Iowa State Fair Receives $1 Million Contribution For AG Exhibition Center

IOWA BUSINESSMAN BRUCE RASTETTER MAKES DONATION

DES MOINES, IA (08/08/2008)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair has received a $1 million contribution from Bruce Rastetter of Alden, to be used to fund the Agricultural Exhibition Center, the latest project on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. In consideration of this gift, the 4-H Building will be designated the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibit Building.

"Bruce's generous gift provides necessary funds to help the Blue Ribbon Foundation continue to improve the Fairgrounds for the benefit of all Fairgoers," said Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director John Putney. "We are pleased to have Bruce involved in this project and we appreciate his support."

Bruce Rastetter founded Heartland Pork Enterprises in 1994 and Hawkeye Renewables in 2003. He has served as the CEO of Hawkeye since its inception and has overseen its growth to become America's third largest pure-play ethanol company. Bruce also operates Summit Farms which consists of crop production, cow-calf operation, beef and pork production and a draft horse operation.

"I'm excited to be able to contribute to the state's premier event, the Iowa State Fair," said Rastetter. "The vision of the Blue Ribbon Foundation, led by John Putney, continues to make this the best Fair in the country and a great Iowa tradition."

Rastetter will be recognized for his contribution at 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 8 on the Anne & Bill Riley Stage on the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

The "Ag Exhibition Center" will provide a facility that will not only be able to accommodate the livestock shows that take place during the Fair, but off-season events as well. Costs are projected to be $20 million, with a three-phase construction projected to be completed prior to the 2010 Fair. Construction on the second phase of the project will begin following the 2008 Fair.

The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated over $70 million for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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