Robert Smith named Iowan of the Day

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Robert Smith of Sidney

DES MOINES, IA (08/01/2011)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Robert Smith of Sidney as an Iowan of the Day for the 2011 Iowa State Fair.

Robert Smith has been described by others as giving selflessly for his family, his community and his country. Smith's service started many years ago when he earned a Purple Heart after World War II. Smith continues to do as much as he can to improve his community and Iowa. He has recently spent countless hours assisting with flooding problems in Fremont County. He is a member of the Southern Loess Hills Welcome Center Board of Directors, Fremont County Economic Development, County Conservation Board, Rural Fire Protection Board and the Southwest Iowa Growers Association. Smith has also served on the Tabor Fire Department, the school board and the public library board.

Smith has been part of the Fremont County Soil and Water Conservation District for over 20 years. With his passion for the environment, Smith founded Golden Hills Resource Conservation and Development, a multi-county organization working on conservation and economic development.

"Bob not only attends, he contributes and participates wholeheartedly in everything he undertakes whether it is helping a neighbor with flood damage or serving in the military," said nominator Senator Hubert Houser. "Robert Smith is the type of person others aspire to be."

Smith's day of recognition will be Friday, August 12 at the 2011 Iowa State Fair. Along with a one night's stay at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott, Robert will receive a cash prize, grandstand tickets and use of the Iowan of the Day golf cart. Smith will also receive a special introduction at 2:30 p.m. August 12 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 shining stars. The program continues to honor individuals from across the state each year who have made a difference in others' lives while upholding 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 $80 million for renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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