Marion to mark derecho anniversary with events on Aug. 10

The city of Marion plans to mark the anniversary of the derecho on Tuesday, Aug. 10, with a series of events. The events are intended to honor the anniversary and reflect on the progress that has been made.

“The 2020 derecho will be etched in our collective memory not only as the greatest natural disaster in Marion’s history, but also one of its finest moments,” said Marion Mayor Nicolas AbouAssaly. “At a time of great hardship, we set aside our differences and did what needed to be done to help our neighbors. We united around a common purpose and our shared humanity, and in turn, we experienced the true power of commUNITY.”

The schedule of events on Aug. 10 includes:

• Noon: A commUNITY lunch grilled by Marion Hy-Vee while supplies last and a canned food drive to benefit the Churches of Marion Food Pantry in City Square Park, as well as the reading of a proclamation and unveiling of a new tree carving by Carve-R-Way artist Clint Henik.

• 2 p.m.: A ceremonial tree planting in Thomas Park and information about the replanting efforts to date and future plans to restore Marion’s tree canopy with Marion’s Urban Forestry Division and Trees Forever.

• 3:30 p.m.: Dedication of a derecho-inspired art installation in the atrium of Marion City Hall by local artist Cara Briggs Farmer.

• 4 to 6 p.m.: Future Focused: United through Recovery social event hosted by Marion Economic Development Corporation, Marion Chamber of Commerce and Uptown Marion and sponsored by Collins Community Credit Union to reflect on the anniversary of the derecho and take note of the forward momentum and development activity that continues in the community. Free to attend, reservations required.

• 6 and 8 p.m.: Derecho Oral History Readers Theatre presented by Marion Public Library and Giving Tree Theater featuring actors reading a selection of oral histories conducted in the spring of 2021. Hear the recollections the day and days following from those with a tie to Marion and desire to help the community heal. Limited seating, free to attend but advance reservations are required.