Crystal James named Iowan of the Day

DES MOINES, IA (08/01/2024) (readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Crystal James of Ottumwa as an Iowan of the Day for the 2024 Iowa State Fair.

Crystal is devoted to using her time and talents to serve others. Some of her most notable efforts include her time as a missionary to Haiti, her contributions to arts and humanities, and her work to feed the hungry.

Crystal is a member of Team Iowa Missions and works to share hope and compassion through her faith during short-term mission trips. Crystal and her husband have traveled to Haiti a total of nine times on mission trips supporting their sponsored children and elders, and plan to go again in the future.

As a retired teacher, Crystal has a passion for education and provides musical and educational programs to people of all ages by volunteering in schools, nursing homes, and various community organizations. Her support of the arts goes beyond these musical programs, as she performs in and directs productions of the Ottumwa Players. In addition, Crystal helps with the Ottumwa Lord's Cupboard to distribute food to families and individuals in need in Wapello County.

Crystal's day of recognition will be Tuesday, August 13th at the 2024 Iowa State Fair. She will be recognized with a presentation on the Anne & Bill Riley stage at 12:00 PM. Along with accommodations at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, she will receive a gift bag, Grandstand Concert tickets, use of the Iowan of the Day golf cart, a cash prize, Iowa State Fair admission tickets, and VIP parking.

Founded in 1997, the Iowan of the Day program allows the Blue Ribbon Foundation to recognize Iowa's most outstanding individuals. The program continues to honor Iowans across the state who have made a difference in the lives of others, while upholding the characteristics associated with Iowa- dependability, integrity, hard work and sense of community.

The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated more than $200 million for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. For more information, please contact the Blue Ribbon Foundation at 1-800-450-3732 or Info@BlueRibbonFoundation.org.

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