Marion Messenger - May 2017

MmeAsRseInOgeNr

A quarterly newsletter by the May 2017

Marion Arts Festival among
Top 25 Festivals in the Nation

What’s Inside: Experience collaborative, Run for Your Art! Marion. Both invite runners
creative merrymaking at its Held the morning of the to experience innovative
Alley Ribbon Cutting- Page 2 finest! Join friends old and race technology features.
All About the Alley Art- Page 3-4 new Saturday, May 20, from event, competitive and rec- Enjoy the Friday evening
City News Briefs - Page 5 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. in Marion’s reational runners and walk- Expo and day-of finish line
Focus on Well-Being- Page 6 City Square Park for the ers of all ages are welcome giveaways, purchase prizes
About Community Promise- Page 6 25th annual Marion Arts at the Marion Arts Festival and more than $3,000 in
Bike to Work Week - Page 7 Festival. Named among the runs, with every registra- cash awards. Registration
Police Department Changes - Page 7 Top 25 fine art festivals in tion helping to support is open through the start of
Swamp Fox Festival 2017- Page 8 the nation for 2017, the Mar- the festival’s community the races, with participation
Public Services Reminders - Page 8 ion Arts Festival features 50 programming. The Marion capped at 1,500 runners.
Bicycle Helmet Safety- Page 9 nationally sourced visual Arts Festival half marathon Full registration info avail-
Water Department Info- Page 9 artists, along with specialty has quickly become a favor- able at www.pigmantri.
Library News - Page 10-11 foods, a range of hands-on ite season opener for many com/races/marion-arts.
Parks & Rec Info - Page 12-14 art experiences and a fund- wanting a longer, more Marion arts
School News - Page 15 raising half marathon and challenging early season festival, Page 2
Community Events- Page 16 5K run and fun walk. race, with the 5K run taking
a flat, fast course through
www.CityofMarion.org No Bands, No Beer – It’s
Vol. 16, No. 2 About the Art

May - Aug. 2017 The Marion Arts Festi-
val is free, family-friendly,
come-as-you-are culture.
Whether browsing or buy-
ing, an estimated 12,000
festival attendees will expe-
rience a wide range of one-
of-a-kind objects, with the
additional opportunity of
getting to know the artists
behind the art.

The 2017 exhibitor line-
up offers work in 12 differ-
ent media – from 2D mixed
to sculptural woodworking
– with 21 artists being brand
new to the event. Exhibitors
were selected from 350 art-
ist applications, represent-
ing 20 states and Canada.

2 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Marion Arts classroom would still like a range of programming, in- real-world selling experience
Festival, Page 1 to donate bowls to the 2017 cluding classes for all skill for students considering a ca-
event, please contact the festi- levels. reer in art. Six high school and
Add to Your Empty val for information. college artists – representing
Bowl Collection! Pottery wheels will spin, four area schools, colleges,
At the Marion Arts Festival, hands will get dirty, and par- universities and residency
The Marion Arts Festival Everyone's an Artist ticipants are invited to create programs – were selected
believes art helps make a com- a bowl to be donated to the through a jury process and
munity. Each year, all K-12 The Art in the Depot expe- Marion Arts Festival’s 2018 then mentored by the festival
students in the Grant Wood rience offers every communi- Empty Bowls sale! to maximize the potential of
Area Education Area service ty member the opportunity to their experience. These stu-
footprint are invited to create work side-by-side with pro- It's Not Easy, Becoming an dents will be offering work in
contributions for one of the fessional artists. The 2017 fes- Artist five media and selling along-
Marion Arts Festival’s most tival will again feature guest side the festival’s slate of pro-
beloved programs, the Empty artists from The Ceramics Investing in the future of fessional exhibitors. Support
Bowls project. Center, a Cedar Rapids-based festivals, the Marion Arts Fes- young artists and find new
ceramics collective offering tival’s Emerging Artists pro- favorites!
In their art classes, students gram is designed to create a
from 17 schools work to cre- More Fun
ate ceramic bowls then do- Add in a full slate of spe-
nated and sold at the Marion
Arts Festival, raising funds cialty food vendors and cre-
to benefit local food banks. ative family activities. Up-
Area artists also contribute ce- town Marion will be open
ramic bowls, along with wood for business, with the Marion
bowls masterfully crafted by Public Library, Marion Heri-
the American Association tage Center and other com-
of Wood Turners, Corridor munity staples offering ad-
Chapter. junct art experiences. Visit
Uptown Marion’s website at
Approximately 300 area www.uptownmarion.com for
students will become involved details on the day’s events.
by making bowls. Most bowls
carry a $5 price tag. Over the Presenting sponsor of the
program's twenty-year his- Marion Arts Festival is Farm-
tory, the festival has donated ers State Bank, with major
more than $93,000 to area sponsor support from The Ga-
food banks. zette, City of Marion, KCRG-
TV9 and Rockwell Collins.
The sale is planned and
managed by a team of Marion Find full program informa-
High School art club students, tion at www.marionartsfesti-
with the assistance of teachers val.com.
Barb Shultz and Jen Thilges.
If you are an educator whose

Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening of Alley Set for May 20

Join the City of Marion, the foundation for nine per- your visit to the Marion Arts $175,000 with in-kind sup-
Marion Chamber of Com- manent public art pieces. Festival on May 20. port of nearly $30,000. Lead
merce, Chamber Ambassa- contributors include Linn
dors and ImaginArt in the Experience the artwork About the Projects County, Hall-Perrine Foun-
Alleys leadership team for the and new gathering space in ArtPlace America selected dation, Ryan Companies,
grand opening and dedica- conjunction with the 25th an- US, Inc., Farmers State Bank
tion of Marion's alley project. niversary of the Marion Arts the City of Marion as the first and Rockwell Collins. Gold
The festivities will take place Festival. We hope to have in Iowa to receive support level sponsors include Aegon
on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at some of the alley artists - from for a placemaking project. Transamerica Foundation,
9 a.m. in the alley north of across the country - in atten- ArtPlace, a consortium of na- Hills Bank & Trust Company,
7th Avenue and between 10th dance. tional foundations and finan- The McIntyre Foundation,
and 11th Streets in Uptown cial institutions, has provided Mark and Sheryl Morgan, U
Marion. After the ribbon cutting, the City with $350,000 to help of I Community Credit Union
enjoy a musical performance bring vitality to under-uti- and the Marion Water Depart-
Over the past two years the by the PanAmerican Steel lized spaces in the heart of the ment. Dozens of additional
alley has been transformed. Band, made possible through historic Uptown Marion Main contributors helped make the
Utilities have been buried, in- Arts Share, a program of the Street District. project a reality.
frastructure has been updated University of Iowa Office of
and concrete and brick work Outreach & Engagement. In addition, funding from
have been installed, all laying the City of Marion and lo-
Make plans now to include cal contributions total nearly
a stop in the alley as part of

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 3

All About the Alley Art

Evoke by Dale Merrill Life is a Ride by Chris Miller
This installation, titled Evoke, includes a group of seven individ- Life is a Ride is a larger-than life carved granite hand rising out of

ual large-scale leaf forms. Each is created with contrasting materi- the pavement to hold a coiled bicycle rack. The 1,000-pound hand
als that include a weathering CorTen steel for the base and stem features a fingerless biking glove with MARION etched into the
which transitions into the upper part of the stem created from strap. This whimsical bike rack encourages exercise, and supports
stainless steel. The rolled leaf element of each sculpture features an the city’s brand as a fun, health-minded Blue Zones Community®.
internal light source glowing through perforated steel. The organic
forms suggest a growing community that stands together and em-
braces its natural heritage.

Confluence by Dan Perry Drawing Room by Matthew Kargol
Confluence is defined as assemblage, which refers to disparate The furniture comprising this living room setting titled Drawing

components coming together to create a whole. Elements of this Room is meant to bring the whimsy of a paper cartoon to the real
abstract sculpture reference mechanical components of steam en- world. This allows visitors to interact within the space and become
gines such as gears and wheels, offering a nod to Marion’s past characters in a story that they are continually creating. Fabricated
as a classic railroad town. The interlocking forms also suggest the steel and automotive paint are combined to create functional seat-
similarities between a machine and a thriving community – each ing, and a colorful painted rug anchors the nostalgic living room
has several moving parts that need to work together to achieve a set to the site.
goal. This colorful sculpture is meant to honor the past, energize
the present, and hint at the future.

Prairie Schooled by Cara Briggs Farmer Midnight Wonder by Cecilia Lueza
Prairie Schooled consists of a stainless steel archway with bench- Midnight Wonder, the mural painted for the stage wall, is in-

es, screens and planter units to provide a welcoming gateway spired by the concepts of innocence, history, community and free-
feature on 7th Avenue. The combined influences of Art Deco and dom. The design depicts a girl holding a small box from which
Prairie School architecture complement the historic neighboring a flock of beautiful native Iowa birds find their way to freedom.
buildings. Integrated benches with planter boxes offer places for The mural’s background is black in order to create a stark contrast
shoppers to rest and reflect, and the overhead archway featuring against the colorful birds in flight. The purpose of this artwork is
polycarbonate stained glass catches the eye of passersby. Integrat- to create a focal point and a gathering place where creative expres-
ed LED lighting provides security at night while illuminating the sion and friendships are nurtured.
colorful glass overhead.

4 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

City Directory Artists continued from Page 3

City Hall Prime Commonality: Marion, Iowa by
Luke Crawley and Quincy Owens
1225 6th Ave.
Marion, IA 52302 This sculptural installation that serves as
www.cityofmarion.org a waypoint for the community, embodying
the spirit of the place. Three colorful pil-
Administrative Building lars incorporate dynamic lighting elements
Offices Department designed to engage the viewer. The chro-
319-743-6330 mosomal banding patterns that enliven the
319-743-6300 columns represent the commonality of the
tracim@ building@ chromosomes shared throughout the natu-
cityofmarion.org ral world. The installation also incorporates
cityofmarion.org an aural experience created from sounds re-
corded in the Marion community that can be
City Clerk/ Engineering accessed via QR code.
Finance Department
319-743-6340 Alley Gateway by John Schwartzkopf
319-743-6350 dwhitlow@ Alley Gateway consists of a roofed struc-
wnelson@ cityofmarion.org
ture that forms an entrance between ad-
cityofmarion.org jacent buildings. The differing heights of
architectural features give rise to the asym-
Planning & Water metrical design. Homage is paid to the his-
Development Department torical context by using related materials
319-743-6320 319-743-6310 while also reflecting a contemporary look.
tsteigerwaldt@ The two benches placed within the alley
tbellach@ cityofmarion.org reflect the design of the gateway feature
cityofmarion.org and offer pedestrians a place to linger.

City Manager
319-743-6301
[email protected]

Parks & Recreation Alley Blome by Jake Balcom
The title, Alley Blome, is derived from the
Lowe Park, 4500 10th St.
319-447-3590 Norwegian definition of “a flower,” along
with the English definition as “a lump of
[email protected] metal,“ making it the perfect title for this
sculpture. The aim of this abstract steel
Thomas Park, 343 Marion Blvd. form is to impart the calming effect of a
319-447-3580 majestic tree along with the excitement of
an exploding firework. The towering tree-
[email protected] like sculpture helps to create a hidden oa-
sis where one can sit to reflect, take a break
Public Services and enjoy the moment. The theme of Alley
Blome references the Marion community’s
(solid waste, sewer, streets) appreciation of trees, and its designation
195 35th St. as a Tree City USA.
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
1225 6th Avenue Amanda Kaufman (319)-377-7037
news@
Police Department Marion, IA 52302 City of Marion
mariontimesonline.com
6315 Highway 151 (319) 743-6300
Emergency – 911
Non-Emergency – 319-377-1511 www.cityofmarion.org Kelsey Ewing
Records – 319-200-7714
Administration – 319-200-7727 Marion Times
[email protected]
ISSN: 1544-5739 (print) * 1544-5747 (electronic)
All contents copyright © 2017 City of Marion, Iowa.
All rights reserved. Reproduction not permitted without due acknowledgement.

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 5

City News Briefs

City Council Meeting Residents of Ward 2 are in- of compliance with all require- inquire, please contact Amanda
Audio Available vited to gather on Wednesday, ments of the Code and will Kaufman at 319-743-6303 or
June 14, 2017 from 5:30-6:30 indicate the length of time the [email protected].
Audio recordings of Marion p.m. in the Wilkins Elemen- license is valid. If the individ-
City Council Meetings are tary Media Center at 2127 27th ual is unable to display their Open House Set for
available online. They can be Street. Visit www.cityofmarion. license, you should call the Po- Proposed Alburnett
accessed via the City of Marion org to determine your ward. lice Department at 319-377-1511 Road Extension
YouTube channel or by visit- while s/he is at your house or
ing www.cityofmarion.org and Spring Means Door-to-Door in your neighborhood. The City of Marion will
clicking on the Council Agenda Solicitation hold a public open house from
tab. Select Agendas & Minutes All peddlers, solicitors and 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday,
and then click on All Past and Spring is here and warmer transient merchants license May 23 at Marion City Hall
then select the Event name that weather brings solicitors to our time restrictions are 8 a.m. to 9 regarding the proposed exten-
corresponds with the appropri- community. A solicitor is any p.m., seven days a week. If you sion of Alburnett Road south
ate date/time. person who goes from house to have any questions, please call from Central Avenue to 7th
house, place to place, or street the City Clerk’s Department at Avenue in Marion. Engineer-
City Council Holds Regular to street, soliciting or taking 319-743-6350. ing staff will be on hand to
Office Hours orders for sales. Per Chapter answer questions and discuss
122 of the Marion Code of Or- Civil Rights Commission the proposed alignment and
In an effort to better connect dinances, all solicitors, ped- Offers Speakers Bureau anticipated timeline. There
with residents, Marion City dlers and transient merchants will not be a set presentation,
Council members are holding are required to obtain a license The City of Marion's Civil so attendees can come and go
regular office hours. Every Sat- through the City of Marion Rights Commission envisions at their convenience.
urday select council members prior to the first day of any sale, a Marion community that is
will be available for questions offer for sale or solicitation. welcoming, inclusive and pre-
and conversation between 9:30- serves the personal dignity of
11:30 a.m. at the Marion Public Solicitors may find unique all people, particularly in the
Library, 1095 6th Avenue. ways to gain access to your areas of employment, housing,
home, such as offering a free credit, public accommodations
Ward 2 - Wednesday in the grocery drawing or coupons and education. 
Ward Meeting for free service, giving solici-
tors the ability to call upon you The commission has created
Marion City Council mem- at your home for the purpose a speakers bureau that is avail-
bers and City staff are continu- of an in-home presentation or able upon request to speak to
ing their initiative to connect demonstration. As a citizen community groups, students,
with residents. One meeting is living in Marion, you have and professional associations
scheduled per quarter. “This the ability to turn the solicitor about its role in the community
is a great opportunity for staff away. and its work to stand up to dis-
and council members to con- crimination in the areas men-
nect with residents in the If you decide to continue a tioned above.
wards in which they reside,” conversation with a solicitor,
said Marion Mayor Nicolas you should ask the individual Presentations are typically
AbouAssaly. “The discussion to see their identification and 20 minutes in length, with an
will be centered around proj- City of Marion license if it is opportunity for questions to
ects specific to those neighbor- not in plain sight. Their City follow. Topic and presenta-
hoods.” of Marion license is evidence tion length can be tailored to a
group’s interests and needs. To

Contact City Council Members

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

6 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Focus on Well-Being

Fit For A Bit Walking Sunrise Yoga Returns to purposes. The Uptown Com- a location at your worksite,
Wednesdays to Resume Lowe Park in June munity Garden helps supply church or organization where
in May fresh produce to the Churches you could build you own gar-
Downshift and enjoy free of Marion Food Pantry. There dens and use them as a team
Need a mid-week recharge? outdoor yoga classes every has been discussion of other project? There are locations in
The Marion Blue Zones® team Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. gardens starting with youth the community that are look-
will again host its weekly in June, July and August at the and community organization ing for a sponsor or group to
walking moai, Fit For A Bit, on Klopfenstein Amphitheater for but the community can use work with for learning gardens
Wednesdays at noon during the Performing Arts at Lowe your help. at their locations. With ample
the months of May and Sep- Park (4500 N 10th Street). community resources and ex-
tember. The Uptown Garden has pertise now is the time to get
Blue Zones Project® Marion room for expansion, would involved! Contact Sara Men-
Anyone interested should and Marion Parks and Rec- your organization want to tzer with Blue Zones Project®
gather at the Depot in City reation are again teaming up adopt a raised bed by build- Marion for more information
Square Park for a quick 20-30 with area yoga and fitness in- ing it (with guidance from Blue at 319-538-8296 or marionblue-
minute walk through Uptown structors to offer this popular Zones Project ® Marion and [email protected].
Marion. Bring a friend or meet series at no cost. Participants Master Gardeners), planting
a new one! are encouraged to bring a water and tending it? Do you have
bottle and yoga mat or beach
Find details and weather towel. All ages are welcome.
updates at the Fit For A Bit
Facebook page. Weather cancellations will
be announced via the Sunrise
Yoga – Lowe Park Facebook
page.

Community Garden
Volunteer Opportunities

Have you or an organization
you work with ever considered
starting a community garden?
Many of our local schools have
started gardens for teaching

Community Promise Offers Vision For Investing in Local Talent

Consider this. According Students from both Marion school districts attended Promise on March 8. Com-
to one Iowa state agency, in MEDCO’s annual spring luncheon to speak with businesses munity Promise streamlines
2024 there will be 1.9 million about their career and workforce exposure experiences. existing business engagement
jobs in Iowa and only 1.2 mil- opportunities such as guest
lion workers ages 18-64 to avenue for a business and the annual lunch this spring. speakers, career fairs, intern-
fill them. The required skills community to invest in its fu- Marion Economic Develop- ships and job shadows with
needed in our future work- ture. the goal of connecting stu-
force can be summed up by ment Corporation (MEDCO), dents with authentic employ-
the formula 1:2:7. For every “We want to build an envi- along with the Linn-Mar and ment needs in the community.
one job requiring a Master’s ronment that builds commu- Marion Independent School
degree or higher, two jobs will nity loyalty and becomes con- Districts, Iowa BIG and Kirk- MEDCO also announced
require a Bachelor’s degree tagious to talent recruitment,” wood Workplace Learning the development of pursuit
and seven jobs will require stated MEDCO President Connection came together to grants. These scholarships
an Associate’s degree or ad- Nick Glew, during MEDCO’s formally launch Community will partner with students
vanced certificate. and businesses to provide
necessary academic skills for
Community Promise is our them to be equipped to fill lo-
collaborative plan to connect cal workforce needs. MEDCO
local students with high de- has committed $50,000 to this
mand jobs. It is a program that fund with a goal of raising an
accelerates traditional student additional $200,000 over the
engagement opportunities to next five years.
support specific career pur-
suit. It provides an insulated More information about
talent pipeline for businesses Community Promise can be
seeking to address local work- found online at community-
force needs and affords an promise.org.

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 7

Bike to Work Week returns May 15-19

Every year the League of us for a number of fun Bike to Off Ride, followed by Thursday, May 18
American Bicyclists desig- Work Week events! Join us for Mayoral Proclamation • Do your own thing… com-
nates May as National Bike any and all of the advertised • Thomas Park to City
Month and the third week in rides and receive a raffle ticket Square Park – Ride begins mute solo or challenge a
May as National Bike to Work to be entered into a drawing at at 7:30 a.m. coworker to ride with you!
Week. This is important not the Helmets and Hops After Wednesday, May 17 Friday, May 19
only to reduce the environ- Party at the end of the week.   • Bike to Breakfast, Lunch • National Bike to Work Day
mental impacts of vehicular Bike to Work Week and Dinner Day, see City Ride. Butterfield Park to
traffic, but to also highlight Schedule: Website for list of restau- City Square Park – Ride
the healthy benefits of biking Monday, May 15 rant discounts begins at 7:30 a.m.
to work. Not only can a morn- • Do your own thing… com- • Linn County Ride of Si- • Helmets and Hops After
ing bike ride get your heart lence. Begin at 6 p.m. at Party at Louie’s Score-
pumping and expose you to mute solo or challenge a City Square Park - 8 mile board starts 5-7p.m. with
fresh air, it can also reduce coworker to ride with you! loop of Marion and NE Ce- Grand Prize Drawing at 6
your stress levels. Come join Tuesday, May 16 dar Rapids p.m.
• Bike to Work Week Kick-

Marion Police Department Announces
Additional Shift Coverage and Personnel Changes

As the Marion Police De- assigned to the evening and the Patrol Bureau and is now ment.
partment continues to grow overnight shift to increase assigned to the evening patrol Captain Doug Slagle – pro-
along with the community, oversight and provide a con- shift.
Chief McHale has announced duit of direct mentoring to moted to Deputy Chief - clear-
alternate shift schedules and less tenured staff. Chief’s Assistant Shellene ly articulating to the public,
personnel changes within the Gray - promoted to Confi- the Marion Police Depart-
organization. McHale also announced the dential Police Administrative ment and city staff who is the
following four promotions/ Manager - assuming super- second in command for the
Going forward, officers transfers within the organiza- visory roles over some of the agency. Slagle has technically
will be assigned proactively tion, effective April 2, 2017: most critical internal func- served in this capacity for the
during peak days and times tions of the department and Marion Police Department for
to optimize coverage. The Sergeant Chad Nott - pro- continuing to keep adminis- over five years but has held
department has implement- moted to Lieutenant – moved tration functioning efficiently. the rank of Captain which in
ed a pilot two-person crew from Investigations to the Pa- Gray’s appointment marks is many organizational struc-
strategy, which will decrease trol Bureau assuming a com- the first time in the history of tures is not reflective of being
response times to domestic mand role on the evening and the Marion Police Department second in command.
disturbances and improve overnight patrol shifts. that a female has assumed a
officer safety. In addition, a leadership position alongside
senior commanding officer is Corporal Matt Jenatscheck the sworn upper manage-
- promoted to Sergeant –
moved from Investigations to

Road Construction Updates

Construction season is in Engineering Department Central Corridor Project ConstructionMap. View the
full swing around Marion. Project News Updates locations where public infra-
Wondering how to stay in- structure is being installed
formed? Here are some op- A weekly status report re- Project updates, construc- pertaining to subdivision
tions: lating to the Engineering De- tion information and future development when you visit
Website partment's annual work plan planning info specific to the www.tinyurl.com/Subdivi-
including road construction, Central Corridor Project from sionDevelopmentMap.
Project updates will be asphalt overlays and the the Engineering Department. Facebook & Twitter
posted as they become avail- public infrastructure associ- Sign up at www.cityofmari-
able at www.cityofmarion. ated with subdivision devel- on.org/about-us/enotify. Search for City of Marion,
org, access them from In the opment throughout the city. Iowa Government on Face-
Works.  Lane and road clo- Sign up at www.cityofmari- Google Map book or @CityofMarionIA on
sures associated with City on.org/about-us/enotify. See the construction zones, Twitter to see photos and be
projects can be found under notified of any traffic pattern
Latest News. road closures and detours all changes, etc.
on one map when you visit
w w w. t i n y u r l . c o m / R o a d -

8 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Marion's Swamp Fox Festival Medication
Returns Sept. 30 Drop Box
Available
Join in the celebration of Swamp Fox Parade. Anytime
Marion's heritage at the 28th The fun moves to Lowe
annual Swamp Fox Festival
on September 30, 2017. A vari- Park on Saturday evening for
ety of events will take place in live music at the amphitheater,
and around City Square Park food, BINGO, kids' activities
including the Fall Marion Mar- and a grand fireworks finale.
ket, Swamp Fox 5K, a pancake Find more info as the date gets
breakfast and the ever-popular closer at www.cityofmarion.
org/swampfox.

Reminders from Public Services

Yard Waste Drop-off ments are needed for large de- lon container is $11 and the Did you know? Unused
Facility Open Year Round liveries of compost. 32-gallon container is $20. prescriptions can be dis-
Residents may place addi- posed of at the drop box
Marion residents that re- City of Marion Recycling tional recycling containers at located in front of the Mar-
ceive municipal solid waste Containers the curb at no extra cost. ion Police Department any-
collection can utilize the Yard time. The drop box is avail-
Waste Drop-off Facility lo- The Marion Public Ser- Report Issues via able 24/7 at 6315 Highway
cated at 195 35th Street. Yard vices Department offers both Mobile App 151.
waste items such as leaves, 18-gallon and 32-gallon re-
grass clippings, and brush cycling containers to Marion Connect with the City any-
less than 4” in diameter are residents. Each residence is is- time, anywhere. Report issues
accepted at the facility free of sued one container to remain in need of repair and take
charge, year round. Residents with the property. Additional advantage of easy access to
are also welcome to compost, containers can be purchased department and City Council
wood chips and mulch free at the Marion Public Services contact information. Free for
of charge. Please contact the Department located at 195 both Apple and Android de-
Public Services Department 35th Street in Marion. The vices. Search Marion, IA Of-
at 377-6367 if special arrange- cost of an additional 18-gal- ficial in your app store.

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 9

Keeping Safety Top of Mind Water Department
Update
Marion is a Blue Zones Com- should be snug but comfort-
munity® and riding a bike is a able. New Online Utility Billing As always, we remain
great way to incorporate some Portal & Payment Options committed to provide ex-
movement into your day. Most 4. Open your mouth as wide ceptional service to our
kids love to ride their bikes as you can. Do you feel the A new utility billing solu- customers. If you have any
with their friends, but sadly it helmet hug your head? If not, tion will soon be in place to questions, please call the
can be a dangerous activity. tighten those straps and make add convenience and flex- Marion Water Department
sure the buckle is flat against ibility for Marion residents. at 319-743-6310 or stop by
According to Safe Kids your skin. The new software is expect- our office.
Worldwide, children ages 5-14 ed to be rolled out mid-May
are seen in emergency rooms Regularly check for a proper and at that time customers Marion Consumer
for injuries related to biking fit for a child’s helmet because will have access to a new Confidence Water
more than any other sport. even a year can cause the hel- online self-service portal. Quality Report
Head injuries are one of the met not to fit correctly, and be
most common injuries result- careful not to get one that is It will provide: The Marion Water De-
ing from biking. Helmets can too big figuring they will grow • A user-friendly online in- partment, in compliance
reduce the risk of a severe into it. When buying a hel- with the Federal Safe Drink-
brain injury by 88 percent if met, make sure it is meets the terface ing Water Act, is providing
they are worn and properly U.S. Consumer Product Safety • Online options to see ac- its customers with its an-
fitted. Adults and kids are bet- Commission’s standards. An- nual water quality report. 
ter today about wearing bike other suggestion is to let your count details including This report explains where
helmets than in years past, but child pick out the helmet be- current and past utility your water comes from,
only about 45 percent of chil- cause if they like the looks of it, bills, consumption analy- what it contains and how it
dren under the age of 14 wear they are more likely to wear it. sis and more compares to standards set
a helmet when they ride their • FREE online payment by regulatory agencies.  The
bike. Here are some other safety ability 24/7 with debit or report is accessible via the
tips to follow whenever you are credit card. Visa, Master- city website at www.cityof-
The Marion Fire Depart- riding a bike. card, American Express marion.org/departments/
ment stresses the importance and Discover will be ac- water/documents-reports
of wearing a helmet every 1. Make eye contact with cepted. No longer will and will also be available
time you get on a bike. Even if drivers. Bikers should make there be a fee charged to in print to those customers
you’re staying close to home, it sure drivers are paying atten- make online payments. who request a copy. For fur-
only takes one distracted driver tion and are going to stop be- • More payment options ther information about your
or a driver who simply does fore they cross the street. including recurring cred- drinking water or to request
not see you, to send you to the it card payments a printed copy, please call
Intensive Care Unit, or worse. 2. Ride on the right side We encourage you to the Marion Water Depart-
Adults are some of the worst of- of the road, with traffic, not check out our new online ment at 743-6310.
fenders when it comes to wear- against it. Stay as far to the right portal. Upon rollout of the
ing bike helmets, but the risk of as possible. Use appropriate software, a link to get to the
injury is always there. Parents hand signals and respect traf- portal will be provided at
should always be wearing bike fic signals, stopping at all stop www.cityofmarion.org.
helmets to set a good example signs and stoplights.
for their children.
3. Stop and look left, right
One size does not fit all and and left again before entering
children grow quickly. Here a street or crossing an intersec-
are some rules on how to check tion. Look back and yield to
for the proper fit for a bike hel- traffic coming from behind be-
met. fore turning left.

1. A helmet should sit on top 4. Never assume that a driv-
of the head in a level position, er of a car can see you. Bikes
and should not rock forward, are hard to see and there are
backward or side to side. The many things that car drivers
helmet straps must always be are trying to do other than pay-
buckled, but not too tightly. ing attention to the road.

2. If the helmet is positioned 5. Wear bright clothes to help
correctly, there should be no other people see you.
more than two finger-widths
between the eye brows and the 6. Make sure that all of your
rim of the helmet. If you are reflectors are visible. If you
looking forward, you should are riding near dusk or in the
be able to see the bottom rim of dark, it is best to have a light
the helmet. on the front of your bike and a
flashing light for the back. The
3. Make sure the straps of the lights make you visible from a
helmet form a “V” under your greater distance.
ears when buckled. The strap
Use these safety tips to help
prevent a tragic end to an en-
joyable bike ride.

10 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

I love many aspects of my ies of any new information in even when there are different manage the library’s promo-
role as director of the Marion the library and creating topi- opinions. I love the way com- tion, marketing and develop-
Public Library, but my favor- cal posters and flyers related munity members can disagree ment, and I believe having a
ite part-by far-is having the to the project. In March, we but remain friendly and kind communication specialist on
opportunity to interact with started hosting weekly public toward each other; not every our staff will help us keep this
so many different people. meetings, where library ad- city is populated by this type active dialog with the commu-
It’s a gift to work directly ministrators provide an over- of people! It’s a real privilege nity going and discover new
with staff; members of the li- view of the building project, to facilitate these sessions, and ways to reach out to Marion
brary board, foundation, and share renderings and engage I look forward to each one. residents. This position will
friends groups; and patrons. in dialog with meeting partici- be funded with existing per-
The progression of the library pants. While I value these sessions sonnel resources and does not
building project has provided and consider them an impor- require an increase in the li-
some great topics for deep and The community response tant part of the library’s over- brary’s budget.
impactful conversations with to the building project update all communication strategy,
these groups. meetings has been amazing. this kind of active commu- I’d like to extend a truly
Each session has been attended nication is not without some authentic “thank you” to the
As many of you are aware, by a diverse, engaged group of risk. I’m acutely aware that community members who
library leadership continues to community members, and the details of this project could are engaging with the library.
work with our development conversations have been rel- change and the project’s nar- Hearing from you - whether
partner, Ryan Companies, to evant and rich. I am so grateful rative will have to expand you’re sharing a concern, a
hone the design of a new Mar- to the people who have partici- to explain what is changing question, or a compliment -
ion Public Library. We remain pated in these sessions; I know and why. This can be frustrat- helps us understand what the
committed to the concept of it’s hard to make room in your ing, but I believe keeping the community needs and wants
a mixed-use facility with a schedule for yet another meet- community informed in “real from their library. Please know
ground floor library, some re- ing. One of the most impres- time” is worth the challenge that your opinions are always
tail space and two upper lev- sive aspects to the community of navigating modifications to welcome. We look forward to
els of residential apartments. meetings has been hearing the the plan down the road. This hearing from you soon!
We’re excited for the oppor- constructive, respectful dialog is one of motivators behind
tunities to provide the better between attendees who do not the weekly information ses- Please check the library’s
service a larger, more flexible agree on a design feature or sions; as the project develops, website at www.marionpub-
space will bring, and look for- other detail. Participants ac- new and different information liclibrary.org, give us a call or
ward to building Marion the tively listen, use appreciative will become available. Having stop in to access the schedule
library it deserves. inquiry to ensure they under- weekly meetings scheduled of upcoming building proj-
stand and articulate their own gives library staff an ideal, ect meetings. If you’d prefer
A big part of this project is thoughts and feelings in a way timely opportunity to share an individual meeting, just
communicating progress to that shepherds the conversa- what’s happening. reach out to me anytime at
the community and engag- tion in a productive direction. [email protected] or
ing with people around new Some of the sessions have in- Effective communication is 319-743-1984 to schedule. Let’s
developments. Library staff cluded tough conversations, critical to the library’s success keep the conversation going!
works hard to share project but the groups have done an in the building project and be-
updates in a variety of ways; inspiring job keeping volume yond, and it’s something we’re --Elsworth Carman, Library
including regular posts on and tone regulated and main- always striving to improve. Director
our website and social media taining a sense of openness I’m pleased to share that a new
sites, displaying printed cop- position has been created to

Upcoming Library Events

Hotspots Classics Club
The library is circulating Take a trip down the Missis-

seven mobile wi-fi hotspots! sippi for May’s Classics Club
Check out up to 25 gbs of data as we rediscover “The Adven-
for use at home or next time tures of Huckleberry Finn,” by
you take a trip. Stop by the In- Mark Twain! Our book discus-
formation Desk for more infor- sion will be Tuesday, May 16, at
mation. Thanks to the generous 6:30 p.m.
support of the Friends of the Upcoming Library
Marion Public Library for the Events, Page 11
funding for this community
program!

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 11

Upcoming Library across the country, sometimes For Tweens & Teens
Events, Page 10 alone, sometimes with her
faithful barn-quilting pup, Gra- Summer Reading Program with professional players, run
Summer Reading cie. Together they met dozens of Build a Better World this drills, build your soccer and
Build a Better World with barn owners, barn quilt artists football skills and have fun.
and committee members who summer at your library!
the Marion Public Library! The shared their stories. Learn more Starting June 1 everyone in Teen Summer Reading
Adult Summer Reading Pro- at the program on Wednesday, your family, from babies to Program: Build a Better
gram runs June 1-July 30. Reg- August 23 at 6 p.m. adults, is invited to sign up World
ister for this free program at for our Summer Reading
the Information Desk or online Celtic Music Program to keep building June 1-July 29
starting June 1; earn prizes and Join us for a free evening those brains. We will have (Grades 6 – 12)
enjoy free programs. tons of fun activities for your Sign up for the 2017 Teen
Gilmore Girls Trivia Night of music with nationally ac- whole family throughout the Summer Reading Program!
claimed Celtic fingerstyle gui- week including magicians, Registration begins June 1.
Do you know enough about tarist Jerry Barlow on Wednes- live animals, musicians, sci- Keep an eye out for our line-
Stars Hollow to be Town Se- day, July 19 at 7 p.m. All are ence demonstrations, jug- up of awesome teen-only
lectman? Compete with other welcome! glers and much more! Sign events, including:
fans for a chance to bring home up for our online newsletter • STEAM Mondays (2nd
a grand prize Love Rocket! HACAP to be the first to know every- and 4th Mondays, 10-11
Lorelai-approved snacks pro- The Library is a proud thing that’s happening by a.m.): Build bridges, pro-
vided. Please pre-register on going here: https://tinyurl. gram robots, make You-
our website for this after-hours monthly stop for the HACAP com/MPLnewsletter Tube videos and more!
program to be held Saturday, Mobile Food Pantry. Income • Read & Feed (Friday,
June 3 at 6 p.m.  eligibility required. Check our Volunteers Needed! June 16, 5-7 p.m.): Hang
Plates Around the World website events calendar for The theme for this year's out in the library after
dates and more details! hours with tons of food
Join Marion Hy-Vee Drug- Summer Reading Program and a good book!
store registered dietitian Mar- Friends of the Library is "Build a Better World," • Mindstorms (Monday,
tha McClurg for an educational Spring Book Sale and what better way to do June 26-Friday, June 30,
(and delicious) class on global that than by helping kids at 3-5:30 p.m.): Play and
cuisine. Learn more about Best ever sale of gently your library? Opportunities program with LEGO®
foods from around the world, used books, music and mov- to serve include making and MINDSTORMS® EV3
as well as how to integrate ies! Come on Friday, May 19 bundling reading incentives, robots! Registration is
these delicious dishes health- between 4 and 6 p.m. for the serving meals and more. required; stop by the li-
fully into your daily eating. greatest deals: open only to Please contact  Olivia at os- brary for more informa-
Your culinary horizons are sure Friends members, but you can [email protected] if tion.
to be broadened and your ap- get a membership at the door you are interested. • Messy Games at City
petite piqued after attending for just $10. Browse through- Square Park (Saturday,
this class! It scheduled for Tues- out the day on Saturday, May If you’re looking for more July 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.):
day, June 6 at 7 p.m. 20 between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. opportunities to serve in our Twister with shaving
Quilt Program As long as you’re Uptown community we’re hosting a cream, Pictionary with
already for the Arts Festival, Volunteer Fair on Monday, pudding, water games,
We are excited to welcome stop in! And on Sunday, May June 5 from 6-8 p.m. If you and more… you won’t
Suzi Barrons! Suzi's journey 21, get the bargains every- are part of a non-profit look- want to miss this!
began in Adams County, Ohio, one else missed. Sale hours ing for volunteers, please Anime Club
where the quilt trail movement Sunday are 2 to 4 p.m.; nab contact Olivia at ostoner@ First Monday of every month
originated. After working with a bag of books for just $3.00. cityofmarion.org to reserve a from 4-5:30 p.m.
founder Donna Sue Groves, Proceeds from the book sale table for the fair.
Suzi set out on her own voy- support library programs and Teen Fandemonium
age of discovery. She travelled purchases. Teen Space with the Third Monday of every month
Cedar Rapids Rampage
and Cedar Rapids Titans from 4-5 p.m.

Wednesday, May 10 and 17 Game Day
4-5:15 p.m. May 22, June 15, July 6 and
Join us at City Square Park
(across from the library) to August 17 from 1-3 p.m.
play some ball! Hang out

12 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Upcoming Recreation Programs

NEW! Youth Rugby Camp includes a magic kit & • Fee: FREE, just show up Happy Feet Soccer Camp
Children Ages 5 and up supplies ready to listen Children Age 3
• Fee: $35.00, includes • Days/Dates: Session 1: • Days/Dates: Thursdays,
June 12–16 (Monday– June 8―July 27 Fee: $33.00, includes camp
camp shirt and your own Friday) • Time: 11–11:30 a.m. shirt
rugby ball Session 2: July 17–21 • Location: Lowe Park Arts • Days/Dates: Mondays
• Days/Dates: Saturday, (Monday–Friday) and Environment Center AND Wednesdays, July
May 27 Session 3: July 24–28 10–19
• Time: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. (Monday–Friday) Summer Art Camps Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. OR
• Registration Deadline: • Time(s): 9–11 a.m. Children Grades 2nd-8th 5:30–6 p.m. (Select One)
May 19, 2017 • Registration Deadline: • Session 1: Cartooning I • Registration Deadline:
1 week prior to class date June 16, 2017
Little Kickers Kickball Youth Tennis Lessons June 19–23, 9–11 a.m. Little Pigskins
Children Ages 3 & 4 Children Ages 4–13 • Session 2: Painting I Football Camp
• Fee: $25.00 • Session 1: Monday June 19–23, 11:30 a.m.– Children Ages 4 & 5
• Days/Dates: Tuesdays, nights, June 5–July 3 1:30 p.m. • Fee: $33.00, includes
• Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings) • Session 3: Cartooning II camp shirt
June 6–27 • Registration Deadline • Days/Dates: Mondays
• Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m. S1: May 26, 2017 June 26–30, 9–11 a.m. AND Wednesdays, July
• Session 2: Monday • Session 4: Painting II 10–19
OR 5:30–6 p.m. nights, July 10–August 7 June 26–30, 11:30 a.m.– • Time(s): 10:45–11:15 a.m.
(Select One) • Fee: $65.00 (5 meetings) 1:30 p.m. OR 6:15–6:45 p.m.
• Registration Deadline: • Registration Deadline • Session 5: Mr. B's (Select One)
May 19, 2017 S2: June 30, 2017 Favorite 5 Artists • Registration Deadline:
All programs/sessions July 10–14, 9–11 a.m. June 16, 2017
Lil' Chippers Golf held at Oak Ridge Middle • Session 6: Sculpture for NEW! Track & Field
Children Ages 6–10 School tennis courts Games Camp
• Fee: $25.00 Tots Kids Children Ages 5 & 6
• Days/Dates: Tuesdays, Children Ages 4–6 July 10–14, 11:30 a.m.– • Fee: $25.00
June 6–27 • Days/Dates: (Select One) 1:30 p.m. • Days/Dates: Mondays,
• Time(s): 10:45–11:30 a.m. Mondays, 5–5:45 p.m. • Fee: $80.00 per session, July 31–August 21
6:15–7 p.m., or 7:15–8 p.m. or Fridays, 9–9:45 a.m. includes a camp shirt • Time(s): 10–10:30 a.m.,
(Select One) Rookies • Location: Lowe Park Arts 5:30–6 p.m., or 6:15–
• Registration Deadline: Children Ages 7–10 and Environment Center 6:45 p.m. (Select One)
May 19, 2017 • Days/Dates: (Select One) • Registration Deadlines: • Registration Deadline:
Mondays, 6–6:55 p.m. or 1 week prior to class date July 14, 2017
Marion Parks Photo Fridays, 10–10:55 a.m. Backyard Lawn Games
Scavenger Hunt Racqueteers NEW! Summer M.U.S.I.C. Camp
Children Ages 11–13 Camps Children Ages 6 & 10
Open To All Ages • Days/Dates: (Select One) Children Grades K-5th • Fee: $25.00
• Fee: FREE Mondays, 7–7:55 p.m. or • Session 1: On The Farm • Days/Dates: Mondays,
• Dates: List available Fridays, 11–11:55 a.m. July 31–August 21
beginning May 22 Adults (K-2nd Grade) • Time(s): 10:45 a.m.–11:30
• Registration Deadline: Adults Ages 18 and up • Session 2: Explore (3rd- p.m. OR 7–7:45 p.m.
Must be completed by July • Days/Dates: (Select One) (Select One)
14, 2017 Mondays, 8–8:55 p.m. or 5th Grade) • Registration Deadline:
Fridays, noon–12:55 p.m. • Fee: $50.00 per child July 14, 2017
NEW! City of Marion Day • Dates/Times: Session 1: Adult Bags League
at the Ballpark Tot Time at Lowe Park June 19–23, 9–11 a.m. Adults Ages 18 and up
Children Ages 2 and up • Session 2: June 19–23, • Fee: $30.00 per team of
Open To All Marion • Fee: FREE, just show up 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. two
Residents • Location: Lowe Park Arts • Days/Dates: Thursdays,
• Tickets: Discounted ready to play and mingle and Environment Center August 3–September 21
tickets* ($8 Club Seats) are • Days/Dates: Thursdays, • Registration Deadlines: • Time(s): Matches begin at
available for purchase in June 8–July 27 June 9, 2017 6 p.m.
person at the Kernels box • Time: 10 a.m.–noon • Registration Deadline:
office or by calling 896- • Location: Lowe Park Arts NEW! Start Smart July 14, 2017
7560, just mention City of and Environment Center Lacrosse Camp
Marion to receive the Story Time at The Children Ages 6-10 Upcoming REcreation
discount. Amphitheater • Fee: $25.00 Programs, Page 13
• Date/Time: Sunday, June Children Ages 1 and up • Days/Dates: Mondays
11 at 2:05 p.m. (Gates open
at 1 p.m.) AND Wednesdays, July
• Location: Veterans 10–19
Memorial Stadium (Cedar • Time(s): 11:30 a.m.–12:15
Rapids) p.m. OR 7–7:45 p.m.
(Select One)
NEW! Beginners Magic • Registration Deadline:
Camp 101 June 16, 2017

Children Ages 10+
• Fee: $75.00 per session,

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 13

Marion Arts Council 2017 Marion Pool Season
presents Susan Werner
The Marion Pool reopens Marion Sharks Swim
Marion Arts Council is for the season on Memorial Team
pleased to present its fourth Day, May 29 and closes on Children Ages 6-18
annual summer music concert Labor Day, Sept 4. It will • Fee: $80.00 per child
at Lowe Park. open weekends only from • June–July
Aug. 19 to Sept. 4. • Practices Monday–
Don't miss Susan Werner on Swimming Pool Regular
Saturday, June 17 at 7 p.m. at Hours: Friday, 6:45–8 a.m.
the Klopfenstein Amphithe- • Monday – Friday • Location: Marion
ater for the Performing Arts. • 12:30–7 p.m. Municipal Swimming
• Saturday/Sunday Pool (Willowood Park)
Come be inspired by mu- • 12:30–5 p.m. • Registration Deadline:
sic, art and the beautiful out- Hours During Session 1 May 26, 2017
doors. Bring your picnic bas- Swim Lessons:
ket, blanket and lawn chair. • June 5–9 & June 12–16 Summer Safety Night at
Take a walk on the trail and • 12:30–4 p.m. the Pool
visit the art gallery as well. Daily Adult Lap Swim • Thursday, May 25
The event is free and open to Hours: • 4:30-6:30 p.m.
the public. • Monday – Sunday (Lap
Back To School Night at
Described by the Chicago Lane) the Pool
Tribune as “one of the most • 12:30 p.m.–Close • Wednesday, August 9
innovative songwriters work- No evening lap swim • 6-8 p.m.
ing today,” Susan Werner has during session 1 swim les-
toured the nation with acts sons Splash Pads to Open
such as Richard Thompson, Regular Pool Admission:
Keb Mo and Joan Armatrad- Memorial Day Weekend
ing, and was featured in a Ages 3 & Under - $2.75/ The Parks and Recreation
1998 Peter, Paul, and Mary person Department operates three
PBS special as one of the best Ages 4–59 - $3.75/ splash pads throughout the
of the next generation of folk person city. All splash pads open
songwriters. Seniors (Age 60+) - Memorial Day weekend
Philadelphia, performing in $2.75/person and remain open until Labor
At age five, Werner made numerous recitals and operas (Cash or Check ONLY) Day. The hours of operation
her debut, playing guitar and while completing her gradu- and locations are as follows:
singing at St. Mary’s Catholic ate studies. Werner, who calls Season Pool Passes: • Thomas Park—343
Church in Manchester, Iowa; Chicago home now, has dedi- • Individual Pass - Marion Boulevard -
she learned both piano and cated herself to songwriting Open daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
guitar by ear. After earning and building a reputation at $100.00/each • Gill Park—3450 Haw-
a degree in voice from the jazz clubs, coffeehouses, and • Family Pass - $190.00/ thorne Street - Open
University of Iowa, she at- folk festivals along the East- daily 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
tended Temple University in ern Seaboard. family • Willowood Park—1855
35th Street - Open during
Don't miss this first class pool hours. Regular pool
performance! admission fees apply.

Upcoming Recreation • Fee: $40.00, includes team July 14, 2017 New Player: $30.00 per
Programs, Page 12 shirt child
• Days/Dates: Saturdays, Summer B-I-N-G-O Night at Make checks payable to
PeeWee Flag Football September 9–October 14 Lowe Park Marion Boys Baseball
Children Grades K-1st (Fall • Time(s): Saturday Open to All Ages • Dates: August 14–
  2017/18) morning games with weekly • Fee: FREE to attend, but September 8
• Fee: $33.00, includes team practice(s) • Registration Deadline:
• Registration Deadline: seats and cards are first August 4, 2017
shirt July 14, 2017 come, first serve
• Days/Dates: Tuesdays & • Days/Dates: Friday, July NEW! NFL Punt, Pass,
Thursdays, August 15– Battle of the Cities 28 (summer edition) Kick Competition
September 7 Kickball Tournament Time(s): 6:30–8:30 p.m. Children Ages 6-15
• Time(s): 5:30–6:15 p.m. Adults Ages 18 and up • Location: Lowe Park Arts • Fee: FREE, but must
OR 6:30–7:15 p.m. • Fee: $50.00 per team (Min- and Environment Center
(Select One) pre-register for the event
• Registration Deadline: 8 players; Max-20 players) Marion Boys Baseball • Days/Dates: Wednesday,
• Days/Dates: Saturday, Fall Ball August 30 Time(s): 5–7 p.m.
July 14, 2017 August 5 Time(s): Games Boys Ages 8-15 (By April 1, • Registration Deadline:
start at 10 a.m.   2017) August 18, 2017
Youth Flag Football • Registration Deadline: • Fee(s): Current Player:
Children Grades 2nd-5th (Fall
$10.00 per child
  2017/18)

14 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

IN OTHER PARKS NEWS

Marion Weekly Farmers’ search Facility Rentals at www. and restore. We are always shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch
Market Returns cityofmarion.org. happy to add people to our or depression and cover your
volunteer list to whatever com- head with your hands. Never
The Marion Farmers’ Market Friends of Oak Shade mitment they wish to make. try to outrun a tornado in a ve-
offers a variety of locally grown Cemetery Preserve History Regular meetings are held on hicle.”
produce, fresh baked goods, the first Friday of every month.
flowers, homemade crafts, and On June 30, 1853, Little Elmi- For more information contact Marion is fortunate to have
much more. Stop by Taube Park ra Josephine, the daughter of Darcie Coberly at the Thomas a tornado shelter/safe room
on Saturday mornings and N.J. and L.J. Myers was buried Park Administrative & Opera- located in the basement of the
check out all the fantastic offer- in the Marion cemetery, at the tions building at 447-3580. Administrative and Operations
ings that are produced locally. age of 11 months and 1 day. Building at Thomas Park, 343
• Days/Dates: May 6–Sep- Her grave was nearly lost over Severe Weather and the Marion Boulevard.
the next 154 years. Today she is Thomas Park Safe Room
tember 30: Saturdays from being remembered. Thanks to a It is designed to provide shel-
8–11:30 a.m. volunteer Friend of Oak Shade, Spring has officially arrived, ter for park and trail users of
• Location: Taube Park, 2200 the marker pictured on the right unfortunately so has the threat Thomas/Legion Park or attend-
31st Street was discovered to reveal her of severe weather. When severe ees/participants of the adjacent
If you are interested in being short life. Almost gone, but not weather is in the forecast, it is Marion Independent School
a vendor at the Marion Farm- forgotten. important to stay informed and District’s sports complex.
ers’ Market in 2017, please have a plan in place for where
contact the Marion Parks and Had it not been for the dedi- to seek shelter. “This shelter is a great com-
Recreation office at 447-3590 for cation of someone willing to munity asset, especially for
availability, rental rates and any rescue Elmira's headstone, she “If you are in a building dur- those who are enjoying the
other questions. may soon have been lost; her ing a tornado warning, it is outdoors and taken off guard
• Market Rates and Fees name only, relegated to the important to go to the lowest by a severe storm,” says Mike
• All Season $125.00/22 index in the cemetery record possible level and put as many Carolan, director of Parks and
markets book. Now, her monument will walls between you and the out- Recreation. “While we would
• Drop-In $10.00 / each time be raised and reset in the verti- side,” says Deputy Fire Marshal never turn anyone away, it is
cal position to remind anyone Shawn Fluharty. “If you are out- important for folks to seek shel-
Consider Marion who visits Oak Shade of her side without access to a sturdy ter where they are rather than
Rental Facilities short life. Now, another Friends drive across town to the Safe
volunteer will stand ready to Room.”
Marion Parks and Recreation help Meyer relatives to locate
offers a number of rental facili- the grave and even help to find The Safe Room is not accessi-
ties for your special occasion. a missing piece of their genea- ble 24-hours per day. It unlocks
The rental spaces are popular logical puzzle. once a tornado warning has
for graudation parties, wed- been issued for the Marion area
dings, birthday parties, anni- As our Friends organization during park hours between 6
versaries, baby/bridal show- moves into its fourth year of as- a.m. and 10 p.m.
ers, family gatherings, business sistance to the Parks and Recre-
meetings, retreats, concerts ation Department, we expect to Due to FEMA regulations, no
and more. Learn more about increase the number of grave- pets, other than certified service
the spaces available when you stones we are able to preserve dogs, are allowed in the Safe
Room.

Weekly Senior Activities at Lowe Park

The Lowe Park Arts and to live music from various Blood Pressure Clinics- like-minded people for some
Environment Center is home bands. Meets every Monday Held the first Thursday of knitting and socialization.
to FREE senior activities beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the month at 11:30 a.m. in the Lowe Park Luncheons
throughout the week. These the Oaks Room. Sunburst Room.
programs are provided and 500-Group meets and plays Enjoy lunch with friends
coordinated as part of the Wit- every Wednesday at 9 a.m. Fresh Conversations-This every 1st and 3rd Thursday of
wer Healthy Aging Program in the Sunburst Room. nutrition education program the month at 11:30 a.m. in the
by Aging Services. Line Dancing-Get up and is designed to promote better Hickory Room at the Lowe
get moving with some eating and physical activity Park Arts & Environment
These programs and activi- line dancing. Meets every and includes food tastings. Center. Cost is $4 per meal.
ties are geared towards adults Wednesday beginning at 1 Held the third Thursday of Reservations can be made by
ages 55 and up. For more in- p.m. in the Oaks Room. the month at 11:30 a.m. in calling 730-8271, but must be
formation on these programs B-I-N-G-O-Penny BINGO Sunburst Room. made by the Monday prior
or other sites, please contact meets and plays every to the lunch date. Monthly
JoEllen Haddad at Aging Ser- Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in the Pinochle- Group meets and menus are available at Lowe
vices at 398-3644. You can also Sunburst Room. A penny per plays every Friday at 9 a.m. in Park and can also be found
contact the Parks and Recre- card, per game and a nickel the Sunburst Room. by calling the 447-3590 or 730-
ation office at Lowe Park at per card for blackout games. 8271. These luncheons are
447-3590. Knitting Club (Looking sponsored by Witwer Healthy
Monday “Live Music” for Group Leader)- Have a Aging and Summit Pointe Se-
Dance-Listen and/or dance passion for knitting or a desire nior Living.
to learn? Come join other

www.CityofMarion.org Marion Messenger • 15

Linn-Mar Students grief into advocacy.” Longfellow Elementary renovate Emerson and pro-
Advocate for Tougher Mooney said Senator Liz Close to Completion vide our homeschool with a
Texting and Driving Laws new location with funding
Mathis (Iowa Senate District The construction at Long- inside our reserves. We await
High School students were 34) was asked if she would be fellow Elementary School is the Governor's approval of the
joined by members of the interested in coming to talk expected to be finished by new laws affecting our use of
Board of Education and Linn- to the group. “Senator Mathis July 1. The geothermal well categorical funds.
Mar’s superintendent at the came in early January and has been successfully drilled
Iowa State Capitol in Des was extremely gracious and and the major construction Our home school supports
Moines Wednesday, February supportive,” Mooney added. is complete. The building is almost 1,000 students and had
15 to discuss the issue of tex- “During the talk, she shared fully-equipped with modern been looking for rental space
ting and driving. The students many ideas for the group.” learning technology applica- in the community to expand.
urged Iowa lawmakers to ap- One of those ideas was going tions. The new furniture has With Emerson now a viable
prove a bill that would make to the capitol to lobby. The been identified and approved. option for the MHSAP, we
using a mobile device while group was invited to the state The playground committee have the potential opportu-
driving a primary offense. capitol for the advocacy event has selected equipment for nity to renew Emerson with
Currently, similar legislation that was held on February 15. the two playgrounds on the reserve funds while expand-
has been passed in 15 states. south side of the building and ing our community learning
If passed, the Iowa bill would “We plan to have a don’t text playground construction is and evening programs at a re-
impose a fine and moving vio- and drive event in the spring planned for June. If you would freshed Emerson. The Marion
lation on drivers. and plan to partner with the like to help with the play- Board continues to seek com-
Marion Police Department.” ground construction, please munity input.
The press conference was contact the Emerson Principal.
held by the coalition “Stay According to the Iowa De- The actual date will be selected Iowa Scripps Spelling Bee
Alive: Don’t Phone & Drive” partment of Transportation, based on good weather condi- Winner from MHSAP
which is made up of several from 2010-2015, there were 32 tions. In addition, mark your
groups including the Gover- fatalities and nearly 4,000 ac- calendars and plan to join us Marion Home School Assis-
nor Terry Branstad’s Traffic cidents caused by drivers dis- on August 10 from 4-6 p.m. tance Program student Lydia
and Safety Bureau and a mul- tracted by use of a phone or for a Community Open House Bitterman won the state finals
tinational telecommunications other device. at Longfellow Elementary for the Scripps National Spell-
company. School. ing Bee on March 25 in Ames.
LMHS Student Nominated What's Next for Emerson Lydia will be competing in
In November, the school for Outstanding Volunteer Washington D.C. at the Na-
district experienced the dev- Award As Marion's newest elemen- tional Scripps Bee from May
astating impact of texting and tary school nears completion, 28-June 3. Congratulations
driving with the loss of two Mary Claire Henricksen, we look ahead to the future Lydia and thank you for rep-
students in a two-vehicle ac- a senior at Linn-Mar High of the Emerson building. We resenting MHSAP and MISD!
cident. School, is one of three nomi- issued a request for proposals
nees for United Way of East in early 2017. While one pro- Golf Classic Set for Sept. 29
According to School Assis- Central Iowa’s Outstanding posal to repurpose Emerson The Marion Independent
tance Counselor Lisa Mooney, Volunteer Award in the youth with apartment housing for se-
“the core group of friends had category. niors was pleasantly received, School Foundation & Alumni
been struggling with grief the second alternative, a new Association's Golf Classic is
since that day.” Over time, the Last year, while volunteer- learning center for Marion set for Friday, September 29.
group began to meet regularly ing at Mercy Medical Cen- Home School Assistance Pro- As the 15th anniversary of
to talk and help each other ter, Henricksen was part of a gram (MHSAP) has taken new the tournament, it returns to
through this difficult time. group of Linn-Mar students life. House Bill 565 provides Gardner Golf Course and will
who held conversations with flexibility to school funds and include new games and prizes
During one of those meet- residents to hear about their allows us the opportunity to for participants. So far in 2017,
ings, “one of the students lives through the Mercy story- the Foundation has committed
mentioned that they wished tellers program. The memories Marion Dates nearly $40,000 to the Marion
the law would change in Iowa were turned into written sto- to Remember Independent School District
regarding texting and driv- ries and a binder was created to expand learning opportu-
ing,” Mooney said, “that was to share with the residents, May 28: Graduation nities for students. The tour-
the spark that lit the fire to turn their families, and guests. May 29: Memorial Day nament is the Foundation's
May 30: Last Day of School largest fundraising event of
Linn-Mar Dates Volunteers are recognized in Board Meetings: May 8, the year. Interested golfers can
to Remember five categories: Youth, Adult, June 12, July 10, August 14 find more information or sign
Senior, Business, and Group. & 28 up by going to Marion-Foun-
May 28: Graduation dation.org or by contacting the
May 29: Memorial Day Foundation.
May 31: Last Day of School
Board Meetings: May 8 &
22, June 12, July 10, August
14 & 28

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

1225 6th Ave.
Marion, IA 52302

16 • Marion Messenger www.CityofMarion.org

Don’t miss your favorite summer events in Uptown Marion

Summer Fun in City Live music, community ing, ImOn Communications, and coupon book that will get
Square Park demonstrations and chil- MercyCare Marion and Town- you $1 drink samples and ex-
dren’s entertainment will also square Media for making clusive deals from participat-
The Marion Chamber of be a part of the activities in the these events possible. ing businesses in the Uptown
Commerce and Platinum park. Marion Main Street District.
Community Partners are Uptown Getdown Visit www.marioncc.org for Enjoy live entertainment and
proud to present Uptown more details. extended shopping hours as
Marion Market and Uptown Don't miss another great Eat. Drink. & Be Marion you walk to each participating
Getdown in City Square Park lineup for this year’s event establishment. All proceeds
this summer! happening each Thursday in Uptown Marion will host benefit the ongoing revitaliza-
Uptown Marion Market August from 6 to 9 p.m. This the third annual Eat. Drink. & tion and beautification efforts
year’s entertainment sched- Be Marion: Food & Pub Crawl of Uptown Marion – A Main
Over 50 local and regional ule will kick off with The Last Fundraiser on Thursday, July Street Iowa District. Register
vendors will be on hand the Goodbye tour from Bob Dorr 13, from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy at www.UptownMarion.com.
second Saturday in June, July & the Blue Band before they a night out on the town for a
and August from 8 a.m. to retire. good cause! With your ticket,
noon. Vendors will offer fresh you will receive a free glass
produce, baked goods, honey, August 3 – Bob Dorr & the
organic meats, Iowa native Blue Band (Blues)
wines, salsa and a wide selec-
tion of artisan items. August 10 – Decoy (Pop/
Rock)

August 17 – The Compass
Rose Band (Island Rock)

August 24 – 8 Seconds
(Country)

Food and dessert vendors
will also be onsite with a vari-
ety of items.

Thank you to our Plati-
num Community Partners :
Farmers State Bank, Fosters
Heating and Air Condition-