2024 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 11, 12, 13
After the first few days of the Iowa State Fair, the Blue Ribbon Foundation staff are in a good rhythm. The full time staff have a combined 56 years of experience but each summer we welcome college interns to our staff that have never been behind-the-scenes of our incredible event. Don’t let the lack of experience fool you, these interns use their creativity and put their professional skills to the test. The 2024 interns took on the challenge of working in a fast paced environment helping the Foundation be successful!
The 2024 Business Relations Intern, Jayce Reed, did a wonderful job assisting the Sponsorship Director this year by connecting with sponsors, organizing signage, managing credentials, and coordinating logistics. Jayce also created a merchandise manual for volunteers to use when selling souvenirs. She kept busy keeping the State Fair Store stocked with t-shirts and Butter Cow stuffed animals!
On Jayce’s first day of her internship, we asked her to put together a puzzle. When she completed the task with a smile, we knew she was going to be a great addition to our staff! Throughout the summer, Jayce took on anything we needed help with like running the Corndog Kickoff’s Live Auction bidding PowerPoint, laying engraved bricks and connecting with donors from across the state. Thank you Jayce, for your hard work.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation celebrated another set of Iowan of the Day winners:
Nelson Klavitter, Dubuque - A dedicated resident of Dubuque, Nelson has been actively involved in the community for several decades. He has played a key role in organizing Architecture Days, a popular event that offers tours of Dubuque's historical sites. Nelson is also a proud ambassador for the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and is actively involved in showcasing Dubuque to job-seekers and newcomers through his role as a tour guide for Travel Dubuque and the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation. He has been a committed member of the Dubuque Noon Lions Club for over 50 years and is an active volunteer at their food booth during the Dubuque County Fair. Nelson generously contributes to Junior Achievement through volunteer work on multiple boards and event organization.
John Klein, Treynor - John is a dedicated community leader who has made significant contributions to various youth and community initiatives. He has actively written grants for community projects, organized essential services such as swim lessons and transportation, and supported youth groups through fundraising. He supports the Treynor Community Can Kennel, which benefits various youth groups and has raised over $246,000 to date. Additionally, John has been involved in organizing community events and established a volunteer organization. His impact reaches beyond youth-focused efforts, demonstrating his commitment to overall community well-being.
Crystal James, Ottumwa - Crystal is a dedicated individual who has shown extraordinary commitment to serving others. She has been involved in various notable efforts such as serving as a missionary in Haiti and contributing to arts and humanities. As a member of Team Iowa Missions, Crystal and her husband have made nine trips to Haiti to share hope and compassion while supporting children and elders. Crystal, a retired teacher, is actively involved in providing musical and educational programs to people of all ages by volunteering in multiple educational and community organizations. She is also involved with the Ottumwa Lord’s Cupboard, where she assists in distributing food to families and individuals in need in Wapello County.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation hosted 1854 Society members for brunch. This group of pacesetters is passionate about the Iowa State Fair. The Blue Ribbon Foundation could not continue to improve the historic Fairgrounds without their loyal support.
We hope you rode the Ye Old Mill during the year’s Fair. Thanks to the T.A.G. Team members, the Ye Old Mill received new sheathing, fascia and architectural shingles on the roof of the main building. All of the boats were refurbished, along with the mechanical system that operates the ride. The whole structure was painted, the tunnel reroofed and a new rock landscape in the "middle" of the tunnel was added. The “Tunnel of Love” was rejuvenated or maybe just rekindled!
Thank you again to the Steve and Sally Gray family for their donation of $100,000 for the Livestock Barn renovation project. The Sheep Barn has received new restrooms, offices, roofing, underground storm sewer and more. Work will continue on the Horse, Swine and Cattle barns over the next couple years. Their gift also provided new wayfinding signage west of the Livestock Pavilion, guiding Fairgoers to Alliant Energy Landing and other landmarks in the area.
Each year, the Blue Ribbon Foundation partners with other organizations. Thank you to Painting with a Twist for offering painting classes to Fairgoers during the Iowa State Fair. A portion of the proceeds benefited the Foundation. Participants enjoyed all the fun of the Fair and made memories — and art — they will cherish for many years to come.
Did you happen to catch our valued partner, the Iowa Auctioneer Association for the Iowa Bid Calling Championships on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage? These talented auctioneers showed off their skills while raising funds for the Foundation. Bonus - Peter Cownie was one of the judges!
At this point, we’ve made it halfway through the Fair. Some of our highlights so far: lobster corndogs, watching the Budweiser Clydesdales parade and listening to the screams as riders enjoy the Giant Slide!
