The 21st annual Boots and Bling is history and thanks to a legion of supporters from throughout Kansas, the results exceeded all expectations. One observer commented how the event is at capacity, meaning it can’t get any larger in attendance, which is a nice problem to have.
I fondly remember the first Boots and Bling held the eve of the 2005 Kansas State Fair, with a crowd of approximately 200 huddled in the Encampment Building. Great things often start small and with good leadership and supporters grow into something special. Boots and Bling is here to stay and could be called “long term.”
This year, we paused to honor Mary Alice Lair, who among many other contributions, spearheaded the effort to build a two-story house on the fairgrounds which houses the offices for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and State Fair Museum. Fittingly, this beautiful home is named the Lair White House.
It has been my good fortune to know Mary Alice for many years. Whatever she touches, Mary Alice makes it better.
I remember visiting with Mary Alice one day on the fairgrounds during her first year of service on the Kansas State Fair’s Board of Directors. It was apparent to this observer she was making mental notes on how to improve the Kansas State Fair. The following year, she walked the corridors of the Statehouse successfully lobbying for passage of the enhancement plan which revitalized the fairgrounds.
Mary Alice Lair never saw a brick wall she could not walk through.
Many thanks to fair supporters from throughout Kansas who donated to the live and silent auctions. I would be remiss if I did not thank Kansas State Coach Collin Klein for autographing two footballs, which were sold at the silent auction.
Now, this giant team of State Fair advocates will finalize preparations for the 113th opening of Kansas’ largest and most attended event.
Five weeks from this morning, let’s all plan to meet at 11 a.m. in the Heartland Credit Union Pavilion to attend the opening ceremonies for the Kansas State Fair.
Once the ceremonies are completed, lunch hour will be approaching and it will be time for some fair food. For this fair junkie, I plan to take the shortest route possible to the venue selling meatloaf and chicken noodles.
We have much to be thankful for. See you all at the 2026 Kansas State Fair.
-Richard Shank
Kansas State Fair Ambassador
Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board Member
About the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Founded in 2003, KFF’s mission is to further the renovation, construction, preservation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds with a vision of inspiring excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities. The Foundation exists to enrich the unforgettable memories and traditions people experience only at the Kansas State Fair and at the 500+ events on the Fairgrounds year-round.
