All day Thursday, I was at the Iowa State Fair with my client, the Iowa Department of Economic Development. We were right on the Grand Concourse, which is like the "main drag" of the fair. Since we were in prime presidential candidate spotting territory, I was able to meet Ron Paul (his photo is on someone else's camera, so I will get it later), Duncan Hunter, and as you can see by this photo, Tommy Thompson.
Ron Paul is every bit as interesting in person as he seems on his commercials and online. He was talking on the phone as he breezed by, but I recognized his staffer and stopped him to ask if we might get a photo. He corraled Mr. Paul back our way after he had already walked about 50 feet past our booth. Mr. Paul also attempted to make a couple of freethrows at a Goalsetter Goal we had set up next to the booth. He didn't make either one, but I think the sun was in his eyes.
The candidates are each allowed an opportunity to speak in a "soapbox" format and many of those addresses are covered by radio. I understand those were quite well received by the crowd gathered there.
And now on to the most important Fair information. I ate a corndog, some saltwater taffy, and an ice cream cone. I passed on the deep fried oreos, turkey legs, and gyros, though each was very tempting!
The Iowa State Fair is the largest and most famous fair in the country, with well over a million annual visitors. The Fair has the most extensive agricultural barns and displays and food contests in the nation. If you're ever planning a trip to Iowa, make it in August and include a trip to the best fair anywhere!
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