Exploring Jacobson

This morning I went to the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center to see the new Block by Block Donor Wall. The wall was completed and placed next to the existing one. The new wall was needed to accommodate additional yellow plaques. (We had sold all of the yellow spaces!)  I was impressed with how nice the new purple quilt block pattern looked next to the blue pattern. Overall, the donor wall display adds bright colors to the building’s interior.

The two decorative walls are symbols of how individual contributions help piece together projects to make Fairgrounds renovations possible. Find out more about the Block by Block giving program.

I also think the donor walls are similar to the quilt block pattern of the building’s exterior. Each of the quilt blocks represents one of Iowa’s 99 counties. This is an excellent way to represent Iowa’s heritage and tradition of barn quilts.

As a new employee, I took a minute to explore the building. Another neat aspect to the Jacobson Center that the public might not know about is Jake’s Club. This space is located on the 2^nd floor of the building and is a members-only VIP area during the Fair. Balcony box seating is available in addition to comfortable couches. It’s the perfect place to watch your favorite Jacobson Center activities, including the Cowgirl Queen Contest and the 6-draft horse hitches. Click for more details about Jake’s Club.

Throughout fall, the Jacobson Center has been filled with horses for various shows. Now that the weather is cooling down, the building will be used for other events. The Iowa Cheerleading Championships, wrestling tournaments, and even concerts will be held in the Jacobson Center. To prepare for these events, the dirt needs to be moved. Today was the day!

The Fairgrounds is a busy place year round. Whether it is installing a fancy new donor wall or the “not so much fun job” of moving dirt, there is never a dull moment.  My plan is to keep exploring.