John "Jack" Finneseth Named Iowan of the Day

DES MOINES, IA (07/29/2013)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Jack Finneseth of Jefferson as an Iowan of the Day for the 2013 Iowa State Fair.

Finneseth's unselfish support throughout Perry and Jefferson counties has been invaluable to student activities. His children have been out of high school for nearly 25 years, yet he continues to announce at swim meets, time runners at track meets and organize all the Jefferson high school wrestling meets. Finneseth also volunteers his time to the Jefferson Public Library, Iowa Games Youth Swimming, the Iowa State Fair and Special Olympics.

Finneseth does plenty of behind-the-scenes work, too. He has Co-chaired the Jefferson All School Reunion multiple times, taking the time to coordinate and contact all the graduates. He volunteers to put up Christmas lights at the library every winter. And he has made various improvements to Slininger Woods- 37 acres of outdoor fun donated by his family- over the years.

His ability to make a difference has landed him several well-deserving awards. He is a two-time winner of the "Family of the Year" award and has been presented with both an Outstanding President Award and Super Booster Award.

"Jack Finneseth is a shining example of the spirit and the best that Iowa's communities have to offer," said Tom Lipovac, Director of Student Activities of Perry Community Schools

Finneseth's day of recognition will be Saturday, August 17 at the 2013 Iowa State Fair. Along with a one night's stay at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott, he will receive a cash prize, grandstand tickets and use of the Iowan of the Day golf cart. Finneseth will also receive a special introduction on August 17 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 $95 million for renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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