Marking the New Calendar

January 10, 2014
drewnorton's picture
By Drew Sniezek

For my job and personal life, I use my cell phone, computer, and iPad every day. Electronics are extremely helpful but can sometimes be consuming. Even as a young “digitalized” adult, I still find comfort in writing important dates on a physical calendar that hangs on the refrigerator at home. My calendar of choice for 2014 consists of 12 beautiful sunsets. (It’s the first calendar I found on sale after the holidays.)

I started filling out the calendar by writing each family member’s birthday, upcoming weddings, and a couple vacations. New for me this year, I added the Blue Ribbon Foundation events.

I continually remind my friends that I do indeed work more than the 11 days of the Fair. The entire Blue Ribbon Foundation staff is busy year round planning fundraising events, promoting opportunities to give to the Foundation and preparing for the 2014 Fair.

I typically lay out my “game plan” each week as I continue to learn my role with the Foundation.  I’m always looking ahead to what needs to be done, way to incorporate new ideas, and trying to improve an existing successful organization.  Let me be the first to say, every day is an adventure.

Below are a few specific dates on my calendar:

  • February 10-13: Iowa Beef Expo/Volunteers will be selling Iowa State Fair merchandise
  • March 1: Deadline to join or renew Membership Programs for 2014 (1854 Society, Fan Fair, Jake’s Club)
  • March 31: Deadline for Giving Program items to be placed by Fair 2014 (bricks, lamp posts, trees)
  • June 30: Deadline for Block by Block program (Donor Wall in Jacobson Exhibition Center)
  • July 1: Deadline for Iowan of the Day applications for Fair 2014
  • July 12: Corndog Kickoff
  • August 7 – 17: Iowa State Fair

I don’t really need the month of August in my calendar at home; I can pretty much guarantee I will be on the Fairgrounds. As busy as my year seems, I know it will go fast. I look forward to meeting more Iowa State Fair supporters and completing my first year as a Foundation staff member.

If this post has inspired you to add a few Blue Ribbon Foundation events to your calendar, just remember somebody’s birthday is September 1.

Below are a few Fairgrounds sunset pictures that would have been great additions to my calendar at home.