June is a great month in Marion County.Everything gets started this weekend with Chingawassa Days in Central Park, Marion. Where else can you get two concerts with legendary performers Foghat and the Bellamy Brothers, a barbecue meal, ice cream, watermelon, children’s games, a poker tournament, and entertainment for a $35 button ($25 if you purchased it before May 31)?

Next weekend is the long-awaited Prelude to the Symphony in Florence. Numerous vendors and entertainers are planned with another several thousand visitors attending.

Marion County Relay for Life is June 19 and 20 at Warrior Stadium in Marion. This fundraiser brings county residents and out-of-town guests to the overnight walkathon.

And what about the bluegrass festival June 20 at Marion County Lake? Amateur musicians have an opportunity to perform during an open-mike time followed by family entertainment.

Hillsboro is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a vintage fashion show and numerous other events on its main street June 26 and 27.

There are many events from which to participate in or attend. It’s a great opportunity for the county to put its best foot forward.

— SUSAN BERG