DES MOINES, IA (06/15/2015)(readMedia)-- Thanks to a generous contribution from Bob and Deb Pulver, the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation will continue its mission of preserving and improving the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The Pulver's $1 million gift will help preserve and restore the historic Fairgrounds that Iowans across the state enjoy.

"My fondest childhood memories are of the Iowa State Fair. No other hallmark of our rich Iowa history symbolizes our agricultural heritage and tradition quite like those eleven days in August," said Deb Pulver. "Growing up in a rural community, I was fortunate enough to experience daily agricultural rituals right in my own backyard. As I remember those special moments at the Fair with my family, I feel honored and privileged to have the opportunity to insure that our kids and grandkids will be able to create memories they will cherish for years to come."

"Not only does the Iowa State Fair represent who we are as Iowans, but it also serves as an educational jewel for those who aren't as lucky as I was to learn, firsthand, where our food comes from and the diversity of livestock that provides so many resources in our daily lives," said Pulver. "As a 'city kid' now myself, I'm grateful to pass on these Fair traditions to our friends and family."

For their gracious contribution, the Pulver family will have naming rights of the Outdoor Arena. The arena, located on the east side of the Swine Barn, is used during the Fair and off-season as a show and warm-up facility.

"The Pulver's generosity will benefit all Fairgoers," said Peter Cownie, Executive Director of the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation. "We are very grateful for Bob and Deb's support. The Pulver's donation is critical for the Iowa State Fair to continue to be the envy of the world." The Iowa State Fair's master plan focuses on the continued improvements to the development of the southwest portion of the Fairgrounds.

"The Blue Ribbon Foundation has been instrumental in making this great institution what it is today by allowing Iowans to support the Fair they love so much," said Gary Slater, Iowa State Fair CEO. "Bob and Deb's generosity will allow Fairgoers now and in the future to continue to enjoy those timeless traditions."

The Foundation began in 1993 with the goal of raising money for the Fairgrounds' deteriorating facilities. Along the way, fundraising efforts have changed the face of the Fairgrounds. Projects like the Varied Industries Building built in 1911 and completely reconstructed from 2000-2002, set a new standard for Fairgrounds facilities. The fully-enclosed multi-use facility became the catalyst for numerous projects including the state-of-the-art Jacobson Exhibition Center.

"Bob and Deb's genuine interest in the well-being of the Iowa State Fair serves both present and future generations. We cannot thank them enough," said Alan Brown, Iowa State Fair Board President.

The Blue Ribbon Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated more than $110 million for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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DES MOINES, IA (10/01/2014)(readMedia)-- Adventure to the Iowa State Fairgrounds on November 2 for the 8th annual Fairgrounds 5K, presented by West Bank. Runners, joggers and walkers can experience the Fairgrounds' park-like setting without the hustle and bustle of the Fair. Nothing compares to an Iowa State Fair corndog and this is your chance to enjoy one "guilt free".

"In August, the Fairgrounds are filled with great people, entertainment, rides and the best food we all look forward to every year. The 5K is the perfect opportunity for Iowans to see how beautiful our Fairgrounds are while supporting its preservation and renovation," said Peter Cownie, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director. "I encourage all runners, walkers, and Fair-goers alike to take part in this special event."

The 5K run's scenic race route will take you down the Grand Concourse, around the livestock barns and through the hills of the Campgrounds. Runners will see current projects on the Fairgrounds with the continued renovation of the Youth Inn and construction on the new MidAmerican Energy stage. Awards will be given to winners in different age groups and to the overall male and female finishers. Registration is $20 before October 20th, $30 from October 20-28 and $40 on race day. Entry fee includes a t-shirt and goodie bag.

Fair-lovers can also participate in the one mile walk. Take a nice stroll through the beautiful Fairgrounds. All participants in the walk will be entered into a drawing for additional prizes. Registration for the walk is also $20.

Just like the Iowa State Fair, the 5K event is for the entire family. Kids are able to participate in the Chase the Cow Kids' Run. All kids will receive a participation ribbon and a t-shirt for the $5 registration fee. To make it even more fun, kids will chase a cow mascot to the finish line!

Online registration for the Fairgrounds 5K is available at www.BlueRibbonFoundation.org. For more information about the Fairgrounds 5K or the Blue Ribbon Foundation, please visit our website or call 515-262-3111 Ext. 675.

The Blue Ribbon Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated more than $100 million for renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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DES MOINES, IA (02/05/2014)(readMedia)-- Any romantic will agree; Ye Old Mill is the perfect place for sweethearts to sneak off and escape the hustle and bustle of the Fair. Show your Valentine how much you love them and the Iowa State Fair with a brick from the Blue Ribbon Foundation near Sweetheart Lane on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Sweetheart Lane, located in front of Ye Old Mill, provides the opportunity for lovers to leave a declaration for millions to see.

"Sweetheart Lane is a perfect place for couples to leave a legacy of their love for one another, as well as for the Fair," said Peter Cownie, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director. "A personal inscription in Sweetheart Lane will help to celebrate a couple's fond Fair memories while preserving the Fairgrounds."

A contribution of $100 purchases a three-line inscription on a brick at Ye Old Mill, or at one of the other 14 brick locations throughout the Fairgrounds. For $125, a brick can be personalized with a heart-shaped graphic, or a logo of your choice. Special Valentine's Day gift cards are available upon request.

For more information about purchasing a sweetheart brick for Valentine's Day, or for any other occasion, contact the Blue Ribbon Foundation at (800) 450-3732 or order online at www.BlueRibbonFoundation.org. All brick orders must be postmarked by March 31 to be placed prior to the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

The Blue Ribbon Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated more than $95 million for renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.