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"Our Great State Fair" documentary traces the history of an Iowa institution

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Talk of Iowa, hosted by Charity Nebbe

Our Great State Fair, a documentary on the history of the Iowa State Fair, will air on Iowa PBS August 13th.

The Iowa State Fair is an Iowa institution and the state's biggest annual event. Held every August, it draws more than 1 million visitors to see the exhibits and grandstand shows, compete in different competitions and, of course, eat the food.

A new documentary from Iowa PBS explores the history and cultural impact of the fair. Documentary director Theresa Knight joins the program to discuss the film with host Charity Nebbe. Then, Nebbe speaks with Pioneer Hall superintendent Regina Pirtle about the historic building that houses some unusual competitions.

Later, Connie Boesen discusses her life growing up on the Iowa State Fairgrounds and Don Gonyea, national political correspondent at NPR, reflects on political candidate appearances over the years and some memorable soapbox speeches.

This episode was originally produced July 26, 2023.

Guests:

  • Theresa Knight, producer and director, Iowa PBS
  • Regina Pirtle, superintendent, Pioneer Hall
  • Connie Boesen, founder and owner, Applicious and Salad Bowl concession stands
  • Don Gonyea, national political correspondent, NPR
Charity Nebbe is IPR's 'Talk of Iowa' host. She also hosts IPR's podcasts 'Garden Variety' and 'Unsettled'. Since 2010, Nebbe has interviewed, conversed with, and shared ideas from guests of all backgrounds and locations, and has helped listeners better understand, appreciate, and explore their state and the world around them. Nebbe has a bachelors degree from Iowa State University.
Dani Gehr is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University. Since 2022, Gehr has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
Caitlin Troutman is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from William Jewell College. Since 2022, Troutman has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
Madeleine Willis is IPR's Production Assistant supporting the talk shows and The Sunny Side Project. Willis has experience in audio production, reporting, writing and editing stories and conversations. She's reported and produced conversations on womanhood, sports, and good news from across Iowa. Willis will receive her bachelors degree from the University of Iowa in May 2025.