WEST LIBERTY, IA- Nichols residents, Gene & Vickie Hammons have given $10,000 for storage at the Muscatine County Fair Event Center Project. The Hammon’s have a hobby farm right outside of Nichols. They have two children Jennifer Tyler (Ryan Cronbaugh) and Misty (Rick) Sorensen. They also have ten grandchildren.
Vickie grew up going to the fair with her great aunt and uncle when she was little. She met Gene in 1989, and he became an avid fair goer as well. Vickie has worked for the fair as kitchen manager over 21 years, and Gene joined her in retirement. Vickie manages all staff for the food stand, bartender staff for the Activity Center, and helps with miscellaneous tasks as needed. She wears many hats and keeps everything behind the scenes running smoothly. Working on the grounds throughout the year gives her an opportunity to see family and friends from around the county.
“We just really enjoy the fair.” Said Vickie. “You never know who you might run into at all the different events, and we really enjoy all of the people we have met along the way.”
In addition to working at the fair, Gene and Vickie spend a lot of time volunteering by helping with fundraisers, working food stands, grilling food, frying food, bartending, taking care of flowers, cleaning, handling fixes in the kitchen areas, and more.
“Vickie has many years of experience. She and Gene do so much for the fair, and now they are stepping up financially to see this project get done. She understands the importance of good storage and enough storage. Our storage area will serve many purposes, and their gift will help with racking and organization. I can’t thank Gene and Vicki enough for all their support and this generous gift.” Said Fair Manager, Kelsey Meyers.
The new event center will have a capacity of 500 with a large Great Hall for events and meetings. The Hammon’s feel the event center will help the fair diversify and attract clientele year-round.
“The fair board has done a great job of updating the other buildings around the grounds, and we feel this event center will be a great addition,” said Vickie.
To donate to the project contact Kelsey Meyers at the Muscatine County Fair Office at [email protected] or at 319-627-2414.