Dennis Carlson Name Iowan of the Day

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DES MOINES, IA (07/29/2015)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Dennis Carlson of Hampton as an Iowan of the Day for the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

Dennis Carlson wanted a way to educate kids about conservation and nature that would be available year-round. He was already using his tree farm to host local schools and pass along his knowledge, but it wasn't as easy during the winter months. That's why he and his wife, Cathy Carlson, created the Carlson Learning Tree Lodge on their farm. The facility can be used for education, no matter the season. The couple doesn't charge schools or the children for using their center. Instead, they use the opportunity to show children why conservation is important in Iowa.

Carlson is dedicated to educating and helping children. Before devoting his time to his lodge, Carlson worked for a year as a para-educator in the CAL community schools. A time or two, he's dressed up as Ben Franklin to make presentations. He also has given local FFA chapters unique opportunities to view his operations and gain some of his knowledge. Much like his Learning Tree Lodge, he doesn't expect compensation for these activities.

"Mr. Carlson expects nothing in return of these deeds, which points to someone who possesses the talent of being a servant leader in our community," said Sarah Beaver, FFA advisor at CAL community schools, speaking on Carlson's dedicated work in the community.

Carlson's day of recognition will be Tuesday, August 18 at the 2015 Iowa State Fair. He will be recognized with a ceremony on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage at 2:30 p.m. Along with accommodations at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott, he will receive a cash prize, Grandstand tickets and use of the Iowan of the Day golf cart.

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 Iowan's across the state who have made a difference in others' lives, while upholding the characteristics associated with Iowa-dependability, integrity, hard work and sense of community.

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 renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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