Old Settlers' Day will honor those who serve
Staff writer
Honoring those who serve our country and community will be the theme for Old Settlers' Day Friday and Saturday in Marion.
The official theme for this year's 92nd annual celebration, sponsored by the Marion Kiwanis Club, is "Hats off to those who serve."
Kiwanis vice president Tom Kimbrel (OSD chairman) said the board was propelled to use the theme because of the war with Iraq. However, the theme also honors those who serve in law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency services.
A community dance will top off a weekend of activities for Marion residents and alumni during the Old Settlers' Day celebration Friday and Saturday.
A new event this year, the dance will last from 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday outdoors at Marion Country Club. Admission is $5 per person.
"We felt the dance would allow people who come back an additional chance to visit," explained Tom Kimbrel.
The theme will be evident during the annual parade, set for 11 a.m. on Main Street, where representatives from each group have been asked to participate as grand marshalls.
"We plan on having a policeman, a firefighter, an EMT, and as many local people as we can find who were involved with the Iraq war," Kimbrel explained.
Jeaninne Bateman, parade chairman, said she expects this year's parade to be even larger than previous years.
"There seems to be something about the theme of 'Hats off to those that serve' that seems to be bringing out the people," Bateman said.
"As of Monday, I already had 40-some entries and that doesn't even include the class reunion floats," she added.
The parade begins on West Main near Marion Tool and Die, known as Jex Addition, and culminates at Lincoln Street.
Floats are encouraged to be at Jex Addition by 10 a.m. As a safety measure other vehicles should stay out of the area. Participants should walk to the area or have someone drop them off at the entrance to the neighborhood.
Parade entries can throw candy if items thrown reach the crowd the entire length of the parade. Items should not be tossed or dropped in the street near moving vehicles.
Children in costumes with decorated bicycles, tricycles, or pets should meet in the parking area on the east side of Marion Die and Fixture at 10:30 a.m. Prizes will be awarded to the winners.
Horses may unload in the grassy area near the railroad tracks. Trailers can be parked at Marion Municipal swimming pool. Horse riders should take Lincoln north to Lawrence, then east to the pool. Riders can unload at the pool and ride down, but are asked to stay off Main except when crossing Luta Creek.
Casey Case will announce the various parade entries at a location in front of the Case and Hannaford building on Main, Kimbrel said.
Parking stalls in front of that building should be left clear after 4 p.m. Friday so the announcers stand and barricades can be installed.
Parking on the parade route is discouraged. Those viewing the parade should bring lawn chairs and dress for the weather. Those attending also should make room up front for the elderly or disabled.
The parade will be led by a color guard followed by a military vehicle playing marching music, Bateman said.
Although the majority of events are on Saturday, the Country Club Golf Tournament begins at noon Friday.
Also on Friday night, individuals interested in watching the Marion High School football team meet Chase County on the gridiron are invited to make the trip to Cotonwood Falls to support the Warriors. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.
The main event begins Saturday morning with the Old Settlers' Day Run at Marion County Park and Lake. The 5k run starts at 8 a.m. with a one-mile fun run following. Interested individuals may register at the Marion City Building.
Immediately after the parade ends, a picnic will be served in Central Park. Old Settlers' Day participants are invited to enjoy the $6 Meal Deal with four serving lines. Proceeds go to community projects.
Pie, sandwiches, chips, beans, water, and soft drinks will be available throughout the day.
Games in Central Park start at 1 p.m. and will include races and an egg toss. Cash prizes will be awarded. All ages are welcome to participate.
The Marion High School band will be in concert at 2 p.m. under the direction of Mike Connell.
All Marion High School classes holding reunions will be introduced at 2:30 p.m. during alumni recognition. Classes hosting reunions are asked to attend so members can be honored.
Marion Historical Museum, located next to Central Park, will be open for visitors to view Marion memorabilia from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Marion's new city library will hold an open house from 1 to 5 p.m. for visitors to see the renovations made to the former Santa Fe Depot. The library is located at 101 Library Street.
FFA members at Marion High School will host a mud run at 4 p.m. located at Green Acres Raceway. There will be a 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive ATV divisions. Admission is $1. Call (620) 382-3111 to register.
