Top Notch Maintenance Staff

Money raised by the Blue Ribbon Foundation goes to improvement projects all across the Fairgrounds. Crews work to improve the Fairgrounds facilities - even in the cold, icy winter months. This February I’ve decided to tackle a home improvement project at my house. One of the bedrooms had a half wall that overlooked the living room. I had that wall filled in to make a true bedroom. With this construction project comes new paint colors, new room décor and hopefully a more useable space.

I can paint and decorate myself, but the actual framing and drywall was done by a professional contractor. I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. I wouldn’t have had a clue where to start and I’ve been impressed with the contractor’s skills. It just so happens that my contractor works full time at the Iowa State Fair.

That’s right – the Iowa State Fair staff is full of top level professionals, especially in our maintenance department.  The Fair’s staff includes an architect, carpenters, electricians, plumbers and mechanics. Printing, custodial and construction departments have high quality staff working year round to operate the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

Last week was the Iowa Beef Expo, a showcase and sale of several cattle breeds. The event used the Cattle Barn, Pavilion, Walnut Center, Gammon Barn, and Penningroth Media Center. The Fairgrounds was buzzing with trucks, trailers and cattle. In the upcoming weeks, the Fairgrounds will be host to an agribusiness conference, dog show, craft show, boat show, flea market, and an archery state tournament. The more events on the Fairgrounds, the busier the staff.

Your support of the Blue Ribbon Foundation keeps the Fairgrounds in top notch condition. The improvements allow the facilities to host a variety of events throughout the year. There will be plenty of projects that continue this winter into spring. A BIG thank you to the maintenance department that creates and maintains the beautiful Iowa State Fairgrounds all year long!

My Home Improvement Project:

The Grandstand was originally built in 1909 and was renovated in 1997. By this summer the Grandstand area will have a new look with a new restroom, 4,000 additional seats and the brand new Kum & Go Stage. Be sure to check out the 2018 Grandstand Line-Up.