CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Kiwanis P.M. donated $300 to the Central Iowa Art Association to help with the costs of art camps. Pictured from left are: Martha Edgeton, Katelyn Zatovich and Keeley Weeks, of the CIAA; Rose Wagner and Ann Kent.

The Kiwanis P.M. convened at The Iowa Veterans Home for supper and a tour of the facility. Marshalltown can be very proud to be the home of such a beautiful and comfortable home setting for Veterans in declining health and their spouses. Aimee Deimerly graciously gave us some background and current information on the facilities. Founded in 1893, the Home has played an important role in Marshalltown. Centrally located in Iowa on peaceful rolling hills with the Iowa River near the original buildings are mostly gone but the vision is still positive. Staffed by 1,000 workers and many volunteers the facility is self sufficient with power generators to keep things running smoothly in case of power outages. Underground passages make it possible to travel from one building to another when the weather is bad, each building has been artfully decorated with many different art pieces and murals. There is a small hallway with many relics from the past including the application for Amos Fox the first resident.

This bright facility is planned as a large home for Veterans and smoking is allowed in designated areas in the building and outside. The library is available with books, DVDs and CDs, there are several craft rooms and a game room. The Kopper Kettle provides an area for family’s to gather for meals or to bake mom’s cookies for the residents. The original little homes built in 1893, completely remodeled and updated, are available to rent by families of residents.

With the budget situations in the state, monies have been cut, thanks to the generous donations most things have been kept available but there are many small needs that could be met with the help of donations. The severe damage left by recent storms will add additional expenses for the strained budget. The Veterans Home is a small city within the city, if you have not been to visit, you should do so. You will be amazed.

The next meeting will be a board meeting on July 12 at Pizza Ranch.