It’s coming. Marion will be struck with a fever this week. That’s not a prediction, it’s a certainty and folks are sure to catch it.

Symptoms include an irresistible urge to visit Marion stores Friday night to shop for bargains. Other symptoms are a desire for a hayrack ride on Main Street, trying your luck at Guitar Hero, and a dusk-time movie at Marion City Library.

Friday Night Fever, a promotion sponsored by Marion Chamber of Commerce retail sales committee will kick off at 5 p.m. Friday.

The farmers market will be open from 5 to 8 at 1111 E. Main and Marion merchants are rolling out the red carpet to welcome shoppers with bargains and specials.

Marion City Library will have a book sale and the public is invited to a movie at dusk. Hayrack rides will be available as well.

There will be a promotion to get people fired up about the proposed youth center. Stop by the former Brenda’s Bloomers and Gifts building at 329 E. Main to offer your suggestions for the center. While you’re there, try your skills at Guitar Hero.

And since you’ll be strolling the streets, you might as well cool off with an ice cream bar (or two). The retail sales committee will be selling them as a fund-raiser for future events.

A list of participating businesses and events is located on page 8 of this issue.

The businesses and individuals who have worked on this promotion deserve a pat on the back. It’s great to see people taking pride in their community and providing a spark of life in the dog days of summer.

Those folks who claim there’s nothing to do in Marion need to make an extra effort to be here Friday night. They might catch Friday Night Fever.

— DONNA BERNHARDT