Cedar Rapids Weather
Tourists "Arrested" in KalonaBy Matt Nelson, Photojournalist
KALON, IA - Imagine you're taking a road trip, when you see the flashing lights in your mirror. It's probably the worst feeling you can have.
People traveling through the Washington County town of Kalona Thursday had that feeling, and they weren't even speeding. Every day thousands of vehicles pass through Washington County on US Highway 218. Many don't notice the small towns listed on the signs. But at least for one day Larry Moeller is going to change that. "We're planning on catching a northbound out of state tourist," said Chamber of Commerce member Larry Moeller. "We'll go up to the car and ask them if they have about 20 hours to spend with us here in Kalona," he added. That time will be spent catching them up on something they probably haven't recently received. "We'll arrest them on the charge of lack of small town hospitality," Moeller said. So with County Sherrif Jerry Dunbar and some binoculars, Larry and Jerry start looking for a tourist to arrest. "Illinois" The Illinois visitors didn't work out, they were on their way to the hospital. Moments later Ron and Cheri Cunningham of Sedalia, Missouri couldn't figure out what was going on. "I was behind a truck that I'd followed for about 15 miles, I wasn't speeding, I didn't know what I could've possibly done," said arrested tourist Ron Cunningham. After a little convincing... "Sounds good to me, sounds good, ok!" ...it was off to Kalona for the unique sights and sounds...that this town offers...plus a meeting with the mayor. "Ron and Cheri...welcome to Kalona" ...a basket full of goodies from the local businesses... "Yoder's Peanut Butter crunch here." ...and some fine dining... "You can order from our dinner menu, or from lunch..." All expenses paid, even the night's stay. "It's interesting it's fun, he probably pulled over the right people, we didn't really have an agenda," said Cheri Cunningham. "Everybody's been so nice, so friendly, and the little downtown area here is darling," she added. What the chamber hopes is that they'll wear these t-shirts with pride. "And on the back it says, Ask me about Kalona, Iowa," Moeller said. So instead of driving to Tennessee as planned, the Cunninghams will spend Friday serving out their "sentence" by touring Kalona. More Good Stuff |
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