Friends of the Fair
Friends of the Fair
WE LOVE OUR FRIENDS!
Blackfoot, ID – August 2025 – BLACKFOOT, Idaho – The Eastern Idaho State Fair is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Friend of the Fair Awards, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the fair and the Eastern Idaho community.
This year's honorees are Val and Gail Chambers, Steven Butler, and Donnie Wheeler. The Friend of the Fair Award represents the highest honor bestowed by the Eastern Idaho State Fair, celebrating those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, service, and support for the Fair's mission and values.
Val and Gail Chambers
Val and Gail Chambers have been pillars of the Eastern Idaho community, contributing countless hours and unwavering support to the 4-H Program over many years. The Madison County residents are the parents of Gem State Classic Pro Rodeo Superintendent Valorie Blanchard and raised three children who were heavily involved in 4-H programs.
Val has judged numerous 4-H horse shows and takes great joy in watching young participants advance and grow over the years. The Chambers credit 4-H with helping their children become responsible and respectful individuals who have learned to work with all kinds of people. Their dedication to preserving agricultural traditions and supporting local youth through 4-H and FFA programs has left an indelible mark on generations of fairgoers. When attending the fair, you can find them enjoying their favorite treat – the Prime Rib Sandwich at Billman's BBQ
Steven Butler
Steven Butler, who passed away in February 2025, will be honored posthumously for his remarkable 20-year service to the Eastern Idaho State Fair as a beloved Gate Person. Steve was known for his friendly demeanor, having a kind word for everyone, and his remarkable ability to remember fairgoers by name year after year. His wife remembers him as "the biggest sweetheart and absolute best husband, dad, and grandpa."
The couple was married for 41 years and 7 months, having become engaged on July 4, married on July 13, and moved to Houston on July 22. Steve's favorite fair food was from BJ's Bayou, and his warm presence at the fair gates will be deeply missed by the countless visitors whose days he brightened with his welcoming spirit. Steve exemplified the countless dedicated individuals who pour their hearts into the Fair each year, making it an unforgettable experience for all
Donnie Wheeler
Donnie Wheeler, also being honored posthumously after passing in December 2024, dedicated significant time and energy to supporting the Fair's mission through his deep involvement in the agricultural and western heritage community. Known professionally as Elvin Don Wheeler, he was a lifelong horseman who worked as a horse trainer across Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, and spent years as a farrier after learning to shoe horses early in his career. For 30 years, Don was the distinctive voice behind the Indian Relay Races as well as horse racing at the fair, bringing unmatched excitement and expertise to these thrilling events.
He loved the excitement of close races and often remarked that "no one comes to the fair for the flat track, they come for the excitement of the Indian Relay Races." Don got started in the business as an auctioneer, where he learned the technique of his booming voice – oftentimes, people wouldn't recognize him until he opened his mouth to talk. Instead of going to college, he chose to pursue trades, with auctioneering, corrective horseshoeing, rodeo announcing, and horse training as his career paths. But for Don, it wasn't work – he enjoyed every second of it. He could often be seen in the announcer booth with his favorite fair food, a Tiger's Ear. Don was actively involved in numerous organizations, including the Rigby Chariot Association, All American Cutter Association, Bonneville Chariot Association, National Cutter Association, and Jefferson County Posse, serving as President of the WCC and CRA for many years. His commitment to the community and the agricultural heritage of Eastern Idaho, combined with his lifelong dedication to horses and western traditions, exemplified the spirit of volunteerism that makes the fair possible.
"These four individuals represent the good, hardworking people found within our community," said Brandon Bird, General Manager of the Eastern Idaho State Fair. "Their selfless service, dedication, and love for the Eastern Idaho State Fair have helped shape our event into what it is today. We are honored to recognize their contributions with this special award."
Marcene Freeman and Lyla Morgan
Starting in 2023, the Eastern Idaho State Fair has honored up to three people annually who have significantly contributed to the Fair and its cherished traditions of family, community, and hard work. This year is no exception, and the EISF is proud to recognize Marcene Freeman, Lyla Morgan, and Bob Layton as the 2024 Friends of the Fair.
The Eastern Idaho State Fair, a beloved 9-day celebration of community, culture, and agriculture, is a highlight of the year for many. Most fair patrons don’t realize the dedication and hard work of the full-time, year-round employees who ensure the Fair’s seamless operation. Among these dedicated individuals are Marcene Freeman and Lila Morgan, each of whom devoted decades of their careers to the Fair.
Marcene Freeman’s journey with the Eastern Idaho State Fair lasted 18 years, and during that time, she brought a wealth of organizational skills and a passion for serving her community. Responsible for coordinating all the vendors and concessionaires, Marcene meticulously worked with each person to make their time at the Fair as easy as possible. Her commitment to excellence helped the Fair grow in size and reputation. Marcene’s ability to juggle numerous tasks with a smile endeared her to colleagues and fairgoers alike. Her tireless efforts behind the scenes ensured that every visitor experienced the magic of the Fair without a hitch. Even the year it snowed during fair week, she had to walk around to ensure all the vendors were equipped to handle the unexpected weather.
“The people are what make the fair fun. It’s astounding how many people are willing to dedicate their time and effort to making sure the Fair is the best nine days it can be,” said Freeman. “Now that I’m retired, I’m having fun with my kids and grandkids, but I miss seeing the fair people.”
Lyla Morgan started at the ticket office at a time when the ticket sales were so far away from the front office that employees had to be escorted to the ticket office and locked in for safety. After she had finished working in the ticket office for 15 years, she took a role in the front office and was the backbone of the front desk, fielding all questions with friendly and knowledgeable answers. Her humor and kindness made her the perfect person to greet fair patrons for 15 more years until 2020. Lyla served a critical role during the fair week by greeting everyone who came into the office. If she didn’t know how to help you, she would be sure to find out and connect you with those who could assist. Fair General Manager Brandon Bird called her the hub of everything in the office during the month leading up to the Fair and during Fair week. Her problem-solving skills and hands-on approach resolved countless last-minute challenges, ensuring the Fair ran smoothly. Lyla was seen as a comfort to her coworkers because they knew she had so much knowledge about the Fair that everything would be okay.
“Both Lyla and Marcene never seemed to be rattled by the long hours and provided invaluable support to the Fair and its mission,” said Bird. “I miss them both; they are a big part of the Fairs heritage.”
Bob Layton
Robert Layton, Bob, as most people have addressed him, passed away this past year. The Eastern Idaho State Fair is recognizing Bob as a Friend of the Fair for 2024 posthumously for his contributions to the Fair for over 40+ years as Auditor of Operations.
Historically, the Layton family has been assisting the Fair since Bob’s dad, Lloyd Ralphs, was the Fair Auditor and Auditor of Operations in the late 1970s. Bob became the Auditor of Operations shortly after and held that position for 40+ years.
Bob coordinated much of the behind-the-scenes workload related to what has historically been a cash-heavy business. The hours working during Fairweek were long, working late into the night/early morning. While working behind the scenes, Bob would touch nearly every aspect of the Fair business that needed money. Because of that interaction, one of Bob’s favorite things about working at the Fair was the lifelong friendships he developed over the years with Fair employees, concessionaires, security, and patrons. The Layton family said Bob always talked about the memorable late nights counting money and Pepsi Carnival Coupons.
Bob’s son, Ian Layton, took over as auditor of Fair Operations in 2023 and has worked alongside his father since 2010. Fair General Manager Brandon Bird said of Bob, “There are many unsung heroes of the Fair whose contributions are rarely recognized but contribute greatly to its success. Bob was one of those whose contributions we recognize today as a Friend of the Fair.”
All three of these individuals embody the spirit of the Eastern Idaho State Fair. Their tireless efforts, often unnoticed by the public, significantly contributed to the success of the Fair.
Starting in 2023, the Eastern Idaho State Fair will honor up to three people annually who have significantly contributed to the Fair and its cherished traditions of family, community, and hard work. Lois Ethel Prouse Bates has been selected for this inaugural recognition for her exceptional contributions to the Fair, including composing its historical record spanning 121 years. Lois is an extraordinary woman who has been integral to preserving and promoting this important cultural event, the Eastern Idaho State Fair.
When Lois Bates’ name is mentioned, people often think of her as the history guru of Bingham County. She has spent her 94 years as a resident of Blackfoot and has accumulated numerous photographs and information on people and events in Bingham County. But she is so much more.
During the 1930s, Lois had a happy childhood on Riverton Road. She loved playing games, doing chores, and spending time with her large, extended family. Unfortunately, when she was only four, her father died from injuries sustained in a horse roping accident. Following his death, Lois, her brother Dale, and their mother, Luella Wright Prouse, moved in with Luella’s parents on the farm on Riverton Road. As a single mother, Luella worked as a secretary at the EISF to provide for her family. Lois and Dale grew up attending the fairgrounds, enjoying all the sights and sounds of the Fair, and meeting many famous fair celebrities. Lois has always had a passion for writing and composing the history of Bingham County. Still, her mother’s connection to the Fair as its secretary has made the Fair’s history her particular interest.
“The Fair owes a lot to Lois Bates. She has compiled so much of the Fair’s history that we refer back to. Because of her, we can connect with the 121 years of traditions, which is priceless. She is a remarkable woman whose life is an example of how anyone can do extraordinary things.” – Brandon Bird, General Manager, Eastern Idaho State Fair.
When raising her young family, Lois started a tradition they all looked forward to every year, spending an afternoon together at the Fair. “We would eat cotton candy and candied apples, wander through the livestock barns, marvel at the Culligan water spout, admire the fresh flower arrangements to see if Grandpa Bates had won a blue ribbon, and have a blast on the rides. We always made sure to ride the Tilt-a-Whirl together, and the Ferris Wheel never failed to scare us. And, of course, we had to buy the latest trinket!” said Bates. This tradition of a family day at the Fair has continued with Lois’ posterity as they started their own families and always made sure to take loved ones on an afternoon trip to the Fair. In recent years, Lois’ family has brought her to the Fair at least once, even though she now needs to be pushed around in a wheelchair. The Fair always puts a smile on her face and brings back fond memories of past Fairs.
Lois, a lifelong resident of Blackfoot, has an impressive record of community service. She has been a Girl Scout Leader for over 50 years and was honored with the Silver Sage Girl Scout Award. Additionally, she is a past President & Secretary and an active member of the Bingham County Historical Society and the local Bingham County Historian. Lois has also contributed significantly to the field of journalism as a staff writer for many newspapers in eastern Idaho. She is a proud member of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers and has authored three volumes on Bingham County History as well as the History of Shilling Street. Faith has been at the core of her life, being a faithful and active member of her church.
Lois Bates’ dedication and contribution to the Eastern Idaho State Fair and Bingham County’s history are immeasurable. She has preserved the Fair’s traditions and ensured that future generations can learn about its rich history. Lois’ passion for writing, community service, and family has made her an outstanding person, and it is a pleasure to honor her as the inaugural recipient of this Friend of the Fair recognition. We hope Lois’ life will inspire others to continue preserving and promoting the Fair’s cultural significance.
The Eastern Idaho State Fair is a 16-County Fair District. It is Eastern Idaho’s longest-running and largest community event with nearly 250,000 attendees each year. The mission of the EISF is to provide wholesome, affordable family education and entertainment in a clean and safe agricultural environment.
