In 2004, John and I were asked by Mary Alice Lair to serve as members of the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board of Directors. John and I have always loved the Kansas State Fair, and we have great memories of bringing our children to Hutchinson to see their 4-H projects and take in all things “Fair”. With this in mind, we understood the importance of having a fairgrounds that was well-cared for and a place that visitors find welcoming and will want to return year after year. We have enjoyed working with several individuals from across the State of Kansas while serving on the board.

From its inception, members have worked diligently to accomplish many projects to improve and revitalize the fairgrounds. The board has also dedicated many hours of time to help raise monies for continued upkeep and improvements to the Kansas State Fair buildings and grounds.

For nearly two decades, our foundation has sponsored the annual Boots and Bling fundraiser. This fundraiser started very small with nearly 20 tables in Dillon Hall to now 70 tables in the Meadowlark building. As a board, we are proud of the continued growth and the support from the Hutchinson community and statewide donors that help support this fundraiser. This fundraiser is the biggest money maker for the Foundation and helps support the continued mission of upkeeping the Fairgrounds. The Foundation just completed the Capper Project and is looking forward to the summer/fall of 2024 with the unveiling of its newest project, the 1861 Club. We look forward to continued years of service with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. The friendships and organizational accomplishments have made profound impacts on us.

-Sara Evans