By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

The weather was not too hot, not too cold, but just right for Saturday’s 107th Old Settlers’ Day in Marion. People were lined up early all along the parade route.

The 50-minute parade celebrating the 50th anniversary of Marion Reservoir featured 45 entries plus 16 horseback riders.

Rosse and Janice Case were grand marshals. They were chosen in honor of the 150th anniversary of Case and Son Insurance.

Parade judges were John Leoha of Overland Park, Mike Vondencamp of Marion, and Jessie Wiebe of Hillsboro.

The entry that probably got the most laughs was the class of 1958. Members were riding on a small trailer with two flat rear tires, making for a precarious, bumpy ride.

Members of the Rube Band entertained the crowd with their colorful costumes and variety of instruments.

Marion middle school and high school bands played as they marched along Main St. Peabody-Burns High School band also marched. Marion High School cheerleaders and members of the homecoming court rode in the parade.

Float judging results

Churches — Eastmoor United Methodist Church.

High school classes — 1. sophomores; 2. seniors; 3. juniors.

Open — 1. St. Luke Hospital; 2. Marion-Florence FFA; 3. Marion Rube Band.

Reunion floats — Class of 1983.

Marion Kiwanis Club served a noon meal in the park, followed by games for kids from kindergarten to adult.

The high school band performed for the crowd, and Gene Winkler introduced reunion classes.

Kiwanis president and parade announcer Casey Case was pleased with the day.

“It went as smooth as any I can remember,” he said.

He has been announcing the parade since 2000. His father, Alex, was announcer from 1969 to 1999. Physician Ralph Melton preceded him.

Kiwanis sponsors the annual event.