This weekend is the annual pilgrimage of past Marion residents and Marion High School alumni to their hometown and alma mater.

Visitors will notice that the community continues to be strong and vibrant with plenty of places to eat and things to do. Central Park continues to be the focal point of our community, where another successful Art in the Park and Craft Show was held Saturday.

The parade promises to hold the same grandeur with class floats, marching bands, participation from local and area organizations, and, as always, a plethora of interesting and entertaining people.

This year’s theme celebrates the cooperation between USD 408 and the City of Marion in the construction of the indoor aquatics center.

What a tremendous asset this facility has been to our community. What other small town the size of Marion has an indoor swimming pool?

The new gymnasium and performing arts center also are welcome additions to our community. Some colleges would love to have such fine facilities.

Marion is more than a great place to visit. Marion is a great place to live. Families have found this hidden treasure to be the best place they’ve seen to raise their children.

What about retiring in Marion? How many people have returned to Marion to do just that? Too many to count.

Marion is the best place many of us have seen to live, work, play, and retire.

Welcome home, Old Settlers. Enjoy your stay and remember the door is always open.

— susan berg