T-R PHOTOS BY ROBERT MAHARRY AND ERINN STUDER

Inspired by author and speaker Jeff Siegler, the Civic Pride group that formed in Marshalltown earlier this year hosted its first free public event on Sunday at Peterson Park, where improvements are in progress and are close to being completed. It started with a park and neighborhood cleanup effort before carne asada and al pastor tacos, along with rice, beans, refreshments and desserts from Lara’s Bakery were served. Food donations from Lara’s, La Salud, Villachuato Grocery Store and Zamora Fresh Market helped to make the meal possible.