The State of Iowa Executive Department has issued the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, Iowas are aware of the need to preserve the rich heritage contained in Iowa’s Pioneer historical cemeteries, and

WHEREAS, this appreciation of their ancestors’ resting places, develops a sense of pride in their ancestors’ accomplishments and in their communities, and

WHEREAS, pride and respect for our pioneers leads to an interest in and concern for the future, it is with this thought in mind that we dedicate this month to the care of our Pioneer cemeteries:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, TERRY BRANSTAD, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF IOWA, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2013 as Cemetery Appreciation Month in Iowa.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have here unto subscribe my name and caused the Great Seal of the State of Iowa to be affixed.

Done at Des Moines this 8^th day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen,

TERRY BRANSTAD, GOVERNOR