Pulver's Contribution will bring Improvements to the Iowa State Fair

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DES MOINES, IA (06/15/2015)(readMedia)-- Thanks to a generous contribution from Bob and Deb Pulver, the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation will continue its mission of preserving and improving the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The Pulver's $1 million gift will help preserve and restore the historic Fairgrounds that Iowans across the state enjoy.

"My fondest childhood memories are of the Iowa State Fair. No other hallmark of our rich Iowa history symbolizes our agricultural heritage and tradition quite like those eleven days in August," said Deb Pulver. "Growing up in a rural community, I was fortunate enough to experience daily agricultural rituals right in my own backyard. As I remember those special moments at the Fair with my family, I feel honored and privileged to have the opportunity to insure that our kids and grandkids will be able to create memories they will cherish for years to come."

"Not only does the Iowa State Fair represent who we are as Iowans, but it also serves as an educational jewel for those who aren't as lucky as I was to learn, firsthand, where our food comes from and the diversity of livestock that provides so many resources in our daily lives," said Pulver. "As a 'city kid' now myself, I'm grateful to pass on these Fair traditions to our friends and family."

For their gracious contribution, the Pulver family will have naming rights of the Outdoor Arena. The arena, located on the east side of the Swine Barn, is used during the Fair and off-season as a show and warm-up facility.

"The Pulver's generosity will benefit all Fairgoers," said Peter Cownie, Executive Director of the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation. "We are very grateful for Bob and Deb's support. The Pulver's donation is critical for the Iowa State Fair to continue to be the envy of the world." The Iowa State Fair's master plan focuses on the continued improvements to the development of the southwest portion of the Fairgrounds.

"The Blue Ribbon Foundation has been instrumental in making this great institution what it is today by allowing Iowans to support the Fair they love so much," said Gary Slater, Iowa State Fair CEO. "Bob and Deb's generosity will allow Fairgoers now and in the future to continue to enjoy those timeless traditions."

The Foundation began in 1993 with the goal of raising money for the Fairgrounds' deteriorating facilities. Along the way, fundraising efforts have changed the face of the Fairgrounds. Projects like the Varied Industries Building built in 1911 and completely reconstructed from 2000-2002, set a new standard for Fairgrounds facilities. The fully-enclosed multi-use facility became the catalyst for numerous projects including the state-of-the-art Jacobson Exhibition Center.

"Bob and Deb's genuine interest in the well-being of the Iowa State Fair serves both present and future generations. We cannot thank them enough," said Alan Brown, Iowa State Fair Board President.

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 the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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