Support

In the middle of this year we call 2020, I believe many of us are discovering how much support is required for organizations and people around us. Watching the news has become something to avoid, as it is possible to focus on the things going wrong and find yourself going down a rabbit hole created by the media. However, I continue to be amazed at stories about people doing for others in a way rarely experienced in my lifetime. Many of these extraordinary acts have been around funds for groups needing help, but many have just been simple acts of human kindness. 

Some of you know I work in an industry which can't work from home. Every day, we need to deliver product so all of you can continue in your daily endeavors. We deliver fuel and lubricants. But, as I said, the care we see from both inside and outside the company is amazing. 

Today, I was talking to a salesperson for the company. He is wired to want to get in front of current and potential customers to make a connection so as to continue business growth. Today, we discussed having the respect to stay away from others if they want us to. There are times basic respect is such a powerful thing. As we talked, I told him the story from a couple of weeks ago. I had a salesperson show up without any type of notice, making a true "cold call" at our front door. Not only did I explain they were not welcome in our facility at this time, but I also made a mental note they will most likely never see any business from us. Although respect has, on occasion, fallen out of the business equation, I believe it is more important than ever now. In working with another business or another person, if you begin by making them feel unsafe or insecure, what are the hopes the interaction will come to a good result? I have a ton of respect for the sales team working for me, knowing they are listening and being respectful of the customer's wishes.

The other thing I continue to see is companies stepping out into unknown channels to help in the middle of everything. We have seen large manufacturers step up to help produce items in short supply. We have seen local companies supporting food banks in ways they have never before. And we've seen companies doing extra to try to keep their employees safe. Every one of these examples we see from businesses is being repeated and duplicated in the personal sector as well. I know of many trying to figure out how to support teachers and children in the incredibly difficult decisions being made around education. I know of neighbors who are paying much greater attention to those around them. There are a lot of good folks trying to do the right thing to help all of us get through this pandemic.

So today, I'm going to ask you for your support. As many of you know, I am a big fan of the Iowa State Fair. I've missed a few years, but overall I would tell you I've attended at least half of the years of my life. I love the experience. I love the fact that things change at the Fair, but they do so slowly. I know where to find my favorite lemonade vendor and where to find the best foot-long hot dog. They've been in the same place for decades. But this year they will not be in the same place as the Fair has been cancelled. I believe it is the right decision and am hopeful we will be back for the 2021 season. Like so many other things, in order to make sure the Fair goes forward, there are ongoing needs which must be met. 

Many people think the Iowa State Fair is supported through taxes, but most of the support for the fair and the fairgrounds comes in other ways. One way has been the Corn Dog kickoff. This event, usually held in July, is where people meet and bid, both through silent and live auctions, as well as having the opportunity to feast on many of the standard fair foods. This year, like the fair itself, the Corn Dog Kickoff has not been possible because of the pandemic.

  

In lieu of the live event, the decision was made to have an on-line auction to support the fair. This year, I built and donated a cedar park bench that converts to a picnic table.

There will be hundreds of items available through the auction.  I would encourage you to take a look. It is a great place to start your holiday shopping or just get something fun for yourself. 

The link to the website for the auction is: http://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/events/no-fair-i-do-care-benefit-auction

The auction begins at 10:00 AM August 13th and runs through 10:00 PM August 23.  I hope you will take time to check out the offerings.