The City of Kalona is working on a memorial project to honor veterans, volunteer firefighters, and volunteer emergency service providers, and to raise money for it they are giving people a chance to be a part of it. According to Jan Peterseim, the city is selling blocks that will surround the memorial, and people can put personalized messages on the block they purchase. There are three sizes of blocks available, a small block for $225, a medium block for $325, and a large block for $425. The amount of lettering allowed depends on the size of the block, but people can put any message they want to honor those who have offered their service.

Peterseim says the memorial is the city’s way to show appreciation. She explains, “There’s never been any recognition for these people that have served our community and our country here in Kalona. And these people certainly have served their country and community very well. That’s why we want to do it.” The total estimated cost for the project is $60,000, and thus far they have raised approximately $12,000 through this campaign. Additionally, the city has allocated $20,000 to the project. People wanting to purchase stones can do so by contacting Peterseim or Kalona City Hall. The memorial will be made up of three black granite stones etched with a three-paneled flag and a quote that has not been determined. Work on the memorial will begin when all the funds are raised, which the city hopes will be in the early spring.