580.
Weekends only from August 19–Labor Day

1 www.cityofmarion.org

•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Ways To Register Table of Contents

There are a variety of convenient ways for you to Staff & Board Directory Page 1 Stay Connected
register for many of our recreation programs. O pp o r t u n i t i e s Page 3
Find a way that best suits your need below... Recreation Rules & Policies Page 4
Youth Sports Pages 5–10
1. In Person—Stop by the Parks and Recreation office at Youth Progr ams & Events Pages 11–14
Lowe Park (4500 N 10th Street) or Thomas Park (343 Marion Adult Progr ams Pages 15–16
Boulevard), to register for any of our programs. Registrations in Family Progr ams & Special Events Pages 17–18
person are only accepted during regular office hours, Monday– Senior Progr ams Page 19
Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. Aquatics & Swim Lessons Pages 20–22
2. Via Mail—Fill out a registration form and mail it prior to Marion Arts Council Page 23
the registration deadline with payment to Marion Parks and Linn County Master Gardeners Page 24
Recreation, 4500 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302 Facilit y Rentals & Cemetery Pages 25–26
3. Online—Visit our website at www.cityofmarion.org to Parks & Tr ails Pages 27–28
register for recreation programs online through Cogran. You Additional Progr ams Page 29
will need to initially set-up an account and also have a Paypal Registr ation Forms Page 30
account to process payment.
4. Drop Box—Can’t make it to our office during office hours? What's New with Marion Parks?
No problem, we have secure drop boxes located at both Lowe
Park and Thomas Park. Simply fill out your registration form Waldo's Rock Park―Construction is expected to be
and submit it with payment in a sealed envelope anytime, 24/7. completed in the summer of 2017. Once complete, visitors can
enjoy the many amenities this quaint park will have to offer:
For security purposes, we cannot accept any a stocked fishing pond with a fishing pier, a loop trail around
payment/registrations over the phone the pond, pavilion,
connection to the
Discount Admission Tickets Grant Wood Trail,
and a large glacial
The Marion Parks & Recreation Department offers a boulder formation
variety of discounted admission tickets to some of the which serves as the
focal point for the
area’s hottest attractions and vacation spots! new park.
Tickets available for purchase starting in May at Lowe Park South Entrance to Lowe Park―Construction is
Arts and Environment Center and Thomas Park. Please call expected to be completed in the spring of 2017. This new
entrance into the center part of Lowe Park can be accessed off
447-3590 for ticket availability and pricing. Irish Drive featuring a 200 stall parking lot that will help serve
parking for recreational activities. In addition, the construction
Tickets must be purchased includes a trail segment that connects the new parking lot
Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. to the Klopfenstein Amphitheater for additional parking for
large events. Future development includes a playground and
additional small parking lot.

Bike Repair Stations & Bike Racks―Two
new bike repair and maintenance stations were
installed at Thomas Park and City Square Park.
These handy stations allow users to hang their bikes
and perform everything from changing a flat to
adjusting brakes and derailleurs. In addition, new
bike racks were installed at City Square, Gill, Taube,
Donnelly, Elza, Ascension, and Lowe.

We no longer offer discount Adventureland Urban Forestry Division― A new division,
tickets as they have opted out of the program Urban Forestry, was created in 2016 within the
Parks and Recreation Department. The department
now has 2 full-time certified arborist on staff
dedicated to managing and maintaining the quality
of the community’s green infrastructure.

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•Recreation Office 447–3590

Let’s Be Friends... Employment Opportunities

Looking for ways to get involved with Marion Parks and The Marion Parks and Recreation Department is a great place to
Recreation? The Friends of the Marion Parks and Friends look for a part-time job. Stop by our office to apply for a position
of Oak Shade Cemetery are always looking for new people as a summer t-ball umpire, flag football official, basketball
to join their group and for volunteers for various Parks and official, recreation program aide, concessions attendant, building
Recreation Department projects. supervisor, or seasonal maintenance worker.
Seasonal lifeguards and swim lesson instructors are needed
Opportunities for the Marion Municipal Swimming Pool during the summer
months. Applications for these positions are due by February 10.

Friends of Oak Shade Cemetery

Oak Shade Cemetery is a great place for walking and
meditating. The Friends of Oak Shade Cemetery group is
meeting on a regular basis. Future projects for the group
include assisting the parks staff with seasonal clean up,
maintaining the perennial flowers beds, headstone repairs,
researching genealogy, and cemetery history. If you are
interested in more information or joining the group, please
contact Jay Kacena at 377-7709. Volunteer opportunities are
available. Follow us on Facebook at "Friends of Oak Shade
Cemetery"

Friends of the Marion Parks Volunteer Coaches Needed!

Organized in 2002, Friends of the Marion Parks, a non- Many of our youth recreational programs and leagues utilize
profit organization, has supported the department volunteer parents/adults to serve as coaches. These volunteer
through purchasing equipment, providing volunteers, and coaches are key to making many of our programs a success.
coordinating park staff recognition. Volunteers help plant, Without the generous spirit and time commitment by
water and weed flower beds and assist with other events. volunteers, these programs would not be possible.
The Board of the Friends of the Marion Parks meets the Volunteer coaches are expected to be a positive role model
second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. from March to for players, parents, and spectators. They teach and stress
October. Since all projects are supported by memberships and age-appropriate skills and fundamentals. They promote good
donations, a membership drive occurs in early September. sportsmanship and fairness
New and renewal memberships are welcomed anytime at all times.
throughout the year. Individual memberships are $10.00, If you are interested in
family memberships are $15.00, and lifelong memberships are becoming a volunteer
$175.00. Memorials are also greatly appreciated and are tax- coach, please indicate that
deductible, as are all memberships and donations. on your child’s registration
If you have ideas for projects, are interested in volunteering form or contact the Parks
or would like to serve on the board, please contact Volunteer and Recreation office at
Coordinator Marjorie Jensen at 377-5516. 447-3590. All volunteer
coaches are required to pass
a background check prior to
beginning coaching duties.

3 www.cityofmarion.org

•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Good Sportsmanship Required! Cancellations & Make-Ups Recreation Policies

All participants in Marion Parks and Recreation programs including Cancellations are posted on www.cityofmarion.org and can also be
players, parents, spectators, found on the Marion Parks and Recreation Department’s Facebook
coaches and officials, will page. You can also elect to sign up for our "text notifications" using your
treat each other with courtesy cellular phone (see instructions below). If school is canceled due to
and respect at all times, no inclement weather, ALL Parks and Recreation activities will be canceled
exceptions! With Marion as well. If school is canceled or dismissed early on a Friday, then ALL
Parks and Recreation, good Friday AND Saturday recreation activities are canceled. Summer
sportsmanship is not only activities will be canceled in the event of a heat warning being issued.
expected, it is REQUIRED! Every effort will be made to reschedule any missed programs. However,
due to facility and staff availability, we cannot guarantee the make-ups
Register Early! will be at the same time, day, or location.

Nothing hurts a program more than missed deadlines. Please register Text Notifications
early to ensure we have adequate numbers to hold our programs,
allowing you and your child the opportunity to participate in the Easy as 1, 2, 3...
desired activity. Registering before the deadline also helps ensure that
we have enough time to order any necessary equipment or supplies for 1. From your cellular device, start a new next message and
the program. We cannot guarantee there will be any openings after the
deadline has passed. Once a program is full, participants may choose to type the number "40404" as the recipient.

be placed on a waiting list. 2. Type the following exactly as it looks into the body of the

Fees & Refunds text: Follow @MarionIAParkRec.
There must be a space after the word "follow".
All fees are due at the time of your
registration. Cash, check, and credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard,
Discover) are accepted. Checks should be made out to Marion Parks 3. Hit send.
and Recreation. A non-refundable late fee of $10.00 per individual You should receive a confirmation text back to your device shortly
registration will be added after the registration deadline has passed. after confirming that you are now following @MarionIAParkRec and
Refunds will be given for withdrawals from an activity prior to the start will receive any tweets from this account.
of the event, less a $10.00 administrative fee. There are no refunds You DO NOT need to have a Twitter account to utilize this service.
after a program has started and fees will not be prorated if you chose to It will operate as a standard text message, so standard text messaging
register for a program late. Refund checks will be mailed and can take up and data rates may apply.

to three weeks to process. There is a $25.00 fee for returned checks. Please keep in mind this is intended to be used for weather and

Financial Assistance program related announcements, as well as emergency notices only.
At this time, we do not have the ability to isolate by activities, so if
We want to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate you sign up you will receive all "tweets" that the department sends
in any of our programs. To be eligible for assistance, you must be a via text message to your device.
Marion resident. Financial assistance forms are available at either
Thomas Park or Lowe Park offices and require you to provide proof
of income as well as any additional assistance. If approved, you will be Confirmation
required to pay a 25% co-payment of the recreation program cost and a
50% co-payment for a swimming pool pass and pool programs. We do NOT send confirmation notices of registrations. Please assume
your class/program will be held at the time and place indicated unless
you are notified otherwise. We will be happy to send you a confirmation
if you include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your registration.
ATTENTION! Active Participants
Correspondence
Participants in any Marion Parks and Recreation program assume
responsibility for any risk, implicit or direct, by participation in said We communicate primarily through email. It is beneficial for you
activity or facility. Many programs involve body contact, substantial to provide us with a valid email address, so we can communicate
physical exertion, emotional stress, and/or use of equipment, which effectively with you regarding various program offerings. If you do not
represents a certain inherent risk to users. It is recommended you check have an email address, you can request to have your information mailed
with your physician prior to participating. to you. We do send out a monthly e-newsletter that is emailed directly

Insurance to you the first week of each month. These newsletters have registration
deadline reminders, upcoming programs, park news, and much more.
The City of Marion’s Parks and Recreation Department does not provide If you would like to be placed on this list, please contact the Parks
individual accident liability insurance. and Recreation Department at 447-3590 or email Karlene Hummel at

Team Assignment Policy [email protected].

To assign teams fairly and randomly, volunteer coaches may pick one Photo Policy
assistant. If a program needs more than two coaches per team, Marion
Parks and Recreation will assign the additional assistants from names of Photos are occasionally taken of participants in our programs, classes,
volunteers appearing on the registration forms. You will be notified of or activities and of people enjoying our parks. Please be aware that
your team assignment by your assigned coach or emailed the information these photos may be used in future programs, brochures, websites,
directly from the Parks and Recreation Department. Children will be fliers or news releases. Parents are welcome to share photos of their
randomly assigned to teams. Children living in the same household will child participating in any of our recreational programs or activities at
be placed on the same team if they are in the same division. No special their own discretion. Photos may be used in various Marion Parks and
team or carpooling requests, please! Recreation publications and marketing materials.

Follow The Cit y of Marion On Twitter @Cit yofMarionIA 4

•Recreation Office 447–3590

Youth Sports Tiny Goal Kickers Soccer Boys PeeWee Baseball

CHILDREN AGES 4–6 BOYS AGE 5 (BY JUNE 1, 2017)

An instructional league designed This program is an instructional league which focuses on hitting,
to develop and introduce basic throwing, fielding and learning the rules of baseball. Players have the
soccer skills, rules, and other option of hitting off the tee or having a coach pitch to them. Teams will
concepts. Players are randomly practice 1-2 times a week. VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
assigned to teams in this non- Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt
competitive, 6-week CO-ED Days/Dates: Practices: Begin mid-May, Monday–Friday
league. The first 2 nights are Games: June 9–July 15
treated as group practices as Time(s): Games on Friday evenings OR Saturday mornings
recreation staff will demonstrate Location: Practice and game locations vary by division
skills and drills for coaches to Registration Deadline: April 14, 2017
replicate with their team. The
remaining 4 nights will be games Boys Advanced PeeWee Baseball
against opposing teams in a 3v3
or 4v4 format on a small, scaled- BOYS AGE 6–8* (BY JUNE 1, 2017)
down soccer field. VOLUNTEER
COACHES ARE NEEDED! Players continue to learn and develop
Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt the fundamentals of hitting, throwing,
Days/Dates: 4 Year Olds: Tuesdays, April 4–May 9 fielding along with basic rules of the
5/6 Year Olds: Thursdays, April 6–May 11 game. Coaches pitch to the players.
Time(s): 5:30–6:15 p.m. OR 6:30–7:15 p.m. (Select One) Teams will practice 1-2 times a week.
Location: Butterfield Park VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017 *8 year olds may choose between the
PeeWee League (coach-pitch)
Kick Star Soccer (Select One) and the Marion Boys Baseball’s Pony
League (player pitch).
CHILDREN AGE 3 Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt
Days/Dates: Practices: Begin mid-May, Monday–Friday
This 4-week program introduces Games: June 9–July 15
players to the basics of organized Time(s): Games on Friday evenings OR Saturday mornings
soccer in a fun, non-competitive Location: Practice and game locations vary by division
environment. A variety of soccer skills Registration Deadline: April 14, 2017
are introduced using drills, games,
and activities. These fundamentals Girls PeeWee Softball
include: kicking, dribbling, passing,
tapping, throw-ins, running, and GIRLS GRADES K–2ND (FALL 2017/18)
agility. The most important part of
this program is that the kids have fun Players are introduced to the basic rules
and learn about soccer in a structured and skills of softball. Players will work
environment. VOLUNTEER on understanding the fundamentals and
COACHES ARE NEEDED! developing skills such as hitting, throwing
Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt and fielding. Teams will practice 1-2 times a
Days/Dates: Mondays, April 10–May 1 week. VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
Time(s): 5:30–6 p.m. OR 6:15–6:45 p.m. Kindergarten League―Players have
Location: Butterfield Park the option of hitting off a tee or having a
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017 coach pitch to them.
1st/2nd Grade League―Coaches will
Happy Feet Soccer Camp pitch to the players.
Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt
CHILDREN AGE 3 Days/Dates: Practices: Begin mid-May,
Monday–Friday
This fun summer soccer camp will allow your kids to socialize Games: June 9–July 15
and interact with other little ones in a fun, non-competitive Time(s): Games on Friday evenings OR
environment. Kids will learn the very basics of soccer through
a variety of games and activities. Emphasis will be placed on Saturday mornings
developing the fundamentals of: kicking, dribbling, passing, tapping, Location: Practice and game locations
running, and agility. vary by division
Fee: $33.00, includes camp shirt Registration Deadline: April 14, 2017
Days/Dates: Mondays AND Wednesdays, July 10–19
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. OR 5:30–6 p.m. (Select One)
Location: Butterfield Park
Registration Deadline: June 16, 2017

5 www.cityofmarion.org

•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Peg Pierce Marion Girls Softball Marion Boys Baseball Youth Sports

GIRLS GRADES 3RD–9TH (FALL 2017/18) CHILDREN AGES 8—18* (BY APRIL 1, 2017)

Recreational softball league with an Pony League—8* & 9 year olds
emphasis on developing skills and learning Minor League—10, 11, 12 year olds
basic fundamentals of softball. Teams Major League—13, 14, 15 year olds
are divided into divisions based on their Senior League—16, 17, 18 year olds
grade (2nd/3rd, 4th/5th, 6th-8th). Games *8 year olds may choose between the PeeWee League (coach-pitch) and
played at Peg Pierce Softball Complex. the Marion Boys Baseball’s Pony League (player pitch).
VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED! Games played at Starry Park baseball complex or Lowe Park baseball
Please visit―www.mariongirlssoftball.org complex. Practices will begin mid-April with games beginning May 13.
Find us on Facebook―Peg Pierce Marion Girls Softball VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!

Three ways to register for this league: Please visit―www.marionbaseball.org

1. On-Site Registration: Find us on Facebook―Marion Boys Baseball
Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Saturdays, February 4 and 11, 9 a.m.–noon Follow us on Twitter―@MarionBoysBaseball

2. Marion Parks and Recreation Office: Three ways to register for this league:
4500 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302
Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. 1. On-Site Registration:
3. Website/Mail―www.mariongirlssoftball.org: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Print registration form from website and mail form and payment to: Saturday, January 28 from 10 a.m.–noon
Marion Parks and Recreation Saturdays, February 4 and 11, 9 a.m.–noon
4500 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302
Fee: $15.00, includes team shirt 2. Marion Parks and Recreation Office:
4500 N 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302
$25.00 after the March 1 registration deadline Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.
Make checks payable to Marion Girls Softball 3. Website/Mail―www.marionbaseball.org:
Register Deadline: March 1, 2017 Register online using a credit/debit card or print a registration form
from the website and mail form with payment to:
Little Sluggers Blastball Marion Boys Baseball—P.O. Box 1060, Marion, IA 52302

CHILDREN AGES 3 & 4 Fee(s): $45 per player, before January 31, 2017
$50 per player, February 1–March 14, 2017
Blastball is a fast-paced game that teaches the $55 per player, March 15–31, 2017
very basic skills involved with t-ball. Players $60 per player, after March 31, 2017
work on throwing, hitting, fielding, teamwork Make checks payable to Marion Boys Baseball
and sportsmanship. This program does NOT
have practices. 3 year olds and 4 year olds are two
separate divisions and will play on separate teams.
VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt
Days/Dates: Thursdays, June 8–July 13
Time(s): 5:30–6:15 p.m. AND 6:30–7:15 p.m.

(Game Times Will Rotate Each Week)
Location: Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: April 14, 2017

Indoor Blastball Camp (2018) MBoaysrAiogneBs 8o–y1s5B(BaY AsPeRbILa1,l2l017F) all Ball

CHILDREN AGE 3 Pony League—8 & 9 year olds
Minor League—10, 11, 12 year olds
Blastball helps prepare players for organized baseball/ Major League— 13, 14, 15 year olds
softball in a fun, non-competitive environment. Continue the season into the fall with this new 4-week developmental
Children will be introduced to the fundamentals of league. Teams will meet 2-3 times per week for practices and/or games.
throwing, hitting, and fielding while fostering the values Practices and games are held Monday–Thursday at Lowe Park and/or
of teamwork and good sportsmanship. Limited number Starry Park.
of spots available. VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
Fee: $33.00, includes child’s team shirt Fee(s): Current Player: $10.00 per child
Days/Dates: Saturdays, February 3–March 3 New Player: $30.00 per child
Time(s): Times may vary on Saturday mornings Make checks payable to Marion Boys Baseball
Location: Bowman Woods Elementary
Registration Deadline: December 15, 2017 Dates: August 14–September 8
Registration Deadline: August 4, 2017
6
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•Recreation Office 447–3590

Youth Sports Little Sports Camp Y T Louth ennis essons (Multiple Sessions)

CHILDREN AGES 3 & 4 CHILDREN AGES 4–13

Increase your child’s coordination and motor skills while sparking his/her The Marion Parks and Recreation Department will once again
interest in sports! Activities introduced during this program may include: be offering youth tennis classes as part of a partnership with the
t-ball, soccer, football, kickball, basketball, or golf. This program is set Westfield Tennis Club. Classes are led by instructors that have
up to focus on each sport in a creative way that your child is sure to love. been trained by highly qualified and certified tennis professionals.
Limited number of spots available. Minimum class size 2, maximum class size 10. Only rain dates will
be made up.
Fee: $33.00, includes camp shirt
Days/Dates: Mondays AND Wednesdays, May 15–24 SUMMER SESSIONS:
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m.
5:30–6 p.m. (Select One) Session 1: PM, Mondays, June 5–July 3
6:15–6:45 p.m.
Location: Butterfield Park Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
Registration Deadline: April 21, 2017 AM, Fridays, June 9–July 7
Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
Little Kickers (Select One) Registration Deadline S1: May 26, 2017
Kickball
Session 2: PM, Mondays, July 10–August 7
CHILDREN AGES 3 & 4
Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
An instructional approach to the AM, Fridays, July 14–August 11
childhood classic game kickball. Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
Come socialize and join other kids Registration Deadline S2: June 30, 2017
your age and have a ball learning how
to play kickball. Limited number of All programs/sessions held at
spots available. Oak Ridge Middle School tennis courts
Fee: $25.00
Days/Dates: Tuesdays, June 6–27 Tots
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. OR 5:30–6 p.m.
Location: Butterfield Park CHILDREN AGES 4–6
Registration Deadline: May 19, 2017 This class is an introduction to tennis and meant to develop
basic tennis skill set such as hand-eye coordination.
NEW! Track & Field Games Camp
Class Options:
CHILDREN AGES 5 & 6
(Select One)
Running, throwing, jumping, and more. Give this new agility camp a try. Mondays, 5–5:45 p.m. OR Fridays, 9–9:45 a.m.
From relays to obstacle courses to lawn games, this new camp will keep
your kids moving in friendly games, activities, and drills. Rookies
Fee: $25.00
Days/Dates: Mondays, July 31–August 21 CHILDREN AGES 7–10
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. This class is for the junior who is just beginning to play
5:30–6 p.m. (Select One) tennis. We provide a fun environment while teaching basic
6:15–6:45 p.m. strokes and rules of the game.
Location: Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: July 14, 2017 Class Options:

Backyard Lawn Games Camp (Select One)
Mondays, 6–6:55 p.m. OR Fridays, 10–10:55 a.m.
CHILDREN AGES 6–10
Racqueteers
Tired of the same old traditional sports? This may be the program you're
looking for. Sample and learn to play some of the favorite classic backyard CHILDREN AGES 11–13
lawn games as well as other non-traditional sport activities such as disc The emphasis is on control and consistency. Drills will intro-
golf or rolle bolle. Limited number of spots available. duce directional intent and improve mechanics.

Class Options:

(Select One)
Mondays, 7–7:55 p.m. OR Fridays, 11–11:55 a.m.

Fee: $25.00 (Select One)
Days/Dates: Mondays, July 31–August 21
Time(s): 10:45 a.m.–11:30 p.m. OR 7–7:45 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: July 14, 2017

7 www.cityofmarion.org

•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

NEW! Youth Rugby Camp Little Pigskins Football Camp Youth Sports

CHILDREN AGES 5+ CHILDREN AGES 4 & 5

Rugby is one of the fastest growing sports Children are introduced to basics of football without the contact
in America. Join the Cedar Rapids Rugby and learn the skills necessary to play football. Staff combine fun and
Club for this new rugby style camp. fundamentals through skill-building drills, activities, and games while
Learn all the skills, fundamentals, and emphasizing the importance of good sportsmanship. Limited number
terminology to begin playing rugby. This of spots available.
is a NON-CONTACT style day camp. Fee: $33.00, includes camp shirt
Participants should bring a sack lunch for Days/Dates: Mondays AND Wednesdays, July 10–19
the day. Each camper will receive a camp Time(s): 10:45–11:15 a.m. OR 6:15–6:45 p.m. (Select One)
t-shirt and their very own rugby ball to Location: Butterfield Park
take home with them. Registration Deadline: June 16, 2017
Fee: $35.00, includes camp shirt and your own rugby ball
Days/Dates: Saturday, May 27 PeeWee Flag Football
Time(s): 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park CHILDREN GRADES K–1ST (FALL 2017/18)
Registration Deadline: May 5, 2017
This instructional league is run
NEW! Start Smart Lacrosse Camp like a mini clinic that teaches the
fundamentals of football. These
CHILDREN AGES 6–10 include such things as: throwing,
catching, running, blocking, hand-
This new camp will introduce children to the basics of lacrosse in a offs, learning plays/formations, etc.
non-contact format. Learn the skills of shooting, passing, catching, Players have instructional practices
cradling, stick handling, running, and general agility. Children will also the first 3 nights and games the
be introduced to basic game format and rules of the game. Limited remaining 5 night of the program.
number of spots available. VOLUNTEER COACHES
Fee: $25.00 NEEDED!
Days/Dates: Mondays AND Wednesdays, July 10–19 Fee: $33.00, includes team shirt
Time(s): 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m. OR 7–7:45 p.m. (Select One) Days/Dates: Tuesdays AND Thursdays, August 15–September 7
Location: Butterfield Park Time(s): 5:30–6:15 p.m. OR 6:30–7:15 p.m. (Select One)
Registration Deadline: June 16, 2017 Location: Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: July 14, 2017

Lil' Chippers Golf Youth Flag Football

CHILDREN AGES 6–10 CHILDREN GRADES 2ND–5TH (FALL 2017/18)

Hit the links and learn to play golf using the S.N.A.G. (Starting New At This is a recreational league with emphasis on fundamentals and skill
Golf) golf system. Oversized clubs, balls, and large velcro targets make development. Coaches schedule their own practices beginning in late
this a fun and easy way to introduce golf and for anyone to learn the August with games beginning in early September. A 6-game season
game and techniques in a unique atmosphere. Morning and evening will be played by each team. There will be a coaches meeting prior to
classes are available. Limited number of spots available. practices being scheduled. VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
Fee: $25.00 Fee: $40.00, includes team shirt
Days/Dates: Tuesdays, June 6–27 Days/Dates: Saturdays, September 9–October 14
Time(s): 10:45–11:30 a.m. Time(s): Saturday morning games with weekly practice(s)
Location: Practice locations vary by team
6:15–7 p.m. (Select One) Games will be played at Lowe Park
7:15–8 p.m. Registration Deadline: July 14, 2017
Location: Butterfield Park
Registration Deadline: May 19, 2017

NEW! Putt-Putt Indoor Golf 8

CHILDREN AGES 5 & 6

An introduction to putting using the S.N.A.G. (Starting New At Golf)
golf system. Children will learn proper stance and grip as well as proper
stroke and pace. Kids will practice putting through a variety of obstacles
and play rounds of "mini golf " to practice the skills. Limited number of
spots available.

Fee: $25.00
Days/Dates: Tuesdays, November 7–28
Time(s): 5:30–6:00 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park OR Thomas Park Safe Room
Registration Deadline: October 6, 2017

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•Recreation Office 447–3590

Youth Sports Indoor Bags Camp NEW! MLB Pitch, Hit, & Run Competition

CHILDREN AGES 6–10 CHILDREN AGES 7–14

Looking for something to keep the kids busy during spring break? Major League Baseball Pitch Hit & Run
Look no further than this new kid friendly camp. Kids will first learn (PHR) is a FREE, 1-day event for boys
all the rules and techniques associated with the game through various and girls ages 7–14. PHR is the official
skill-building games and activities. After that, they will take turns skills competition of Major League
playing games against other singles and/or duos in an elimination style Baseball. Participants compete in
tournament. Program held at the Thomas Park Safe Room. Limited either the Baseball Division or Softball
number of spots available. Division and have the opportunity to advance through four levels of
Fee: $15.00 competition including Locals, Sectionals, Team Championships and
Days/Dates: Monday, March 13 the National Finals at the MLB All-Star Game.
Time(s): 9 a.m.–noon Fee: FREE, but must pre-register for the event
Location: Thomas Park Safe Room Days/Dates: Saturday, April 29
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017 Time(s): 9 a.m.–noon
Location: To Be Determined
NEW! Putt-Putt Golf Camp Registration Deadline: April 7, 2017

CHILDREN AGES 6–10 COMING SOON! Live Healthy Iowa Track

An introduction to putting using the S.N.A.G. (Starting New At Golf) CHILDREN AGES 7–14
golf system. Children will learn proper stance and grip as well as
proper stroke and pace. Kids will practice putting through a variety of Join the Marion and Hiawatha Parks and
obstacles and play rounds of "mini golf " to practice the skills. Limited Recreation Departments for this local
number of spots available. skills competition. The Live Healthy
Fee: $15.00 Iowa Kids Track Championships event
Days/Dates: Tuesday, March 14 was founded in 2015 to continue on
Time(s): 9 a.m.–noon the tradition of the Hershey Track
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center and Field Games in Iowa. Like it's
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017 predecessor, the Live Healthy Iowa
Kids Track Championships is a free,
Thank You Coaches! state wide event that requires no
special equipment to participate. Local meets are hosted all around
A special “Thank You” to all of our wonderful Iowa, giving participants a chance to compete in their hometowns.
coaches and volunteers that help us throughout Local meet champions will have the opportunity to participate in the
the year. Many of our programs and events would state meet held in Marshalltown.
not be possible without your generous spirit and Info: This event will be FREE for participants, but details for this
time commitment. We understand that every event are still being worked out. Check the Marion Parks and
person’s time is valuable and we truly appreciate Recreation website in early spring 2017 for more information such
as date, time, location, and other information.
you sacrificing your time to help support the
Marion Parks and Recreation Department. NEW! NFL Punt, Pass, Kick Competition

CHILDREN AGES 6–15

Join the Marion and Hiawatha Parks and
Recreation Departments for this local skills
competition. The NFL Punt, Pass, & Kick program
is a national skills competition for boys and girls
between the ages of 6 and 15 to compete separately
against their peers. Girls and boys in five separate
age divisions (6–7, 8–9, 10–11, 12–13, and 14–15)
compete against each other in punting, passing and
place kicking in a fun and engaging forum. With
thousands of boys and girls from around the country taking part in
PPK competitions every year from May through January, it is one of the
world's largest youth sports participation programs.
Fee: FREE, but must pre-register for the event
Days/Dates: Wednesday, August 30
Time(s): 5–7 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: August 18, 2017

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•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Youth 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament Youth 5 on 5 Basketball Youth Sports

CHILDREN GRADES 3RD–6TH (FALL 2017/18) CHILDREN GRADES 2ND–6TH (FALL 2017/18)

Organize your own team and compete in this new summer 3 on 3 League is divided into 2nd/3rd grades and 4th/5th/6th grades. Boys
basketball tournament. Teams will be combined into 3rd/4th grade and and girls play in separate divisions. This instructional league works on
5th/6th grade teams. There will be a separate boys and girls division. teaching the fundamentals of basketball and stressing the importance
Games will be officiated and played in a half-court format. Each team of good sportsmanship and having fun while playing the game. One
will be guaranteed a minimum of 2 games. COACHES REQUIRED! hour practices held once or twice a week, beginning in mid-November,
Minimum of 4 teams required (per division) to hold tournament. Monday–Friday. VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED!
Fee: $39.00*, includes team shirt
Fee: $50.00 per team (Min–3 players; Max–5 players) Days/Dates: Games Saturday mornings, December 2–January 20
Days/Dates: Saturday, May 20 Time(s): Saturday morning games with weekly evening practice(s)
Time(s): Games begin at 10 a.m. Location: Echo Hill, Bowman Woods, and Excelsior Schools
Location: Thomas Park Basketball Courts Registration Deadline: October 13, 2017
Registration Deadline: April 28, 2017

NEW! Lil' Tykes Basketball Camp Little Stars Basketball (2018)

CHILDREN AGES 3–6 CHILDREN AGE 4

Join the Marion Parks and Recreation staff this fall for this new Players meet for 5 classes to work on very basic ball handling, shooting,
youth basketball program. This program is held outdoors at the and passing skills. Parents participate with their child or children for
Thomas Park basketball courts. Children will learn a variety of basic this program as recreation staff instructs and demonstrates the drills.
fundamentals such as dribbling, shooting, passing, defense, and more Fee: $39.00*, includes camp shirt
through a variety of drills and fun skill-building exercises. There Days/Dates: Saturdays, February 3–March 3
are no games played during this program. The primary objective of Time(s): Saturday mornings
this program is to introduce children to the basic fundamentals of Location: Echo Hill Elementary School
basketball in a non-competitive environment. Registration Deadline: December 15, 2017
Fee: $33.00, includes camp shirt
Days/Dates: Wednesdays, September 6–27
Time(s): 3/4 Year Olds: 5:30–6:00 p.m.

5/6 Year Olds: 6:15–6:45 p.m.
Location: Thomas Park Basketball Courts
Registration Deadline: August 18, 2017

Shooting Stars Basketball (2018)

CHILDREN GRADES K–1ST (FALL 2017/18)

This instructional program works on the basic skills of dribbling,
passing, and shooting. Players spend the first 2 meetings working on
skills and practicing with their team and coach(es), then scrimmage the
remaining 3 meetings. There are no additional practices. VOLUNTEER
COACHES NEEDED!
Fee: $39.00*, includes team shirt
Days/Dates: Saturdays, February 3–March 3
Time(s): Saturday mornings
Location: Echo Hill and Bowman Woods Elementary Schools
Registration Deadline: December 15, 2017

*All basketball fees are impacted by a gym rental fee to use
school gymnasiums and are included in the registration fee.

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•Recreation Office 447–3590

Youth Programs Lil' Leprechaun's Day Camp Halloween Boo Camp

CHILDREN GRADES K–5TH CHILDREN GRADES K–5TH

It’s Spring Break! Spend the afternoon Ghosts, goblins, goodies, and games! This is a night for the kids as we
at Lowe Park with our recreation staff celebrate all things Halloween. Drop your kids off and let our recreation
as they lead the kids through games, staff lead them through a night of spooky games, crafts, snacks and
crafts, snacks, and more. We may even more. Limited number of spots available.
go searching for that leprechaun and Fee: $25.00 per child, includes a pizza dinner
his pot of gold! Please dress accordingly Days/Dates: Friday, October 27
for the weather as we may be outside Time: 5–9 p.m.
for a portion of the afternoon. Limited Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Registration Deadline: October 6, 2017
number of spots available.
Fee: $25.00 per child Great Tree Decorating Contest
Days/Dates: Wednesday, March 15
Time: noon–5 p.m. CHILDREN AGES 3+
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017 Our Christmas tree could use a little T.L.C. Help us decorate our tree at
Lowe Park for the season. Fill, paint, color your ornament and leave it for
EGGStraordinary Egg Hunt us to put on our tree. Ornaments will be voted on by a combination of
public, department staff and Facebook “Likes”.
CHILDREN AGES 3–8 Fee: $10.00 per child
Days/Dates: Monday, December 4
This event is always a hit with the kids and Time(s): 10–11 a.m. OR 6–7 p.m. (Select One)
parents! Join other fellow egg hunters for a night Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
your child won’t soon forget. Children will first Registration Deadline: November 17, 2017
create their own Easter craft(s), then they’re off
in search of the mysterious glowing eggs. Who Candy Cane Hunt
knows, there may even be an Easter Bunny
sighting. The egg hunt will be outside, weather CHILDREN AGES 3–6
permitting. Please dress accordingly. Limited
number of spots available. For everyone that still believes! Someone
Fee: $12.00 per child has left candy canes around the Lowe
Days/Dates: Saturday, April 8 Park Arts & Environment Center. Come
Time: 7:30–9 p.m. help us find them all! First, we’ll decorate
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center some seasonal crafts and then the hunt
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017 is on to find every last candy cane. After
the hunt, we’ll enjoy milk, juice and
The Painted Pumpkin treats and maybe even a Christmas story.
Limited number of spots available.
CHILDREN AGES 3+ Fee: $12.00 per child
Days/Dates: Saturday, December 9
No carving here! Help us decorate Time: 9–10:30 a.m.
the Lowe Park Arts & Environment Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Center for Halloween. Painters will Registration Deadline: November 17. 2017
receive one pumpkin with their
registration to decorate to their liking. Santa's Little Workshop
Paint and limited craft supplies will be
provided. Pumpkins will be voted on CHILDREN GRADES K–5TH
by a combination of staff, public and
Facebook “Likes”. See what the elf culture is all about by bringing your kids to Santa’s Little
Fee: $10.00 per child Workshop for an afternoon filled with games, crafts, snacks, music,
Days/Dates: Tuesday, October 10 movies, and more. Drop your kids off and finish up those last minute
Time(s): 10–11 a.m. OR 6–7 p.m. (Select One) Christmas errands. Limited number of spots available.
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center Fee: $25.00 per child
Registration Deadline: October 6, 2017 Days/Dates: Saturday, December 9
Time: noon–5 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Registration Deadline: November 17. 2017

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•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Cockroach Races Fish Iowa! Free Fishing Weekend Youth Programs

OPEN TO ALL AGES OPEN TO ALL AGES

Bugs hold a bit of intrigue for everybody, but are often misunderstood. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) hosts free fishing
Find out why these pretty amazing creatures play a huge role in nature. weekend for Iowa residents only during the first Friday, Saturday and
Touch a live cockroach that is from around the world. This free, family- Sunday of June (2, 3, 4). Get out and enjoy the waterways and give fishing
friendly event will feature educational activities with a swarm of bug- a try on this free fishing weekend. All fishing regulations must be obeyed
related games and crafts and then its off to the races! Maybe you’ll pick during your fishing outing. Marion Parks and Recreation is not able to
the lucky cockroach in the cockroach races! Pre-registration is required, host a fishing clinic this year, but pleases check the Iowa DNR's website
so grab the larvae and scurry over for all the six-legged fun. Program (http://www.iowadnr.gov/) for more information, programs, popular
is held at Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center. Limited number of fishing locations, and rules and regulations for fishing in Iowa.
spots available! Fee: FREE, no fishing license required during this weekend only
Fee: FREE, but must contact 447-3590 to register Days/Dates: June 2, 3, and 4
Days/Dates: Thursday, March 16 Time: All day (Friday–Sunday)
Time: 2–3:30 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center Monarch Tagging
Registration Deadline: March 3, 2017
OPEN TO ALL AGES

Gail Barels, Linn County Conservation Education Specialist, will
provide tags and nets for collecting monarchs to tag and release. Two
years of poor reproduction of monarchs in the United States produced
the lowest ever recorded wintering population of monarch butterflies
in Mexico during the winters of 2013 and 2014. This lead to major
concerns across the country that the monarch population was in critical
danger. Join us to learn about current concerns about migration and
what is being done to provide for monarchs in their breeding and
wintering areas.  You can help tag and release monarchs as part of a
citizen science program through the University of Kansas’ Monarch
Watch program. Nets and tags will be provided.
Fee: FREE, participants encouraged to RSVP by calling 447-3590
Days/Dates: Thursday, August 31
Time(s): Starts at 4:30 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Registration Deadline: August 25, 2017

The programs on this page are possible thanks to a partnership 12
between the Marion Parks and Recreation Department and
Linn County Conservation Department and Wickiup Hill. A
huge thank you to all the staff from Linn County and Wickiup
Hill for making these programs possible. If you like any of
these classes and want to participate in more classes like these,
please visit...

Wickiup Hill Learning Center
10260 Morris Hills Road
Toddville, IA 52341
319-892-6450

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•Recreation Office 447–3590

Youth Programs Winter Olympic Day Tot Time at Lowe Park

CHILDREN GRADES K–5TH CHILDREN AGES 2+

Looking for something to keep the little ones active for an afternoon Looking for something fun to keep your little one busy and active? Give
on a no school day? Look no further than this new afternoon camp. this new program a try! Parents and children will have access each day
Children will participate in variety of fun games and activities. Please to a variety of sports equipment and games to play with. No structure
dress your child accordingly as we plan to be outside for a portion of the or instructor, just show up and play with the provided equipment! This
afternoon. Limited number of spots available. program is held outdoors. In the event of inclement weather or rain, the
Fee: $25.00 per child program will be canceled.
Days/Dates: Monday, February 20 Fee: FREE, just show up ready to play and mingle
Time: noon–5 p.m. Days/Dates: Thursdays, June 8–July 27
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center Time: 10 a.m.–noon
Registration Deadline: February 3, 2017 Location: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center

Lil' Chefs Cooking Story Time at The Amphitheater
Class
CHILDREN AGES 1+
CHILDREN AGES 3–5
Join us out at Lowe Park as the Marion Public Library brings their
Come ready to bake, cook, and have a great popular story time on the road. Enjoy a story with your little one as you
time with other kids your age. Children take in the beautiful surroundings that the park has to offer. Program
will create delicious snacks and treats to will be held outdoors as weather permits.
eat and take home with them. Parents are Fee: FREE, just show up ready to listen
encouraged to participate with their child. Days/Dates: Thursdays, June 8―July 27
Bring your appetite! Limit 15 participants. Time: 11–11:30 a.m.
Fee: $30.00 per child Location: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center
Days/Dates: Thursdays, February 2–23
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. OR 5:30–6 p.m. (Select One) NEW! Summer M.U.S.I.C. Camps
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Registration Deadline: January 20, 2017 CHILDREN GRADES K–5TH

Kid Crafters Art Class Join local music instructor,
Carly Schieffer, for some
CHILDREN AGES 3–5 interactive music camps this
summer at the Lowe Park
Come join and socialize with other kids your age as Arts & Environment Center
we create different seasonal and holiday crafts and (M.U.S.I.C..―Movement/
art projects each session. Parents are encouraged dance, Understand
to participate with their child. This program is (reading/writing), Singing,
supported by the Marion Arts Council. Limit 15 Instruments, and Create).
participants. There will be a total of two sessions offered. Limited number of
Fee: $25.00 per child spots available each session.
Days/Dates: Tuesdays, March 7–28
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. OR 5:30–6 p.m. (Select One) Session 1: On The Farm (K―2nd Grade)→ Children
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
Registration Deadline: February 24, 2017 will have the opportunity to participate in M.U.S.I.C. activities
centered on farm themes through singing games, folk dances,
Lil' Chefs & Kid Crafters Combo listening activities, and more. Camp begins Monday and
concludes with a brown-bag lunch "informance" on Friday for the
CHILDREN AGES 3–5 parents.

Can’t decide on the crafts or cooking? If so, then this is the class for you Session 2: Explore (3rd―5th Grade)→ Children will have
and your little one. Get the best of both worlds with this new combo
class. Children will craft/cook alternating weeks, so you have two crafts the opportunity to participate in M.U.S.I.C. activities centered on
and two cooking experiences. Parents are encouraged to participate multicultural music through singing games, folk dances, listening
with their child. Limit 15 participants. activities, and more. Camp begins Monday and concludes with a
Fee: $25.00 per child brown-bag lunch "informance" on Friday for the parents.
Days/Dates: Wednesdays, October 18–November 8 Fee: $50.00 per child
Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. OR 5:30–6 p.m. (Select One) Dates/ Times: Session 1: June 19–23, 9–11 a.m.
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center Session 2: June 19–23, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 6, 2017 Location: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center
Registration Deadlines: June 9, 2017

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•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Summer Art Camps NEW! Beginners Magic Camp 101 Youth Programs

CHILDREN GRADES 2ND–8TH CHILDREN AGES10+*

Join local art instructor, Mike Brandt, for Are your kids fascinated with the
some interactive art camps this summer world of Magic or want to learn
at the Lowe Park Arts & Environment more about the art of magic?
Center. There will be a total of 6 different Join local magician, Tim Stolba,
sessions offered, so please look at each owner of the Iowa Magic Shop,
camp’s area of concentration. Limited and learn to perform fabulous
number of spots available each session. feats of amazing magic with
ordinary objects such as ropes,
Session 1: Cartooning I → This is an intro class to the art coins, rubber bands, cards, and
more. Props are provided as part
of cartooning. We will use the Art Elements to dive into creating of the program. This class briefly
cartoons in many different mediums explores the history and theory of magic, famous magicians, code of
ethics, types of magic, magic “vocabulary”, performance techniques,
Session 2: Painting I → This class will explore many ways developing a stage persona and of course learning magic tricks! 
Beyond the entertainment value, magic helps improve dexterity,
of painting. We will use tempera, watercolor, and acrylic paint coordination, visual perception, memory, critical thinking, creativity,
to create works of art. They will be exposed to many painting discipline, public speaking skills, self-confidence, and imagination!
techniques from the world of painting. Limit 12 participants per session.
*Children under 10 years of age can participate with an
Session 3: Cartooning II → This class continues the art accompanying adult. Adult must be engaged and participate in the
camp with the child.
of cartooning. You do not have to have Cartooning 1 to take this Fee: $75.00 per session, includes a magic kit & supplies
class. We will explore new and different project in Cartooning. Days/Dates: Session 1: June 12–16 (Monday–Friday)
Session 2: July 17–21 (Monday–Friday)
Session 4: Painting II → This class continues the art of Session 3: July 24–28 (Monday–Friday)
Time(s): 9–11 a.m.
painting. You do not have to have Painting 1 to take this class. We Location: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center
will explore new and different projects in Painting. Registration Deadline: 1 week prior to class date

Session 5: Mr. B's Favorite 5 Artists→ This class HAVE AN IDEA?

will teach about 5 famous artists and we will create like those Do you have a program, league, or event that
artists each day. They will learn background and experience the you would like to see offered by the Parks and
style of the artist. Recreation Department? Interested in teaching a
class or program as a contract instructor through
Session 6: Sculpture for Kids → This class will the Marion Parks and Recreation Department?

experience the art of sculpture. Students will create sculptures with We are alwaLyselotokUinsg fKor nnoewwa! nd exciting
wood, plaster, air clay, recycled items, and much more.
Fee: $80.00 per session, includes a camp shirt offerings for the people of Marion. If you have
Dates/ Times: Session 1: June 19–23, 9–11 a.m. an idea or program recommendation, please
Session 2: June 19–23, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. contact the Recreation office at 447-3590 or email
Session 3: June 26–30, 9–11 a.m. Recreation Supervisor, Tony Ireland by email at the
Session 4: June 26–30, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. following address: [email protected].
Session 5: July 10–14, 9–11 a.m.
Session 6: July 10–14, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center
Registration Deadlines: 1 week prior to class date

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•Recreation Office 447–3590

Adult Programs Adult Team Trivia Night A T Ldult ennis essons (Multiple Sessions)

ADULTS AGES 18+ ADULTS AGES 18+

Bring your thinking caps and useless trivial knowledge to compete The Marion Parks and Recreation Department will once again be
against other teams of adults in fun and challenging rounds of trivia. offering adult tennis lessons this summer as part of a cooperative
Categories will include, partnership with the Westfield Tennis Club in Cedar Rapids.
but are not limited to: pop Classes are led by instructors that have been trained by highly
culture, movies, music, qualified and certified tennis professionals. Minimum class size 2,
sports, history, brand maximum class size 10. Only rain dates will be made up.
recognition and more.
Participants are welcome SUMMER SESSIONS:
to bring food and drinks
to share with their team. Session 1: PM, Mondays, June 5–July 3
Prizes will be awarded
to the winning teams. Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
Minimum of 6 teams; AM, Fridays, June 9–July 7
Maximum of Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
12 teams. Registration Deadline S1: May 26, 2017
Fee: $80.00 per team (Max: 8 people per team)
Days/Dates: Saturday, March 4 Session 2: PM, Mondays, July 10–August 7
Time(s): 6–9 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
Registration Deadline: February 10, 2017 AM, Fridays, July 14–August 11
Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings)
Adult Wiffleball & Home Run Derby Registration Deadline S2: June 30, 2017

ADULTS AGES 18+ Oak RAildlgperMogidrdalmesS/scehssoioolnstehnenlids actourts

Your reason to act like a kid again is finally here! Sign up for this new Class Options:
adult wiffleball tournament. No need to run the bases or worry about
chasing never ending ground balls. If you can throw and catch a ball (Select One)
and swing a bat, this league is for you. There will be designated hitting
area marked out for the batters and a strike-zone (K-Zone) for the Mondays, 8–8:55 p.m.
pitchers. All players on the roster will bat, but not everyone will play in Fridays, noon–12:55 p.m.
the field. Each team will be guaranteed a minimum of 2 games. There
will be a captain’s meeting before the start of the season. Captains will Adult Bags League
be contacted and notified of the date, time and location. Minimum of 6
teams required to hold tournament. In addition, all players listed on a ADULTS AGES 18+
roster will be eligible to compete in the wiffleball home run derby.
Fee: $50.00 per team (Min–3 players; Max–5 players) Tailgating season is just around the corner! What better way to get
Days/Dates: Saturday, May 6 ready than by taking part in this adult recreational bags league. Teams
Time(s): Games start at 10 a.m. of two will compete in an 8 week season, concluding with an end of the
Location: To Be Determined season elimination tournament. Each night teams will compete in a
Registration Deadline: April 14, 2017 minimum of one complete match (3 games to 21). Limited number of
spots available.
Adult 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament Fee: $30.00 per team of two
Days/Dates: Thursdays, August 3–September 21
ADULTS AGES 18+ Time(s): Matches begin at 6 p.m.
Location: Lowe Park or Thomas Park
Take yourself back to the playground days with this new 3 on 3 Registration Deadline: July 14, 2017
recreational basketball tournament. The tournament will either be a
pool play format or a double elimination style tournament depending Fall Bags Tournament (Swamp Fox Festival)
on the number of teams. There will be separate divisions for men, ADULTS AGES 18+
woman, and co-ed. Games will be officiated and be played in a half-
court format. Each team will be guaranteed a minimum of 2 games. Teams of two will compete in a double elimination tournament as part
There will be a captains meeting the week of May 8. Captains will be of the City’s annual Swamp Fox Festival celebration. Tournament will
contacted and notified of the date, time and location. Minimum of 4 take place following the Swamp Fox Festival Parade. Limited number of
teams required (per division) to hold tournament. spots available, so don’t wait to register, sign up today! Minimum of 6
Fee: $50.00 per team (Min–3 players; Max–5 players) teams required to hold tournament.
Days/Dates: Saturday, May 20 Fee: $15.00 per team of two
Time(s): Games start at 10 a.m. Days/Dates: Saturday, September 30
Location: Thomas Park Basketball Courts Time(s): Matches begin following the Swamp Fox Parade
Registration Deadline: April 28, 2017 Location: City Square Park
Registration Deadline: September 15, 2017

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•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Battle of the Cities Kickball Tournament Sunrise Yoga Adult Programs
ADULTS AGES 18+
OPEN TO ALL AGES
Gather your best team of friends, family, and coworkers and challenge
others as you take yourself back to recess with this exciting new coed Back by popular demand! Join the Marion Parks & Recreation
tournament offered by the Marion and Hiawatha Parks and Recreation Department, Marion Blue Zones Project®, and local fitness clubs/
Departments. Teams will be guaranteed a minimum of 2 games in this gyms for some FREE outdoor yoga this summer. Sunrise Yoga will
double elimination tournament. Teams will be randomly placed into a be held each Saturday morning in June, July, and August outdoors at
double elimination-style bracket. Games will take place at either Lowe the beautiful Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park. Participants
Park baseball complex in Marion or Guthridge Park baseball diamonds should bring a yoga mat or towel for class. Each class will be led by
in Hiawatha. Limited number of spots available. Minimum of 6 teams an instructor from a different yoga studio and last approximately 45
required to hold tournament. minutes to 1 hour.
Fee: $50.00 per team (Min-8 players; Max-20 players) Fee: FREE, just show up ready to get your workout on
Days/Dates: Saturday, August 5 Days/Dates: Saturdays, June 2–August 26
Time(s): Games start at 10 a.m. Time(s): 7:30–8:30 a.m.
Location: Lowe Park in Marion or Guthridge Park in Hiawatha Location: Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: July 14, 2017 Registration Deadline: No registration required, but participants are
asked to sign a waiver upon arrival

Fall Into Fitness
OPEN TO ALL AGES

Whether you are looking for a new fitness class, are tired of doing the
same old fitness routine, or just want to get started, this is the class for
you! The best part of all, it is absolutely FREE. Join the Marion Parks
& Recreation Department and Marion Blue Zones Project® for this
FREE fitness series held outdoor at the Klopfenstein Amphitheater at
Lowe Park. Each week, for 4 weeks, a different fitness routine will be
demonstrated. Find a routine or class that suits your needs and get more
active today! Complete schedule of classes to be released during late
summer 2017.
Fee: FREE, just show up ready to get your workout on
Days/Dates: Tuesdays, September 5–26
Time(s): 6–7 p.m.
Location: Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park
Registration Deadline: No registration required, but participants are
asked to sign a waiver upon arrival

Follow The Cit y of Marion On Twitter @Cit yofMarionIA 16

•Recreation Office 447–3590

Family Programs Curling Clinic NEW! City of Marion Night at the Stable
OPEN TO ALL AGES OPEN TO ALL MARION RESIDENTS

Join the Cedar Rapids Curling Club as they teach all the ins and outs Time for some hockey! Join us for City of Marion
of curling. Curling dates back to the 16th century in Scotland. Players Night at the Stable when the RoughRiders take on
take turns sliding polished granite stones across the ice while teammates the Lincoln Stars. Any Marion employee or resident
influence the distance and direction by sweeping in front of the stone.  is eligible to buy discounted tickets ($4.00 off regular
The goal is to place the most stones in a target while knocking out price per ticket) for themselves, their family, and
opposing team stones. This clinic will feature demonstrations and a friends. Bring the whole family and wear your
live round of curling by the experts. Participants will get to try the favorite hockey jersey.
equipment out for themselves as well. Weather permitting. Tickets: Discounted tickets ($4.00 off regular price per ticket) are
Fee: FREE, but must contact 447-3590 to register available for purchase in person at the RoughRiders box office or by
Days/Dates: Saturday, January 14 calling 261-4625 and mention "Marion Night".
Time(s): 1–3 p.m. Purchase online at www.ridertownusa.com. Use Group ID: marion2017
Location: Thomas Park Ice Rink Date/ Time: Saturday, February 18 at 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
Registration Deadline: January 13, 2017 Location: Cedar Rapids Ice Arena (The Stable)

Snowman Selfies NEW! Summer Safety Night at the Pool
OPEN TO ALL AGES
THURSDAY, MAY 25
It’s Iowa, it’s going to snow! Get out and enjoy the great outdoors when FROM 4:30–6:30 P.M.
the white stuff starts to fly this winter. Simply build yourself a snowman Join us before the pool season “officially” begins. Lifeguards
anytime there is snow on the ground. Snap a selfie with your snowman will be conducting their final night of training and what better
and send it to [email protected]. Please include your contact way to show off their skills than to have the public come out
information and name for your cool snowman. Pictures will be posted and participate. We will demonstrate water safety skills and
to the Marion Parks and Recreation’s Facebook page and the "Snowman rescues and have water games for you to participate in. This
Selfie" with the most “Likes” at the end of the program will receive a open swim is open to everyone. Watch for more details as the
prize from the department. Creativity will help, so make your snowman date gets closer. We've also invited the Marion Police and Fire
standout. Departments to make an appearance. 
Fee: FREE
Dates: January 1–February 28 NEW! Back To School Night at the Pool
Registration Deadline: Snowman Selfie photos will be accepted
January 1-February 28, 2017 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9
FROM 6–8 P.M.
B-I-N-G-O Nights at Lowe Park
OPEN TO ALL AGES Join pool staff for a night of fun and games before the summer
season officially comes to an end. The one night when pool staff
Join us at the Lowe Park gets to interact with the public, participating in water fun and
Arts & Environment games. Watch for more details as the date gets closer.
Center for nights of fun,
socializing, and a chance Ride To Wrigley (Chartered Bus Trip)
to win some cash! Games OPEN TO ALL AGES
of BINGO will be played
for $.25 per card, per Join the Marion and Hiawatha Parks and
game. Cash prizes are paid to the winner of each game. There will also Recreation Departments for a trip to see
be a few bonus games with increased payouts. The night will conclude baseball’s best rivalry...the World Series
with a winner-take-all game of blackout. Participants are welcome Champion Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis
to bring food and drinks to enjoy while they play. Doors will open Cardinals at historic Wrigley Field. Pick
at 6 p.m. Seats and cards are limited, so get there early to guarantee a side and wear your team gear! Your fee
yourself a spot at a table. covers the bus ride and ticket into the
game. You will be responsible for food, drink, souvenirs, etc. Hurry!
Fee: FREE to attend, but seats and cards are first come, first serve Limited number of spots available and they will go fast.
Days/Dates: Friday, January 20 Fee: $80.00 per ticket (includes game ticket and bus fee)
Friday, February 17 Days/Dates: Friday, June 2
Friday, March 10 Time(s): Pick-Up @ 5:30 a.m.; Drop-Off @ 11:00 p.m.
Friday, April 21 Pick-Up/Drop Off Location: To Be Determined
Friday, July 28 (summer edition) Registration Deadline: Until All Tickets are Sold
Saturday, September 30 (Swamp Fox-Time: TBA)
Friday, November 17 (fall edition)
Time(s): 6:30–8:30 p.m. (excluding Swamp Fox date)
Location: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center
Registration Deadline: No registration required, but seats and cards
are limited and are first come, first serve.

17 w w w.cityofmarion.org

•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Summer Nights at Lowe Park S20a17veSwaTmphFeoxDFesativtale Special Events
Saturday, September 30
Join the Marion Parks and Recreation Department for summer Join in the celebration of Marion's heritage at the 28th
nights full of FREE family-friendly entertainment at the annual Swamp Fox Festival. A variety of events will take
Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park. Guests should bring a place in and around
chair or blanket for seating. Outside food and drink are permitted, City Square Park
but there may be vendors on-site selling food and drink. All of including the Fall
events are sponsored in part by the Marion Hotel/Motel Grant Marion Market,
Program. More details to follow as the dates get closer. Swamp Fox 5K, a
pancake breakfast,
2017 Entertainment Line-Up and the ever-
OPEN TO ALL AGES popular Swamp Fox
Parade.
Moonlit Movies
The fun moves to Lowe Park on Saturday evening for live
FRIDAY, MAY 12 AND FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 music at the amphitheater, food, bingo, kids activities and
Movies start around 8:30 p.m. (Dusk) a grand fireworks finale. Find more info as the date gets
Join the Marion Parks and Recreation Department for some free closer at www.cityofmarion.org/swampfox.
outdoor family fun this summer at sunset. Come early to get
your seats. Movie titles will be announced in the spring of 2017.
Visit the Marion Parks and Recreation’s Facebook page or the city
website for more information as the dates get closer.

He Wears Black Marion Parks Photo Scavenger Hunt
OPEN TO ALL AGES
FRIDAY, JUNE 16
Concert begins at 7:00 p.m. After a great turnout the first year, get ready for another challenge. Get
This tribute to Johnny Cash has given out and enjoy some of the most beautiful assets that the City of Marion
great care to the many details in order to has to offer, our PARKS! We have compiled a new list of items (and
give audiences a fulfilling experience of actions) you might come across while visiting some of our parks. Now,
Johnny Cash. The music, arrangements, it is your job to go out and find everything on the list and photograph
vocals, authentic costuming, and most them (for proof). Do it by yourself or with the entire family, it doesn’t
importantly the overall spirit of Johnny matter. Once you find and photograph all the items, bring your
and June's shows have been re-created completed list with your pictures to Lowe Park and your name will be
not to merely imitate, but to celebrate his entered into the drawing for a prize. One entry per person please.
music and life. Don't miss your chance to Fee: FREE
relive a night with the "Man in Black" live! Dates: May 22–July 14
Registration Deadline: Must be completed by July 14, 2017
Dueling Pianos
NEW! City of Marion Day at the Ballpark
SATURDAY, JULY 15 OPEN TO ALL MARION RESIDENTS
Performance begins at 7:00 p.m.
Back by popular demand...join What is better than a summer day at the ballpark?
the Marion Parks and Recreation The answer...a discounted summer day at the
Department for a night of outdoor family ballpark! Join other Marion residents and help pack
fun as dueling pianists take you on an the ballpark for City of Marion Day with the Kernels
interactive whirlwind tour of music as they battle the Burlington Bees. Kids 12 and
across all different decades and genres. under eat free that day, and are given a voucher at the main gates for
From sing-a-longs, to dancing, to jokes, a hot dog, popcorn, and a drink.  Additionally, kids can run the bases,
you're sure to have a great night of play catch in the outfield, and get autographs from the Kernels players
laughs and memories with the guys from after the game.
Midwest Dueling Pianos. Tickets: Discounted tickets* ($8 Club Seats) are available for purchase
in person at the Kernels box office or by calling 896-7560, just mention
Night of Magic & Hypnosis City of Marion to receive the discount.
Purchase online by following this link: https://www.ticketreturn.com/
SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 prod2/Buy.asp?EventID=200960&promocode=marion
Performances begin at 7:00 p.m. *Discount available beginning Monday, March 13 at 10 a.m.
A night of awe and amazement is what awaits you as magician when single game tickets go on sale.
Gayle Becwar and hypnotist Doug T wow the audience. These Date/ Time: Sunday, June 11 at 2:05 p.m. (Gates open at 1 p.m.)
interactive performers will leave you in disbelief as they pull out all Location: Veterans Memorial Stadium (Cedar Rapids)
the stops in a night sure to be filled with laughs and gasps.

Like Us On Facebook! 18

•Recreation Office 447–3590

Senior Programs Senior Center @ Lowe Park Lowe Park Luncheons

The Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center is home to Enjoy lunch with friends every 1st and 3rd Thursday of
FREE senior activities on a daily basis during the week. These the month at 11:30 a.m. in the Hickory Room at the Lowe
programs are provided and coordinated as part of the Witwer Park Arts & Environment Center. Cost is $3.50 per meal.
Healthy Aging Program by Aging Services. Reservations can be made by calling 730-8271, but must
be made by the Monday prior to the lunch date.
These programs and activities are geared towards adults ages
55 and up. For more information on these programs or other Monthly menus are available at Lowe Park and can also
sites, please contact JoEllen Haddad or Lauri Mitchell at be found by calling the 447-3590 or 730-8271.
Aging Services at 398-3644. You can also contact the Parks
and Recreation office at Lowe Park at 447-3590. Below are the These Luncheons are sponsored by Witwer
scheduled daily activities that take place during the week. Healthy Aging and Summit Pointe Senior Living

If Linn-Mar Schools are canceled due to inclement Please join us at Summit Pointe Senior Living to participate in
weather, all senior activities scheduled are also our customized fitness program for seniors through Live 2B
Healthy. These classes are 100% FREE and OPEN to the public.
canceled at Lowe Park.

Monday “Live Music” Dance— Listen and/or dance to
live music from various bands. Meets every Monday beginning
at 12:30 p.m. in the Oaks Room.
500— Group meets and plays every Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the
Sunburst Room.

Line Dancing— Get up and get moving with some line
dancing. Meets every Wednesday beginning at 1 p.m. in the
Oaks Room.
B-i-n-g-o— Penny bingo meets and plays every Thursday at
9:30 a.m. in the Sunburst Room. A penny per card, per game
and a nickel per card for blackout games.

CLASS OPTIONS:

MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 3:30-4:30 p.m.

FRIDAYS 9:00-10:00 a.m.

Summit Pointe offers independent and assisted living as well as
memory care. For more information, please contact Summit
Point Senior Living or visit our website.

Blood Pressure Clinics— Held the first Thursday of the 3505 English Glen Ave. | 373-4242 |
month at 11:30 a.m. in the Sunburst Room.
Fresh Conversations— This nutrition education program
is designed to promote better eating and physical activity and
includes food tastings. Held the third Thursday of the month at
11:30 a.m. in Sunburst Room.
Pinochle— Group meets and plays every Friday at 9 a.m. in
the Sunburst Room.
Knitting Club (Looking for Group Leader!)— Have a
passion for knitting or a desire to learn? Come join other like-
minded people for some knitting and socialization.

19 w w w.cityofmarion.org

•Willowood Park 1855 35th Street

2017 Pool Season ☑PYoooulth Rules & General Information

May 29–September 4 ages 9 and under MUST be supervised by a
responsible person age 15 or older
Weekends only from August 19–Labor Day ☑ All patrons entering the pool must pay admission Pool and Splash Pads
regardless of their intent to swim
☑ Swim diapers are required for anyone who is not toilet
Swimming Pool Regular Hours: trained. Regular diapers are not allowed in the pool. All
Monday–Friday 12:30–7 p.m. diapers must be changed in the locker rooms and NOT on
Saturday & Sunday 12:30–5 p.m. the pool deck
☑ Cut-off shorts, thongs, street clothes, and sweat pants are
Hours During Session 1 Swim Lessons: prohibited in the pool. T-shirts may be worn over appropriate
swimming attire
June 5–9 & June 12–16 12:30–4 p.m. ☑ No refunds are given if the pool closes due to weather

Daily Adult Lap Swim Hours: conditions. The pool may close if air temperatures drop or
Monday–Sunday 11a.m.–12:15 p.m. lightning is spotted. Use your discretion when coming to the
Monday–Sunday (Lap Lane) 12:30 p.m.–Close pool in these adverse conditions.
No evening lap swim during session 1 swim lessons ☑ Flotation devices are NOT permitted in the main pool
☑ Patrons are encouraged to shower before using the pool
Regular Pool Admission:
(Cash or Check ONLY)
Ages 3 & Under $2.75/person
Ages 4–59 $3.75/person Splash Pads
Seniors (Age 60+) $2.75/person
The Marion Parks and Recreation Department operates
Season Pool Passes: 3 splash pads throughout the city. All splash pads open
Individual Pass $100.00/each Memorial Day weekend and remain open until Labor
Family Pass $190.00/family Day. The hours of operation and locations are as follows:

Purchase season passes at the Marion Parks and Recreation Thomas Park—343 Marion Boulevard
offices at Lowe Park or Thomas Park, Monday–Friday, 7 Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
a.m.–4 p.m. Passes may also be purchased during swim
lesson registration day on April 29 and at the swimming pool Gill Park—3450 Hawthorne Street
starting May 29. Only cash or check accepted for payment at Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
pool.
Willowood Park—1855 35th Street
Open during pool hours.
Family Season Pass—Includes two adults and Regular pool admission
immediate children that all reside at the same address. This fees apply.
can include children of divorced parents who have joint
custody, step-children, or foster children. A babysitter/
nanny may be added to your family pass for an additional
$75.00. A babysitter is defined as a responsible adult that will
bring your children to the pool and supervise them in your
absence.

Discounted Admission Days:

$2.00 Days ― June 18 • July16 • August 13
Pay $2.00 per person on these special admission days

Family Swim Special—Every Wednesday from 4:30–7 Private Pool Rentals
p.m. and every Sunday, 3–5 p.m. Bring the entire family
for a swim at the Marion Pool for just $12.00. Admission Evening rentals of the Marion Municipal Pool are available for
can include up to a maximum of 2 adults and 4 children birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, church groups, etc. To
under the age of 18. This can include grandparents bringing make a reservation before May 29, contact the Recreation office at
grandchildren. Family rate available on Wednesday and 447-3590. After May 29, contact the pool at 377-1654.
Sunday evenings ONLY. Monday–Friday, 7:15–8:45 p.m.............................$190.00
Saturday–Sunday, 5:15–6:45 p.m..........................$190.00

Follow The Cit y of Marion On Twitter @Cit yofMarionIA 20

•Marion Municipal Swimming Pool 377–1654

Swimming Lessons Swim Lesson Registration Day Swim Lesson Levels

Satur8d:a0y0,–A11pr:3il02a9.m, .2017 The following guidelines will help determine which level best fits
your child’s swimming ability. All children are assessed at their
Arts & ELnovwiroe nPmarenkt Center first lesson and may be moved to a different level as necessary.
If your child is between levels, please register for the lower one.
4500 N 10th Street Students learn many different skills at each level and may need
more than one session at each level to pass. These lessons are
This is the first day the swim lesson registration available for children ages 4 and up.
is open to the public. It is not required to register
on this day, but due to limited availability of spots, Level 1—Students learn to fully submerge face and body,

classes do tend to fill up quickly. Lessons are breathe rhythmically, experience buoyancy, float on front and
available for children ages 3 and up. Sessions run back, and swim on front and back using arm and leg actions.
for two consecutive weeks with classes meeting for
Level 2—Students learn to float on front and back with
45 minutes each day, Monday–Friday.
glide, swim a combined stroke front and back, demonstrate
Fee: $33.00 per child, per session rhythmic breathing, tread water, and swim on side.

S !plash (Parent/Toddler Class) Level 3—Participants must be able to stand unassisted in

PARENT AND CHILD AGES18 MONTHS –2 YEARS 3 1/2 feet of water. Students learn front crawl with rotary
breathing, back crawl, butterfly arm and leg motions, a kneeling
Parent and child will work together in the water on games and activities or standing dive, survival float, and retrieve a submerged object.
designed to prepare the child for lessons. This class will be held during
session 3 ONLY from 11–11:30 a.m. Limit 20 participants. Level 4—Students work on strokes including front and

Intro To Swim I back crawl, swim on side with scissor kick, elementary back,
breaststroke and butterfly. They also learn diving, underwater
CHILDREN AGE 3 swimming, surface dives and open turns on front and back.

Students learn to fully submerge face and body, breathe rhythmically, Level 5—Students refine the front and back crawl,
experience buoyancy, float on front and back, and swim on front and
back using arm and leg motions. This class will be held during session 3 elementary back, breaststroke, butterfly and sidestroke. They also
ONLY from 11–11:30 a.m. Limit 20 participants. learn standing and shallow dives, pike and tuck surface dives,
and front and backstroke flip turns.
NEW! Intro To Swim II
Level 6—Students refine strokes to swim with ease,
CHILDREN AGES 10–14
efficiency, power and smoothness over greater distances. This
Do you have an older child that has never learned how to swim? This level offers these personal emphasis options: personal water
class allows kids the option to learn the basics of swimming with kids safety, fitness swimming, fundamentals of diving, and lifeguard
their own age. This class will be held during session 2 ONLY from readiness.
11–11:45 a.m. Limit 20 participants.

Marion Sharks Swim Team

CHILDREN AGES 6–18

Open to all swimmers who are able to swim 25 yards. Participants have
the opportunity to compete against other area teams. Coached by the
Marion pool staff.
Fee: $80.00 per child
Days/Dates: June–July
Time(s): Practices Monday–Friday, 6:45–8 a.m.
Location: Marion Municipal Swimming Pool (Willowood Park)
Registration Deadline: May 26, 2017

21 w w w.cityofmarion.org

•Willowood Park 1855 35th Street

Please review the times aSndwdaimtesmforinegachLseessisonstoonensSureeysousarioensigSnincg yhouerdchuilld eupsfor the correct level, time,

and session. Please note, Intro to Swim II is ONLY offered during session 2. SPLASH and Into to Swim I are ONLY
offered during session 3. Swim lessons meet for two weeks, Monday through Friday for 45 minutes at the assigned time.

Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Swimming Lessons

June 5–16 June 19–30 July 10–21 July 24–August 4

Time Level Class # Time Level Class # Time Level Class # Time Level Class #

4:30 p.m. Level 1 A101 8:15 a.m. Level 1 A201 8:15 a.m. Level 1 A301 8:15 a.m. Level 1 A401

Level 2 A102 Level 2 A202 Level 2 A302 Level 2 A402

Level 3 A103 Level 3 A203 Level 3 A303 Level 3 A403

Level 4 A104 Level 4 A204 Level 4 A304 Level 4 A404

5:20 p.m. Level 1 B101 Level 5 A205 Level 5 A305 9:10 a.m. Level 1 B401

Level 2 B102 Level 6 A206 Level 6 A306 Level 2 B402

Level 3 B103 9:10 a.m. Level 1 B201 9:10 a.m. Level 1 B301 Level 3 B403

Level 4 B104 Level 2 B202 Level 2 B302 Level 4 B404

Level 5 B105 Level 3 B203 Level 3 B303 Level 5 B405

Level 6 B106 Level 4 B204 Level 4 B304 Level 6 B406

6:15 p.m. Level 1 C101 Level 5 B205 Level 5 B305 10:05 a.m. Level 1 C401

Level 2 C102 Level 6 B206 Level 6 B306 Level 2 C402
Level 3 C403
Level 3 C103 10:05 a.m. Level 1 C201 10:05 a.m. Level 1 C301 Level 4 C404
11:00 a.m. Level 2 C202 Level 5 C405
Level 4 C104 Level 3 C203 Level 2 C302 Level 6 C406
Level 4 C204 Level 1 D401
Level 5 C105 Level 5 C205 Level 3 C303 11:00 a.m. Level 2 D402
Level 6 C206 11:00 a.m. Level 4 C304 Level 3 D403
Level 6 C106 Level 1 D201 Level 5 C305 Level 4 D404
Level 2 D202
All swim lessons are Level 3 D203 SPLASH!
$33.00 per child, INTRO TO SWIM II
per session. Payment INTRO TO SWIM I

is due at the time of

registration.

Swimming Lesson Registration No Waiting List Available

Registration begins April 29 at Swim Lesson Registration Day at Lowe Park. The number of students per class is limited in order to provide quality
Registrations are NOT accepted prior to this date. The line at registration day instruction and lessons for all participants. Once a class is filled, no other
can be quite long at times, so plan accordingly. After April 29, registrations are registrations will be accepted and wait-lists are NOT available.
accepted in person or by mail at the Parks and Recreation office at Lowe Park.
When registering by mail, please include a self addressed, stamped envelope, Lesson Changes & Refunds
so we may confirm your class session(s) and time(s).
There is a $10.00 charge per lesson, per child for changes to the date(s) or
Swim Lesson Session Limits time(s) you have previously registered for. Refunds are available prior to the
start of the session, less a $10.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be allowed
To allow more children the opportunity to take swim lessons, each child may after the session has begun.
NOT be registered for more than two sessions prior to May 12. After May 12,
you may register for additional sessions depending on availability.

Like Us On Facebook! 22

•Recreation Office 447–3590

Marion Arts Council Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center Marion Arts Council
4500 N 10th Street
Marion, Iowa 52302 The Marion Arts Council meets on a monthly basis at
Phone: 447-3590 5:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the Lowe
[email protected] Park Arts and Environment Center. All meetings are open
cityofmarion.org/ArtsCouncil and the public is welcome to attend.

For updates on all of our art, music and events, If you have an item that you would like to have discussed
find us on Facebook at "Marion Arts Council” by the Marion Arts Council, please email them at
[email protected].
About
Sponsored Performances
The Marion Arts Council is a seven member volunteer board
appointed by the Mayor with the mission of promoting the
importance of the arts and developing programs that maximize
public awareness of art, artists and culture.

Gallery Exhibits & Receptions Coffeehouse Nights

In the front portion Coffeehouse nights begin in October each year and run through
of the Lowe April with one performance each month. Performances run
Park Arts and from 7–8:30 p.m. at the Arts & Environment Center at Lowe
Environment Center Park. Doors for the events will open at 6:30 p.m. There is no
is an inviting area charge for admission, but space is limited, so get there early to
known as the gallery get your seat. Enjoy the following upcoming performances.
for Marion Arts
Council exhibits. BerneFmeabnrnuBarorthyer3s Trio
Approximately AMwfaulrPcuhrdi3es
every eight weeks a new exhibit is displayed in the gallery
featuring works by local and regional Iowa artists. This is a great AcoLuesdticbAyOpLporerniilJBalm7attSneesrsion
opportunity for the citizens of Marion and visitors to enjoy a ToOBcetDoetberemrin6ed
variety of quality works of art. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday,
7 a.m.–4 p.m. and the first Saturday of each month 1–3 p.m.
A reception is held for each exhibit on a weekday night during
the exhibit. Visitors meet the featured artists, hear them discuss
their work and enjoy light refreshments. One wall in the gallery
is dedicated to presenting artwork of students from local Marion
schools. A different school is featured each month from October
through May.

Workshops NTooBveeDmetberemrin1e0d
TDo eBecDemetebrmerine1d
Educational and entertaining workshops have been provided
by the Marion Arts Council since its inception in 1976. Some Picnic On The Prairie
workshops are designed for adult education, some for children
and some for family activities. Instructors of the fine arts who Join the Marion Arts Council for their annual Picnic on
are interested in leading workshops are encouraged to contact the Prairie outdoor music concert at the Klopfenstein
the Marion Arts Council at [email protected] Amphitheater at Lowe Park. There will be two concerts hosted
this year. More information will be available as the date gets
Performances closer.

Between October and April, Coffeehouse Nights are held at SatuSursdanaWy,eJrunenre 17
the Arts and Environment Center at Lowe Park. These musical SatuTordBeaDy,etAerumginuesdt 19
performances feature talented local acoustic artists in a relaxed
coffeehouse-type atmosphere. Admission is free and coffee,
cocoa and pastries from Wit’s End Coffeehouse are available
for purchase. In addition to these indoor performances, Picnic
on the Prairie outdoor musical performances will be held each
summer at the amphitheater.

Associate Members & Volunteers

If you are interested in becoming an associate member of the
Marion Arts Council or want to volunteer, please e-mail
[email protected] to obtain more information.

23 w w w.cityofmarion.org

Iowa State University •Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street
Extension and Outreach—
Linn County Master Availability and Workshops
Gardeners are a dedicated group
Master Gardeners are generally available at Lowe Park
for questions and/or tours on a regular basis as the
of trained volunteers willing to schedule indicates below.
share their horticulture knowledge,
a love of gardening, an enthusiasm Master Gardeners
for learning, and a commitment to Greenhouse
helping others.
Master Gardeners are members of January–May:
the local community who take an active interest in their lawns, Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–noon
Thursdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

trees, shrubs, flowers, and gardens. They are willing to learn more Demonstration Gardens
and share their knowledge about horticulture. Master Gardeners
attend classes taught by Iowa State University Extension staff May–September:
and specialists. The program offers 40 hours of instruction that Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.–dusk
covers topics such as lawn care, flower and vegetable gardening, Thursdays, 9 a.m.–noon

ornamental trees and shrubs, fruit crops, and houseplants. Family Gardening for Food and Fun: The Linn
Training also covers insects, disease and weed control, soil and County Master Gardeners would like to invite you to a Family
plant nutrition, as well as pesticide safety. Gardening for Food and Fun evening at 6:30 p.m. on the third
Tuesday of each month from April through September.
In exchange for training, participants The evening will be an informal/interactive discussion of
are asked to volunteer 40 hours of
service back to their local county
pertinent topics followed by a snack and beverage. Topics being
extension programs by the end of the considered are seed starting, container gardening, pollinators,
calendar year following completion of keeping weeds and pests at bay, harvesting and storing the
class hours. The type of service done by garden, and putting the garden to bed. The evening may include
Master Gardeners includes: educating a walk through the demonstration gardens, the new orchard, or
youth and the community, answering just an evening in the Park. Watch for schedule details at www.
questions on the "Hortline," answering extension.iastate.edu/linn or www.cityofmarion.org.
horticulture related questions at a
booth at public events, and planting
demonstration educational garden Swamp Fox Festival: During the City’s annual Swamp Fox
plots. Once the 40 hours are completed, interns become Master Festival celebration, the Master Gardeners host a Seed Saving
Workshop along with a tomato and pepper tasting event.
Gardeners and are then required to volunteer 20 hours a year and
obtain 10 educational hours a year to stay certified.
Holiday Arrangement: During the winter season, the
Master Gardeners host a holiday arrangement workshop. Look
The Lowe Park Greenhouse―is a joint project between for more information during the fall of 2017.
Watch for additional workshop announcements on either
the City of Marion and the ISU Extension Linn County Master the City of Marion website at www.cityofmarion.org, ISU
Gardeners. The greenhouse is used as a classroom for educational Extension and Outreach-Linn County website at www.
workshops, growing plants for the Lowe Park demonstration extension.iastate.edu/linn, or the Trees Forever Fruit
gardens, the Linn County TreeKeepers website at www.treesforever.org/FruitTreeKeepers.
Master Gardener Plant
Sale, flowers for the Marion
Parks Department and the
donation of vegetable plants Lowe Park
through HACAP to low Demonstration
income families who are Orchard―The Lowe
supplementing their diet
with home grown foods, and Park Orchard was planted by
various other projects. local volunteers and is cared
for through a partnership
between Trees Forever, Fruit
The Linn County Master Gardeners’ Demonstration TreeKeepers, the Parks and
Gardens and ABC Discovery Garden―at Lowe Park Recreation Department,
and the Linn County Master
offer an outdoor plant growing lab. Visit our public outdoor plant Gardeners. As the trees and
learning lab at Lowe Park, 4500 N 10th Street in Marion. bushes mature they will provide beauty as they bloom in the spring and
Twelve continuously developing gardens are available for public produce delicious and nutritious snacks for visitors to Lowe Park as the
education and enjoyment. The gardens are accessible all day, fruit ripens. The orchard will be used for educational opportunities such as
every day. Take a self-guided tour through the gardens using the pruning, pest management and harvesting.
Demonstration Garden brochure available at Lowe Park in the
garden mail box.

Follow The Cit y of Marion On Twitter @Cit yofMarionIA 24

•Recreation Office 447–3590

Facility Rentals Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center GR ADUATION PARTIES

Located within the confines of beautiful Lowe Park, 4500 N 10th (May–June Reservations)
Street, the Arts & Environment Center is a multi-use facility To accommodate more families and rentals for
that is managed by the Parks and Recreation Department. The graduation parties during the months of May and June
rental spaces are popular at Lowe Park, we will be limiting rentals for graduation
for graduation parties,
weddings, birthday parties to only one time period per renter.
parties, anniversaries,
baby/wedding showers, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4:30–10:30 p.m.
family gatherings, business
meetings, concerts, Alcohol is not permitted at any
workshops, retreats, and high school graduation party rental
much more. The rooms
allow for flexible set-up, so Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park
you can have your occasion
just the way you want it. This beautiful and recently completed structure (2014) is located
☑ Reservations must be made in person during regular office hours, on the north side of the Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center
Monday–Friday, 7a.m.–4 p.m. (4500 N 10th Street). This venue can be rented for weddings,
☑ Full payment is due upon the time the reservation is made concerts, theatrical performances, and other public or private
☑ Events with alcohol require an alcohol permit to be completed and events.
approved prior to an event for an additional non-refundable $25.00 fee Non Admission Events
☑ Weekend rates for all rooms start at 4 p.m. on Friday Amphitheater w/ NO building access......................................................$500
☑ The Arts & Environment Center is a non-smoking facility Amphitheater w/ building access (Restrooms ONLY)..........................$750
☑ In the event of a cancellation at the request of the renter, a refund in Amphitheater w/ rental of entire A&E facility....................................$1,000
the amount of 50% of the rental fee shall be refunded Amphitheater w/ rental of entire A&E facility (All Day)...................$1,500
Events with Admission Fees/ Tickets
Whole Facility (indoors)–350 people/220 seated Amphitheater w/ NO building access...................................................$1,000
Amphitheater w/ building access (Restrooms ONLY)......................$1,500
9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.....................................................................$500 Amphitheater w/ rental of entire A&E facility....................................$2,000
Additional Hour (Before 9 a.m. OR After 10 p.m.)..............................$100 Amphitheater w/ rental of entire A&E facility (All Day)...................$3,000
All Day (8 a.m.–11 p.m.).......................................................................$1,000

Hickory (Includes Full Kitchen)–10-60” round tables/60 people
Red Oak (Includes Kitchenette)–8-60” round tables/48-64 people
White Oak–8-60” round tables/48-64 people

Weekdays.....................................................................................$100/3 hours
Weekends–(9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.).............................................$150
Weekends–All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)......................................................$300

The Oaks (Red+White Oak)–15-60” round tables/90-120 people

Weekdays.....................................................................................$150/3 hours
Weekends–(9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.).............................................$250
Weekends–All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)......................................................$400

Sunburst–10 small square tables/40 people

Weekdays (After 3 p.m.)...................................................................$15/hour
Weekends–(9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.).............................................$100
Weekends–All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)......................................................$150

Hickory & Sunburst–10 square, 10-60” round tables/100 people

These spaces are adjacent, but do NOT convert to one large single
space. Tables and kitchen use included as listed above with each room.
Weekends–(9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.).............................................$250
Weekends–All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)......................................................$400

Additional Fee(s) & Rentals–In addition to room rental fees

Wired Microphone (Oaks Room Only)...................................................$25
Wireless Microphone (Oaks Room Only)..........................................$27.50
Projector........................................................................................................$50
Lectern (no charge with indoor room rental)..........................................$30
Alcohol Permit (Additional rules apply)..................................................$25

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•Lowe Park 4500 N 10th Street

Thomas Park Safe Room PParakrpakvilPionasvarile aiovnaislable for reservations from May 1– Facility Rentals

This non-smoking facility has seating for up to 115 guests and October 31. All pavilions feature: electricity, picnic tables, grills,
includes the use of a refrigerator, microwave, and sink. and water available in bathrooms (except Taube Park). Trash
must be placed in the containers provided on site. There are
Weekends & Holidays (All Day ONLY) (9 a.m.–10 p.m.).....................$300 other small pavilions in our park system that do not require a
*Weekdays (9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.)..............................................$150 reservation (first come, first serve). The pavilions listed below
can be reserved by completing the reservation process. Pavilion
*Weekday rentals during daytime hours (9 a.m.–3 p.m.) renters must abide by all park rules (see page 28).
are only available December 1–March 31
Taube Pavilion, Taube Park–25 people

9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.......................................................................$30
All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)............................................................................$45

Begley #1 Pavilion, Thomas Park–75 people
Begley #2 Pavilion, Thomas Park–75 people
Hanna Pavilion, Hanna Park–75 people

9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.......................................................................$60
All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)............................................................................$90

English Pavilion, Thomas Park–150 people
Depot Pavilion, City Square Park–50 people

9 a.m.–3 p.m. OR 4–10 p.m.......................................................................$75
All Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.)..........................................................................$100

Oak Shade Cemetery Baseball & Softball Diamonds

The Marion Parks & Recreation Department manages the Beginning Wednesday, January 3, 2018, reservations for
beautiful and historic city-owned cemetery located at 789 baseball/softball diamonds will be taken at the Recreation Office
Second Avenue. Spaces may be purchased at the Parks at Lowe Park for 2018 field rentals. Fees must be paid at the time
Administrative and Operations office at Thomas Park. If the reservations are made. Marion Parks and Recreation has first
space is not for an immediate need, it may be purchased on priority of all fields and facilities and predetermines the time
a payment plan. For more information and current prices, slots that are available for rental. Rental slots are available for 90
please call 447-3580. minutes each time slot.
Baseball/Softball Diamonds..................................................$15/90 minutes
Cemetery Clean-up Dates:
Soccer Fields
All winter decorations must be removed by mid-March.
New decorations may be placed after May 15. Fall clean-up Soccer fields are currently first come, first serve. We do NOT
is mid-October. Holiday decorations may be placed after reserve the fields where the soccer goals are located. Please call
Thanksgiving. 447-3590 for soccer goal locations.

Private Pool Rentals

Evening rentals of the Marion Municipal Pool are available for
birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, church groups, etc.
To make a reservation before May 29, contact the Recreation
office at 447-3590. After May 29, contact the pool directly at
377-1654.
Monday–Friday, 7:15–8:45 p.m.........................................................$190.00
Saturday–Sunday, 5:15–6:45 p.m.......................................................$190.00

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•Administr ative & Oper ations Office 447–3580

Parks and Trails 1. Ascension Park • 875 S 22nd Street 16. Thomas/Legion Park • 343 Marion Boulevard
Open play area, picnic tables, playground, soccer field, basketball court Home of the Parks Administrative and Operations staff, Safe Room
2. Boyson Park & Trail • 975 Boyson Road storm shelter, three pavilions, playgrounds, sandbox with diggers, two
One mile walking/biking trail with access to Thomas, Donnelly, & full-sized basketball courts, ice rink, 18 hole disc golf course, splash
Hanna Parks, access to Lindale, Parkview, & Krumbholtz Trails, pad, bike repair & maintenance station, horseshoe pits, trails, picnic
restroom, picnic tables tables, grills, restrooms, open play area, sledding hill, access to Boyson
3. Butterfield Park • 29th Avenue & 35th Street and Krumbholtz Trails
Basketball court, baseball diamond, playground, gazebo, grill, restroom, 17. Waldo’s Rock Park opening soon!
open play area This new park is currently in development and will feature a fishing
4. City Square Park • 1001 7th Avenue pond, loop trail around pond, pavilion, and a trail head connecting to
Pavilion/depot, picnic tables, grills, train/caboose, bike repair & the Grant Wood trail system. Park is expected to be completed in the
maintenance station summer of 2017
5. Donnelly Park • 290 W 8th Avenue 18. Willow Park • 990 2nd Street
Small pavilion, playground, basketball court, peewee baseball diamond, Playground, restroom, baseball diamonds, rolle bolle courts, open play
restroom, grill, access to Boyson Trail area
6. Elza Park • 1645 5th Avenue 19. Willowood Park • 1855 35th Street
Picnic tables, small playground Home of the Marion Municipal Swimming Pool, pavilions, grills, small
7. Faulkes Heritage Woods • 30th Street & Tama Street playground with spring riders, splash pad, restroom
1.5 mile walking trail in 110 acres of natural woodland
8. Glenbrook Cove • 40th Street Drive (Not Pictured on Map) The Tree City USA program has been greening
4 acres of open space, picnic tables, grill up cities and towns across America since 1976.
9. Hanna Park • 775 Fairview Drive It is a nationwide movement that provides
Pavilion, grills, restrooms, volleyball net, basketball court, fitness trail the framework necessary for communities to
with accessible exercise equipment, picnic tables, baseball diamond, manage and expand their public trees. The City
open play area, playground, sandbox with diggers, access to Boyson of Marion has been a proud member for 23
Trail years and counting. The Parks and Recreation Department added
an Urban Forestry division in 2016 that currently has 2 full-time
certified arborist dedicated to managing and maintaining the
quality of the community’s green infrastructure.

10. J.W. Gill Park • 3450 Hawthorne Street City of Marion Trails
Small walking trail, playground, splash pad, gazebo, grill, restroom,
basketball court, baseball diamond, open play area Boyson Trail―2.4 miles of crushed limestone trail, follows

11. Lininger Park • 390 Alburnett Road alongside the Indian Creek

Baseball diamond, picnic tables, restroom, open play area, playground, sandbox Gill Park Trail―0.25 mile circular walking path around the
with diggers, basketball hoop
perimeter of the park
12. Lowe Park • 4500 N Tenth Street
Home of the Arts and Environment Center, Klopfenstein Amphitheater, Hanna Park Fitness Trail―Situated along the Boyson Trail
and the recreation staff offices, host site for daily senior activities, hard
surface trails, including a sculpture trail, open green space, climbing that runs through Hanna Park, this trail segment features a
play structure, fishing pond, baseball diamonds with concessions, variety of outdoor exercise equipment that is handicap accessible
flag football fields, soccer field, restrooms, community gardens,
greenhouse with demonstration orchard, and beautifully landscaped Krumbholtz Trail―0.75 mile crushed limestone trail from
and maintained flower beds
Thomas Park to Highway 100
13. Peg Pierce Softball Complex • 3205 3rd Avenue
Home of the Marion Girls Softball program, concessions, small Lindale Trail―1 mile of crushed limestone trail from Lindale
playground, restrooms, picnic tables
Drive west to C Avenue

14. Starry Park • 1480 Grand Avenue Lowe Park Trail―1.25 mile paved walking/biking trail from
Home of the Marion Boys Baseball program, concessions, small
playground, batting cage, restroom, picnic tables 10th Street to Oak Ridge Middle School
15. Taube Park • 2200 31st Street
Home of the Marion Farmers’ Market, small pavilion, grill, restroom, Lowe Park Sculpture Trail―Paved path that winds its way
playground, sandbox, basketball court, picnic tables, open play area
through art sculptures including the Klopfenstein Amphitheater
for the Performing Arts (New segment coming soon that will
connect new central parking lot to amphitheater and trail)

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Thomas Park • 343 Marion Boulevard

Parks and Trails

Park Rules & Regulations
General Rules Safe Room Procedures

☑ Normal hours are 6 a.m.–10 p.m. for all City parks ☑ The Thomas Park Safe Room is intended for park users and is available
☑ Snowmobiles and ATV’s are prohibited from all City parks and trails
during normal park hours (6 a.m.–10 p.m.) only when a threat of severe
Nicotine & Tobacco Free Parks weather is imminent

☑ Per city ordinance (47.16), smoking and the use of tobacco, nicotine ☑ Pets are not allowed inside the Safe Room

products, as well as vaporizers are prohibited in all City parks, trails, Pet Policy
buildings, and parking lots
☑ Pets shall be kept on a leash in all park areas, including all walking trails
☑ This includes usage in personal vehicles while on those grounds
☑ Violators will be subject to a $50.00 fine and Oak Shade Cemetery

Alcohol Permits & Policies ☑ Pets are not allowed in pavilions or within 100 feet of food vendors,

☑ Alcohol permits are required for Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center playgrounds, ball fields, or swimming pools

and the Thomas Park Safe Room rentals if you intend to serve alcohol ☑ Pet owners are required to clean up after their pet
☑ Pets are not allowed at large community functions such as events at City
☑ Request must be approved prior to event with a $25.00 non-refundable fee
☑ No kegs or hard liquor are permitted for any park facility rental Square Park or Lowe Park
☑ No alcohol is allowed at high school graduation parties
Trail Etiquette & Safety

☑ Horses are not permitted on any city trail at anytime
☑ Motorized vehicles are not allowed on any city trail at anytime
☑ Stay alert, walk/ride to the right side of the path and announce, “Passing

on your left,” when passing another user on the trail

Follow The Cit y of Marion On Twitter @Cit yofMarionIA 28

•Administr ative & Oper ations Office 447–3580

Other Programs Marion Weekly Farmers’ Market Tree Permits & Memorial Trees
May 6–September 30
Tree Permits―Homeowners are required to obtain a tree
Saturdays from 8–11:30 a.m.
permit for tree plantings in the right of way. This process allows
Taube Park, 2200 31st Street for us to accurately track trees that the City is responsible for and
The Marion Farmers’ Market offers a variety of locally grown ensure proper placement and planting. A site inspection will be
produce, fresh baked goods, flowers, homemade crafts, and performed by a department staff. An informational packet and
much more. Stop by Taube Park on Saturday mornings and permit may be obtained at Thomas Park Administrative and
check out all the fantastic offerings that are produced right here Operations facility during their normal office hours, Monday–
in your own community. Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m. or contact the Parks Administrative and
If you are interested in being a vendor at the Marion Farmers’ Operations office at 447-3580. There is no fee for this permit.
Market for the 2017 year, please contact the Marion Parks and
Recreation office at 447-3590 for availability, rental rates, and Memorial Tree Program—Plant a memorial tree in
any other questions. We will begin accepting lease applications
in early February for booths for the 2017 market. honor of a loved one at Lowe Park through our Memorial Tree
program. For more information or to purchase a memorial tree,
Market Rates and Fees please contact the Parks Administrative and Operations Office at
447-3580.
All Season.......................................................$125.00 / 22 markets Memorial Tree........................................................................$150.00
Drop-In.................................................................$10.00 / each time Memorial Tree w/ plaque....................................................$250.00

Community Gardens at Lowe Park Adopt-A-Spot Program

Community garden plots are available for lease at Lowe Park The Marion Adopt-A-Spot
(4500 N 10th Street). Plot sizes are approximately 20’ x 40’ and program allows individuals
can be leased for $25.00 for the entire season (mid April–end of or groups to adopt identified
October). Depending on the spring weather, plots may not be public areas. Through adoption,
ready until later in April. they assume the responsibility
to introduce sustainable
Lease Requirements management practices for the
maintenance and beautification
☑ You MUST be a Marion resident of the public areas. Areas that
☑ Show proof of residency upon signing your lease are up for adoption include:
☑ Plots are limited to 1 plot per residential address a park, trail segments, green
☑ Plots must be cleared by October 31, 2017 space, or flower beds.
For questions or plot availability, please contact the Parks and If you or a group are interested
Recreation office at Lowe Park at 447-3590. If all garden plots are in adopting a spot, please contact the Parks Administrative
leased upon time of your request, you may choose to be placed and Operations office at 447-3580. A staff member will explain
on our waitlist for the next available plot. Plots have been in high the program and answer any questions. You will be given a
demand over the last few years, so check early for availability. sponsorship application to complete and return if you choose to
Seasonal Plot................................................$25.00 / 20’ x 40’ plot participate in the program.

The Iowa Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA) represents
94 municipal departments throughout the state of Iowa. The
membership foundation consists of 250 professionals in addition
to 250 board and commission members. Their vision is building
a better Iowa through parks and recreation, which reflects it’s
mission to support the advancement of parks, recreation, and
environmental conservation opportunities through education,
resource tools, and advocacy. The City of Marion Parks and
Recreation Department is a proud partner of Iowa Parks and
Recreation Association. To learn more, please visit www.iapra.org.

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PROGRAM SHIRT SIZES
Youth: 2-4 (YXS), 6-8 (YSM), 10-12 (YMD), 14-16 (YLG)
Adult: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, 2X-Large, 3X-Large

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Marion Parks and Recreation
4500 N10th Street
Marion, IA 52302

2017 Events at City Square Park

Marion Arts Festival Uptown Getdown

May 20 August 3 • 10 • 17 • 24

BBQ Rendezvous Swamp Fox Festival

June 3 September 30

Marion By Moonlight Fall Marion Market

June 1 • 8 • 15 • 22 September 30

Marion Community Band Concerts The Chocolate Walk

June 13 • 27 October 6

Uptown Marion Markets Christmas In The Park

June 10 • July 8 • August 12 December 1

Marion Big Band Concerts Peppermint Walk

July 6 • 13 • 20 • 27 December 1