Tradition lives on
What a glorious weekend we had in Marion!
The sun was shining, people were smiling, and the usual optimism was in the air, as it is every year on Old Settlers' Day.
I hope the "old settlers" realize what a true gem of a celebration we have here.
I was born in Marion and moved away as a child. Technically, I don't feel I'm a true "settler" because I only attended kindergarten here and was not a Marion High School graduate.
Where I grew up, there are the traditional class reunions for each five-year milestone but nothing of the caliber of Marion.
The faithful alumni return from near and far nearly every year, and, for sure, on those major milestone years, to see old chums and visit the place they still call their hometown.
Marion Kiwanis Club has been the quiet champion throughout the history of Old Settlers' Day — planning the parade, picnic, games, and assisting with the promotion of other events of that weekend.
Squeals of delight could be heard in the park Saturday afternoon as classmates reunited after many years. Hugs and tears of joy were shared as people from varied backgrounds, locations, and walks of life came together and shared a common bond for a day.
On Sunday, everyone returned to the cities on the coast or the farmhouse in the country, but will have the memory of Old Settlers' Day 2006.
— SUSAN BERG
