Ruby Bentley named Iowan of the Day

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

Bentley is a key leader for the Macedonia community. She has been in charge of the American Red Cross Blood Drive for 30 years and volunteers nearly 1,500 hours each year. Bentley has served on both the County Tourism Board and the County Conservation Board. Bentley has also made a huge impact on the Macedonia Historical Preservation Society. She worked to develop the Macedonia Pioneer Tail Museum, the Stemple Bird Museum and the Macedonia Development Committee. Bentley has also helped plan the annual "Donia day" celebration and the Nishnabotna River Race, two events that attract people to see her community.

Bentley is involved with her church, Macedonia Grist Mill Community Theater and is a member of a local service club. Macedonia community members refer to Bentley as the "go to" person for helping raise money for a project, develop a new civic organization or to celebrate a historical event.

"Ruby Bentley is one of those rare individuals who work to change things, but what may be even more powerful, is her unconscious ability to inspire others to be more active for change and involvement," said James Sutton, community member and one of Bentley's nominators. "She is genuine, generous, motivated for improvement and very hard working."

Bentley's day of recognition will be Tuesday, August 16 at the 2011 Iowa State Fair. Along with a one night's stay at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott, Bentley will receive a cash prize, grandstand tickets and use of the Iowan of the Day golf cart. Bentley will also receive a special introduction at 2:30 p.m. August 16 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.

###