Spring Newsletters: 2025, 2015, 2005, 1995
Each Spring the Blue Ribbon Foundation updates donors on what has been happening and what is continuing to happen to make the Fair the best 11 days possible!
We also like to provide opportunities for you to get involved and help support our mission. Without you none of this would be possible.
What's new with the Blue Ribbon Foundation in Spring 2025?
- The Ron and Bev Shivers Family Plaza is undergoing construction and set to be complete by the end of Spring to ensure it is ready for Fairgoers to enjoy.
- We are looking for nominees for Iowan of the Day. If you know someone who is an outstanding volunteer and makes a difference in your community, please find out how to nominate them here.
- Donor Profile- Ron and Bev Shivers: Not only did they generously donate $1 million dollars for the creation of a vibrant new plaza area, but they have been supporting the Blue Ribbon Foundation since 1994. We are so thankful to have such dedicated supporters that believe in our mission.
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So, what was happening 10 years ago?
- Looking for people to volunteer and participate in our 9th Annual Fairgrounds 5K.
- We had received a $25,000 grant from Prairie Meadows through its 2015 Community Betterment Grant Program. This grant went towards renovating the Youth Inn.
- Donor Profile- George and Charlene Sankey: George and Charlene believe it is important to have a plan in place to maximize your time at the Iowa State Fair and ensure you are experiencing all it has to offer! While planning for the Fair is important, planning for the future of the Fair is also important which is why Charlene decided to include the Blue Ribbon Foundation in her estate. Her gift will be a part of Our Fairs Future, the endowment fund created by the Foundation. George and Charlene are still important supporters of our mission today.
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And what about 20 years ago?
- Advertising $5 Bargain Buys on Iowa State Fair and Blue Ribbon Foundation merchandise!
- Gearing up to promote the Corndog Kickoff and our giving programs at the Des Moines Art Festival.
- Donor Profile- Larry McConnell: Larry operated a concessionaire at the Fair, including owning the Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain. He participated in several of the Foundations programs including Buy-A-Brick, Trees for the Fair, 1854 Society, and donating root beer floats to our Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction. Larry is a great example of ways you can give back to help support the Foundation. Thank you, Larry, for continuing to support the Foundation today!
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How about 30 years ago?
- The "Brick" theme won the pin contest. The Foundation thought that this was the best design because if everyone participates the Fairgrounds can be restored brick by brick.
- We received $900 in contributions from friends of the late Brian Van Maanen designated to building a brick memorial in his honor at the Cattle Barn.
- The Blue Ribbon Foundation and Very Special Arts Iowa were co-sponsoring the first annual May Fair event. This event featured a live and silent auction similar to our Corndog Kickoff event held today!
- Donor Profile- Dennis and Sandra Miller: Dennis and Sandra were the first people to make a donation for a brick at the Sheep Barn. They continued on buying bricks for more of their family members to be placed at the Cattle and Horse Barns. It's crazy to think that we have been placing bricks for over 30 years!
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Over the years a lot has changed here at the Foundation! But there is always one thing that stays the same the unconditional support of our donors!
Thank you for being a part of our journey and supporting the Blue Ribbon Foundation!
-Maya Bruening