MESSENGER Spring 2018

MARION MESSENGER Spring 2018

2 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR 3 AUDIT REPORT 4 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 5 CITY ENGINEER RETIRES 6 BUILDING SAFETY Help Select 7 CITY SERVICES the Top 25 Ideas for 8 FIRE SAFETY Marion page 4 10 PARKS & RECREATION 14 City Showcase Planned LIBRARY NEWS 16 to Highlight City Services UPTOWN EVENT CALENDAR Marion Among Best Small Cities in America | page 2 2 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

n Jan. 25, I was honored to deliver my third State of the Marion Ranks Among Best OCity address before an audience of more than 520 attendees. While today Small Cities in America we don’t have a venue in Marion able to rbanization might be the trend for much of the popula- accommodate a crowd of this size, my tion, but not everyone craves the bright lights and crowded hope is that our move to the Cedar Uspaces of the big metropolis. For those who appreciate Rapids Marriott is only temporary with more wiggle room, fewer degrees of separation and shorter Nick AbouAssaly future hotel/event center investments commutes, small-city life can be tough to beat. in Marion. Marion recently landed in the top 10 percent of Best Small I shared just some of the ways Marion is building tre- Cities in America according to WalletHub, and landed in the mendous forward momentum as we work to accommodate number two spot among all communities for lowest housing costs. our fast growing population and provide residents with To determine the best small cities, WalletHub’s analysts compared an unequalled quality of life. I also spoke of the exciting, more than 1,200 U.S. cities with populations between 25,000 and potentially transformative, projects in the works for the year 100,000 based on 33 key indicators of livability. They range from ahead and beyond. A link to a video of the presentation housing costs to school-system quality to restaurants per capita. and corresponding Annual Report are available at One of the best perks of living in a city with a relatively smaller www.cityofmarion.org. population? Affordability. According to the Economic Policy Marion continues to reach higher and create an Institute, the cost of living for a two-parent, two-child family in exceptional environment for people and businesses. The Hanford, California, for instance, would be nearly 1 percent less unprecedented growth in residential and commercial than the median U.S. household budget of $5,312, compared with development is providing greater opportunities for people 44 percent more for the same family in San Francisco. Even with to achieve their goals in business and in life. a lighter wallet, anyone can enjoy a comparable, or even better, But beyond that, I am inspired by the ways our com- quality of life for much less in a cozy place like Hanford. munity has been energized for good. Marion residents are Only two other Iowa communities, Ankeny and West Des becoming more enthusiastic about their city’s potential and Moines, ranked in the top 10 percent. engaged in shaping its future. And as a community we are collaborating in amazing ways to increase opportunity IN THE KNOW: VOLUNTEER and serve the needs of all residents. Hundreds of people are serving on city boards and commissions, community boards and committees for City Seeks Applicants for community events. From the Arts Council volunteers who Boards and Commissions logged more than 1,000 hours last year, to the high school Do you want to provide input on City policies and help students to who take one day each May to spruce up the shape both the city and its government? Apply to be city’s core, Marion residents are giving their time and talents one of 100+ volunteers that serve on Marion boards to make a difference and impact quality of life in their city. or commissions. I included a call to action in my remarks, and want to Marion residents interested in being considered for a share the same invitation with you. If you’re thinking about position may pick up an application at Marion City Hall, getting more involved, there’s no better time than the pres- Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., or download ent. If you are passionate about well-being initiatives, the an application at www.cityofmarion.org. needs of seniors, opportunities for youth or finding ways There are currently openings on the following boards/ commissions: to support small businesses, we want to get you plugged in. • Planning & Zoning Commission Visit www.cityofmarion.org/pluggedin to indicate how you • Historic Preservation Commission would like to make a difference in your community. We will • Construction Code Review Board follow up with opportunities that align with your interests. • Civil Rights Commission Friends, I hope you are as encouraged as I am about the • Zoning Board of Adjustment state of our city and as enthusiastic as I am about its future. Learn more about the openings and the Of course we have much more work to do, but we also have responsibilities associated with each board. much to celebrate. We are all on the same team. Upon review of applications, Mayor AbouAssaly will Let’s keep reaching higher together! recommend appointees to City Council for approval. For more information, call (319) 743-6301.

CITY NEWS 3

CITY SHOWCASE PLANNED FOR MAY 5

On Saturday, May 5 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Marion will host its third City Showcase event in and around City Square Park. City staff will be on hand to visit with residents and share information about upcoming projects. Various City vehicles will be on display and a number of community partners will have a presence. A local balloon artist, face painter and musician will add to the atmosphere; making this a fun, festive activity for the entire family. Come out and connect with the City of Marion on Saturday, May 5 Marion using from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. in City Square Park. Learn more as the event GovDeals.com approaches at www.cityofmarion.org. to Sell Surplus Property Hogan-Hansen Releases In December, the City of Marion began Audit Report for FY 2017 using GovDeals.com as its preferred avenue Hogan-Hansen, A Professional Corporation, recently released an audit report for disposing of excess or unneeded City on the City of Marion, Iowa. equipment. GovDeals is a national auction The City’s revenue totaled $48,788,270 for the year ended June 30, 2017, a 6.5 website for government surplus and percent increase from the prior year. The revenue included $23,236,667 in property unclaimed property including furniture, tax and tax increment financing; $5,013,090 in local option sales tax; $5,222,522 vehicles, equipment, office supplies, in other City tax and special assessments; $10,137,443 from charges for service; computers and more. $1,218,824 from operating grants and contributions; $2,460,922 from capital GovDeals functions as an online auction grants and contributions; $851,096 from unrestricted investment earnings; $41,578 site specifically for government surplus. from other general revenue; and a $606,128 gain on disposal of capital assets. Any items posted will remain active for at Expenses for City operations for the year ended June 30, 2017 totaled $42,172,274, least 10 calendar days. Prior to this, the a 2.7 percent increase from the prior year. Expenses included $13,476,176 for City would occasionally hold garage sales public safety, $8,611,779 for public works and $4,276, 781 for culture and or dispose of items through a sealed bid recreation. Also, expenses for business-type activities totaled $8,219,052. process. The new process saves staff time It is the opinion of the auditing firm that the City of Marion’s financial and provides a larger pool of bidders. statements as of June 30, 2017 fairly present the financial position and cash Interested in knowing what’s for sale? Visit flows of the City and were conducted in conformity with generally accepted the Public Notices page at www.cityofmarion. accounting principles. org or check out the GovDeals site at A copy of the audit report is available for review in the office of the Auditor www.govdeals.com/CityofMarionIA. of State, the City Clerk’s office and at www.cityofmarion.org. 4 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 3,000+ IDEAS SUBMITTED A 23-member selection committee has been hard at work reviewing over 3,000 ideas that were submitted as part of Marion’s ImagiNEXT community visioning process. Ideas covered Great Job a wide-range of topics from parks and recreation programs, to infrastructure improvements, to a need for private businesses and restaurants. Marion! The committee’s first order of business was to narrow the list for the community vote. The list is now available and community members are invited to vote through early March to help establish the top 25 ideas. From there it is up to the committee to name a final 3-5 ideas for Marion. Those 3-5 ideas will be incorporated into an application to the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs to have Marion re-designated as an Iowa Great Place. Designation is given to communities with a strong vision for innovation and desire to enhance the quality of life. The program supports the development of new and existing infrastructure intended to cultivate the unique and authentic qualities for regions in Iowa. Find the latest information at www.marionimaginext.org.

COUNTRY INN & SUITES COMING TO MARION IN EARLY 2019

Developers of Squaw Creek Crossing, Ridge, part of the local development Marion’s first large-scale mixed use group behind the project. “The Country development, are proud to announce Inn & Suites is a great fit for Marion’s plans for a Country Inn & Suites to growing community, and we’re looking be built at 5993 Carlson Way, in forward to working with the team at Marion, with construction set to Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group to provide begin this spring. quality, reasonably priced hospitality By 2025, 68% of jobs in Iowa will The new 100-room, 3-story hotel for the city of Marion and its visitors.” require training beyond high school will anchor a 20 acre mixed use “As our community grows, access development that will serve as a gate- to quality hospitality is paramount,” way to Marion for visitors from the said Nick Glew, President of Marion hat does this ean for yo north, south and east. In addition to a Economic Development Corporation. previously announced state-of-the-art “Squaw Creek Crossing is a key gate- CommunityPromise.org Dupaco Community Credit Union, way to Marion that will serve the et s play a part Squaw Creek Crossing will be home growing needs of both our tourism to residential, commercial, service, and industry sectors. We couldn’t be and hospitality properties. more pleased with the quality of this “There is already high demand for an development.” Communityy upper-midscale hotel in Marion’s eastern Construction will begin this spring, gateway, and demand will continue to with anticipated completion in spring grow upon completion of the Prospect of 2019. The hotel will be operated Meadows baseball complex.” said Brian by Dora Hospitality. owered by TM ENGINEERING 5

Retires after17 Years as Dan Whitlow City Engineer At the end of January, with 17 years as Marion’s City Engineer and a 39-year career in public service, Dan Whitlow retired from the City of Marion. Whitlow joined the City of Marion in January 2001. He had previously spent 16 years with the City of Muscatine, Iowa and 7 years as the public works director for the City of Washington, Iowa. As the director of the Engineering Department, Whitlow was charged with implementation of the Capital Improvement Program; particularly the construction and reconstruction of streets, bridges, traffic signals, new subdivision development, sewers and sidewalks. With a focus on improved safety and efficiency, the department employed use of roundabouts, traffic signal video detection, new materials and construction techniques. It also enforced ADA and storm water requirements. Over the course of his career, Whitlow said technology has impacted the engineering field the most. “I started in 1978 as an engineering technician/ draftsman using T-squares, Mylar paper and Leroy ink pens to draw project construction plans after weeks of calculations using basic calculators and slide rules,” noted Whitlow. Today, those tools have been replaced by computers and design software. “I am very proud of the Engineering Department and its accomplishments. There is a special camaraderie created when working towards a common goal, particularly when it concerns public safety,” said Whitlow. “I am also deeply appreciative to my family for their support during the long hours and for accepting the amount of passion I have committed to my career.” Whitlow’s future plans include more time for travel, biking, volunteering and of course his grandkids. The City’s two assistant city engineers will provide for the continuation of services. Mike Barkalow will serve as interim city engineer until a replacement is named.

Please remember that it is state law to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. This includes stopping as required for crossing guards and for the newly placed rapid flashing beacons.

PEDESTRIANS HAVE THE RIGHT-OF-WAY 6 BUILDING SAFETY IN THE KNOW ABOUT Who Needs Smoke and Carbon Building Codes Monoxide Detectors and Permits? We All Do Whether in our homes, offices, schools, stores, factories or places of entertainment, we rely on the safety of structures that surround us in our everyday living. The truth is, building permits are very beneficial to all members of the community. City of Marion code officials work to ensure your construction project is built right, will be safe and will last. Your home or business is an investment. If your construction project does not comply with the codes adopted by the City, the value of your investment could be reduced. Property insurers may not cover work done without permits and inspections. Further- more, building codes can help protect future home purchasers who deserve reasonable assurance that the home they buy will be safe. A building permit is required when any building or structure is erected, constructed, altered, repaired, removed or demolished. This applies to work done by a contractor or home owner. There are four types of permits required in residential construction; building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical. Permits are usually not required when If your house is over 10 years old and you’ve had smoke detectors installed performing normal maintenance on your for that time or longer, you may not have heard the “end of life” chirping home. Small projects such as changing a reminding you to change the battery. The reason may be that the detector has toilet, garbage disposal, sink faucet, light died and installing a new battery won’t revive it. The lifespan of older smoke fixture or electrical outlets do not require a detectors is 10 years or less, and they should be replaced. permit. However, adding or moving an elec- Upgraded smoke alarms must comply with minimum specified standards. trical outlet, light fixture, sink, or dishwasher would need a permit. Some appliances that Iowa Law mandates the use of a dual sensor alarm device and heavily empha- require a permit when changing out are sizes having an interconnected system with all detector devices tied together. water heaters, furnaces and air conditioners. This can be done by hard-wiring all devices with a communication wire. Building permits can be obtained by either Combination smoke and carbon detectors are acceptable in lieu of the dual a home owner or a licensed contractor. If a sensor requirement. As well, radio frequency (RF) connection may be accepted home owner is obtaining the permit, he or in some retrofit projects if wiring is deemed to be an extensive measure. she must be doing the work for their owner- However, it is never acceptable to remove required hard-wired smoke alarms occupied, single-family home. (Note, some re- strictions apply to an owner-occupied condo.) and replace them with any type of battery-only operated device. Furthermore, Licensed contractors are required by law to the law states that smoke detectors should from now on be replaced every obtain permits on all work that they do. 10 years or less or if the manufacture date cannot be determined. For a permit to be complete, a rough and Dwelling units with a gas fired appliance, such as a gas water heater, or an final inspection of each aspect of work is attached garage are required to have a carbon monoxide detector installed required. If a person does not call for a rough in the immediate vicinity of all sleeping areas. For example, one detector and a final inspection, the work and the permit will become void. This means that the work installed in the hallway outside bedrooms would suffice for all bedrooms was never accepted or approved by the City, served by that hallway. This code requirement will soon be enforced on all leaving the home owner potentially exposed rental properties in the City of Marion. to future liabilities. For more information regarding smoke alarm installation requirements, The Building Inspection Department has refer to the Smoke Alarms Brochure on the City of Marion website an extensive list of brochures on the City www.cityofmarion.org. of Marion website for reference on permit There is a proven record that smoke alarms do save lives! requirements. If you’re unsure whether your project requires a permit, please contact the Building Department at (319) 743-6330.

Watch for Swimming Pool Safety and May is Building Safety Month! ❱ ❱ information about getting Deck Permits. CITY SERVICES 7

WATER DEPARTMENT NEWS 2018 Water Department Construction Projects 2018 HOLIDAY SCHEDULE The Marion Water Department has multiple capital improvement projects underway for 2018. Water main relay project locations are listed below:

Location Estimated Cost Work Performed By 13th St. from 8th - 10th Ave. $130,000 Contractor 13th St. from 10th - 13th Ave. $100,000 Water Department Northview Drive and 11th Ave. $211,000 Contractor Other capital improvement projects included completing Well #10 con- Garbage & Recycling Collection struction and putting the new well online at an estimated cost of $150,000. Date Pick Up Schedule The 29th Avenue booster station project will increase water pressure east of Highway 13. This project cost an estimated $350,000. Other projects include Memorial Day water meter change out to radio read units (approximately $300,000) and May 28 – Monday One day late all week water valve exercising and valve replacements. Additional information about any of these projects may be obtained by contacting Todd Steigerwaldt, Independence Day general manager of the Marion Water Department at (319) 743-6311. July 4 – Wednesday One day late Water Rate Increase Anticipated in April 2018 Wednesday-Friday The Marion Water Department’s Board of Trustees will be considering a Labor Day future water rate increase for April 2018 at their next two public meetings. Sept. 3 – Monday One day late all week The water rate increase is needed in part to pay down the department’s $2.2 million SRF loan from 2010 for Well #7 and to fund the capital Thanksgiving Day improvement projects referenced above. Nov. 22 – Thursday Pickup on Friday Radium Level Update Day After Thanksgiving The latest quarterly water test results for November 2017 showed a drop in Nov. 23 – Friday Pickup on Saturday the radium level from the July 2017 radium test results. The November 2017 test result was 4.4 pCi/l. The EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for Christmas Day combined radium 226 and 228 is 5 pCi/l. The Marion Water Department Dec. 25 – Tuesday One day late will continue to test quarterly for radium levels at source/entry point 05 Tuesday-Friday per the DNR regulations. If there is an exceedance in the maximum contaminant level, (MCL) the public will be notified and the Marion New Year’s Day Water Department will implement measures to resolve the issue. For more Jan. 1, 2019 – Tuesday One day late information, visit the Water Department pages at www.cityofmarion.org Tuesday-Friday or contact Todd Steigerwaldt, general manager, at (319) 743-6311 or [email protected].

Hydrant Flushing Planned for March/April It may not feel like it, but warmer weather is around the corner. Each spring, the Marion Water Department flushes the water system to remove sediment from the mains and to exercise and check operation of the City’s fire hydrants. Flushing typically begins some time during March or April. During this time, Marion residents may notice some temporary discoloration of the water and should postpone laundry until it clears and minimize use of hot water to prevent build-up within the water heater. The rusty color in the water is due to accumulation of iron sediment in the water mains and is not harmful. Questions may be directed to the Water Department at 319-743-6310. 8 FIRE SAFETY

CITY DEPARTMENTS

City Hall Seconds count in emergencies and not being able 1225 6th Avenue to find a house number can literally mean the Marion, IA 52302 cityofmarion.org difference between life and death! Administrative Offices 319-743-6300 [email protected] City Manager Help First Responders 319-743-6301 [email protected] Find You in an Emergency City Clerk/Finance The Marion Fire Department responds to emergencies every day 319-743-6350 [email protected] and sometimes it takes longer to get there because the address Planning & Development number on the home or business missing or hard to see. 319-743-6320 [email protected] Some of the reasons include: Building Department 1. Numbers were never put on the building. 319-743-6330 2. The building was painted or re-sided and the numbers were not [email protected] put back up. 3. The numbers faded over time. Engineering Department 319-743-6340 4. The numbers are very close in color to the building [email protected] background so they blend in. 5. Vegetation grows and blocks the numbers. Water Department 6. Decorations or furniture blocks the address numbers. 319-743-6310 [email protected] Address numbers should be at least 4 inches tall with a ½ inch letter stroke and visible from the street. Think about what it might be like for Parks & Recreation Lowe Park, 4500 10th Street someone who doesn’t know where you live to find your house at 3 a.m. 319-447-3590 The Marion Fire Department has responded to a number of emergencies [email protected] lately with no visible address. Please take a few minutes to make sure your address is clear so help can get to you as quickly as possible. Thomas Park, 343 Marion Blvd. 319-447-3580 [email protected] Public Services Where is your (solid waste, sewer, streets) 195 35th Street 319-377-6367 Closest Fire Hydrant? [email protected] You may be able to save your house or a neighbor’s house just by Marion Public Library making sure the neighborhood fire hydrant is visible and not blocked. 1095 6th Avenue 319-377-3412 When the Marion Fire Department [email protected] responds to a building on fire, they carry Fire Department between 500-1,000 gallons of water on 3933 Katz Drive the fire apparatus. They can go through Emergency – 911 that amount of water in 3-5 minutes, so Non-Emergency – 319-377-8237 locating a fire hydrant quickly is critical. [email protected] In the winter, snow can quickly bury a fire hydrant. In the other seasons, Police Department vegetation can block hydrants and make 6315 Highway 151 Emergency – 911 them hard to locate. Please help every- Non-Emergency – 319-377-1511 one in your neighborhood by keeping Records – 319-200-7714 at least 3 feet of clearance all the way Administration – 319-200-7727 around the fire hydrant during every [email protected] season of the year! PUBLIC SAFETY 9

CONTACT CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS POLICE Mayor Nicolas AbouAssaly 1225 6th Ave. | (319) 743-6305 MARION POLICE [email protected] DEPARTMENT WELCOMES At-Large – Randy Strnad 1820 Agate Circle | (319) 377- 3276 TWO NEW CHAPLAINS [email protected] The Marion Police Department is pleased to welcome two area pastors as the newest At-Large – Paul Draper members of the department. Pastor Matt 4670 Fairways Ct. | (319) 377-8393 Proctor of Cornerstone Church and Senior [email protected] Pastor Gregory Williamson of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church have begun their service as Ward One – Kim Etzel chaplains to the department. These pastors 933 8th Ave. | (319) 491-7179 are completely voluntary in their chaplaincy [email protected] Matt Proctor Gregory Williamson role and bring enthusiasm and a sincere de- Ward Two – Steve Jensen sire to serve the Marion Police Department. 3830 Monarch Ave. | (319) 360-7009 SGT. JOHN CHIPMAN [email protected] Ward Three – Will Brandt GRADUATES FROM SOUTHERN 2745 4th Ave. | (319) 389-9918 POLICE INSTITUTE [email protected] In November Marion was proud to have its first Ward Four – Rene Gadelha member graduate from the Southern Police Institute 797 Oak Park Circle | (319) 538-7888 at the University of Louisville. Sgt. John Chipman [email protected] represented Marion in an exemplary fashion through his participation in the 3.5-month, in-residence, Send the same email to all members leadership development school. Southern Police at: [email protected] Institute is one of the top three leadership schools Sgt. John Chipman Marion’s City Council meets in in the United States for law enforcement. work session (no action taken, just discussion) on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. Regular session meetings are held Police Department the Thursday following the Tuesday work session at 5:30 p.m. All meet- Listening Session ings are held at Marion City Hall. happening March 20 On Tuesday, March 20 the Marion Police Department will hold a public listening MARION MESSENGER session from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Marion City Hall, 1225 6th Avenue, to garner input from citizens. The Marion Messenger is published The command staff of the Police Department is interested in hearing ideas quarterly for the residents of Marion, Iowa, to keep them informed of city residents have to improve the quality of service the Police Department provides, policies, new developments and suggestions on strategies the department should consider, options for partner- community events. If you have com- ships with the community and other issues that may help the department in ments or suggestions concerning their pursuit of a 5-year strategic plan. this or future issues, please contact: The department will not provide any feedback or make any presentations during this session, it is intended to be a forum for the community to voice Amber Bisinger, Editor Marion City Hall their thoughts and suggestions. Residents will be limited to 5 minutes in their [email protected] remarks and may provide supporting documentation if they deem appropriate. Suggestions may also be sent via www.cityofmarion.org. 10 PARKS & RECREATION

Marion Weekly Farmers’ Market Friends of The Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting lease applications for the 2018 Oak Shade Marion Farmers’ Market. The market is located at Taube Park on Saturdays, May 5 through Cemetery Sept. 29 from 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. each week. Please call the Recreation Office at (319) Oak Shade Cemetery is one 447-3590 for availability, rental rates and of the earliest cemeteries in any other questions. Iowa with graves dating back to 1840. After more than 175 Help Wanted! years, many of the monuments The Marion Parks and Recreation Department are naturally in need of pres- is currently hiring seasonal employees. Are ervation or restoration. While you or someone you know interested in being the City owns and manages a lifeguard or swim lesson instructor at the the land, maintenance of the Marion Municipal Swimming Pool in the monuments is the responsibility summer? Lifeguards must be at least 15 years of lot/space owners. However, of age and lifeguard certified prior to May 28. for many graves, there are no The department is also accepting applica- known surviving families. tions for parks maintenance staff. Applicants As far back as 1875, volun- must be at least 18 years of age. Applications teers have played a significant are due by March 1 at Thomas Park. role in caring for the cemetery. Friends of Oak Shade picked up those Applications are available at reins in 2013 and during 2017 alone, volunteers contributed 886 www.cityofmarion.org/employment. hours of time cleaning, straightening and repairing grave markers. Some volunteers were engaged in research to correct records and Keep Sidewalks Clear assist families in pursuit of their genealogy, others helped locate of Snow and Ice graves and take pictures for families via the Internet. Per City ordinance, property owners are There are plenty of volunteer opportunities available besides leaf required maintain their sidewalks and clear raking and reading old newspapers. snow and ice within 12 hours of the snow or There is a continuing need for people to tell the story of Oak ice being deposited on the sidewalk. The entire Shade Cemetery to community groups, to brainstorm activities and sidewalk along the property must be cleared, yes, to raise money for equipment and materials. Anyone interested including any corners leading into the street. is invited to attend the group’s regular meeting at the Thomas Park If the snow/ice is not removed by the date and Safe Room on the first Friday of each month beginning at 3 p.m. time stated above, the City will clear the sidewalk. The resulting charges will be 85 cents per square foot, plus a $25 administrative fee. Questions may be directed to the Parks and Recreation Department at (319) 447-3590. Upcoming Coffeehouse Nights MARION Don’t miss these upcoming Coffeehouse Nights at the Graduation Parties Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center hosted by the (May–June Reservations) Marion Arts Council. The musical performances feature To accommodate more families and rentals for talented local acoustic artists in a relaxed coffeehouse type graduation parties during May and June at Lowe COUNCIL atmosphere. Admission is free and coffee, cocoa and Park, rentals for graduation parties are limited pastries are available for purchase. Performances run from 7-8:30 p.m. to one time period per renter. The hours avail- and doors open at 6:30 p.m. able to rent are 9 a.m.–3 p.m. or 4:30–10:30 p.m. All rental facilities may be reserved up to CAROL MONTAG & CARLIS FAUROT l FRIDAY, MARCH 2 364 days in advance. Alcohol is not permitted Carol and Carlis have been performing concerts together for 15 years. at any high school graduation party rental. For Though not an official duo, the sound of them together keeps bringing questions regarding availability, please contact people back. Expect to hear folk, jazz, classical, blues, Irish tunes and a the Parks and Recreation Office at Lowe Park little bit of rock ‘n roll. at (319) 447-3590 DAVID ZOLLO l FRIDAY, APRIL 6 Electric roots rocker and Eastern Iowa native, David Zollo has made a name for himself as a solo artist, a sideman and an independent label owner. Enjoy his milk-and-whiskey rasp and tunes that run the gamut from honky tonk to country-rock to blues-rock. PARKS & RECREATION 11 ON PARK RI S A M RECREATION PROGRAMS N & O R T I New! E C R E A New! YOUTH FLAG New! ADULT CARDIO New! ADULT TENNIS RUGBY CAMP LEAGUE TENNIS ROUND ROBIN PLAY Children grades K–8th (Fall 2018/19) l Adults age 18+ l Get in shape and Adults age 18+ l One of the most enjoy- Rugby is one of the fastest growing improve your tennis game! Fun and able forms of recreational tennis is the sports in America. Join the Cedar exciting tennis games and exercise; round robin. Join us for mixed (co-ed) Rapids Rugby Club for this new rugby “Cardio Tennis is the exercise that doesn’t open play. Each participant plays with instructional league. Learn all the skills, feel like exercise”! In the event that only multiple players throughout the evening. fundamentals and terminology to begin 1 student is in attendance, the class will Participants should bring their own playing rugby. This is a NON-CONTACT be held as a 30 minute private lesson. racket. Balls will be provided on a weekly style instructional league. Kids will be basis. For questions about the format of SUMMER SESSIONS: divided into separate teams based on this program, please contact Penny Raia their grade. The first part of each night Session 1: PM, Mondays, June 4–July 2 at [email protected]. Participants will be team practices with drills and 8–8:55 p.m. must register with the Marion Parks and skill building activities to enhance the REGISTRATION DEADLINE SESSION 1: Recreation Department prior to playing. May 25, 2018 understanding of the game. The last FEE: $15 for one session $25 if you portion of the evening will be modified Session 2: PM, Mondays, July 9–August 6 sign-up for both sessions flag rugby games (non-contact). 8–8:55 p.m. DAYS/DATES: Session 1: Thursdays, FEE: $55, includes team shirt and your REGISTRATION DEADLINE SESSION 2: May 3-June 28 own rugby ball June 29, 2018 Session 2: Thursdays, July 5-August 30 DAYS/DATES: Wednesdays, June 6– FEE: $65 (5 meetings) TIME(S): 6:30–8 p.m. July 18 (no program July 4) LOCATION: All programs/sessions held LOCATION: Marion High School Tennis TIME(S): 5:30–7 p.m. at Marion High School tennis courts Courts LOCATION: Lowe Park NOTES: All levels of play are welcome, REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 4, 2018 but please note, no instruction is New! NAME THAT provided. This is not a tennis lesson, but rather an open play format. TUNE MUSIC TRIVIA New! LEARN-TO-PLAY Adults age 18+ l Looking for more PICKLEBALL trivia? Well look no further than this new trivia night that will test your knowledge New! ADULT WIFFLE- l A paddle sport for Children ages 8–14 of all things music. Assemble your best all ages and athletic abilities...Pickleball BALL TOURNAMENT team of friends, family or coworkers is like over-sized ping-pong played on a Adults age 18+ l Your reason to act to compete in rounds of music trivia. badminton sized court with a tennis net. like a kid again is finally here! Sign up From album covers, to lyrics, to records, With simple and easy to follow rules it for this new adult wiffleball tournament. awards and more. This is sure to test your is the perfect game for all ages to learn No need to run the bases or worry about trivial knowledge of all genres of music. and play. Led by USAPA Ambassador chasing never ending ground balls. If you Participants are welcome to bring food and Iowa singles/doubles champion, can throw and catch a ball and swing a and drinks to share with their team. Lyle Theisen, come learn all the rules, bat, this league is for you. There will be Prizes will be awarded to the winning techniques and strategies to start playing designated hitting area marked out for teams. Minimum of 6 teams; Maximum pickleball yourself. All paddles, balls, the batters and a strike-zone (K-Zone) for of 12 teams. and equipment will be provided. the pitchers. Each team will be guaran- FEE: $80 per team (Max: 8 people per teed a minimum of 2 games. Minimum $10 FEE: team) of 6 teams required to hold tournament. DAYS/DATES: Wednesday, June 6 DAYS/DATES: Saturday, April 28 FEE: $50 per team (Min–3 players; TIME(S): 9–11 a.m. TIME(S): 6–9 p.m. (doors open at Max–5 players) LOCATION: Marion High School Tennis 5:30 p.m.) DAYS/DATES: Saturday, May 12 Courts LOCATION: Lowe Park Arts & TIME(S): Games start at 10 a.m. May 11, 2018 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Environment Center LOCATION: To Be Determined REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 6, 2018 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 13, 2018

New! LEARN-TO-PLAY PICKLEBALL Adults age 15+ l A paddle sport for all ages and athletic abilities...Pickleball is like over-sized ping-pong played on a badminton sized court with a tennis net. With simple and easy to follow rules it is the perfect game for all ages to learn and play. Led by USAPA Ambassador and Iowa singles/ doubles champion, Lyle Theisen, come learn all the rules, technique and strategies to start playing pickleball yourself. All paddles, balls, and equipment will be provided. FEE: $10 DAYS/DATES: Saturday, June 9 TIME(S): 8–10 a.m. LOCATION: Marion High School Tennis Courts REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 11, 2018 12 PARKS & RECREATION ON PARK RI S A M RECREATION PROGRAMS N & O R T I Me! E C R E A New! HIGH SCHOOL MARION GIRLS SOFTBALL - INTRAMURALS PEG PIERCE l Recreational softball league Open to all High School Students l ATTENTION ALL Girls Grades 3rd–9th (Fall 2018/19) HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS! Gather a team of friends or with an emphasis on developing skills and learning basic funda- students, or sign-up individually as a free-agent for these mentals of softball. Teams are divided into divisions based on their new recreational programs for high school students. grade (2nd/3rd, 4th/5th, 6th-8th). Games played at Peg Pierce A way to stay active, meet and socialize with other Softball Complex. VOLUNTEER COACHES NEEDED! Please visit fellow high schoolers in the area. All leagues are CO-ED www.mariongirlssoftball.org to learn more. and will be divided into 2 separate divisions (9th/10th and 11th/12th). Free agent will either be placed on team MARION BOYS BASEBALL randomly or a new team will be formed if enough free Children ages 8—18* (BY APRIL 1, 2018) l *8 year olds may agents sign-up. Minimum of 6 teams required to hold choose between PeeWee League (coach-pitch) and Marion Boys leagues/tournaments. Baseball’s Pony League (player pitch). Games played at Starry Park FEE: $15 per person for the first program, includes baseball complex or Lowe Park baseball complex. Practices will league shirt; $10 for any league after that during the year begin mid-April with games beginning May 5. VOLUNTEER COACHES TEAMS: Must have a minimum of 5 players and a NEEDED! Please visit www.marionbaseball.org to learn more. maximum of 8 players. Teams must be a mix of both male and female. YOUTH TENNIS LESSONS (MULTIPLE SESSIONS) 3 VS 3 SOCCER TOURNAMENT Children ages 5–13 l The Marion Parks and Recreation Department DAYS/DATES: Saturday, April 14 will once again be offering youth tennis classes as part of a part- TIME(S): Games begin at 10 a.m. nership with the Westfield Tennis Club. Classes are led by instruc- LOCATION: Butterfield Park tors that have been trained by highly qualified and certified tennis REGISTRATION DEADLINE: March 23, 2018 professionals. Minimum class size 2, maximum class size 10. Only rain dates will be made up. All programs/sessions held at Marion NOTES: Double elimination style tournament High School Tennis Courts. WIFFLEBALL TOURNAMENT DAYS/DATES: Saturday, May 5 TIME(S): Games start at 10 a.m. LOCATION: To Be Determined REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 13, 2018 NOTES: Double elimination style tournament ULTIMATE FRISBEE TOURNAMENT DAYS/DATES: Saturday, June 30 TIME(S): Games start at 10 a.m. LOCATION: Lowe Park REGISTRATION DEADLINE: June 8, 2018 NOTES: Double elimination style tournament SWIM LESSON REGISTRATION DAY FEE: $40 per child, per session 3 VS 3 BASKETBALL DAYS/DATES: Saturday, April 28 TOURNAMENT TIME(S): 8 a.m.-11 a.m. LOCATION: Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center DAYS/DATES: Saturday, July 28 Lesson schedules and related information is available at Games start at 10 a.m. TIME(S): www.cityofmarion.org LOCATION: Thomas Park Basketball Courts REGISTRATION DEADLINE: July 6, 2018 MARION SHARKS SWIM TEAM NOTES: Double elimination style tournament Children ages 6–18 l Open to all swimmers who are able to swim 25 yards. Participants have the opportunity to compete FLAG FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT against other area teams. Coached by the Marion pool staff. DAYS/DATES: Saturday, August 18 FEE: $80 TIME(S): Games start at 10 a.m. DAYS/DATES: June–July LOCATION: Lowe Park TIME(S): Practices Monday–Friday, 6:45–8 a.m. REGISTRATION DEADLINE: July 27, 2018 LOCATION: Marion Municipal Swimming Pool (Willowood Park) NOTES: Double elimination style tournament REGISTRATION DEADLINE: May 25, 2018 PARKS & RECREATION 13

DON’T MISS THESE RECREATION PROGRAM DEADLINES: Find registration information at www.cityofmarion.org

Tiny Goal Kickers Soccer (ages 4-6) l March 2, 2018 PeeWee Baseball (ages 5-8) l April 20, 2018 Kick Star Soccer (age 3) l March 2, 2018 Girls PeeWee Softball (entering K-2nd) l April 20, 2018 Indoor Bags Camp (grades K-5th) l March 2, 2018 Little Sluggers Blastball (ages 3-4) l April 20, 2018 Indoor Golf Camp (grades K-5th) l March 2, 2018 Little Sports Camp (ages 3-5) l April 20, 2018 Lil’ Leprechaun’s Day Camp (grades K-5th) l Live Healthy Iowa Track Championships (ages 7-14) l March 2, 2018 May 4, 2018 EGGStraordinary Egg Hunt (ages 3-8) l March 2, 2018 Little Kickers Kickball (ages 3-4) l May 11, 2018

B-I-N-G-O Nights at Lowe Park Join us at the Lowe Park Arts & Environment Center for nights of fun, socializing and a chance to win some cash! Games of BINGO will be played for $0.25 per card, per game. Cash prizes are paid to the winner of each game. There will also be a few bonus games with increased payouts. The night will conclude with a winner-take-all game of blackout. Participants are welcome to bring food and drinks to enjoy while they play. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Seats and cards are limited and are on a first come, first serve basis. FEE: FREE to attend, but cards are $0.25 per card, per game DAYS/DATES: Friday, March 9 & Friday, April 13 Save the Date TIME(S): 6:30–8:30 p.m. Summer Nights Under The Stars... LOCATION: Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center REGISTRATION DEADLINE: No registration required, FREE, Family-Friendly Entertainment at the but seats and cards are limited and are first come, Klopfenstein Amphitheater at Lowe Park first serve. Mark your calendars for these events: Open Moonlit Movies Friday, May 11 at 8:30 p.m. to All Ages and Friday, August 10 l 8:30 p.m. Picnic on the Prairie Summer Concert Saturday, June 16 l 7 p.m. Dogs of Society, Ultimate Elton Rock Tribute Saturday, June 23 l 7 p.m. Pianopalooza, Dueling Pianos with Band Saturday, July 14 l 6 p.m. Picnic on the Prairie Fall Concert Saturday, August 18 l 7 p.m. Brule’, A Native American Experience in Sight, Sound, and Soul Saturday, August 25 l 7:30 p.m.

Sponsored in part by the Marion Hotel/Motel Grant Program 14 MARION PUBLIC LIBRARY

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR Mobile Printing Available Increasing Access: Printer on the fritz? Want to print a document, image, or website from your phone or tablet? From home on New Streaming Services at Sunday morning? You can do that. Use the library’s new mobile printing service from your desktop at home, or the Marion Public Library from your phone or tablet from anywhere. Download the free PrinterOn app from your app store, or visit t Marion Public Library, we take access seriously. Our our mobile printing page to send your document: focus is always on getting patrons the resources they need, http://bit.ly/MPL-MobilePrint. Stop in at the library Awhether these materials are for educational or recreational within 24 hours to pay and print. pursuits. DVDs are among our most popular items; patrons love to check out both fiction and nonfiction titles. We’re proud of our West African Art large, diverse collection of DVDs—our holdings currently include l l over 17,820 DVDs—but we recognize that the format itself is not Tuesday, March 13 7 p.m. Meeting Room A Vero Smith, Assistant Curator at the University of Iowa a great fit for all patrons. Museum of Art, will present on the West African Art Supplementing our physical DVD collections collection in this Linn Area Reads Program. with streaming services allows us to offer more options in a format that works for a wide range of patrons. We’re thrilled to be expanding our Linn County Master Gardeners collection in a way that allows simultaneous use, Wednesdays in March l 6:30-7:30 p.m. l Meeting Room B is easy to browse and search, can be accessed Learn from a local expert in this free series! and viewed anytime, from any device with internet access (including computers, mobile Community Shred Day Elsworth Carman devices, and some smart TVs) and does not Saturday, April 21 l 9-11 a.m. rely on a physical copy of a DVD. Bring your personal papers for a free secure shredding Two new, on-demand services—Kanopy and Hoopla—were with Onsite Information Destruction. The shredder rolled out in early January and are available to any cardholder truck will be in the Katz Parking Lot across the street with an address in Marion or one of the communities that con- from the library. tracts with the library for services (Robins, Alburnett, and rural Linn County). The Cedar Rapids Public Library also recently Culinary History of Iowa began offering Kanopy for library cardholders with a Cedar Tuesday, April 24 l 7-8 p.m. l Meeting Room A Rapids address. Iowa’s delectable cuisine is quintes- Kanopy showcases more than 30,000 of the sentially Midwestern, grounded in world’s best films, including award-winning docu- its rich farming heritage and spiced mentaries, rare and hard-to-find titles, film festival with diverse ethnic influences. Dig in favorites, indie and classic films, instructional films as author and lifelong Iowan Darcy and K-12 lessons, and world cinema with collec- Dougherty Maulsby serves up Iowa’s tions from Kino Lorber, Music Box Films, Samuel tastiest traditions. From the chili-and- Goldwyn, The Orchard, The Great Courses, PBS cinnamon-rolls phenomenon to Maid- and thousands of independent filmmakers. Kanopy provides Rites to the moveable feast known as public performance rights, which allow a user to share the con- RAGBRAI, discover the remarkable stories behind Iowa tent with a group as long as fees are not being charged for access. classics and savor a smorgasbord of other unique Iowa Additionally, Kanopy provides closed captioning, transcripts, food traditions with Darcy’s fun, interactive program. and is compatible with screen readers. Relish the tantalizing tidbits you missed in history class! Hoopla is a digital media service that allows library cardholders to borrow comic books, movies, music, audiobooks, Our Neighbors: the Amish eBooks and TV shows to enjoy directly on a computer, tablet, Tuesday, May 15 l 6-8 p.m. l Meeting Room A smart phone, or TV via Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV. Hoopla content can be either streamed or temporarily downloaded for Calling all Beverly Lewis fans! This presentation given offline access, and the platform offers responsive font size and by Don and Dianne Kramer, neighbors of the Amish, is compatible with screen readers. contains the story and beliefs of the Amish people. When library cardholders establish a Kanopy account, they are “Join us for a program about the beliefs and culture of Amish communities, Amish refreshments provided! given a bank of 15 credits for the month. One play credit allows unlimited access for 72 hours per title. Hoopla services are available for varying periods: TV shows/ Did You Know … ? films—three days; comic books—21 days; music--seven days; • The Marion Library provides notary service at no charge? eBooks and audio books—21 days. Patrons can borrow five titles • The Marion Library has hotspots available to check out? every month. • The Friends of the Marion Library provides book Patrons can access these services and sign up to start streaming delivery for homebound patrons? content immediately by visiting www.marionpubliclibrary.org/ • The Marion Library has book club kits to check out? streaming. Just click on each service and follow instructions for • The Friends of the Marion Library Bookstore has signing up. As always, library staff is happy to assist patrons in new lower prices! exploring these resources, come see us, give us a call, or email • You can access the Marion Library’s FREE Wi-Fi in for more information or assistance. the Lowe Park Arts & Entertainment building and in the Thomas Park building? Just look for MPL Wi-Fi; there’s no password. MARION PUBLIC LIBRARY 15 Upcoming Spring Library Events for Teens There’s something for middle school and high school What’s Going students going on every week at the Marion Public Library: on for Adults MPL Teen Choice Awards l Pick your favorite books, movies, music and more in the MPL Teen Choice Awards! Stop by the at the Library? library in February to see how you can vote. Register for an after-hours Teen Lock-In on Friday, March 9 from 5-7 p.m. We’ll have food, fun and door prizes—and announce the winners! Teen Fandemonium: Spring Break! l Monday, March 12 – Friday, March 16 from 2:30-5 p.m. l Five days of fandom pandemonium! Join us every afternoon during spring break to celebrate a different favorite fandom. Check late February to find out which fandoms we’re celebrating and how you can register to win door prizes! Rockwell Roadshow for Teens l Friday, March 23 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. l Join us for a special STEAM Fridays presentation by the Rockwell Collins Roadshow! Witness awesome science experiments and get a chance to talk to engineers about what they do and why it’s cool. You’ll always find programs at the library for many interests and Graphic Novels and Comic Art l Friday, May 4 from 4-5 p.m. l they are always free to attend! Come see the University of Iowa Museum of Art’s amazing graphic REGULAR WEEKLY PROGRAMMING INCLUDES: novel and comic art collection! Learn about the history of comic books and graphic novels, and choose one of the Marion Library’s • Scrabble Club, Thursdays at 1 p.m. free comic books to take home. • Knit Wits stitching group, Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Weekly Programs for Teens and Tweens: • Morning Genealogy Junkies, Thursdays at 10 a.m. • Travel Tuesdays: every Tuesday 4-5 p.m. • Evening Genealogy Junkies, Wednesday at 7 p.m. • Game Day Wednesdays: every Wednesday 3-5 p.m. RECURRING PROGRAM SERIES INCLUDE: • Community Connections: every Thursday 4:15-5:15 p.m. HACAP MOBILE FOOD PANTRY l Income guidelines apply. • STEAM Fridays: every Friday 4-5 p.m. 1st Wednesday of the month, 4-5 p.m. ADULT BOARD GAME NIGHT l 1st Tuesday of the month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Families All TECH TUESDAYS l Learn more about vetted online resources Have Special Times at Marion Library through demos and Q&As with a trained librarian. First Tuesday Have little ones in your life? The Marion Public Library hosts free of the month, 6-6:30 p.m., Conference Room year-round, weekly story times for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, NOVELS@NIGHT l Get the inside scoop on popular titles from and families. Adult Services Coordinator Madeline Jarvis! Feel free to bring book Baby Time l Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Brain building songs, recommendations to share. First Wednesday of the month, bounces and books followed by playtime, for newborns-18 months. Noon-1 p.m., Conference Room Toddler Times l Tuesday and Friday mornings at 10 a.m. ADULT WRITING GROUP l 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Developmentally appropriate stories, songs and bubbles! FINANCIAL PLANNING l Let professionals from the Strellner Aimed at ages 18 months-3 years. Agency Group help you plan for a secure financial future at our Preschool Story Times l Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at monthly programs. Programs are presented by Vince Welsh and 10:45 a.m. We read stories, sing songs and encourage skills that Blake Helms. There’s no cost and no obligation. Each session will help get kids ready for Kindergarten. For children ages 3-5. includes a program and time for questions. Refreshments provided. Family Time l Mondays at 6:30 p.m. for all ages. We’ll feature a 2nd Tuesday of the month September-May at 6:30 p.m. different activity each week, such as crafts, movies, stories and MONDAY MORNINGS AT THE LIBRARY (MEETING ROOM A) more! TIMELESS TRIVIA l Stretch your memory and have some fun with Babble & Brew l Rotating monthly event for caregivers to meet, Timeless Trivia! Through film clips, historic photos and commentary, enjoy coffee (from Wit’s End) and a place for kids to play with our there will be a new theme every month. First Monday of the month, toys. Drop in between 10-11:30 a.m. Upcoming dates are: Tues., 10:30-11:30 a.m. March 13, Thurs., April 26, Wed., May 16. CARD SHARKS l Canasta champions and Euchre enthusiasts alike Early Literacy Kits are available at the library. These backpacks are invited to join a game the 2nd Monday of each month at 10:30 a.m. include toys, books and ideas for new ways to play. Pick one up today! MOVIE MONDAY l Do you love the old classic movies? Want to share your love with others over coffee and donuts? On the 3rd Monday morning of each month, we’ll show a classic film and program sponsor Humana provides coffee and donuts.

CRAFT CONNECTION l Join us for crafts, conversation and coffee the 4th Monday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Bring your work in progress, or try your hand at our project of the month. 1225 6th Avenue Marion, IA 52302 www.cityofmarion.org

Save the date for these Uptown Marion events! UPTOWN REAL ESTATE LOCAL OPEN 4 BUSINESS SHOWCASE COMPETITION Thursday, March 22 l 4 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday, May 4 The Uptown Marion real estate market is primed with Open 4 Business was developed by Main Street Iowa opportunity! Whether a business owner, investor, aspir- and the Iowa Economic Development Authority, in part- ing entrepreneur, or looking for housing Uptown, we’re nership with Uptown Marion and Main Street commun- excited to share the opportunities that await you in ities around the state, to help provide local financial Uptown Marion. Join us for a short program, properties and technical support for business retention, expansion, tour, and networking event. View available properties, and recruitment efforts within each Main Street district. recently renovated properties and some excellent ex- Previous local winners include Giving Tree Theater, amples of historic preservation. Don’t miss out on this Synergy Metalworks and Ramsey’s Wine Bistro. Uptown exciting time of revitalization, growth and prosperity. businesses and entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply. LADIES DAY OUT UPTOWN MARION MARKETS Saturday, April 21 l 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 9, July 14, August 1 1 l 8 a.m.-Noon Grab your girlfriends and enjoy a fun day in Uptown September 29 l 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Marion! From your morning latte to your afternoon Shop locally sourced produce and goods while enjoying glass of wine, you’ll be sure to make memories as you a festival-like atmosphere in City Square Park. Applica- shop and dine Uptown. The first 100 attendees will tions are available at marioncc.org/vendor-information. receive exclusive coupons to participating businesses AND the first 50 people will also receive a FREE gift. EAT. DRINK. & BE MARION. FOOD & PUB CRAWL Thursday, July 12 l 5:30 p.m. Enjoy a fun night on the town while supporting the Uptown Marion Main Street Program. This adult-only event showcases offers from local restaurants and establishments. Watch for more information on tickets. UPTOWN GETDOWN August 2, 9, 16 and 23 l 6-9 p.m. Grab your chairs and coolers and meet your neighbors for music in City Square Park! Uptown Marion Market and Uptown Getdown are sponsored by Marion Chamber Platinum Community Partners: Farmers State Bank, Fosters Heating & Air Conditioning, ImOn Communications, MercyCare Community Physicians and Townsquare Media.