March 14, 2017
10 Things about 1993:
- The cost of a first-class stamp: $0.29
- The cost of a gallon of regular gas: $1.11
- The cost of a dozen eggs: $0.87
- Billboard’s Top Song: “Rhythm Is A Dancer” by Snap!
- Winner of Academy Award for Best Picture: Schindler's List
- America’s Top TV Show: Home Improvement
- Winner of Superbowl XXVIII : Dallas Cowboys
- Fiction’s Best Selling Book: The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller
- 98 million people watched the last episode of Cheers
- And…The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation was created.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation was established by the Fair Board to conduct a major capital campaign for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. The Foundation set a goal to raise $6 million in two years and $30 million in ten years. With hard work and an overflowing amount of support - this goal was reached and surpassed. In 25 years, the Foundation has raised $128 million and supported 40 major improvement projects across the Fairgrounds.
In celebration of our organization’s journey, we are hosting a
25th Anniversary Campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to celebrate our history while creating awareness about our mission for the future.
From the very beginning, the Blue Ribbon Foundation strives to do more than expected. The organization is not only thinking about the future but planning for the stability of the Fairgrounds for the next generation. What will the Iowa State Fair and Foundation look like in 25 years?
The proceeds of the 25th Anniversary Campaign will be dedicated to
Our Fair’s Future, the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s endowment fund. As the endowment grows, it will provide a reliable source of funding for future renovations, building enhancements and maintenance to the Fairgrounds, ensuring the Fair will be a grand tradition for generations to come.
The Iowa State Fair is a tradition any Iowan can be proud of, and the Blue Ribbon Foundation is dedicated to continuing that legacy. We invite you to join a community of generosity and get even more involved with the Fair you know and love.
Donate online or fill out the
Donation Form.
Placing the first engraved bricks:
Constructing the Service Center was the first project:
The first mess was just the beginning:
March 7, 2017
Governor Terry Branstad, per Iowa Code, is a member of the Iowa State Fair Board and has designated Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds as his representative. On February 15, both Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds attended the monthly meeting held on the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
The Iowa State Fair invited Governor Branstad to come to the meeting to thank him for his past support of the Iowa State Fair and service to the state of Iowa. The longest serving Governor in the history of the United States and recently appointed by President Trump as U.S. Ambassador to China, Branstad will be leaving the Governor’s office pending U.S. Senate confirmation.
The entire State Fair Board thanked Governor Branstad for his support of recent infrastructure projects including the Oman Family Youth Inn, the current 3-phase construction plan on the north side of the Fairgrounds and his efforts in changing the school start date. Simply put, he has been a tireless advocate for the Iowa State Fair and his actions speak for themselves.
John Harms, Iowa State Fair Board President, presented Governor Branstad with a custom pottery vase that the Blue Ribbon Foundation commissioned. Governor Branstad was very appreciate of the gift and said he would take it with him to China. The Governor also vowed to come back to the Iowa State Fair while serving as Ambassador to China. The Board shared many fond memories and stories of the Fair with Governor Branstad and said they look forward to welcoming Ambassador Branstad back to the Iowa State Fair very soon.
February 28, 2017
The Iowa State Fair’s evolution from a simple stock show to today’s agricultural, industrial and entertainment extravaganza is a direct reflection of Iowa’s evolution from an untilled prairie to the very center of the nation’s food production. The Iowa State Fair has been the historical trademark of this progress.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation has been raising funds for the restoration and preservation for our beloved Fairgrounds since 1993. The first renovation of Grandfather’s Barn and the first new building constructed, the Service Center, were just the beginning. One by one, barns and buildings across the Fairgrounds were improved. From unseen electrical updates or simple restroom improvements, to construction of a state-of-the-art exhibition center, the Blue Ribbon Foundation has been determined to make the Iowa State Fairgrounds one of the best.
The Foundation has been able to offer the Corndog Checkoff as a way for Iowans to financially support their efforts. While completing your Iowa State Tax Return, simply check-off a donation for the Iowa State Fairgrounds and provide a reliable source of funding for future renovations, building enhancements and maintenance to the Fairgrounds, ensuring the Fair will be a grand tradition for generations to come. Your donation will be deducted from your refund or added to the amount due. Contributions to the Corndog Checkoff are fully tax-deductible.
The Iowa State Fair is the true, ever-changing reflection of what’s best about Iowa. Over the years the Fair has never veered from its primary purposes: the celebration of excellence, the recognition of individual achievement and the enhancement of agriculture.
Corndog Checkoff contributions are anonymous; therefore the Foundation is unable to recognize those individuals. Although the gifts are nameless, they are extremely significant and greatly appreciated! Thank you.
The Corndog Checkoff logo has changed over the years, but the mission remains the same. Contributions will help modernize the Fair's facilities, while maintaining its grand historical integrity, as well as preserve the vast improvements made since the inception of the Foundation in 1993.
February 21, 2017
Things that grow at the Iowa State Fair:
- Award winning fruits and vegetables. The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. 1,000-pound pumpkins – we’ve got them!
- Animals. You can watch the animal birthing process, as well as the stages of growth and development in cattle, sheep and pigs all in the Animal Learning Center.
- Horticulture. The Discovery Garden is truly a peaceful place for Fairgoers to sit and enjoy the flowers. You can see hundreds of varieties of plants and flowers on display.
- Facial Hair. In Pioneer Hall, Fairgoers can watch or participate in the “Beard Growing Contest” featuring the Best Groomed, Longest Beard, Most Unique Beard Design, Most Historic Nature and Best Beard Design with Costume.
- Your Food Palate. With 200 food stands and 70 specific items on-a-stick, you can easily become a foodie. Have you ever tired a Unicorn Lollipop, a wonder bar, or Tot-chos?
One of the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s goals is to grow and improve the Iowa State Fairgrounds so it remains a vibrant entity for years to come. This goal can be achieved with your support.
Ruan Plaza, a greenspace bordering the east side of the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building, made its Fair debut in 2015. A retaining wall between the Robert G. Horner and Sheri Avis Horner Service Center and the Plaza will now showcase “Growing Our Future”, a program designed to add an artful display to the grounds.
Seven different levels of giving are available, with each customized aluminum plaque working together to create the overall design. Distinguished by two different sized plaques, each level is recognized with colored “leaves”. The leaves allow for two lines of inscription and can become more personalized on the larger pieces.
The deadline to add your “Growing Our Future” leaf for the Iowa State Fair is March 31. To take advantage of this program, please use our secure online order form or download and print the Growing Our Future Brochure. To receive more information on this, or any of our fundraising efforts, please email me at Drew@BlueRibbonFoundation.org.
February 14, 2017
Love is in the air…so is the smell of cattle. This week’s
Iowa Beef Expo is Iowa's largest cattle show and is held on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The Blue Ribbon Foundation has a booth set up inside the Cattle Barn with merchandise for sale. The Fairgrounds is buzzing with trucks, trailers and cows. It’s exciting to see the grounds in action in the middle of winter.
Each August, the Iowa State Fair celebrates all things Iowa – including its rich livestock and agriculture heritage. Iowans proudly showcase their cattle, goats, pigs, sheep, horses, dogs, rabbits, chickens, llamas, and pigeons. (Did I miss anything?) The Iowa State Fair features one of the largest livestock shows in the world and winning a class is highly coveted.
Taking a casual stroll through a livestock barn on show day is anything but casual for an exhibitor. You can watch multiple generations working together to prepare their animals and put their best foot forward in the show ring. Some of the young 4-H and FFA members competing will grow up to pursue agriculture-related careers. Each could lead the industry, not only in Iowa but across the country.
I grew up living in town but was fortunate to have a best friend that lived on a farm. I remember it was always an adventure when I got to spend the night at her house. I got to ride the school bus, cruise on a 4-wheeler and of course - do farm chores. Unlike my friend that did these chores as a daily part of her life – I enjoyed “helping” in the barns. I would tag along to sort sheep, feed cattle and scoop the poop. On the farm I learned to fish, the difference between straw and hay, and first got involved with 4-H. Memories I will keep with me forever.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation is more than maintaining the Fairgrounds facilities. We are helping families maintain their State Fair memories. This Valentine’s Day, show your love to the Iowa State Fair by supporting the Blue Ribbon Foundation. Join a community of generosity and get even more involved with the Fair that you know and love.
Livestock Show at the Fair
Construction on the Cattle Barn
Cattle Barn in the warm summer
February 6, 2017
The Blue Ribbon Foundation has published the Winter Newsletter. This edition of the newsletter highlights the Fan Fair program and the Corndog Tax Checkoff - two programs that will continue this winter into spring. There are also two new opportunities for donors to support the Foundation – the 25th Anniversary Campaign and Growing Our Future.
Each year, the Blue Ribbon Foundation acknowledges our supporters in the Roll of Donor list, including donors that are members of the Champion’s Circle. We are grateful for your generosity and your desire to create a Fairgrounds that carries on memorable traditions, offers opportunities for individual growth and is ready for future generations.
The Donor Profile features Jim and Kathy Gocke. The article flashes back to the 2016 Corndog Kickoff and the unprecedented moment when the poker table co-created by Jim was purchased for $185,000!
In celebration of the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s 25 anniversary, I am trying to learn as much as I can about our organization’s history. I decided to again pull out old issues of the Foundation’s newsletter.
The front page of the 1997 Winter Newsletter featured the Corndog Tax Checkoff:
“So, when you’re working on your tax forms in the cold of winter, pause for a moment to recall the warm August sun and the taste of a fresh corn dog, and remember to check off $1 (or more), for the State Fairgrounds Renovation.”
In addition to the small but mighty annual Roll of Donor list, other important relationships were highlighted. First, the Blue Ribbon Foundation had received its largest private gift from the estate of Berneice and Donald Penningroth and Don’s brother, Orville Penningroth. The donation was valued at $430,000. Today, the Cattle Barn’s Penningroth Media center holds the sale of champions. Farming, livestock, and exhibiting at the Iowa State Fair were important to the Penningroth family.
The 1997 Donor Profile article featured Dwayne McAninch and McAninch Corporation. Why he supported the Foundation: “My company works all over the state and giving to the Fair is giving to an entity that helps every Iowan.” True statement even after 20 years. Thank you McAninch Corporation for your continued support the Blue Ribbon Foundation.
A new fundraising opportunity was mentioned in the 1997 Winter Newsletter, described as a unique auction to be held in July on the Fairgrounds….oh the first stages of the Corndog Kickoff!
In January 2007, Bridget Anderson was the Special Programs Manger. She shared her perspective on working for the Blue Ribbon Foundation: “I take pride in knowing I have been a part of something so important and influential in the State of Iowa”. Bridget was reflecting on the progress of the Richard L. Easter Museum Complex that opened for the 2007 Iowa State Fair.
Ten years ago, the same opportunities with the Corndog Tax Checkoff and Fan Fair were going strong. John Putney, Foundation’s Executive Director, thanked the donors that had joined us on our journey thus far and the larger Roll of Donor list was included.
Wells’ Dairy, Inc., makers of Blue Bunny ice cream based in Le Mars, Iowa was featured in the 2007 Donor Profile. Who remembers volunteering to help the Blue Ribbon Foundation sell ice cream during the Good Guys Car Show?
Programs have developed, projects have been accomplished and things have changed over the years. The loyalty of Blue Ribbon Foundation donors has only continued to grow. Thank you for your support!
January 31, 2017
When you walk around the Iowa State Fair for a day, you are sure to hear a variety of sounds. Maybe you hear music coming from one of the free entertainment stages, Grandstand stage or even the strolling entertainers. Plenty of musicians can be found in the Bill Riley Talent Show singing and playing their instruments. In 2017, Fairgoers will be able to hear a brand new set of sounds coming from the upgraded midway attractions. And let’s not forget our Iowa roots and the sounds coming from the livestock barns are music to some Fairgoers’ ears.
My very first concert was at the Iowa State Fair in 1998. I saw LeAnn Rimes in the Grandstand. Watching live music quickly became one of my favorite things to do. I don’t really have a favorite music genre. Earlier this month I attended the Eric Church concert, yesterday I put my online radio station to play 50’s Rock-n-Roll and I have plans to see the Backstreet Boys in March. I like it all!
It should be no surprise that I’m excited to see the 80s arena rock impersonation act, Hairball on Friday at the Fairgrounds. Bring on the Journey, Whitesnake and Bon Jovi songs combined with the big crowd singing along. It is sure to be a fun night!
Buy your tickets today or at the door on Friday.
I’ve also been playing songs from this year’s Grandstand line-up. There is something for everyone with bands: for King & Country, Nickelback, Alabama and Little Big Town. The “I Love the 90’s” group is sure to have the crowd entertained.
Tickets are on sale now.
There are still five Grandstand Acts left to announce and concert attendees can support the Blue Ribbon Foundation while ordering tickets to their favorite shows…early!
The
Fan Fair program is an opportunity to secure premiere Grandstand concert tickets at the 2017 Iowa State Fair while supporting the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s effort to renovate the Fairgrounds. For each $150 contribution you make to the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s Fan Fair program, you become eligible to purchase two Grandstand concert tickets prior to the general public.
Fan Fair donations can also be made online.
Rock, Pop, R&B, County, Hip Hop - whatever type fits your style, turn the music up!
January 24, 2017
Iowans across the state can cultivate a vibrant future by investing in today's youth. The Iowa State Fair is dedicated to investing in the next generation of farmers, innovators and leaders. This dedication is reflected in our annual August celebration of Iowa’s agricultural heritage, industrial advancements and offering opportunities for individual growth. The Blue Ribbon Foundation works throughout the year to raise funds for the restoration and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds to provide top notch facilities.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation has been able to offer the
Corndog Checkoff as a way for Iowans to financially support its efforts. While completing your Iowa State Tax Return, simply check off a donation for the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
This action provides a reliable source of funding for future renovations, building enhancements and maintenance, ensuring the Fair will be a grand tradition for future generations. Your donation will be deducted from your refund or added to the amount due. Contributions to the Corndog Checkoff are fully tax-deductible.
From the first renovation of Grandfather’s Barn and construction of the Service Center, one by one, barns and buildings across the Fairgrounds have been improved. With unseen electrical updates, simple restroom improvements, or construction of the state-of-the-art Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center, the Blue Ribbon Foundation strives to provide an environment to enhance the Iowa State Fair’s goal to further education, offer entertainment and competition for all ages. The upcoming three phase construction plan for the north side of the Fairgrounds will create a family friendly environment for the midway and later will include Grandstand updates and a separate events area.
Participating in the Corndog Checkoff is a simple way Iowans can support the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s efforts. The Foundation is determined to maintain and grow the beautiful Iowa State Fairgrounds. We thank you for your loyalty to our great Iowa State Fair.
Iowa State Fair Youth:
January 18, 2017
Entertainment takes on an entirely new meaning at the Iowa State Fair. Yes, we have musical acts, dancing groups and midway attractions but the Iowa State Fair has a few things that you can’t find anywhere else.
Don Greiman knows a thing or two about entertainment. He began coming to the Fair with his family as a small child, then exhibited and worked in the Beef Barn, and finally served on the Fair Board for forty-four years.
A Blue Ribbon Life: Memories of the Iowa State Fair is the story of the Iowa State Fair during those years, the people Don met, the best moments of those decades and the worst, the financial ups-and-downs of the Fair, and its ultimate national recognition.
In the chapter about entertainment, Don talks about the Hog and Husband Calling contests. He shares stories of entertainers taking the Grandstand stage and gives some inside details on the history of the Butter Cow. One very unique tidbit Don shares might be special to the Iowa State Fair – the Celebrity Goat Milking contest.
- “Then it came time to milk the dairy goat; for that contest, you didn’t have a partner, you were on your own. There is a breed of goat that has no ears, and that was the goat I was given so I acted as though I was whispering in her ears. While everybody was being introduced, I stood there and gently massaged her udder. When it got time to milk the goat, the milk just came out and I had more milk than all the other contestants put together; nobody could figure it out.”
Don participated in the goat milking contest in 2000 and the entertaining activity is still going strong. One of the Blue Ribbon Foundation interns, Francesca Mittag, graciously participated last August! Read more of Don’s memories and stories in his book available in the
State Fair Store.
As the 2017 Iowa State Fair inches closer (203 days!), the staff are thinking of new and exciting ways to entertain the crowds. Free entertainment stages and new competitions will be announced this spring. Livestock schedules, kids’ activities, and crazy food concoction are all in the works. Five Grandstand concerts have been announced and the line-up will continue to grow, so stay tuned.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation has supported projects across the Fairgrounds to make sure these entertaining aspects of the Fair continue. We are on a mission to provide an environment that all can enjoy. What entertainment are you looking forward to this August?
January 11, 2017
A volunteer recently gave me a photograph taken at the 2016 Corndog Kickoff. It was after the event was complete, the crowd had left the Varied Industries Building to watch fireworks and I finally sat down for the first time that evening. The photo shows me and three other women sitting at a table. The women volunteered to help at the event but these three are much more than volunteers.
These three women - Jen (Carver) Cannon, Allyson (Dierenfeld) Krull, and Emily (Barnd) Saveraid had each previously held the Communications Manager position for the Blue Ribbon Foundation. This photograph shows a span of 14 years of Blue Ribbon Foundation staff.
As a current staff member having these three women available as resources is invaluable. I think the fact that they volunteer after all these years is a sign of the impact our organization has. Being involved with the Blue Ribbon Foundation makes you a unique part of the Iowa State Fair - something that sticks with you for many years.
The same is true for volunteering with the Foundation. Each summer 500 volunteers give more than 5,000 hours of their time to help us fundraise. Year after year, these volunteers keep coming back. I think it is more than just helping sell water or t-shirts. These dedicated volunteers look forward to connecting with other Fair-lovers. Friendships have developed and reconnecting each August is truly something special.
I encourage you to consider
volunteering with the Blue Ribbon Foundation this summer. The Volunteer Relations intern will start organizing the schedule in May. Seeing how the Foundation operates can give you a new perspective to the Iowa State Fair. Knowing that you are helping raise money to keep the beloved Iowa State Fairgrounds in top-notch condition might just give you a greater appreciation for the 11-day event.
2016 Corndog Kickoff:
2011 Corndog Kickoff:
2009 Corndog Kickoff:
2005 Iowa State Fair:
