Nebraska State Fair Gift Shop Sales Bolster Fairgrounds Foundation
The 1868 Foundation Gift Shop at the Nebraska State Fair is generating significant funds to support fairgrounds projects. Operated by volunteers and driven by donors, the gift shop sells various memorabilia, including T-shirts, stuffed animals, and hats, with an emphasis on keeping prices low. Lindsey Koepke, executive director of the 1868 Foundation, stated that the gift shop typically raises between $35,000 and $40,000 during the fair. These proceeds are directly channeled to the 1868 Foundation, which then uses the money to maintain and improve the fairgrounds. The gift shop is located in front of the JBS building at the fairgrounds, and volunteers like Debbie Finegan express enjoyment in their work, citing the opportunity to meet new people.