>>> Iowa state fair parade on Iowa PBS.

Charity such an exciting time.

People have been waiting for this event all year and it's finally here.

>> We have been waiting for this two years, bill!

It is wonderful to see!

So wonderful to see you again.

We know you have missed the fair as much as we have so text your friends, your neighbors, your grandparents, let them know the fair is live on Iowa ptv and streaming and there is no excuse not to watch!

>> We got it covered.

It's a wonderful event that the folks love.

Grab a corn dog or a turkey leg and settle in for the Greg Iowa state fair parade and the official kickoff of Iowa state fair 2021 and it starts right now.

>> Beautiful!

WELCOME TO OUR COVERAGE OF THE IOWA STATE FAIR PARADE ON IOWA PBS.

CHARITY SUCH AN EXCITING TIME.

PEOPLE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR This event two years now and it's family here.

>> WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS TWO YEARS, BILL!

IT IS IS WONDERFUL TO SEE!

SO WONDERFUL TO SEE YOU AGAIN.

WE KNOW YOU HAVE MISSED THE FAIR AS MUCH AS WE HAVE SO TEXT YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR NEIGHBORS, YOUR GRANDPARENTS, LET THEM KNOW THE Let's do it again.

So much traffic.

>> So much stuff.

WELCOME TO OUR COVERAGE OF THE IOWA STATE FAIR PARADE ON IOWA PBS.

I'm URM you're host bill with charity.

CHARITY SUCH AN EXCITING TIME.

PEOPLE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS EVENT ALL YEAR AND IT'S FINALLY HERE.

>> WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS TWO YEARS, BILL!

IT IS IS WONDERFUL TO SEE!

SO WONDERFUL TO SEE YOU AGAIN.

WE KNOW YOU HAVE MISSED THE FAIR AS MUCH AS WE HAVE SO TEXT YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR NEIGHBORS, YOUR GRANDPARENTS, LET THEM KNOW THE Parade is live on Iowa pbs and streaming on Facebook and YouTube and no excuse not to tune in.

>> WE GOT IT COVERED.

IT'S A WONDERFUL EVENT THAT THE FOLKS LOVE.

Settle in.

GRAB A CORN DOG OR A TURKEY LEG If you can find one and settle in for the great Iowa STATE FAIR PARADE AND THE OFFICIAL KICKOFF OF IOWA STATE FAIR 2021 AND IT STARTS RIGHT NOW.

>> BEAUTIFUL!

WELCOME TO OUR COVERAGE OF THE IOWA STATE FAIR PARADE ON IOWA PBS.

I'M YOU'RE HOST BILL WITH CHARITY.

CHARITY SUCH AN EXCITING TIME.

PEOPLE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR This even over two years and it's finally here!

>> Thank goodness.

IT IS IS WONDERFUL TO SEE!

SO WONDERFUL TO SEE YOU AGAIN.

WE KNOW YOU HAVE MISSED THE FAIR AS MUCH AS WE HAVE SO TEXT YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR NEIGHBORS, YOUR GRANDPARENTS, LET THEM KNOW THE PARADE IS LIVE ON IOWA PBS AND STREAMING ON FACEBOOK AND YOUTUBE AND NO EXCUSE NOT TO TUNE IN.

>>IT'S A WONDERFUL EVENT THAT THE FOLKS LOVE.

SETTLE IN.

GRAB A CORN DOG OR A TURKEY LEG IF YOU CAN FIND ONE AND SETTLE IN FOR THE GREAT IOWA STATE FAIR PARADE AND THE OFFICIAL KICKOFF OF IOWA STATE FAIR 2021 AND IT STARTS RIGHT NOW.

>> BEAUTIFUL!

♪♪ >>> I'm your host Bill with Charity.

An event people have been waiting for.

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And by emc we are committed to improving the communities we serve and the schools within them by donating our time, money, and resources and by supporting the education of those pursuing a career in the insurance industry.

Count on emc.

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>>> Welcome to our coverage of the Iowa state fair forward.

Charity, this is so exciting.

An event people have been waiting for over two years and it's here.

>> Thank goodness.

Bill, so good to see you again.

We know you missed the fair as much as we did so text your friends, your neighbors, your grandparents, let them know the parade is live on Iowa pbs and streaming on Facebook and YouTube and Iowa pbs.org.

>>IT'S A WONDERFUL EVENT THAT THE FOLKS LOVE.

SETTLE IN.

GRAB A CORN DOG OR A TURKEY LEG IF YOU CAN FIND ONE AND SETTLE IN FOR THE GREAT IOWA STATE FAIR PARADE AND THE OFFICIAL KICKOFF OF IOWA STATE FAIR 2021 AND IT STARTS RIGHT NOW.

♪♪ Welcome, everyone.

Look at that shot.

That is a gorgeous picture on a hot steamy day.

>> It's fair weather, bill.

>> It is fair weather.

>> We are sweating but happy to be out here in the sunshine waiting for a beautiful parade as things really just start moving.

Of course, I think everybody is excited because we missed the state fair last year.

>> We sure did.

I've been out at the fair, oh, gosh, probably the last three or four days getting ready for my little talent show wing-ding that we kick off tomorrow and I can tell you the place is just buzzing with activity.

Everybody getting set up and everybody is so excited.

The attitudes are great.

It's a wonderful state fair.

>> That is wonderful.

Improvements to the fairgrounds this year and we will find all about those, I'm sure, in a few minutes.

I'm excited to get to the fair and start eating.

>> You are our food expert.

You're the official foodie.

>> Foot consumer at the state fair!

I'm excited about the atomic strawberry shortcake.

>> I want a full report.

>> You'll get one.

Trust me.

Here they come.

Moving down the street.

People are excite.

Standing up and ready at the colors.

>> You're looking at the Des Moines press Corps.

This is the kickoff for 2021 of the Iowa state fair.

>> The parade route is lined with people who are excited and hot.

Out in the sunshine.

>> But a nice crowd.

I'm very impressed with the support.

As we mentioned at the opening, people are excited to get back into this.

This is one of the biggest event, if not the biggest event in the state.

>> Five Iowa state patrol honor guard members carrying the U.S., Iowa, and Iowa state patrol flags.

>> Look at that.

What a beauty.

>> An antique Iowa highway patrol car.

Beautiful.

>> Chased a few bad guys in that one.

Oh, that's beautiful.

Great history.

That is kind of my style.

You're more of [ Inaudible ] I'm the old car.

You're the sporty model.

>> I'll take it.

I'll take it.

I think people always get to excited just to see the colors at the beginning of the parade and to see the Iowa state patrol.

It feels like the beginning of something big, doesn't it?

>> Certainly does.

It's a tremendous service that they do for our state, obviously.

We are very fortunate to have the state patrol starting the parade for us.

>> And we have got a true Iowa state fair icon coming up here.

Joe BarksDale and made his cookies synonymous with the Iowa state fair.

How many buckets of cookies have you eaten?

>> Too many.

So good and something good about them.

>> Allen served as Iowa state camp superintendents after 33 years and retiring after this fair.

>> I can't believe how busy these two have been through 33 years.

That campground is an amazing spot.

>> There is governor Kim Reynolds, of course.

>> Yeah.

>> We will see a whole bunch of dignitaries.

>> Lots of important people coming by.

>> Leading the parade.

>> Right.

>> They are not using the air-conditioning in their vehicle.

>> I don't think it would help on a day like this.

But we have got some good weather heading our way, so we are going to have a great start to our Iowa state fair.

>> Absolutely.

Rob has a dog in the back of his truck.

>> Hope he has a bowl of water back there for him.

>> I'm sure they have got it all taken care of.

>> Mike Nag.

Tough people on the farm this year.

Dry year starting out and some places drenched.

>> Ruth Ann Gaines waving at us as she goes past.

Now we have got Julie Haggerty waiving from the back of a Jeep, Polk county recorder.

>> Here comes mayor Frank County, mayor of Des Moines, doing a fabulous job with our city.

He lives around the corner from where I grew up in the Roosevelt area.

>> I love to see people taking pictures as they go past.

Exciting to be in the parade as it is to watch the parade, maybe even more exciting.

Hard to say.

>> Hard to say.

>> You've probably done both.

>> I would be rather sitting here with you than in the back of a car.

My parade waving days are over.

>> Here is the Iowa state fair board.

>> Twelve folks representing six districts across the state and, boy, they have their hands full this time of year.

>> Now it's time for some royalty.

>> Hannah from Eddieville, Iowa and charity pandemic as it has been only queen to serve two years.

>> Wow.

Longest serving queen ever.

>> Ever.

And a magnificent young lady.

>> Wonderful.

>> I've been very fortunate to get to know her.

Wonderful young lady.

Here come 102 queen candidates.

>> Tierras are sparkling.

>> So much fun.

This tradition of the crowning of the Iowa state fair queen, the queen of what I feel is the best state fair in the country, is quite an honor.

But if you missed the coronation at the fair, please try to make it this Saturday.

I think we kick off at about 6:30 or 7:00.

Get there early because the seats will fill up.

It's a tremendous opportunity to see Iowa in all its glory and celebration because these young women are the cream of the crop.

Faa and 4-Hers.

>> There is corn growing out of this car for the corn dog kickoff.

>> I like that.

Cadillac corn.

Sounds like a rock band.

>> You can grow anywhere, I guess.

>> Maybe a song.

So we have got thank you heroes going by, I'm assuming for the nurses and support folks.

>> It's been a very long 18 months.

>> Oh, goodness.

>> We do hope that everybody who heads out to the fair is careful and safe this year.

Stay healthy.

Enjoy the fair and have a lot of the fun.

>> And stay safe.

>> If you can't make it to the fair, we have you covered here for the 50th year.

Iowa pbs is showcaing the best of the Iowa state fair and tune in each week Monday through Saturday to see the fair like you won't see it anywhere else right here on Iowa pbs.

All right.

Dancers coming down the street, bill.

>> Always good energy.

>> It's a hot night for this.

>> I don't think they had to "warm up" before their parade performance.

Tumbling is what they love to do.

Waving at all of the people on the street here.

They are going to have a good parade experience.

We are happy to be back at the fair.

>> Bill, we always talk about some fair history as we watch the parade.

I think that this fair is one that will be mentioned in the fact there was no Iowa state fair last year.

The last time the fair was cancelled was because of World War II, so it shows us we are living in historic times and this is one we will talk about for a very, very long time.

>> The fair board that just went by earlier, those people were tasked with a monumental decision to close the fair last year.

It was their call and I think they made the right call.

Very difficult for everyone involved.

>> The very first Iowa state fair was held in 1854, which always blows my mind, because, you know, there just weren't a lot of people in the state of Iowa then.

>> Trivia.

What town was it?

>> Well, I know!

It was in Fairfield and didn't move to Des Moines until 1886.

>> Been here a long time.

Here is Simpson College.

Tremendous college.

Great friends south of Des Moines.

>> Behind them is Iowa pbs!

Oh, my gosh!

Cartwheels from Abby brown.

You do one next.

>> I'll do a handstand.

>> Walk on your hands?

>> Yes.

Will you call 911?

>> I have my phone standing by.

>> I think we will need a stretcher.

>> I love this the central Iowa model a club.

>> Isn't this fun?

>> 92-year-old model a Ford cars.

I love to hear them honking their horns as they come down.

>> So much fun.

>> It's so amazing to me.

Now I know a lot of work goes into restoring these vehicles but also the fact that you can restore them and they can still run.

I have a neighbor who drives his all over the country every summer.

He has put in thousands of miles already this year.

They are tanks.

>> Probably thousands of dollars.

>> I don't ask personal questions like that.

>> That's a bad subject for people who have old cars.

Don't want to go there.

That's fun.

Fun stuff.

Some of them they left as original as possible too.

There is a pickup truck going by.

Pretty cool.

I don't think they have air-conditioning in those.

>> I don't think so.

Roll down the windows and hope for the best.

>> Hang your head out the window.

>> Then stop to change a tire.

>> Here comes southwest Iowa honor marching band.

What a group we have got here.

This is what makes this parade so special is it draws upon so many of the schools statewide and gives these youngsters a chance to shine and do what they love to do.

>> I can imagine for many students this is just a really special experience this year.

So many things got cancelled last year, to get the opportunity to be together and to make music together, to march together.

>> We were talking about that before we came on the coverage of the parade tonight.

We were talking about the effect it's had on these young people.

The socialization.

It's good to see them back.

They look like they are having a great parade.

That's quite a band.

>> Yeah.

♪♪ >> That was an amazing band.

>> I've been to a lot of honor band concerts in the winter months, but an honor marching band is a new one on me.

That's exciting.

>> Very exciting.

>> They sound great.

>> They do.

Look at that shot.

Wow.

That's our sky cam.

Beautiful shot from our producer Andy and our staff at Iowa pbs.

We love the state fair and this state fair parade is so fun.

>> Got more royalty junior miss Iowa and little miss Iowa.

>> Yeah.

Two cuties.

See how they do their wave charity?

I could never quite get that.

>> Yeah, me neither.

>> I think I got carpal tunnel doing that WRUN time.

>> One time.

>> You got to be careful and watch yourself.

Classic Cadillacs.

>> That things has its own zip code.

Look at the size of that thing.

>> It's riding low.

>> Nice.

Love that.

>> 1963 and 1967.

Another dance studio.

>> I can't believe Abbey did a cartwheel.

Oh, my goodness.

>> Look at that.

Amazing.

All kinds of moves.

>> Little cuties.

The reigning Iowa state fair queen is Hannah and Paul had a visit with her before the parade.

>> Hannah, what is the best part of being the Iowa state fair queen?

>> I get that question asked a lot.

It's the people of Iowa.

Traveling across the state I've made it over to 35 different county fairs my last two years of being state fair queen and it's honestly seeing the people and that makes Iowa.

>> The fair is busy for you as a queen.

Did you have to squeeze in extra events because now you're the longest serving queen?

>> Yeah.

Kind of.

Last year, kind of messed up the schedule with a lot of cancellations but I've had a lot of great opportunities over the past two years adding and removing different things.

>> Little girls all over the state are looking up to you and always, oh, Hannah, wonderful!

Give them a message.

What is something you want to tell them?

>> I would just tell them to go for it.

That anything is possible.

If you go for it, you work for it and dream for it, I guess.

>> Hannah, thank you.

>> Of course.

I look forward to seeing you guys at the fair.

>> Beautiful young lady.

>> We have got another marching band coming which is my favorite part of the parade.

Have I ever said that, that it's my favorite part of the parade?

>> No but you just did.

>> I did.

I love to see the marching band and we will see the sisters later on.

Great to see these great groups of young people.

>> Waverly shell rock.

Now this is a band.

These folks don't mess around.

♪♪ Even in High School, they have the sunglasses.

They are just cool.

I was standing behind the door when they handed out the cool card because look at this.

Just beautiful.

♪♪ >> Can't buy me love.

I love they don't have to march in their uniform.

When I was in the band we had to march in uniforms.

They said don't lock your knees, you'll faint.

I'm glad they are letting kids live shorts and t-shirts.

>> On an evening like this you're much less likely to faint.

Des Moines women's club.

>> You haven't lived here very long, Bill.

>> Just 63 years.

>> It's our prerogative.

Iowa motion picture association.

Good friends waving to us.

>> Doing great things for the state of Iowa.

>> And filming as they go so I'm sure we will see that.

>> We will probably make the credits.

>> I hope we looked good.

>> I'm a little shiny.

>> State center rose royalty.

>> Wonderful.

>> Rose princess Taylor and Ari Duncan.

Two rose princes for the price of one here.

We got little miss rose bud and 2021 rose queen.

Emerson and Kaye.

Probably more collegial thing to be a queen and princess for a lot of places this year when you have a companion who was selected last year hanging out together.

Probably a lot of fun.

>> You figured it all out there.

Dmi dance force coming down the street.

Look at these shirts.

>> Bright.

Wait until we see the brightness coming behind that semi.

>> They are about ready to come into the sunshine and it's going to pop.

Goodness.

Look at the size of this entry.

This is a huge float flatbed.

>> A lot of dancers.

>> Good.

>> All right.

They have got their own deejay on board.

♪♪ >> Love it.

Dancers of all ages.

Love to see that too.

Wonderful.

♪♪ >> Here come our county fair queens.

They come together in a showcase of leadership and citizenship and pageantry.

Don't miss the Iowa state fair crowning and it is new queen.

Live stream the coronation with us Saturday night at 7:00 on YouTube, Facebook, or Iowa pbs.org/fair.

>> So many ways to watch even if you can't make it to the fair this year, there are lots and lots of ways to enjoy it for sure.

I'm glad I'm not dressed like a lion right now.

The lions clubs of Iowa.

>> Maybe he has got like air-conditioning unit built in this.

>> I hope so.

Furthering their medication to create and foster a spirit of understanding among the peoples of the world.

And to wear a big lion costume in the middle of summer.

>> I bet they drew straws who had to wear that.

>> The centennial celebration of the 19th amendment was impacted deeply by the pandemic, so I do think we need to continue to celebrate the 19th amendment.

>> I agree.

>> We have a replica suffrage wagon after the 19th amendment that granted many, but not all women the right to vote.

>> I love they were pulling that with a John Deere four-wheeler.

>> That is great.

Love to see that.

>> Yeah.

>> Then more marching.

>> Here comes the east high marching Scarletts east high Des Moines, Iowa.

They have one of the largest endowments in the state.

It's an amazing High School.

>> That's wonderful.

>> Super, super pride of just super amount of pride I should say.

>> Miss United States agriculture here.

2014 this would encourage women in agriculture to teach and enhance the American agricultural story.

Ever since they started, the program has spread to all of the United States, covering all ages.

Starting conversations about agriculture.

>> So important to keep that rolling.

T-box landscape and hard scaping as well.

>> You ever get Tierra envy during the fair?

>> I actually have a collection.

>> Good.

It would be wrong if you didn't.

Don't you think?

>> Yeah.

I get in a lot of trouble for that stuff.

>> Santa Fe -- people on this float are wearing Latin clothes made by artisans in Mexico.

>> 25 people involved.

>> And showing Mexican culture which is a strong part of Iowa.

>> Certainly is and important part of Iowa.

>> Beautiful colorful float.

Now the mayflower is heading past.

>> Sailing by.

He's got his life jacket on just in case it gets that humid, he'll be all right.

>> Right.

>> Very nice.

At least if your car broke down, they got a cool tow truck and make you feel a little bit better.

>> Hopefully, nobody breaks down on the parade route.

>> They are here to pick them up.

>> Right.

Safety first.

>> Right.

>> This is for situational awareness.

New initiative and it is a nonoral -- indicates there is a person in the car or in the house with sensory processing or mental health issues.

>> Excellent.

>> That is wonderful.

Hopefully, that will keep many people safe and comfortable.

Now we have got more dancers.

>> I think we will just let them play.

Because it's going to get loud.

>> It is.

♪♪ >> Express yourself dance company.

♪♪ >> Looking good.

>> Squirting water to the crowd.

That's a good idea.

I hope they don't hit our equipment but I could use a squirt of that right now.

More dancers to come.

>> Express yourself dance company.

>> Yeah.

♪♪ >> Quite the float they put together celebrating the return of the Iowa state fair.

>> Little cuties.

Having time of their life.

Mid Iowa trail riders association formed in 1991 to promote safe riding skills and much more.

This is their third anniversary.

>> One of the things that starts before the fair officially opens is the food judging.

People have been trekking across the state with crates of jams and jellies and all kinds of things, food judging all throughout the fair.

>> Pickles and pies and everything else you can think of.

>> Yeah.

>> You're just raring to go, aren't you?

>> Oh, yeah.

I am ready.

You know?

I haven't been invited yet to judge jams and jellies or maybe the cinnamon rolls.

>> You're not trying to guilt someone?

>> Not at all.

>> Not at all.

>> Mindy Williamson is the marketing director for the Iowa state fair this year and Paul spoke with her earlier today.

>> Mindy, hard to believe.

You've had an extra year to prepare.

Does that put more pressure on you?

>> You would have thought we would be like extra prepared but instead we are like, wow!

What did we do in 2019?

It's like dusting it off and we are a little out of practice but oh, so excited to kick off this 2021 Iowa state fair.

Our job is put on a fair and last year, we couldn't do our job.

We have been waiting and waiting these 14 months to get this rolling and we are so excited.

>> That means you've had time to find the newest greatest things so what is it we are seeing this year?

>> People get really worried and concerned with the food.

Our concession people did not disappoint.

We have the most ever this year.

63 new foods so you can spend your entire 11 days of the Iowa state fair trying a new food or two or five throughout the fair.

Those are new.

Then we have new locations, like our tractor pull area is back after a four-year hiatus.

A community garden that is brand new.

It shows you fruits, vegetables.

Our Iowa crops also.

The 4-H building was renovated and showed it to one last year so it's open this year.

Our cookie building makes 34,000 cookies and hour and we are opening that up for the 2021 fair.

>> We will see you the new fair slide position as well.

>> Yeah.

The giant slide is the same slide structure.

It's celebrating 50 years this year.

We moved it to a new open spot so you can see your kids, your grandparents, see your family go down the slide and it's way more comfortable for buying those tickets and going up all of those steps.

>> Have fun this week.

Thank you.

>> Thank you so much.

>> I can't believe they moved the slide.

I can't wait to see.

You've been out at the fairgrounds taking a look around.

I'm not going until tomorrow.

>> It's not far from the old spot.

It's a great improvement.

>> It's very, very tall so even if you go to old spot, you'll be able to see it, right?

>> That's correct.

Absolutely.

Becky's dance and tumbling studio in the parade and always great energy and choreography unmatched.

Tremendous gymnastics tumbling.

>> One of the ways to avoid getting your hands dirty when you're doing gymnastics on the parade route is not use your hands.

When do your cartwheel, think about doing an aerial so you don't get something on your hands and especially if you're following the horses.

>> And if I have my Tierra on I can hold onto it when I'm upside down.

>> They brought the tract pull back.

I wonder if they will bring back the locomoive crashes you get to wash at the museum?

Maybe next year?

I'll make some suggestions.

One of my favorite parts of the Iowa state fair is, of course, the fair show cases the incredible talent of young Iowans.

What is coming?

>> We have a tremendous lineup and concerned we were going to be way down on numbers and it's just -- we are putting on a heck of a talent show so make sure you join us on stage every day at noon except for the championship which is Sunday August 22nd and you can watch that 8:00 p.m. here on Iowa pbs so join in.

♪♪ >> That is one of the things that I love about Iowa pbs is you can't see everything when you go to fair.

Some people try.

But you can't pack it all in.

Watching the highlights is really a fantastic way.

>> Our producer and video graphers and editors on working to put the highlight show together so tune into the highlight program on Iowa pbs.

Crest services just went by.

>> We are going to take a short break here but we will be back with more coverage of the Iowa state fair.

Visit Iowa pbs he is state fair to get a sneak peek of new programs and projects that celebrate Iowa and feature some amazing stories.

Plus, you can stay cool at the fair and show off your love for Iowa pbs with our free fan give-away.

New name, same fairgrounds location and finds us in the industries building and we can't wait to see you at the fair.

Join us for fresh and flavorful dishes on our farewell season of Iowa ingredient.

>> Then we harvest them mid June through the first white frost.

I'm just going to take the skin off.

Has a little bit of a bite to it and brand-new episodes coming in September on Iowa pbs.

>> You are watching the Iowa state fair parade live.

>> My favorite part.

I love old vws.

Just crazy about them.

So fun.

>> Also you think about how long these cars have been running and the amount of work that goes into restoring them and making sure they can keep running.

Therapy so fun to see.

>> There is a dune buggy.

>> When you are out at the fair stop by the Iowa pbs booth in the various industries building and walk through our display for highlights from local programs like market-to-market and Iowa ingredients.

You see a little sneak peek of what is coming in the coming months and enjoy a little bit of air-conditioning while you do it.

>> Yep.

>> Now if you don't have air-conditioning you can get one of our free fans.

These are keeping us cool at the parade right now.

They are pretty neat.

Pretty neat.

I think they would hole up better than some of those cardboard fans.

>> This is like the modern.

>> A new innovation.

>> Modern fan.

Dune buggies now.

These look fun.

♪♪ >> We are bringing you more ways to get involved with our Iowa state fair coverage.

Like us on Facebook for live coverage of the action and follow us on twitter for up to the minute updates and we are on Instagram and snapchat giving you a behind the scenes look at some extra fair fun.

Join in the conversation with #Iowa pbs fair.

>> Need dunes for the dune buggies but downtown will volunteer to have.

>> I was hoping for a thing.

Remember that?

Volkswagen.

>> I don't remember.

>> You're not -- >> Not quite old enough what you're trying to tell me?

We got the corn patch clown.

>> Good crack.

Love that.

>> Young Marine Corps league is coming up here after our corn patch clown.

Look at the bubble machine he's got.

I want one of those.

>> I bet your dream could come true.

>> Charlene's dance studio is up from Des Moines.

Another great dance Troupe.

>> Out there having fun.

>> Getting the young ones involved.

>> We were talking about history just a moment ago.

I am exciting.

I'm waiting for 2054.

>> I looked at that today the time capsule.

>> A time capsule.

Two of them, right?

>> Yeah.

>> Located east and west of the Ann and Bill riley stage.

>> I stopped and that is going to be a long wait.

>> I already marked it on my calendar.

that was buried to celebrate the fair's 100th birthday in 1954.

Next one was buried in 1986 to commemorate the 100th birthday of the fair at its current location.

I probably won't be around when that is opened up in 2086.

>> Farm res skew's mission is to help farms and ranchers who have experienced major illnesses, injury, natural disaster, whatever it might be and providing necessary equipment and volume work force to plant hay or harvest their crop.

What a great effort that is.

>> Terrific thing.

Neighbors have been helping neighbors do that forever but fun to have a coordinated effort to really help people out because the crisis that can be created when somebody can't harvest their crop.

>> Before we came on our program tonight, Scotty, one of our video graphers reminded us that the -- show was a year ago right now.

So, I mean, it's amazing the damage that can happen and a great support group.

>> Absolutely.

Thank goodness for crop insurance but some crises that crop insurance doesn't cover.

>> Right.

>> We have got.

[ Speaking in Foreign Language ] Here.

Beautiful costumes.

Look at these colors.

Beautiful dancers.

>> Just lovely.

>> I love those skirts.

Really wonderful.

And the music.

I love it all!

>> Speaking of music.

There is a salsa music.

>> Time to salsa dance.

Even if you can't.

It's the fair.

Nobody is judging.

Just move.

>> You see me get moving, that will clearly the house.

>> Just beautiful.

>> Yeah.

So fun.

So traditional too.

>> What I wouldn't have given for a skirt like that when I was little.

I just loved to twirl.

>> The green one with the purple top?

You'd look good in that.

>> Thanks, bill.

I think a little bit of payback.

>> It is.

>> Turn-about is fair play.

>> Celebrate recovery Iowa Lutheran church of hope.

Tremendous Lutheran church in the Des Moines area helping so many people on so many levels.

So glad they are here with us in the parade.

This darn virus has affected so many people in so many different ways.

It's so nice to have the churches helping and reaching out and taking care of citizens because you may not feel that it's affected you but, man, I tell you what, it's wreaked havoc on a lot of people so thank you to the Lutheran church.

>> Girl scout troupe coming our way.

30078.

They started in 2019 to encourage more involvement of brown and black girls in the program.

>> Wonderful.

>> Wonderful to see this beautifully diverse girl scout troop waving at us as they go past.

Love to see it.

>> The lessons are all the same.

Wonderful.

>> So many adventures to be had.

Exciting.

>> Wonderful.

>> We have a model of a missile submarine coming here.

Plaque a derm submarine veterans.

He we know you love watching the fair on Iowa pbs and so many you spend so much time at the fairgrounds you miss our coverage.

Check out Iowa pbs.org/and so many other ways to tune in.

Facebook, YouTube.

Anywhere any time with statewide Iowa pbs.

Submarine veterans.

>> This makes it official for me when the submarine goes by.

That is the official start of the state fair for me.

Iowa submarine veterans, all joking aside.

Wonderful entry into our parade every year.

>> Yes.

Plaque a derm U.S. submarine.

I don't know if you're a fan of rodeo but if you're in the Dayton area.

>> I lived there.

>> Did you?

You know all about this.

>> I was awfully little.

We lived at Dayton oaks camp just outside of Dayton for a few years of my very early life.

Yes, I know about the Dayton rodeo.

>> Those folks are serious about a rodeo.

>> And impressive hats.

>> Sydney is coming through.

Iowa Democratic party.

>> So, you know, it will be interesting to see how many people go out to the fair this year.

There is all of that pent-up demand and we are still expecting more than 1 million visitors to come to the Iowa state fair.

And they are all going to eat porkchops, right?

>> Or something on a stick I'm sure.

>> Riddle me this one.

How many porkchops do you think that the Iowa pork producers sell during the Iowa state fair?

>> Altogether?

>> Or daily.

How much daily?

>> Daily?

>> Yeah.

>> I would say 50,000.

>> 5 to 6,000 chops daily.

>> I like porkchops.

Sorry.

I got a little carried away.

>> So ten for you.

>> One for you.

>> You got to pace yourself!

Pace yourself!

It will be really interesting.

So many new foods at the fair this year.

I think more than ever.

It's going to be exciting to see what people get excited about.

Everybody loves to taste new foods.

>> It's going to be fun.

We will take a short break.

Don't go away.

We will be right back.

>> We are bringing you more ways to get involved in our Iowa state fair coverage.

Find us on Facebook and YouTube for live coverage of the fair parade and queen coronation.

Follow us across social media for daily questions, quizzes and more ways to engage and visit Iowa pbs.org/fair to watch highlights of 50 years of fair shows.

Join us online for state fair fun.

>> You are watching the Iowa state fair parade live on Iowa pbs.

>> And dance avenue.

>> We are here along with you and enjoying this fair.

>> Kicking off the Iowa state fair for 2021, the official start is always a great Iowa state fair parade.

We thank you for joining us.

So exciting.

You've mentioned on Facebook and, you know, streaming and I'm old.

I don't get all of it, but all I know is I got friends all over the country and I sent them a text and said tune in.

>> Nice.

>> Hello to everyone in Iowa and across the country.

>> One of the things that boggles my mind.

The fair is just so big.

I always like to look and see how many steps I get when I spend the whole day traipsing around the fairgrounds.

Tens of thousands of steps just climbing the big hill, all of that.

There are people working everywhere.

So many volunteers and so many employees.

There are only about 60 people employed year-round by the Iowa state fair but 1600 employees during the fair itself.

>> A small city.

>> Workers hired independently by exhibitors and questionnaires another 1,000 and add in all of the volunteers.

So many people out there making it happen.

>> Truly is a group effort on a monumental level.

We just enjoyed the national miss queens.

A wonderful entry in our parade.

Water patrol going by.

Looks like they will caught a fish on the way in.

You know it's humid if there is a fish in the parade.

>> I feel like I could swim right now.

>> It's a little steamy.

>> There are updates to the fairgrounds this year which I'm excited to see.

I haven't been out there yet.

I'm heading out there tomorrow.

The blue ribbon foundation has been working hard since 1993 to preserve the historic buildings on the fairgrounds and they have raised more than $110 million over time to take care of those buildings and bring them up-to-date but also make sure that that history is preserved.

>> Preserved and maintained for future generations.

My good friend is at the helm of the blue ribbon foundation doing a heck of a job.

>> Get yourself a fair square.

If you can't make it to the fair, we have you covered for the 50th year Iowa pbs is showcasing the best of the Iowa state fair.

Tune in next week Monday through Saturday at 9:00 or 10:00 to see the fair like you won't see it anywhere else right here on Iowa pbs.

Of course, working hard already to put some of those highlights together.

The team gets out there and we talk to people.

Apparently I'm writing a lot of rides this year is what I've learned.

You can see me get sick on TV coming up.

>> Better you than me.

>> It will be fun.

I'm sure it will be a whole lot of fun to get out there.

>> I get a little wheezy on a step ladder!

>> Maybe that is probably a ride that they will have for you.

>> We are taking another short practically.

I hope you're enjoying our coverage of the Iowa state fair parade.

We will be right back.

Showcase of leadership citizenship and pageantry to vie for country coveted crown.

Watch as the Iowa state fair crowns its new queen live stream the coronation with us on YouTube, Facebook, or Iowa pbs.org/fair.

Saturday evening at 7:00.

>> You are watching the Iowa state fair parade live on Iowa pbs.

>> That was a big '57 Chevy that went by.

>> Stretch vehicles for us here is fun to see.

>> Man, oh, man.

Look at the lengths of that.

>> Bill, this is a pretty special fair for you.

>> Yes, it is.

It's going to be my last year at the helm as emcee at the Iowa state fair.

We have got some details in the works.

Can't really get too far into the details yet but I can assure everyone that my staff and the talented folks at the Iowa state fair are working very hard to make their the tradition we know and love continues well into the future.

I'm very, very excited about the future.

>> That's great.

Well, you have just been such a wonderful part of the fair and of the talent show for so long.

We will miss you so much.

Although you're still going to be a part of Iowa pbs fair coverage, right?

>> Yeah.

I talked pbs into letting me do the highlight show and I talked to Tonya and said I'll bring my own push broom out there next year so I'll be cleaning behind the scenes.

>> It's going to be hard to say good-bye, but wow.

It's been such a beautiful part of your life.

>> It has and one I never dreamed I would be a part of but time for a turn of the page.

New energy.

It's going to be fun.

>> Yeah.

With an institution, with this long a history, you have to be prepared for new innovations and new ideas and new people to get involved.

Hopefully there is always a next generation coming.

>> I always joke with Heather, my vice president, she actually runs the talent show.

I'm just the talking head.

The show is nowhere near what dad started, obviously, 64 -- 62 years ago.

He would be shocked at what we have got going now.

It's just much bigger and it's more involved and we touch almost every county in the state so it's exciting.

>> People may not know how -- the people who are in these county competitions know, but, you go everywhere.

You're all over the place.

This is a huge undertaking every year.

>> When I started traveling the state in 2008, I literally jumped in my old car and I didn't know if I was going to love it or hate it.

And I loved every minute of it.

That is where the rubber hits the road for me.

It's those wonderful fairs and festivals.

The pride on those county fairgrounds is something to behold.

I don't care if it's a humble, small fair or a great big roaring one.

They are all the same and they all have pride and it's Iowa, pure Iowa.

It's a wonderful thing.

I'm a lucky guy.

>> We have been lucky to share it with you.

>> Thank you.

I appreciate that a lot.

>> We got classy chassis out there with the shrine club.

>> Gazing Shriners.

The great work that they do.

without Shriners, I don't think.

>> No.

It's in the rule book.

>> For sure.

>> A great shot of the crowd.

I know we have talked about this but you can just tell folks are ready to get back in the saddle and get back and have some fun.

We were talking about the blue ribbon foundation earlier.

They do a corndog kickoff and fund-raiser in July and record turnout and raised an amazing amount of money.

I emcee'd that.

That will be my last year emcee'ing that.

It was so great.

The excitement and the smiles and everybody is ready to go.

Here we are at this kickoff of the 2021 Iowa state fair watching the parade and I love this shot!

>> It is wonderful.

You can see all of the people all the way down the street having fun out there.

>> Yeah.

>> Here is a fun fact for you.

If you unrolled all of the toilet tissue stockpiled for the fair, how many miles do you think that would stretch?

>> Oh, my!

I wouldn't -- >> You wouldn't think about it, would you?

>> No clue.

Got to be in the thousands.

>> It is 1,818 miles!

That is five trips to Chicago from Des Moines in toilet paper!

Toilet paper alone!

>> Remember when you couldn't get toilet paper?

>> I do.

I do.

Is that why we had to cancel the fair last year?

>> We would have been in a world of hurt, I can tell you that!

>> It would have been difficult.

The fair was cancelled to keep people safe.

At this year's fair, there are all kinds of safety precautions being taken and do take precautions yourself if you're going to fair.

Be careful.

Be safe.

There is plenty of hand sanitizer to go around and just take the precautions that we all know protect ourselves and each other.

>> I mentioned Heather, my right hand gal as I call her.

We are taking extra precautions for our talent show performers.

So it's very important thing.

Everybody stay happy and healthy.

That is the theme.

We are taking a short break again but we will be right back.

>> Hi.

I'm Bill riley.

Iowa pbs will be there to cover the magic and excitement and fantastic talents of young Iowans from across our state.

Prepare to be impressed.

Tune in Sunday, August 22nd, for the Bill riley state championships only on pbs.

Impressed you will, I guarantee you we will have a great run at the old Ann and Bill riley stage.

Pedal power.

I'm a circle cyclist.

I love riding my bicycle.

I'm not very good at it.

Slow and steady wins the race, right?

>> This is so great.

The technology, you can see it's easy to get $500 in a bike if not thousands.

>> This is actually keep Iowa beautiful.

It's great to see them out there.

Sorry about that.

They clean as they pedal?

>> If you're pedaling instead of driving.

An argument to be made.

I love to go to the El pavilion.

20 editions of cookbook has been print and new cookbook published every other year.

It's just such a treasure trove of incredible recipes.

I raid my stash of these cookbooks and I give them to newcomers who come in my life in Iowa.

>> I bet you have cookbooks.

>> I got a lot.

>> You've forgotten about all of the cookbooks.

>> Here come our county fair queens.

Each year young women from across the state come together in a showcase of leadership and citizenship and pageantry to vie for one coveted crown.

Don't miss.

Our last queen has been reigning for two years.

>> Anna.

>> Don't miss it.

>> Thank you for tuning in.

Charity and I are good friends and love the fair as you can tell.

This is fun for us and fun to us to get together and fun to us to kick off the great Iowa state fair with a parade.

>> Even if you're retiring from the talent show, you'll come do this with me, right?

>> I will be here.

>> I need that on paper.

>> With bells on my feet.

Exactly.

You bring the cookbooks.

>> All right.

I should have brought cookies.

Maybe a bucket of cookies next time.

>> I like that.

>> Everybody has their own traditions at the fair.

So fun to talk to families about the things they do every year.

I got a chance a couple of years ago to sit down with families and groups that always do the scavenger hunt.

It's a huge undertaking.

They spend all day at the fair trying to complete this list of the scavenger hunt items and it gets very competitive and these families have worked to hone their skills with their fair knowledge.

Impressive.

>> They get a little serious?

>> Yeah.

That would be a fun way to experience the fair.

I doubt you could be competitive doing it the first year but challenge has been put down.

>> Here comes pedal power.

>> We were just early.

>> Yeah.

Nice.

Taxi cab.

He is going to earn his money on a night like this.

>> Des Moines public library following fast behind them.

Thank goodness for public libraries.

Of course, they have been working so hard during the pandemic to safely reach out 20 communities and make sure the kids have access to books and people who need to depend on that access for computers and wi-fi and all of that.

Such important services provided by public libraries.

I'm a book person but so much more than books.

So much more.

Here is yours.

We are ready with the Camaros.

>> It's going to get loud.

>> You're waiting for this one.

>> Loud and proud.

>> Iowa Camaro enthusiasts.

I feel they are multiplying.

Looks like more than ever.

So fun to see them.

>> Old ones in there, late '60s.

>> Is this how you're spending your retirement?

>> No.

I'm on my bicycle.

It's quiet and peaceful and not real expensive when it breaks like these things.

These cars are beautiful, though.

>> They are.

So many of them and the classic ones we have seen go by.

So much time, attention, detail and work.

I know there is a real community that grows up around.

>> I know you're covering the decorated cakes competition at the fair this year.

Are you baking?

Or are you good at tasting?

>> I'm best at tasting but I do love to bake.

Actually the secret is that in my household, my husband does the majority of the cooking.

>> Good.

I love to cook.

>> I know people wouldn't guess but I dot baking.

That is my thing.

>> Good team.

>> Yeah.

>> One of my favorite parts of the Iowa state fair is showcasing that incredible talent of the young Iowans.

Fountain qualifying shows are any indication at the level of this year's competition, you definitely don't want to miss the championships.

If you can't make it to the Bill riley stage the final Sunday of the fair, watch the 2021 stay ferret championships Sunday August 22nd.

Depth miss it on Iowa pbs.

>> Wow.

Powerful horns.

>> Caught me off-guard there.

Our videographers are getting wonderful shots of the parade and the crowd and youngsters enjoying all of the festivities.

They are out here celebrating on a hot steamy day.

But like you said, it's fair fair weather.

>> It is.

This puts me in the mood.

The butter cow is back this year, of course, after taking a year off in the refrigerator or the cooler.

I think people who don't like hard boiled egg eat it at the fair because it's free easement good point.

>> I love free samples.

I can't pass one up.

>> A good healthy protein.

>> It is.

Not like cotton candy.

>> If you heat the hard-boiled egg you can seat the atomic strawberry short cake and have no guilt.

>> Why you and I get along so well.

You have a fine mind, that's what my dad would say.

Watching the Iowa mother of the year.

That's a new entry, I think.

>> Quite an honor.

>> American mothers association.

She's in there somewhere.

>> All of the balloons and all of that.

Yep.

>> We got looks like racing cars coming by here soon.

Smith racing.

Cody Smith.

Speaking of.

There he is.

The magic of television.

>> I was talking earlier about how you can get a real workout at the Iowa state fair.

Wow.

There is an engine.

>> And lose your hearing.

Yes, you can.

>> 445 acres.

>> Yeah.

Of a park-like setting.

I've been to some other fairs and they are all unique and they all have their special ways.

If they are not from Iowa and never been to this fair they are shocked with the trees, the landscaping.

It's a park.

Then you throw in the food and the entertainment and the free entertainment is what always just -- I mean, people need to watch those free stages because they are loaded up this year.

Nod will be back.

I think Bob door is doing a -- >> Bob is the worst of retiring and makes me happy because I'll watch Bob perform any time.

>> He'll take you to church.

That guy can sing the blues.

>> A few years ago, I ran the state fair 5k which I think has been retired.

I'm not sure about that.

But it was so fun because I had been to the fairgrounds so many times but I had never been to the campgrounds.

The 5 k was a hilly one.

We ran through the campgrounds but it was so fun to see.

>> Whole different.

If the trailers aren't there, it's more of the park.

>> It was really a joy to see that part of it.

The fairgrounds are a real part of culture.

>> We are taking a break as we look at the Iowa Jeep club.

We will be right back.

I'm Bill riley.

We have brought you coverage of the Iowa state fair.

We bring the magic into your living room with a full hour of highlights and see the fair like you won't see it anywhere else only on statewide Iowa pbs beginning Monday at 9:00 and 10:00 p.m. We are back with more of the Jeep club.

They got a lot of Jeeps.

Jeepers!

Sorry.

I had to.

>> Nice.

Dad joke there.

>> Exactly.

How fun.

>> Looks like they are having a good time.

>> They are having a good time.

I've often wondered why they don't do a bicycle race.

I'm a bike nut.

They are called like a closed circuit course and they are extremely exciting to watch, but -- >> Maybe this is your retirement career.

>> Could be.

>> the fairground is perfect for that.

Hills, straightaways.

Be perfect.

>> That would be a whole lot of fun.

>> Food.

>> There is not food there all the time.

That is a myth.

>> Really?

>> Those stands are up all year long.

Just for the duration of the fair.

>> Like Santa.

>> The first year that I went -- >> Now you're telling me there isn't a Santa Claus?

>> I'm never going to tell you that.

When I went to the fair early and realized some of the vendors open up early, people have been cheating!

You've been getting all of this great food early!

>> I know!

I saw that happening today.

That is funny.

When you're out at the fair, make sure you stop by our booth.

The Iowa pbs booth in the varied industries building.

It's air-conditioned and take a break and walk through our displays like market-to-market and Iowa ingredient.

Sneak peek what is coming up soon after enjoying all of that air-conditioning.

You can stay cool at the fair and show off your Iowa pbs fanDom with our free fan give-aways.

We hope to see you there.

>> Make sure that your child can get all of the temporary tattoos they can wear before you send them back to school.

>> Yeah.

Exactly.

>> My kids would get all of those tattoos and spend the whole day out in the sun and then when we got the tattoos off, they would have little tan lines from all of the tattoos!

>> Funny.

>> Just a memento you can cherish a few weeks.

>> The gift that keeps on giving.

We hope you're enjoying our coverage.

We are sure enjoying bringing it to you.

Isn't this fun?

>> It is.

>> A whole lot of fun.

>> It's a start of the fair.

Man.

It's great fun.

>> Nice to sit here almost in the shade.

>> Yeah.

>> Yes.

There is a little breeze blowing.

>> Only 120 degrees here in the shade.

But, no, it is a beautiful night.

I was a little worried there might be rain when I was looking at the forecast earlier this week.

But this is true state fair weather and the forecast for the fair looks beautiful.

>> It does.

>> Really hot for a couple of days and then it's going to cool down a little bit and that is wonderful.

>> It's going to be a really good first week.

Hopefully it rolls into the second week.

11 days of fun.

Not ten.

A lot of people think it's ten days.

It's an 11-day event and the biggest event in the state of Iowa.

If you can join us, come on out to the fair.

If you can't, tune in to our highlight program Iowa pbs covers six nights.

One-hour coverage.

We are putting together the highlights as we speak.

Editors and videographers and producers are on the fairgrounds right now as the parade is happening.

They are still out there putting to go the highlight show so make sure you tune in.

Great way to see the fair as if you were there.

>> Very exciting.

Bill, have you ever been carved out of butter?

>> No.

>> Your dad was.

>> Dad was, yes.

It was one of the shortest -- he was the same year as super man from Newton or -- >> Norwalk.

>> Yeah.

The problem they had was initially they got the heads mixed up!

>> Nice!

>> He was the shortest super hero ever.

>> I love to see these horses.

Beautiful horses.

Celebrating long tradition generations passing on these traditions from one to the next and getting new young people involved as well.

>> More traditional costumes.

This is so important to keep the traditions, all of them, whether it's the queens or, you know, the talent show, I mean, they are right on your screen, Ladies and Gentlemen, is one of the most important things that we can maintain and that is the tradition that these young people are learning about their heritage.

>> Look at these dancing horses.

>> They are magnificent.

>> Beautiful animals and so much skill that goes into training and riding.

>> Can you imagine?

>> Wow.

>> The hours that go into that.

And they are on pavement!

>> I bet they practice on pavement.

>> Beautiful.

>> Beautiful.

Absolutely beautiful.

Love to hear the music.

>> Years past, we have had a drone with our overhead shots.

I'm in on this shot.

This is mile favorite.

Great shot.

>> Look at those horns.

♪♪ I've interviewed some of the people involved in this group in the past and love that they are bringing traditions from their grandparents.

>> Yes.

>> And the old country and they are bringing it here and sharing it with so many new young people.

>> Yes.

The important thing.

>> Yeah.

It's just exactly what the state fair -- you what were saying.

>> Yes.

>> What the stair -- state fair is all about.

I love more and more each year it's celebrating the diversity of our state because we have such a beautiful and diverse state.

>> Agreed.

>> Reporter: Everyone who wants to be a part of the state fair can be part of the state fair which I absolutely love.

>> True.

Even the loud cars.

We are taking a break but we will be right back.

Join us.

We bring the magic of the state fair right into your living room.

See the fair like you won't see it anywhere else only on statewide Iowa pbs.

Joining us for a celebrating the fair marathon Sunday at 1:00.

And we are back.

State fair parade coverage.

I'm having the time of my life.

>> It's so fun to be out here.

Now in the golden hour with the sun starting to set and everything is just beautiful.

Beautiful out here.

It's fun to see.

Bill, do you have to -- you're going to all of these county fairs getting ready for the state fair.

>> Yeah.

>> Do you have to gear up?

Do you have like a state fair training program that you go through to get ready to get through 11 days of that much fun?

>> I used to really -- the quick answer is no.

When I start doing the county fairs and festivals, I get the cadence and beat and even start wearing crazy clothes!

Ha!

>> Nice.

>> A great question.

>> We should do a feature on your closet.

>> Yeah.

There is some crazy stuff in there.

>> Probably some blazer companies you keep in business.

>> When Steinmart went out of business I cried for a week.

That was devastating.

>> Wow.

>> It's just great fun working with the kids.

I never thought I'd be doing it.

I always say this and I mean this sincerely.

I can't dance, play, or sing.

But to be around that talent is overwhelming and it's a real privilege.

>> I'm in awe.

>> I have a 3-year-old coming on stage this year.

>> Wow.

>> Yeah.

She is just -- she is just too cute.

I don't know what day.

A little tease.

You have to come to the fair every day to see the 3-year-old just telling you that.

>> Next 11 days.

Clear your schedule.

>> The stage is set up and ready to go and good sound company and tested the P.A.

system today.

We were talking about how dad would be surprised at the level of the show.

Everything -- it's not just the talented show.

It's Iowa pbs.

HD-TV.

We were the first one to broadcast an HD signal statewide.

It slowly, about you surely, technology starts ramping up.

The state fair, I mean, there is wi-fi all over the state fair.

Who thought of that?

Who knew this internet thing was going to work!

>> I think it's going to catch on.

>> I do too.

>> We have the Polk county sheriff's office here and some beautiful, beautiful horses.

>> Wow.

>> Those are beautiful.

>> Are they riding those on the bike trails?

>> I hope not!

The sheriffs do such a tremendous job for our rural communities, keeping people safe.

Thank you so much for joining in on our parade to the sheriffs.

Do you got any inside baseball on the new food that has got any teasers for anybody?

>> I've been peruing the list, because I have to make a plan.

I have to budget my money and my time.

>> And your caloric intake.

>> This is a secret.

A trade secret.

I have some young assistants.

>> I've heard of that.

>> When you see me eat all of that food on television, I don't eat all of that food but I have some young devoted friends who meet me at the fair and eat what I can't eat.

>> With high metabolisms.

>> We have the best time.

Best time.

>> I love that story.

Here, kid.

eat this.

>> Oh, that is not how we do it!

That is not how we do it.

Rancho is here.

More beautiful horses and more beautiful traditional costumes and more amazing horns.

>> Flag of Iowa.

American flag.

>> And the Mexican flag.

Here is a little salsa coming down.

>> I bet it's more comfortable under those big hats.

♪♪ >> Next year we will have big hats.

>> You're on.

Big cookies and big hats.

>> Got it.

I love this.

>> Yeah.

This is wonderful.

♪♪ >> They are getting as much of a workout as these dancing horses.

>> Remarkable.

>> The horses are better dancers than I am.

Have you had any tryout for your talent show, bill?

>> I had a young lady call years ago that had a dancing goat but we decided it probably wasn't a good fit.

I was close, though.

>> I would have said yes.

That's why I'm not on your team.

>> Yeah.

Yeah.

>> Oh, just beautiful.

Oh, my goodness.

Bathed in that golden light and reflected on the golden dome and these gorgeous, gorgeous traditional costumes.

>> Almost a salmon color, isn't it?

It's beautiful.

>> Lovely.

Really lovely.

>> I'm getting idea for sports coats here but that, he I could do a sport coat out of that.

>> You would look sharp in that.

>> I hope my wife Bridget covered her ears up there.

>> You need a talented tailor or seamstress to help you out with that.

>> I got that.

I just need the fabric.

>> You can run down the street.

>> I think the sheriff's department would turn around and it would be all over.

Great shot.

>> I love, love to see the horses.

>> Andrea Coyle is our director and producer.

Our videographers are doing a great job.

Andy, great shot.

A tremendous picture.

Great start to the Iowa state fair.

>> Traditionally, the horses have come later in the fair.

So glad they moved up a little bit.

It's wonderful to see them and really get the opportunity to enjoy these just tremendous magnificent animals and incredibly gift riders as well.

Wonderful to see.

So much color.

So much fun.

The sounds, the sights and starting tomorrow, the flavors of the Iowa state fair.

>> Got to love the flavors.

As you saw moments ago, this year, there are two parade -- actually, three Joe and Al and net and and Paul got a chance to chitchat with them so let's take a listen.

>> Congratulations on being grand marshals of the parade.

What was it like when you got that call?

>> It was amazing.

Beyond our wildest dream.

We didn't think that would ever happen.

>> So you get a lot of phone calls from the fair.

Did you expect this one to be different?

>> No, not really.

I was very impressed that they would consider having us be grand marshal of the Iowa state fair.

We are just thrilled to be here.

>> To get you out of the campgrounds is a big deal tonight.

What have you enjoyed the most about the campgrounds?

I heard you describe it as something like junior high science teacher?

>> Yeah.

That's right.

You're continually settling arguments and dealing with kids who are very nervous and want to impress the teacher and it's just like running a junior high science class.

>> Tonight, when you're in the front of the parade, are you going to get the sense that, oh, there is a whole Anchorage group of people I never see?

>> Yeah.

It's going to be really weird.

Our family is going to be spread out or out there somewhere, so they are all going to yell at us when we go by.

>> Congratulations, Al and net and.

What does it mean to go down in front of this parade font?

Tonight.

>> Well, it's an honor for my wife and I will be selected to be the marshal of the Iowa state fair.

We are just overwhelmed by it.

Absolutely.

Everybody is talking to us about what takes place on it.

We have been looking forward to this now ever since we found out that we were going to be the grand marshals.

>> When you find out people come to the fair specifically for a bucket or a cup of cookies, what does that mean to you?

>> Well, again, we wound up being completely -- what, honey?

>> It means they like the cookies!

>> That's right.

That means they like the cookies, no question about that.

But, you know, we started that cookie business with my wife's idea and we started out very small 25 years ago, and the first couple of three years, we really gave away more cookies than we sold because cookies is not a fair food.

>> You've made it, though.

>> We have made it.

The people of Iowa made it because they are the ones who came and bought and enjoy the cookies.

To go from like zero with my wife and every couple of years, she would say, we are not going to do cookies this year, are we?

I'd say, honey, let's try it again.

>> I love that!

I love that.

Of course, cookies are an essential part of the Iowa state fair.

We all love the cookie man.

>> Those cookies.

>> For sure.

What a fantastic parade it has been.

Just beautiful, beautiful.

Hot evening out here in Des Moines kicking off the 2021 Iowa state fair.

Bill riley, thank you so much.

A real pleasure.

>> The highlight of my year to work with you, Charity.

I'm a big fan of yours and listen tour radio program all the time and an honor to be with you.

I want to thank everybody from Iowa pbs to kicking off this Iowa state fair in fine fashion.

2021 Iowa state fair is officially under way.

>> Funding for shared 2021 is brought to you by friends.

Iowa pbs foundation.

And by -- >> Emc we are committed to donate our time and money and resources and by supporting the education of those pursuing a career in the industry insurance.

Count on emc.

>> I am Kevin and I'm a pig farmer.

We feel a deep responsibility to protect our environment and sustainability.

I think it's important to share our story and that others know that we are always striving to do better.

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