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A quarterly newsletter by the City of Marion, Iowa

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Published by City of Marion, 2016-11-10 13:52:32

Marion Messenger - Nov. 2016

A quarterly newsletter by the City of Marion, Iowa

MmeAsRseInOgeNr

A quarterly newsletter by the November 2016

Enjoy A Very Merry Marion

What’s Inside: Get in the holiday spirit help Keep Your Neighbors to the Marion Chamber
at Christmas in the Park Warm. Craft activities, Platinum Community
Christmas in the Park - Page 2 and the Peppermint Walk holiday tubas and a holiday Partners – Farmers State
New Chief of Police - Page 2 on Friday, Dec. 2 from 4-8 book sale round out the Bank, Fosters Heating
Fire Department Award- Page 3 p.m. in City Square Park. fun at the Marion Public and Air Conditioning,
City News Briefs - Page 3 Santa and Mrs. Claus will Library. ImOn Communications,
Mayor's Message - Page 4 be escorted by the Marion MercyCare Community
Healthy Living - Page 5 Fire Department and Police In addition to the Physicians-Marion and
Fire Safety Reminders- Page 6 Department. activities happening in the Townsquare Media.
Roundabout Instructions - Page 7 Park, Uptown Marion will For more information on
Public Services News - Page 8 Traditional activities host the Peppermint Walk, Christmas in the Park and
Water Department Info. - Page 9 include the lighting of the a holiday shopping event. the Peppermint Walk, please
Library News - Page 10-12 community peace tree, Enjoy Uptown businesses visit the Marion Chamber
Parks & Rec Info - Page 13-14 holiday music, horse-drawn as they are decked out for of Commerce website at
School News - Page 15 carriage rides around City the holidays complete with www.marioncc.org or find
Community Events- Page 16 Square Park, hot cocoa a special peppermint treat! them on Facebook.
and popcorn. Kids—don’t
www.CityofMarion.org miss this opportunity to Christmas in the Park see schedule of
Vol. 15, No. 4 climb aboard the caboose and the Peppermint Walk Events, Page 2
as it’s transformed into is presented by the Marion
Nov. 2016 - Jan. 2017 the Peppermint Express! Chamber of Commerce
Bring a new, warm-weather and Uptown Marion Main
item to place inside and Street. It remains a free
community event thanks

2 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

2016 Schedule of Events Introducing Marion’s New
Arrival of Santa Claus Chief of Police
4 p.m. – Don’t miss the All of the stores will be decked
with holiday lights, decora- The City of Marion is Joseph McHale
grand arrival of our special tions and music making this a pleased to introduce Joseph University.
guests by fire truck! Santa, great complement to the park McHale as its next Chief of
Mrs. Claus and their special activities. Present a receipt Police. “In the coming months it
reindeer will visit with chil- from a purchase made dur- will be my highest priority to
dren from 4-8 p.m. ing the event at any Uptown In this new role, McHale get to know the citizens, busi-
Peace Tree Marion business and be reg- is responsible for the admin- ness owners, educators and
istered to win one of two $50 istration, coordination, and civic leaders in Marion,” said
6 p.m. – Officially kick off gift certificates to participating control of all Marion Police McHale. “The Marion Police
the festivities with the light- Uptown businesses. Fill a Hol- Department activities. The de- Department has a reputation
ing of the Marion Community iday Passport by Dec. 23 for a partment employs 45 sworn of excellence, and I will en-
Peace Tree. chance to win $50 in Uptown officers and 12 civilian em- sure we continue to provide
Holiday Music, Hot Cocoa Dollars. For a list of partici- ployees. The agency consists the level of progressive and
and Popcorn pating locations, please visit of patrol, investigations and professional police service the
www.marioncc.org or www. support services divisions. citizens of Marion expect.”
4-8 p.m. – Enjoy hot cocoa uptownmation.com.
and fresh popcorn while lis- “We were fortunate to have “Our family has strong
tening to classic holiday tunes. Breakfast with Mrs. Claus a strong pool of candidates Iowa roots, and we have a sin-
Horse-Drawn Carriage Raffle tickets are now avail- vying for the position,” said cere desire to raise our 3-year-
Rides City Manager Lon Pluck- old son in a community that
able for Breakfast With Mrs. hahn.  “Chief McHale comes has a vision, takes care of their
4-8 p.m. – Create a special Claus to be held at the Grang- to Marion highly-regarded by neighbors, and reaches higher
memory with your family by er House Museum Saturday, his colleagues and the search at every opportunity,” McHale
taking a horse-drawn carriage Dec. 10. While Santa is busy committee. I am confident his noted. His wife Stephanie is a
ride around City Square Park helping the elves prepare, Mrs. 25 years of law enforcement native of Hampton, Iowa and
Keep Your Neighbors Claus will make a special visit experience, vision and drive a graduate of the University
Warm to Marion to share breakfast, a will take the Marion Police of Northern Iowa.
story and talk about the giving Department to new places.”
4-8 p.m. – The public is tradition. McHale’s first day on the
invited to bring donations of "I sincerely look forward job will be Dec. 12.
new hats, gloves or blankets. Children ages 5-10 are eli- to the opportunity to serve
Look for the Peppermint Ex- gible to attend this event and the citizens of Marion,” said
press and help our conductors will be determined by raffle. McHale. “I am humbled and
fill the caboose! Items donated Tickets are $5 each and are excited to become a part of the
will be distributed to area fam- available at the Marion Cham- Marion community and con-
ilies in need through the Mari- ber of Commerce, Marion tinue Marion’s legacy as one
on Holiday Giving Project. Public Library, and Hills Bank of the safest cities in Iowa.”
Music at The Heritage & Trust. Tickets will also be
Center available during Small Busi- McHale has been with the
ness Saturday (see related arti- Kansas City Missouri Police
Stop by to listen to sounds cle) and Christmas in The Park Department for 25 years, most
of the season performed by the on Friday, Dec. 2. Winners will recently as Major/Command-
Marion High school Jazz Band be notified Monday, Dec. 5. er of the East Patrol Division.
from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., and Mar- He is a subject matter expert
ion Big Band from 5:30 – 6:30 All proceeds will benefit the with the United States Bureau
p.m. Bring a non-perishable Marion Holiday Giving Proj- of Justice Assistance. McHale
food item for the Kiwanis food ect which provides clothing, obtained his bachelor’s degree
drive, all donations will ben- non- perishable foods, win- in Administration of Criminal
efit the Marion Food Pantry. ter items and gifts to over 115 Justice through Grantham
Peppermint Walk Marion families in need.

Visit participating Uptown
Marion merchants, restaurants
and businesses during this
special holiday open house.

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 3

Marion Fire Earns Life Safety Award MEDCO offers Professional
Development Series
Marion Fire Department
was recently presented with 80 percent of all fire deaths. MEDCO exists to create Equipping, and Empower-
a Life Safety Achievement The NASFM Fire Research an exceptional business en- ing Your Next Generation of
Award for its fire prevention and Education Foundation is vironment for companies to Leaders
accomplishments in 2015 by committed to reducing that compete and thrive. As part
the National Association of number. of our strategy to support Feb. 28, 2017 - Managing
State Fire Marshals (NASFM) that environment, we’re & Influencing Change
Fire Research and Education “Public education and fire pleased to launch Innovate
Foundation in partnership prevention are a priority for Marion, Preparing Your Apr. 25, 2017 - Employer
with Grinnell Mutual Rein- our department,” said Mar- Business for the Future.  & Employee Goal Setting &
surance Company. ion Fire Chief Deb Krebill. Execution
“From media interviews to This educational series
The Marion Fire Depart- classroom visits to commu- addresses specific challeng- Sessions will be held
ment is one of 160 fire depart- nity demonstrations, we were es and opportunities that at ESCO Group, 3540 3rd
ments across the United States able to make more than 7,300 we heard from our business Street, Marion from 8 a.m.
to be recognized. public education contacts last community during our 2015 - noon, lunch included. The
year.” strategic planning process. cost is $375 per season ticket
Since 1994, the Life Safety Through this program, we which includes four total
Achievement Award has rec- Learn more about the Mar- are committed to equipping seats to be spread through-
ognized local fire prevention ion Fire Department’s public business with the knowl- out the remaining three ses-
efforts that have contributed education program by calling edge, expertise, and rela- sions. Businesses that are
to reducing the number of (319) 377-8237. tionships to innovate and existing MEDCO investors
lives lost in residential fires. remain competitive.  MED- will receive an additional
The Marion Fire Department CO is partnering with Kirk- $50 discount towards each
is recognized for recording wood Community College registration.
zero fire deaths in 2015, for to offer these classes.  
having an active and effective To learn more, go to
fire prevention and public ed- Join us for 3 remaining www.medcoiowa.org/in-
ucation programs, as well as a sessions that will tackle a novatemarion.
clear commitment to reducing series of relevant topics for
the number of house fires in businesses of all sizes in-
the community. cluding:

While residential fires in the Dec. 13, 2016 - Engaging,
U.S. account for only 20 per-
cent of all fires, they result in

City News Briefs – Boards/Commissions

Serve On Marion Boards & on City Council Meetings are The Marion Civil Rights Com- volves raising funds for Crime
Commissions available online. They can be mission shares staffing with Stopper awards, promoting
accessed via that City of Mar- Cedar Rapids. awareness of Crime Stoppers,
Do you want to provide in- ion YouTube channel or by and representing Marion on
put on City policies and help visiting www.cityofmarion. The commission has also the Board when deciding
shape both our city and its org and clicking on the Coun- created a speakers’ bureau payment for crime tips and
government? Apply to be one cil Agenda tab. Select Agen- that is available upon re- information. Crime Stoppers
of 100+ volunteers that serve das & Minutes and then click quest to speak to community Board meets the third Thurs-
on Marion boards or com- on All Past. Select the Event groups, students, and profes- day of each month at 4 p.m.
missions. A number of posi- name that corresponds with sional associations about its
tions are available including: the appropriate date/time. role in the community and its Locations differ for the
LOST Oversight Committee, Civil Rights Commission work to stand up to discrimi- meetings. Anyone interested
Zoning Board of Adjustment, Serves Marion nation in the areas mentioned in the position should contact
Planning and Zoning Com- above. Presentations are typi- Lt. Elam at (319) 200-7717.
mission, and Historic Preser- The City of Marion's Civil cally 20 minutes in length, Anyone considered for the
vation Commission. Applica- Rights Commission envisions with an opportunity for ques- position would be subject to a
tions are available at Marion a Marion community that is tions to follow. Topic and background investigation.
City Hall, Monday through welcoming, inclusive, and presentation length can be City Implementing New
Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., or preserves the personal dig- tailored to a group’s interests Software
at www.cityofmarion.org/ nity of all people, particularly and needs. To inquire, please
boards-commissions. Upon in the areas of employment, contact Amanda Kaufman at The City of Marion is im-
review of applications, Mayor housing, credit, public accom- 319-743-6303 or akaufman@ plementing new software. As
AbouAssaly will recommend modations and education.  If cityofmarion.org. a result, the process for ob-
appointees to City Council for you or someone you know Crime Stoppers Seeking taining permits and licenses
approval. For more informa- is experiencing a discrimina- Board Member may change. Fees may also
tion, call (319) 743-6301. tory situation in one of these change due to an updated in-
City Council Meeting Audio areas, please call 319-286-5036 Marion has a vacancy on terpretation of Marion code
Available or email civilrights@cedar- the Linn County Crime Stop- and/or changing fee struc-
rapids.org to file a complaint. pers Board. The position is tures. Thank you for your pa-
Audio recordings of Mari- a volunteer position and in- tience during this transition.

4 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

City Directory Mayor's Message

City Hall It is hard to believe that 2016 is already
drawing to a close. This has been a very
1225 6th Ave. productive year for Marion and we con-
Marion, IA 52302 tinue implementing long-term plans for
www.cityofmarion.org improving infrastructure and accommo-
dating growth. I am grateful to all Marion
Administrative Building citizens for their patience and support as
Offices Department our city reaches higher and provides better
319-743-6330 opportunities for all of us to have a great
319-743-6300 quality of life.
tracim@ building@
cityofmarion.org With the holidays upon us, I encourage
cityofmarion.org Marion residents to support our local busi-
nesses. Look to Marion first and you will
City Clerk/ Engineering be pleasantly surprised at the variety and
Finance Department quality of options we have here. A number
319-743-6340 of new and existing shops located Uptown
319-743-6350 dwhitlow@ and throughout the community are ready
wnelson @ cityofmarion.org and eager to provide you with convenient
shopping and great options for gifts and
cityofmarion.org treats. Our local businesses depend on
our support and Marion would not be the
Planning & Water same without them. Nicolas AbouAssaly
Development Department coordination with the Marion Independent
319-743-6320 319-743-6310 We should also remember that many and Linn-Mar school districts. Through
tsteigerwaldt@ members of our community will depend this program, sponsors can provide food
tbellach@ cityofmarion.org on our generosity this holiday season. and gifts to families in need of assistance.
cityofmarion.org Please consider what you can do to spread To learn more about how you can bring
kindness and goodwill so that everyone cheer to a family this holiday season, email
City Manager may enjoy the spirit of the season. Nicole Riley at [email protected] or
319-743-6301 call 377-5344.
[email protected] One idea is to sponsor a family in need
through the “Adopt a Family Program,” Best wishes for a wonderful holiday sea-
Parks & Recreation which is administered by Marion Cares in son.

Lowe Park, 4500 10th St.
319-447-3590

[email protected]

Thomas Park, 343 Marion Blvd.
319-447-3580

[email protected]

Public Services

(solid waste, sewer, streets)
195 35th St.
319-377-6367

[email protected]

Marion Public Library

1095 6th Ave.
319-377-3412
[email protected]

Fire Department mMeAssReIngOerN The Marion Messenger is a free, periodical, informational newsletter
for the residents of Marion, Iowa, published by the City of Marion.
3933 Katz Dr.
Emergency – 911 Publisher: Editors: Printer:
Non-Emergency – 319-377-8237 Marion Times
[email protected] City of Marion, Iowa Amber Bisinger & P.O. Box 506
Marion, IA 52302
Police Department 1225 6th Avenue Amanda Kaufman (319)-377-7037
news@
6315 Highway 151 Marion, IA 52302 City of Marion
Emergency – 911 mariontimesonline.com
Non-Emergency – 319-377-1511 (319) 743-6300
Records – 319-200-7714
Administration – 319-200-7727 www.cityofmarion.org Sarah Olberding
[email protected]
Marion Times

ISSN: 1544-5739 (print) * 1544-5747 (electronic)
All contents copyright © 2016 City of Marion, Iowa.
All rights reserved. Reproduction without permitted with due acknowledgement.

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 5

Where you Live Can Make for Better Living

It’s true that where you live 2012. Since 2014, we’ve seen a
can make for better living. 16 percent increase in people
Since being announced as a who feel active and produc-
Blue Zones Project® demon- tive every day.
stration community, we’ve
been improving our commu- We’ve come so far but
nity and our quality of life there’s still more to do to keep
together. And the results are living longer, better. The jour-
impressive. ney continues at explore.blue-
zonesproject.com where you
As one of just a few dozen can find secrets and  tips to
certified Blue Zones Com- what makes us a certified Blue
munities® in the nation, Zones Community. 
Marion  is  deeply committed
to improving the overall well- Keep on making healthy
being of our neighbors. That choices, Marion, and thanks
dedication has already result- for putting well-being on the
ed in a nearly 22 percent in- map! Because of you, better
crease in healthy eating since living is right here.

Alley Project Nears Completion Marion Receives Healthy
Hometown Award
With the completion of con- dedicated to projects like this,
struction work in the alleys, that build social capital and Marion was presented a ronment.”
nine local and national artists strengthen the social fabric of Healthy HometownSM Pow- Some noteworthy achieve-
are converging on Uptown a community. ered By Wellmark award at
Marion during the month of the Iowa Healthiest State Ini- ments in Marion include:
November to install their art- tiative "Bringing it Home" • The Marion City Coun-
work. conference on Nov. 1, 2016. cil passed a nicotine-free
The award recognizes Marion parks ordinance.
The grand opening is for their dedication and ac- • Nine gardens were
planned to coincide with the complishments toward mean- planted at local schools
Marion Arts Festival in May ingful health improvement with students tending
2017. ArtPlace America, the initiatives in their community. and harvesting the pro-
organization who provided duce.
the lead gift of $350,000, is “The Healthy Hometown • New bike racks were
Founder award celebrates the installed at seven lo-
achievements made in Mar- cal parks, encouraging
ion,” said Jami Haberl, Iowa more people to bicycle.
Healthiest State Initiative ex- • Nearly 600 people par-
ecutive director. “Marion has ticipated in sunrise yoga
been a model for other Iowa at Lowe Park over the
communities and is an en- course of one year.
couraging example of what Learn more about the
can be done when the citizens
of a community join together Healthiest State Initiative at
to truly transform their envi- IowaHealthiestState.com.

Contact City Council Members

Mayor Nicolas AbouAssaly Ward Two - Joe Spinks Ward Four - David Nicholson (as of Dec.)
1225 6th Ave. | (319) 743-6305 3165 29th Ave. | (319) 377-1070 2305 Beryl Street | (319) 373-5579
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
At-Large - Paul Draper
4670 Fairways Ct. | (319) 377-8393 Ward Three - Will Brandt   E-mail all members at: council@cityofmarion.
[email protected] 2745 4th Ave. | (319) 389-9918 org.
At-Large - Mary Lou Pazour [email protected] Marion’s City Council meets in work ses-
1609 3rd Ave. | (319) 377-1309
[email protected] Ward Four - Randy Strnad (through Nov.) sion (no action taken, just discussion) on the 1st
Ward One - Kim Etzel 1820 Agate Circle | (319) 377-3276 and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. Regular
933 8th Ave. | (319) 491-7179 [email protected] session meetings are held the Thursday follow-
[email protected]
ing the Tuesday work session at 5:30 p.m. All

meetings are held at Marion City Hall.

6 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Winter Fire Safety Reminders

Residential fires are   Keep a glass or metal screen as long as the following safety low the tips above regarding
most common in the winter in front of the fireplace open- precautions are followed: fireplaces and wood burning
months. Marion Fire Depart- ing to prevent embers or   They must be UL listed and stoves. Having your furnace
ment offers these reminders sparks from leaving the fire- contain tip over protection. checked by a qualified service
of the things that can cause box and coming out into the   They must be plugged di- professional is the best way to
fires and other dangers in the house. rectly into an outlet. No exten- make sure that it is operating
winter.   Never burn charcoal in- sion cords should be used. safely and efficiently.
doors. Burning charcoal can   There should be 36” of
Unfortunately, fireplaces give off dangerous amounts clearance around the heater. Having a carbon monox-
and wood burning stoves of carbon monoxide. Most fires that are started by ide detector is the best way
cause many fires in the win-   Before you go to sleep, space heaters are due to them to keep your family safe from
tertime when people are us- make sure the fireplace fire is being too close to a bed, bed- CO, because there is no other
ing them for supplemental completely out. Never close ding material, or any material way to detect if carbon mon-
heat. The United States Fire the damper with hot ashes be- that will burn. oxide is present in your home.
Administration offers these cause the ashes will produce   Don’t cover the electrical Carbon monoxide detectors
important safety tips: carbon monoxide. With the cord for the heater up with should be UL listed and re-
  Be sure fireplaces or stoves damper closed, the toxic car- items like a throw rug or placed every ten years. It is
are installed properly and to bon monoxide will enter your blankets. All electrical cords recommended to place one on
the manufacturer’s specifica- home. produce electricity and must each level of your home and
tions. Wood stoves should   If synthetic logs are used, be uncovered so the heat can near your bedrooms.
have adequate clearance (usu- follow the directions on the dissipate.
ally 36”) from combustible package. Never break a syn- Most carbon monoxide
surfaces. They should also thetic log apart or use more Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors will have a battery
be installed with proper floor than one at a time. Breaking poisoning is a concern year as well as AC power. Most
support and having the chim- the log can cause it to burn round because it is an odor- detectors will chirp intermit-
ney secured as well. unevenly which can produce less, colorless, and tasteless tently or even have a display
  Wood stoves should be high levels of carbon monox- gas but can have significant for a low battery. Please assess
good quality, made with a ide. health risks. There is more of a your detectors so that you are
solid design, and needs to be   Do not use any kind of a risk during the winter months familiar with the difference
UL listed. flammable liquid to start or because buildings are closed between an actual alarm and
  Have the chimney inspect- accelerate a fire. up, furnaces are running, and a low battery warning. If your
ed annually and cleaned, if people are using other heat carbon monoxide detector
necessary. Dirty chimneys are Space heaters are another sources such as fireplaces and goes off in alarm mode, im-
a common cause of chimney source of winter house fires. kerosene heaters. To prevent mediately move to fresh air
fires. Space heaters can be very safe the risk of CO poisoning, fol- and call 911.

Help Keep Fire Hydrants Clear

In 2015, fire departments they ever have in the past. buried by snow. This means to turn the hydrant on. Also
in the United States respond- Did you know that most fire that we have to not only dig clear a two or 3-foot path
ed to a structure fire every engines carry between 500 out the hydrant, but be able from the hydrant out to the
63 seconds. Those structure and 1,000 gallons of water to find it first. street. If you do it frequently,
fires resulted in 2,685 civil- on them? Depending on the it shouldn’t take very long.
ian deaths, 13,000 civilian fire, the fire department can The Marion Fire Depart- So, every time you clear your
injuries, and $10.3 billion in go through the water on the ment and the Marion Wa- driveway, take a few minutes
property damage. Fires occur truck in 2-5 minutes, and that ter Department do clear out to make sure that the hydrant
more frequently in the winter is why we have to connect to hydrants when the snow is cleared out as well. Taking
due to people using alterna- a fire hydrant quickly. The starts to pile up in the winter. just a few extra minutes could
tive heat sources, lighting Marion Fire Department has There are 1,652 fire hydrants help save your house or that
candles, cooking for the holi- shovels ready in the event in Marion – so there is no of one of your neighbors!
days, and a variety of other that we have to dig out a fire way for us to get to them all.
reasons. hydrant, but that takes pre-
cious time. That could even We ask that if you have a
With winter in Iowa, also mean that we run out of wa- fire hydrant near your house,
comes snow. One often over- ter before we can hook to the that you take a few minutes
looked fire safety device gets fire hydrant to continue to each time it snows to clear a
buried by the snow - the fire fight the fire. In years with path around it. Clearing 3 feet
hydrant near your home. high snow fall, Marion has around the hydrant allows
Fires spread faster and pro- hydrants that are completely room for the Fire Department
duce more toxic smoke than to access all of the discharge
openings and to have room

65

www.CityofMarion.org Ave./7VtEh&S7t. Marion Messenger • 77TH AV

How Do I Drive the 7th 7THA Roundabout?

T
7TH AVENUE TH ST

R
OUNDABOU

COUNTRY 4
KITCHEN

Step 4: At the dash line look 37TH STREET ZIO
to your left and yield to traffic 2
circulating the roundabout, 6TH A
they will not yield to you. 1
Once a gap appears, merge
into the roundabout. 6TH AVENUE
Step 5: Stay in your lane
within the roundabout and
proceed according to the
pavement markings.
Step 6: Use your turn signal to
exit and watch for pedestrians
while exiting. Do not change
lanes to exit.

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them space and don't pass the—m!Give them space and

OUTEESSOONNLLYY For more information on Marion's CorCtroildepoaarrsPtshro–ejeDrcootu, nnpoldetaasbsteoovupitswitto:itahlilnowthCvroeeelemuhraoniecurdrlgneatdeshbnaeobctyouorutvo!ept!uhainscsdleas—bouDto t

RARIGNH&TU&-TRUIGRHNTRTOUURTN R CFoenr tmraol rCeorinrifdoorrmPartoijoencto, pnleMaaserivoinsi’st:Central
www.cityofmwwawri.ocinty.oofmrgarioAnl.woarygs be aware and drivAelswloawylys!be aware an

8 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Seasonal Reminders from Public Services

Solid Waste Collection Yard Waste Drop-Off Please contact the Marion degradable bags.
Rates Increase January 1 Facility Public Services Department at Please call the Marion Pub-
377-6367 for additional infor-
On Jan. 1, the monthly fee Marion residents that re- mation. lic Services Department at
for residential garbage, recy- ceive municipal solid waste Curbside Yard Waste 377-6367 with any questions.
cling and yard waste collec- collection can utilize the Yard Collection Private Snow Plow
tion will be $14.25 per month, Waste Drop- off Facility lo- Licensing Requirements
$28.50 per billing cycle. cated at 195 35th Street. Yard Curbside yard waste will
waste items such as leaves, be collected from Marion resi- City ordinance requires
At the same time, the City grass clippings, and brush dents until the last week of that all private snow removal
of Marion will discontinue its less than 4” in diameter are November, unless it snows contractors need to obtain a
practice of providing a dis- accepted at the facility free of prior to that date. Residents snow removal permit for any
count for solid waste collec- charge. must place their yard waste in work to within the city right
tion for households where all a 32 gallon can marked with a of way. The cost for the per-
adults are over the age of 65. Extended hours for the “Y” or a biodegradable bag. mit is $25. Permit applications
yard waste facility for No- will be accepted now through
The Iowa Auditor of State vember (weather permitting) Sticks, limbs, and brush, Dec. 12, 2016. Applications
recently issued an opinion are as follows: larger than 1 inch in diameter can be obtained at the Public
stating that rate exemptions and no greater than 4 inches Services Department located
based upon age are non-com- • Monday – Friday 7 a.m.- in diameter, must be bundled at 195 35th Street between 7
pliant and inconsistent with 3:15 p.m. at the curb. Bundles should a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through
state law as established in Sec- not measure more than 3 feet Friday. Please call the Public
tion 388.6 of the Code of Iowa. • Tuesday 7 a.m.-5:45 p.m. in length or width. Grass clip- Services Department at 377-
• Saturday 8 a.m.-4:15 p.m. pings must be placed in bio- 6367 with any questions.
Questions can be directed • Sunday noon-4 p.m.
to the Marion Public Services
Department at 319-377-6367.

Garbage Fee Exemption For Vacated Premises

You may be eligible for ex- unused for more than No credit will be issued online at www.cityofmarion.
emption from garbage fees if 180 days. for any part of the first org or from the Marion Water
your residential dwelling is • Exemption begins after 180 days.) Department or Marion Pub-
vacant for an extended period the 180 days. (Billing • Application for exemp- lic Services Department. For
of time. The guidelines are: will continue during the tion must be submitted more information, please call
first 180 days of vacancy. to and approved by the Marion Public Services at 319-
• Must be a residential If vacancy continues af- Marion Public Services 377-6367.
dwelling. ter the 180 days, the ex- Board.
emption may then begin. Applications are available
• Residential dwelling
must first be vacant and

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 9

2016 Water Department Winter Water Tips
Construction Projects Update

The Marion Water Depart- As winter approaches, the Marion Water Department has
ment has completed multiple some tips for homeowners to help prevent winter water
capital improvement projects freeze-ups.
in 2016. Two elevated water
towers were both completed along 35th Street, south of 3rd Outside: the home. Also, on re-
this year. One at Lindale Drive Avenue to Industrial Avenue • If you have an irrigation ally cold nights one can
and Blairs Ferry Road and the this fall. system, make sure it’s leave a small trickle of
other one at 31st Street and serviced and drained. water run which allows
5th Avenue were repainted The Marion Water Depart- • Remove any hoses from the warmer system wa-
and some minor structural re- ment has hired a consultant outside faucets. Even ter to flow through the
pairs were made. In conjunc- to begin the process to drill if you have “frost free” underground pipes.
tion with the 7th Street and another municipal drinking faucets, they will freeze If you experience a frozen
7th Avenue roundabout proj- well into the Silurian Aquifer up if an attached hose is pipe:
ect, water main that was in- at 450 Echo Hill Road this fall. left with water in it. Re- DO NOT use an open
stalled in 1885 was replaced at Construction of this well is move the hose and store flame to thaw a pipe – you
an estimated cost of $236,000. expected to begin this winter. it indoors for the winter could burn your house
The Marion Water Depart- This new well will add ad- – the hose will also last down. Do not use an electric
ment distribution crew also ditional source water to the longer. arc welder to thaw a frozen
finished relaying water main system and should reduce the • Seal any founda- pipe – you could burn your
along 10th Avenue between radium concentration at this tion cracks, especially house, or even your neigh-
25th and 27th Streets and re- plant location. The anticipat- around outside faucets bor’s house.
placing numerous old fire ed construction cost to drill and where water pipes Open the piping area to
hydrants and broken valves this Silurian well is $175,000 are located in the base- room heat and use a hair
around town. with future improvements re- ment. dryer or small electric heat-
quired to blend the two sourc- er to thaw the pipe. It may
A contractor abandoned es of water together upon Inside: take a while, but maintain
an old water main along 3rd knowing the water quality • Wrap pipes using foam supervision of the thawing
Avenue between 31st Street and quantity from this new tubes (available at most process. The freeze up may
and 35th Street and recon- well. This will be a two-year hardware stores) any- cause a split in the water
nected water service lines to capital improvement project where that water pipes pipe and a subsequent leak
a newer water main on the for the department. are in proximity to out- after the pipe is thawed. You
north side of 3rd Avenue. The side walls. must be ready and know
200,000-gallon water storage If you would like any fur- • Caulk any cracks in the how to shut off water to the
tank at 2351 31st Street was ther information about any of foundation, or around affected area should water
repainted and the aeration these projects, please contact basement windows, start spraying during the
unit on top of the tank was Todd Steigerwaldt, General where winter winds thawing process.
also reconditioned. New wa- Manager at 319-743-6311. may penetrate and Be familiar with where
ter main will be installed at freeze nearby pipes. the master valve is located
roundabout project on 7th Av- • Turn off valves to out- - in the basement, usually
enue and 26th Street costing side faucets. There is near the water meter, and
approximately $208,000. Also usually a control valve carefully test it to make sure
a contractor has been hired in the basement to each it will work when needed.
to replace an old water main individual outside fau- If the master valve is not
cet. Do this even if the operable, you will need to
Radium Level Update faucet is “frost free” to call a plumber for repairs.
prevent the faucet from In an emergency where
The plant that triggered the Department will continue to freezing and breaking. water is leaking and causing
quarterly radium testing has test quarterly for radium lev- After turning off the damage, and if a plumber
been offline since last spring els at source/entry point 05 valve, go outside and is not readily available, you
due to a motor failure issue so per the DNR regulations. If open the faucet to make can call the Water Depart-
there are no new radium test there is an exceedance in the sure the valve is off and ment for assistance at 743-
results to share. The plant was maximum contaminant level drip-free. 6310. After hour charges do
put back on line in mid-Sep- (MCL) the public will be no- • If you notice water apply.
tember and new radium tests tified and steps will be taken temperature getting ex- A few preventative mea-
were taken and sent off to the to resolve the issue. For more tremely cold, consider sures could prevent the po-
lab. It takes about 45 days to information, see our FAQ fact opening a door below tential damage and inconve-
get results back. Results will sheet available at www.cityof- the sink or vanity to nience of frozen water pipes
be posted at www.cityofmari- marion.org or contact Todd allow heat to the pip- in your home this winter.
on.org once they are received. Steigerwaldt, General Man- ing. This step is most Take the time to do it now.
The latest quarterly water test ager, by phone at 319-743-6311 likely to occur if the
results for April 2016 showed or by email at tsteigerwaldt@ sink or vanity is located
a drop in the radium level cityofmarion.org. on an outside wall of
from the January radium test
results. The Marion Water

10 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Message From the Library Director

Marion Public Library: A Growing Organism, A Changing Agency

A founding value in li- Elsworth Carman able for public use that are new staff joining our grow-
brary science is that libraries with a change.  not typically used that way. I ing and changing library,
are growing organisms. This was impressed and delighted and we strive to continue the
concept was first articulated Library staff and patrons by the way staff and patrons library’s legacy of service to
by Dr. Shiyali Ramamrite had a chance to implement worked together to success- the Marion community.
Ranganathan—considered and experience some short fully navigate the changes,
by many to be the father of term changes late in Sep- even in a high-stress time.  Another big change on our
library education—in 1931, tember, when we welcomed horizon is the building proj-
and it is as true today as it many new patrons—and a Some changes are more ect. Like substantial staffing
was then. Libraries grow and couple of temporary staff strategic and internal, like changes, this kind of signifi-
change constantly. We adjust members—while the Main staffing design. The library is cant space design opportu-
for new material formats, Library in downtown Cedar in a unique position this year, nity needs to be approached
technology modifications, Rapids, along with many area since there are three planned with a commitment to excep-
community needs, and in re- businesses and offices, were retirements happening in the tional stewardship and a real
sponse to variations in fund- closed because of the pre- span of just a few months. desire to meet and exceed
ing.  dicted flood. We made some Each of the staff retiring has Marion’s needs. We’re work-
service decisions in response served at the library for over ing hard to plan a project that
One of most exciting things to high demand for access to 20 years. While it is truly sad will allow for outstanding
I have observed in my first six some of our resources, like to see these amazing staff service right now, but will
months as the director of the adjusting the session length members retire, the vacan- also be flexible enough to
Marion Public Library is the on public computers and cies they create provide op- meet the needs of our users
change readiness of both the making some spaces avail- portunities to carefully assess as those needs change and
staff and the community. Staff the needs of Marion and craft evolve.
is eager to share new ideas, positions that best meet those
engage in conversation about needs. We have brought in As our agency shifts and
ways to implement changes, some new staff already, and develops to best meet our
and discern effective ways to it’s wonderful to get to know community’s service needs,
evaluate what we’re doing. them and learn from their ex- we find joy in redesigning
Our patrons are responsive periences. Good stewardship our services and spaces in
to new practices and services and a dedication to effective response to your input and
and share their opinions en- service guide our choices in feedback. Thank you for
thusiastically. That’s not to building positions, and our growing and changing with
say that we don’t have some applicant pools are typically us. Please keep asking your
traditionalists in the mix— diverse and inspiring (not questions and stating your
both on staff and among our a surprise when you look at needs; the more we hear from
patrons—but we’ve found all Marion has to offer). As you, the more fully we can
most people see the value an agency, we honor the staff serve our community.
in trying new things even if who have served so consci- --Elsworth Carman, Library
they don’t immediately agree entiously and celebrate the Director

Traveling for the Holidays? Marion Library can Help!

Are you traveling for the a title about leadership, such progress with your friends. more.
holidays? Stop by the Marion as “The Power of Other,” by 3M: Download ebooks to you Freegal: The library’s sub-
Public Library for resources to Henry Cloud. Need a read to ereader or smartphone and scription with Freegal pro-
keep you focused as the miles keep the entire family capti- you’ll never again be without vides you with three music
fly by. Although you can’t vated?  We also have juvenile a book while you are on the downloads every week. There
read a book behind the wheel, books on CD, including the road! are millions of songs and
audiobooks are a great way to award-winning Harry Potter One-Click: Another great music videos to choose from,
pass the time productively. series, read compellingly by source for downloadable au- including current and classic
Books on CD: Nonfiction Jim Dale. diobooks; find family-friend- hits. Browse the catalog from
books, especially mem- Overdrive: Download eb- ly fare for that long drive to the Freegal website or the
oirs and humor, tend to be ooks and audiobooks directly Grandma’s. iOS or Android app. Follow
popular picks for long drives. to your tablet or smartphone. Music CDs: Browse our the link from the library’s
Looking to laugh? Give Overdrive allows listeners to CD collection for holiday website to get started.
“Holidays on Ice,” by David speed up or slow down nar- hits, popular music, comedy
Sedaris a try. Hoping for ration, set timers, place book- albums, soundtracks, and For help with recommenda-
some motivation? Check out marks, and share reading tions or help with resources,
stop by the Information Desk!

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 11

Upcoming Library Events

Check out the Classics Club

Holiday Market ects or use our Ancestry.com, Classics Club Our first book is
Saturday, Nov. 19 HeritageQuest, or historical Revisit your favorite lit- “Jane  Eyre,” by Charlotte
10 a.m.- 3 p.m. newspaper online services. erary classics in a whole Brontë.  All programs begin
Come shop at our holiday Everyone is welcome! new way!  We are excited to at 6:30 and include:
market featuring local ven- launch a new series of pro-
dors offering handcrafted and Movie Monday: Classics, grams at the library based • “Jane Eyre” Movie Par-
homemade baked goods, and Coffee & Donuts on reading (or re-reading!) ty; Wednesday, Nov.
an array of artisan items. This classics as historical docu- 16. Enjoy the 2011 film
event is presented by Friends 3rd Mondays ments, conversation starters, adaptation of the classic
of the Marion Public Library.    10 a.m. and valued pieces of enter- novel!
Chicken Certification Do you love the old classic tainment.  Every series will
Classes movies? Want to share your include a presentation by lo- • “Jane Eyre” Book Dis-
The Chicken Certification love with others over coffee cal historian Kathy Wilson to cussion; Tuesday, Dec.
classes take a break for the and donuts? Join us for Movie provide some historical con- 6
winter; the monthly programs Monday: Classics, Coffee & text, a book discussion, an
resume in February. Check Donuts.  On the 3rd Monday opportunity to view a film Join us this winter for
our website www.marionpub- morning of each month, we'll adaptation, and some addi- Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone
liclibrary.org for the schedule. show a classic film and pro- tional bonus programming. With the Wind,” and in the
Financial Planning vide coffee and donuts. fun and creative way to learn spring for Mark Twain!
Programs • November 21 -  Bridge the basics of embroidery.
The Financial Planning You’ll learn about floss (from you!
programs are offered by a lo- on the River Kwai  (#14 basic to fancy), needles, fab- Scrabble Club
cal professional at no charge on AFI's 100 Years 100 rics, and how to transfer your Thursdays
each month, with a break in Cheers) design onto any type of fabric. 2-4 p.m.
December. Join us on Jan. 17 • December 19 - Christmas A small wooden hoop, piece Our enthusiastic Scrabble
to learn about eight key steps of fabric, needle, and some
to estate planning and watch in Connecticut floss will be provided. Bring players meet year round, rain
our calendar for the spring • January 16 - Schindler’s additional embroidery floss if or shine. They love to get new
schedule. you’d like more colors to play competitors. All ages and skill
Genealogy Junkies: Now List with. Space is limited for this levels welcome! 
Two Options • February 20 - The Way class; check at https://mari-
Wednesday Evenings – 7-8:30 onpubliclibrary.org/doodle Coloring Programs – Now
p.m. We Were to see if there’s still room for TWO Options!
2nd & 4th Thursday Mornings Doodle Stitching
– 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 30 Red or White: What’s Your
Our Genealogy Junkies 6:30 p.m. Color?
Groups provide an opportu- Join Kayanna from local
nity for anyone interested in shop  Stitch Together Needle (1st Thursdays from 6:30-8
genealogy to get together with Arts Studio, and learn to p.m. at Ramsey’s)
peers to learn and to share embellish everything from
research tips and tricks. The pillow cases to sneakers to t- Red, White, or Blue:
group meets weekly. Bring a shirts! Doodle Stitching is a What’s Your Color?
laptop or tablet computer, or (3rd Thursdays from 5:30-7:30
check out one of the library's p.m. at the American Legion)
laptops from the Information Upcoming Library
Desk. Work on your own proj- Events, Page 12

12 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

The library’s popular adult suggestions at our webpage, Family Time - Mondays at ter school and hang out
coloring programs start up https://marionpubliclibrary. 6:30 p.m. (all ages) at our Game Days. We
again this fall. If you thought org/bookatrip. have video games, board
coloring was just for kids, Preschool Story Time - games, and card games.
think again! Join us for some Pied Piper Concerts Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Or bring your own game
creative fun! Coloring relieves Orchestra Iowa’s talented 10:45 a.m. to challenge a friend!
stress,  generates well-being, chamber ensembles will intro- We also have movie days,
and stimulates brain areas duce preschool-aged children Toddler Time - Tuesdays crafts, contests, and more.
related to motor skills, the to the instruments of the or- and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Check our website or news-
senses, and creativity.  Cray- chestra! Focused on fun and letter for the most up-to-date
ons, markers, colored pencils learning, Pied Piper Concerts Baby Time - Thursdays at details about what’s going on.
and coloring sheets will be offer children the opportunity 10:30 a.m. Join us Dec. 13 at the library
provided; bring your own to enjoy an up-close and per- for a Teen Holiday Craft from
supplies as well if you’d like. sonal chamber concert abso- The Marion Public Library 4-5:30 p.m.
Food and beverages (alcoholic lutely FREE at Marion Public has a lot of exciting programs Teen NaNoWriMo
and non-alcoholic) are avail- Library! Join us on Saturday for teens that happen every Tuesdays in November
able to purchase. at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 11, Mar. month. 4-5:30 p.m.
4, and May 13. November is National Nov-
Barnes & Noble Bookfair Christmas in the Park • Anime Club is the first el Writing Month or NaNoW-
Support the Marion Library Friday, Dec. 2 between 5:15-7 Monday of every month riMo, where people are chal-
on Dec. 21 by doing your holi- p.m. from 4-5:30 p.m. Come lenged to write 50,000 words
day shopping at Barnes & No- Come warm up in the li- watch Anime with oth- in one month. We will have
ble! Mention us at check-out brary and make a quick craft er teens who love it as a room set aside for teens
and we’ll get a percentage of that will decorate your home much as you do! Watch to come in and have a quiet
your sale; no cost to you! for years to come!  the shows while enjoying place to write each week.
Read Your Way Across the Babble & Brew yummy Japanese snacks! How much can you write this
USA Wednesday, Nov. 23, drop in November?
Have you Booked Your between 10-11:30 a.m. • Teen Fandemonium is
Trip yet? This year-round Tuesday, Dec. 20, drop in be- the third Monday of ev-
reading program couldn't tween 10-11:30 a.m. ery month from 4-5 p.m.
be easier: we have logs with Longing for grown-up con- Every month we cele-
maps available for everyone, versation? Want to reclaim brate a different fandom.
and all you have to do is read your sanity, but need a place Feel free to come and give
books. When you've read a where your little ones will your input on what we
book from all 50 states, come have fun too? Join us for high- should celebrate
to the Children's Desk or In- quality coffee from Wit's End next!
formation Desk for a special Coffeehouse for the adults,
prize! Learn more and get and lots of exciting and age- • Game Day hap-
appropriate toys for the kid- pens on different
Library Hours dos (newborns-preschoolers). days during the
month so check
our calendar to
see when our
next one is. It
runs from 3:30-
5 p.m. Stop by
the library af-

& Holidays Weekly Senior Activities at Lowe Park

Thursday, Nov. 24 – The Lowe Park Arts & En- Pinochle- Group meets and Monday “Live Music”
CLOSED vironment Center is home to plays every Friday at 9 a.m. Dance- Listen and/or dance
FREE senior activities on a in the Sunburst Room at the to live music from various
Friday, Nov. 25 – CLOSED daily basis during the week. Lowe Park Arts and Environ- bands. Meets every Monday
Saturday, Dec. 24 – These programs are provided ment Center. beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the
CLOSED and coordinated as part of the Oaks Room at the Lowe Park
Sunday, Dec. 25 – CLOSED Witwer Healthy Aging Pro- 500- Group meets and plays Arts and Environment Center.
Saturday, Dec. 31 – Library gram by Aging Services. every Wednesday at 9 a.m.
closes at 2 p.m. in the Sunburst Room at the Fresh Conversations- This
Sunday, Jan. 1 - CLOSED These programs and ac- Lowe Park Arts and Environ- fun nutrition program is de-
tivities are geared towards ment Center. signed to promote better
Regular Hours: adults ages 55 and up. For eating and physical activity.
more information on these Blood Pressure Clinics- Held the 3rd Thursday of the
Monday-Thursday programs, please contact JoEl- Held the second Wednesday month at 11:15 a.m. in Sun-
9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. len Haddad or Lauri Mitchell of the month at 11:15 a.m. burst Room at the Lowe Park
Friday-Saturday at Aging Services; 398-3644 or in the Sunburst Room at the Arts & Environment Center.
9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. contact the recreation office at Lowe Park Arts & Environ-
Sunday 2-5 p.m. Lowe Park at 447-3590. Activi- ment Center. Lunch- The first and third
Call us at 319-377-3412, ties are scheduled as follows: Thursday of the month enjoy
or visit us online at www. Line Dancing- Get up and lunch at 11:30 a.m., hosted by
m a r i o n p u b l i c l i b r a r y. o r g Bingo- Group meets and get moving with some line Witwer and Summit Point.
or http://facebook.com/ plays every Thursday at 9:30 dancing. Meets every Wednes- Pre-registration is required,
marionlibrary a.m. in the Sunburst Room at day beginning at 1 p.m. in the please call 319-730-8271 by
the Lowe Park Arts and Envi- Oaks Room at the Lowe Park the Monday prior to the date
ronment Center. Arts and Environment Center. to RSVP. Cost $3.50.

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 13

Parks & Recreation Activities
NEW! Great Tree • Registration Deadline: • Time(s): Starts at 6 p.m. year olds
Decorating Contest, Dec. 2, 2016 (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.) • Sign Up: Lowe Park Arts
Children Ages 3+
• Fee: $10 per child Little Stars Basketball, • Location: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center
• Date: Thursday, Dec. 1 Children Age 4 & Environment Center • Saturdays, Feb. 4 & 11 from
• Time: 10-11 a.m. OR 6-7 • Fee: $36, includes program
• Registration Deadline: 9 a.m.-noon
p.m. (Choose One) shirt Feb. 3, 2017 • Please visit www.mari-
• Location: Lowe Park Arts • Days/Dates: Saturdays,
B-I-N-G-O Nights at Lowe onbaseball.org for more
and Environment Center Feb. 4–Mar.4 Park, Open To All Ages information or check out
• Registration Deadline: • Time(s): Saturday morn- • Fee: $0.25 per card, per the Parks & Rec activities
brochure in January.
Nov. 18, 2016 ings game. (FREE to attend, but Holiday Arrangements
Candy Cane Hunt, Children • Location: Echo Hill El- seats and cards are first • Thursday, Dec. 1
Ages 3–6 come, first serve) • 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Fee: $10 per child ementary School • Days/Dates: Friday, Jan. 20 • Create beautiful holiday
• Date: Saturday, Dec. 10 • Registration Deadline: Friday, Feb. 17 arrangements from an as-
• Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Mar. 10 sortment of dried flowers
• Location: Lowe Park Arts Dec. 16, 2016 • Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. and evergreens.
Shooting Stars Basketball, • Location: Lowe Park Arts • Class size limit to 20
and Environment Center Children Grades Pre-K-K–1st & Environment Center • Materials fee $20
• Registration Deadline: (Fall 2016/17) • Registration Deadline: • Advanced registration is
• Fee: $36, includes child’s Seats & cards are first required by calling ISU
Nov. 18, 2016 come, first serve until we Extension and Outreach
Santa’s Little Workshop, team shirt reach fire code capacity – Linn County at 319-377-
Children Grades K–5th • Days/Dates: Saturdays, Peg Pierce Marion Girls 9838.
• Fee: $20 per child Softball, Girls entering 3rd- Activities Brochure
• Date: Saturday, Dec. 10 Feb. 4–Mar. 4 9th grades (Fall 2017/2018) Coming Soon
• Time: 1-5 p.m. • Time(s): Saturday morn- • Games played at Peg • Look for a complete list of
• Location: Lowe Park Arts Pierce Softball Complex. programs in the upcom-
ings • Register By: Mar. 1, 2017 ing 2017 Marion Parks
and Environment Center • Location: Echo Hill and • Sign Up: Lowe Park Arts and Recreation Activities
• Registration Deadline: & Environment Center Brochure available in early
Bowman Woods Elemen- • Saturdays, Feb. 4 & 11 from January. This handy guide
Nov. 18, 2016 tary Schools 9 a.m.-noon will include all programs,
Light The Night-Holiday • Registration Deadline: • Look for additional events, and activities orga-
Lights Tour, Open To All Dec. 16, 2016 information online or in nized by the department
Marion Residents & Businesses Indoor Blastball Camp the Parks & Rec activities for 2017 as well as swim-
• Fee: FREE, prize awarded (2017), Children Age 3 brochure in January. ming lesson information,
• Fee: $33, includes child’s Marion Boys Baseball, Boys park and rental informa-
to the winner team shirt 8-18 years of age on April 1, tion and much more. If you
• Dates: Viewing and votes • Days/Dates: Saturdays, 2017 would like to be included
Feb. 4–Mar. 4 • Pony League - 8 & 9 year on the mailing list, please
accepted Dec. 12–25 • Time(s): Saturday Morn- olds contact khummel@cityof-
• Registration Deadline: ings • Minor League - 10, 11 & 12 marion.org to have a copy
• Location: Bowman Woods year olds mailed directly to you.
Dec. 9, 2016 Elementary • Major League - 13, 14 & 15
NEW! Hot Shots Free • Registration Deadline: year olds
Throw Competition, Open Dec. 16, 2016 • Senior League - 16, 17 & 18
To All Ages (Parent-Child Adult Team Trivia Night,
Teams) Adults Ages 18+
• Fee: $10 per team • Fee: $80 per team (Max: 8
• Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14 people per team)
• Time: 6-8 p.m. • Days/Dates: Saturday,
• Location: To be determined Mar. 4

Marion Arts Council Programming

Coffeehouse Nights include: Karla Ruth - Dec. 2, mately every eight weeks a Lowe Park Sculpture Trail
Coffeehouse Nights are Bernemann Brothers Trio - new exhibit is displayed in The trail that leads to the
Feb. 3, TBA – Mar. 3, acoustic the gallery, featuring works
held at the Arts & Environ- open jam session led by Lori by local and regional Iowa Klopfenstein Amphitheater
ment Center at Lowe Park. Blattner - Apr. 7. artists. This is a great opportu- for the Performing Arts at
These musical performances Gallery Exhibits nity for the citizens of Marion Lowe Park features a number
feature talented local acous- and visitors to enjoy a variety of art sculptures, with more
tic artists in a relaxed cof- In the front portion of the of quality works of art at no to come. The sculpture com-
feehouse type atmosphere. Lowe Park Arts & Environ- cost. Gallery hours are Mon- mittee will be selecting two
Admission is free and coffee, ment Center features a gallery, day – Friday from 7 a.m. - 4 or possibly three pieces to be
cocoa and pastries from Wit's and the Marion Arts Council p.m. and the first Saturday of placed along the Lowe Park
End Coffeehouse are available coordinates the exhibits you’ll each month from 1 - 3 p.m. Sculpture Trail in the spring
for purchase. find in this space. Approxi- of 2017.

Upcoming performances

14 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Parks & Recreation Rental Information

Lowe Park Arts & Environment amount of 50% of the rental fee shall be  Reservations can be made 364 days in
Center refunded. advance of your date.
Klopfenstein Amphitheater, Lowe Thomas Park Safe Room
Located within the confines of beauti- Park
ful Lowe Park, 4500 N 10th Street, the This non-smoking facility has a seat-
Arts & Environment Center is a multi- This beautiful structure is located just ing capacity of 115 and includes the use
use facility that is managed by the Mar- north of the Arts & Environment Cen- of a refrigerator, microwave and sink
ion Parks and Recreation Department. ter at Lowe Park (4500 N 10th Street). with rental. Six-hour rentals run 9 a.m.-
The rental spaces are popular for gradu- This venue can be rented for weddings, 3 p.m. or 4-10 p.m. Call 319-447-3580 for
ation parties, birthday parties, anniver- concerts, theatrical performances, and additional information.
saries, weddings, baby showers, family other public performances.
gatherings, business meetings, concerts, Park Pavilions  Reservations can be made 364 days in
workshops, and much more. Call 319- advance of your date.
447-3590 for availability. Pavilions are available for reserva- Baseball & Softball Diamond Rental
tions from May 1—Oct. 31.
Reservations can be made 364 days in Beginning Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017,
advance of your date. All pavilions feature electricity, run- reservations for baseball/softball dia-
ning water and grills (Taube Park does monds will be taken at the Marion rec-
Reservations must be made in person, not have a sink, but water is available). reation office at Lowe Park for 2017 field
Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Trash must be placed in the containers rentals. Fees must be paid at the time
provided. reservations are made. Marion Parks
Full payment is due at the time the & Recreation has first priority of all fa-
reservation is made. Six-hour rentals run from 9 a.m.-3 cilities and predetermines the time slots
p.m. or 4-10 p.m. Renters of the first that are available for rental.
Events with alcohol require an alcohol reservation must leave by 3 p.m. to al-
permit to be completed and approved low for cleaning. If additional time is Baseball/Softball Diamonds... $15/90
for an additional non-refundable $25 fee needed, please rent for the entire day. minutes.
Call 319-447-3580 for additional infor-
Weekend rates start at 4 p.m. on Fri- mation.
day.

In the event of a cancellation, at the
request of the renter, a refund in the

Other Park News

Employment Opportunities for you at a cost of 85 cents per ing, park roadway lighting, entrance to the 180-acre park
The Marion Parks & Rec- square foot plus a $25 admin- prairie grass planting and tree and additional parking for up
istrative fee. planting. to 200 vehicles expected to be
reation Department is a great City Square Park Lowe Park/Irish Drive available by the time the snow
place to look for a part-time Improvements Entrance Construction flies. Grass seeding and tree
job. Stop by our office to ap- Update planting are expected to take
ply for a position as a summer Two bike racks and a Fix- place this fall, as well.
t-ball umpire, flag football it bike repair station were Significant improvements
official, basketball official, installed in Uptown Marion are underway at Lowe Park,
recreation program aide, con- near City Square Park to help with the addition of another
cessions attendant, building promote bike riding to the
supervisor, or seasonal main- central business district.
tenance worker. Waldo’s Rock Park
Construction Update
Seasonal lifeguards, ca-
shiers and swim lesson in- Construction of this new
structors are needed for the park, located in the Marion
Marion Municipal Swim- Enterprise Center east of Hwy
ming Pool during the sum- 13, is ongoing. Pavilion con-
mer months. Applications for struction, trail work, pond
these positions are due by restoration, parking lot con-
Feb. 14, 2017. struction, and general seeding
Please Keep Sidewalks are all expected to be complet-
Clear of Snow and Ice ed this construction season.

Per city ordinance you have Items expected to be com-
12 hours after it has stopped pleted by mid- to late-sum-
snowing to clear sidewalks mer 2017 include: parking lot
adjacent to your property.  If painting, trail surfacing, con-
you are found in violation, nection to the Grant Wood
you have 24 hours to get it Trail, pavilion electrical/light-
cleared or the City will do it

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 15

Indian Creek Named TV-9 Athlete of the Week, Travel Opportunity of Advanced Placement (AP)
National Blue Ribbon Jack Recker, shot a 160 to tie There will be a meeting classes offered to challenge
School for 21st. Drew Brandel tied students and prepare them
for 56th with a 174, and Zach on Nov. 16 at Marion High for their post-graduate edu-
Indian Creek Elementary Armstrong shot a 177, to tie School at 7 p.m. in Room 102 cation. Marion High School
School received a surprise for 61st. for those interested in visit- currently offers 11 different
announcement from U.S. Sec- ing Paris, Barcelona and the AP classes on-site, and sev-
retary of Education John B. Congratulations Boys' Golf south of France with MHS in- eral other AP courses online.
King, Jr., who declared that In- on a fantastic season! structor Barb Shultz in Sum- Marion offers more AP classes
dian Creek  Elementary was Linn-Mar Volleyball Team mer 2017. This 11-day tour than any other school in Iowa
named a 2016 National Blue Wins MCV Title departs in the fourth week of similar size, and even more
Ribbon School. Indian Creek of July 2017 and is open to than several schools larger
was one, among 279 public The Class 5A (fifth ranked) all Marion area residents and than MHS.
and 50 private schools, to re- Linn-Mar Lions volleyball their families. Visit  www.
ceive this honor. In addition, team won its first Missis- codejazz.com/2017  for more Marion High School has
Indian Creek Elementary is sippi Valley Conference divi- details, or contact Barb Shultz been named to the AP Honor
among only five Iowa schools sion championship Tuesday, at  [email protected] Roll, meaning we are 1 of 547
to win this year's award. Oct. 11 by beating 4A (second with any questions. districts in U.S. and Canada
ranked) Dubuque Wahlert, 25- Ready for Windows honored for increasing ac-
Indian Creek Elementary 12, 25-19, 25-21. The last time cess to AP course work while
will be represented at a two- this goal was achieved was in The Marion/Linn -Mar simultaneously maintaining
day awards ceremony in 1980 when the league was the Building Trades program is or increasing the percentage
Washington, D.C. to celebrate East Central Iowa Conference. making good progress; the of students earning passing
their hard-won achievement. LMHS Inducts New National program will complete its scores of a 3 or higher on AP
Congratulations to the stu- Honor Society Members 26th house at the end of the Exams (which are on a 5 point
dents, teachers, and staff of 2016-17 school year.  This is scale).
Indian Creek Elementary on Recently, 71 LMHS students a cooperative program in- Communication Specialists
their monumental achieve- were formally inducted to the volving students from both Spread the Word
ment!!! National Honor Society. The the Marion Independent and
LMHS Boys' Golf, Best in ceremony, held in the High Linn-Mar Community School The Marion Independent
Metro, Take 3rd at State! School Little Theatre, was Districts.  This year's house School District has exploded
witnessed by a near capacity has an efficient open floor its use of social media to in-
Congratulations to the crowd of proud relatives. The plan featuring 4 bedrooms, a form the community of posi-
Linn-Mar Boys' Golf Team! keynote address was present- 3-stall garage, 9-foot ceilings, tive happenings throughout
They took third place at the ed by Linn-Mar Superinten- a finished basement and over the district. Each of the five
Class 4A State Tournament at dent Dr. Quintin Shepherd; 2,600 sq. ft. of total finished schools have their own Face-
TCI Golf Course in Polk City who shared his experience living space. book page, Twitter feeds, and
(par 71). when he was inducted into Emerson Healthiest Instagram accounts. News
NHS when he was in high State Walk to Longfellow features, Twitter and Insta-
Cole Yearling shot a 158 in school. Property gram are included on the dis-
the two round tournament to trict website.
tie for 14th overall, Andrew Congratulations to all the On Wednesday, Oct. 5, the
Wood and Ben Greif each shot new NHS inductees! Emerson Elementary students Thanks to the Teacher
a 159 to tie for 17th. Former and staff members walked Leadership Grant that was
from Emerson, down 10th awarded for the 16-17 school
Linn-Mar Dates to Remember Avenue to the Longfellow year, MISD has been able to
Elementary property where provide communication spe-
• No School K-12: Nov. 23-25, Dec. 23-30, Jan. 2, 13, 16 their new building is being cialists in each building to as-
• Board Meetings: Nov. 21, Dec. 12, Jan. 9, 23 constructed.  The school par- sist with this charge, as part
• Coffee Conversations (8:30 – 9:30 a.m.): Feb 11 at Oak ticipated in Iowa’s Healthiest of their grant responsibilities.
State Walk, a state-wide ini- The new MISD website has
Ridge MS tiative to become the healthi- approximately 1,500 page
est state.  The walk also had views per day.  See what you
another purpose which was are missing and give MISD a
to thank the construction follow at:
workers who were on site and
present them with a poster, District Website: www.mar-
signed by the students and ion-isd.org
staff members. Longfellow El-
ementary is slated to open for Twitter: Emerson_MISD,
the 2017-18 school year. Starry_MISD, FMI_MISD,
MHS Increases AP Options Vernon_MS, Marion_Indians,
Marion_ISD
At the start of the 2016-17
school year, Marion High Instagram: Emerson_MISD,
School doubled the  number Starry_MISD, FrancisMarion_
MISD, vms_misd, mhs_misd

Facebook: www.facebook.
com/MarionHSIowa/

PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
MARION, IA
PERMIT NO. 52

1225 6th Ave.
Marion, IA 52302

16 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Shop Local this Holiday Season

Samll Business Saturday p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 3 participating businesses that Return your filled Holiday
Kick-off the holiday shop- p.m. have decked the halls for the Passport by Dec. 23 to the Up-
Uptown Holiday Passport holidays. Passports will be town /Chamber office for a
ping season with Small Busi- available at each participating chance to win a $50 Uptown
ness Saturday! Uptown Mar- In addition, between Small business, as well as at the Up- Dollars gift certificate.
ion Main Street and Marion Business Saturday and Dec. town / Chamber booth dur-
Chamber of Commerce will 23, shoppers have the op- ing Small Business Saturday For more information about
host a shopping event on Sat- portunity to fill an Uptown and the Peppermint Walk. these activities and more, visit
urday, Nov. 26, between 10 Holiday Passport by visiting www.uptownmarion.com.
a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy holiday mu- Uptown Dollars
sic as you shop and dine Up-
town. Receive a free #Shop– Struggling to think of that
Small gift, while supplies perfect gift for someone spe-
last, and be entered to win a cial? Consider giving him or
$100 Uptown Dollars gift cer- her Uptown Dollars! With
tificate with each receipt you more than 20 businesses par-
show! For your convenience, ticipating in this certificate
a gift wrapping station will program, your someone spe-
also be available. cial is sure to have fun as they
Extended Holiday Shopping shop, eat and explore Uptown
Hours Marion.

Small Business Saturday Certificates can be pur-
will launch extended District chased at Hills Bank and Trust
Holiday Shopping Hours be- Company (800 11th St) or at
tween Saturday, Nov. 26 and the Uptown/Chamber Office
Friday, Dec. 23. Core shop- (1225 6th Ave, STE 100) / 319-
ping can take place Monday- 377-6316. View participating
Wednesday, Friday: 10 a.m.-6 businesses here:  www.up-
p.m., Thursday: 10 a.m.-8 townmarion.com/discover-
p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 uptown/gift-certificates/.


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