Steven Palmer Named Iowan of the Day

DES MOINES, IA (07/29/2015)(readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Steven Palmer of Urbandale as an Iowan of the Day for the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

When asked to describe Steven Palmer, the phrase "a man of heart" was used. For over 20 years, he has worked with Special Olympics raising money and awareness for the cause. He is heavily involved with Law Enforcement Torch Run, the largest fundraising opportunity for Special Olympics. The organization not only runs the torch for Special Olympics, but also coordinates fundraising events like the Plane Pull. In addition, he currently serves as President on Special Olympics Iowa Board of Directors.

"Steven Palmer is an individual who is filled with compassion, good intentions and with a heart that asks, 'What can I do to help others?'" said Gary Harms, President and CEO of Special Olympics Iowa.

Palmer goes above and beyond to find ways to help other, especially those with disabilities. He volunteers at Play Days for younger athletes, Challenges Days and other events. Palmer has also represented Special Olympics internationally, attending the World Games in China.

Palmer is retired from the US Coast Guard and Army, as well as from the Polk County Sherriff's Department. His volunteer work also extends through his membership to the Za-Ga-Zig Shriners, which benefits Shriners Hospitals for Children, and the Masonic Temple.

Palmer's day of recognition will be Friday, August 21 at the 2015 Iowa State Fair. He will be recognized with a ceremony on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage at 2:15 p.m. Along with accommodations at the Downtown Des Moines Marriott, he will receive a cash prize, Grandstand tickets and use of the Iowan of the Day golf cart.

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 more than $110 million for renovations and improvements to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

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Posted Wednesday July 29, 2015 at 11:27 am by Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation