If you need something to take your mind off the cold temperatures, the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation says you should think of the balmy August fair days. Spokesperson Estee Walter says while you’re thinking of the fair you can help out with when you file your state taxes. She says you can go to the contributions section and make a donation in what’s know as the “Corn Dog Tax Checkoff.” The corn dog name is the unofficial moniker of the check-off.She says the checkoff started in 1993, and they linked it with the corn dog in their marketing campaign, because so many people associate the fair with corn dogs. The amount of the gift given will be added to what is owed in state tax or deducted from the amount to be refunded. The funds go toward improving the fairgrounds. She says one of the major things they’re doing is upgrading the 4-H building with a new roof and airconditioning. She says they’re also getting ready for the opening of the State Fair Museum. Walter says the corn dog check-off isn’t the only way you can contribute to the Foundation. She says they have alot of different giving programs, and they have many volunteer programs in which you give your time. She says the check-off has generated over one million dollars in its history and the foundation has raised over fifty four million dollars in its eleven years of existence. For more information, visit www:blueribbonfoundation.org.