Generous gifts of all sizes keep it a great State Fair

Generous gifts of all sizes keep it a great State Fair: "Generous gifts of all sizes keep it a great State Fair
The Register's editorial
August 15, 2008 09:24 AM

The hordes of Iowans who have poured through the gates of the Iowa State Fair this year left lots of bucks behind on the fairgrounds. Checks dropped off by two Iowa businessmen deserve special mention: Richard Jacobson of Des Moines gave $3.5 million and Bruce Rastetter of Alden $1 million toward construction of a $10 million project that will serve as a year-round site for stock shows, rodeos and other indoor events. Jacobson's gift is the largest single private contribution to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation, according to foundation Executive Director John Putney. 'Dick's generous donation helps to make possible this exciting addition to the Iowa State Fair,' Putney said when the gift was announced at the fair."