Governor Robert D. Ray Named Iowan of the Day

DES MOINES, IA (07/30/2014)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Robert D. Ray of Des Moines as an Iowan of the Day for the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Robert D. Ray is known to many Iowans as Governor Ray, or to some, just "Governor." He served Iowa for 14 years, 1969-1983. Serving as a well-known governor is just the beginning for Ray. CEO of two Iowa insurance companies, an educational leader at Drake University and the national Republican Party leader are also on his list of past experiences. After leaving his governorship, Ray also served as an interim mayor of Des Moines and as the President of Drake.

"Honest, sincere and a man of integrity, Bob Ray has natural leadership talents and a personal warmth and charm that make him a favorite with all Iowans," said Marcia Meller of the Iowa Hall of Pride. "Ray loves Iowa and its people. He takes pride in being remembered for his ability to raise the level of appreciation for the state of Iowa."

Ray helped improve this level of appreciation in many ways. The Character Counts In Iowa initiative is well-known throughout the state. He was instrumental in bringing this program to Iowa and expresses a great deal of pride in serving as chairman of the Character Counts In Iowa board.

In 1979, 3500 refugees from Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam relocated to Iowa. While acting as governor, Ray stood up for those refugees from Southeast Asia by helping them secure jobs and a place to live. He is also noted for helping raise over $500,000 for Iowa SHARES (Send Help to Aid Refugees and End Starvation).

Ray's day of recognition will be Friday, August 8, at the 2014 Iowa State Fair. 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. Ray will also receive a special introduction on August 8, at 2:30 p.m. on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage.

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 over $100 million for renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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