Senator Grassley says...

"I first met John Putney in 1974, and he's been a good friend ever since.  Nobody cares more about Iowa's future than John.  He recognizes our strengths and traditions, and he understands what we need to do to grow in new directions.  Johns looks out for the people he works for and has proven leadership skills.  He did a lot for Iowans as my economic development specialist in the early 1990s, and John would serve Iowans well in the state legislature."

BIOGRAPHY OF JOHN PUTNEY
State Senator-District 20

A life-long resident of Gladbrook, John was born on March 6, 1944 to Lawrence and Geneva Putney. He was raised on the family farm and received his education from the Gladbrook Public Schools where he was active in sports and involved in many extra-curricular activities. During this time, he developed a love and appreciation for 4-H and made many long-time, state-wide friends through his involvement.

Upon high school graduation, John attended the University of Nebraska for two years. He then transferred to Iowa State University where he received his degree in Farm Operations. John met his wife, Emily, while attending Iowa State. They have been a team for 34 years and have three children: Leah, Carolyn, and Mark. They also have five grandchildren: Parker, Ellen, Mark, Tommy, and Andrew.

After finishing Iowa State, John and Emily returned to Gladbrook and operated an 1,100 acre grain and cattle operation for 23 years. During this time, they and their family bred, raised, and exhibited cattle throughout the United States attaining many state and national championships. From 1989 thru 1993, John served as a Special Assistant to United States Senator Charles Grassley with emphasis on economic development facilitation throughout Iowa. John has served as Executive Director of the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation since 1993. In this role, he has spearheaded a fundraising campaign that has successfully raised over $60 Million for the renovation and preservation of the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

He has served as President of the Tama County Fair Board, President of the Tama County Cyclone Club, President of the Iowa Beef Breeds Council/ Iowa Beef Expo, President of the Iowa Foundation for Agriculture Advancement/Sale of Champions, Chairman of the Tama County "Friends of Extension", and as Beef Superintendent of the Iowa State Fair. In addition, he is a member of the Tama County Farm Bureau, Iowa Cattlemen's Association, the American Legion, Olivet Lodge, Scottish Rite, El Kahir Shrine Club, the Des Moines Rotary, and the Gladbrook Methodist Church. He also served six years as an officer in the Iowa National Guard.

The Putneys reside on their farm near Gladbrook.

EMILY GREEN PUTNEY

Emily was born and raised in Des Moines. Her family was in the construction business and Emily spent many summers in Alaska. Upon graduation from Roosevelt High School, Emily enrolled at Iowa State University where she met John. They were married in 1967 and they both received their degrees in 1968, Emily in Child Development and John in Farm Operations. Soon, thereafter, they started farming near Gladbrook and Emily became a full-fledged farm wife - somewhat of a learning experience for a gal that had been raised in the city!

As Emily ran the household, raised three children, and supported John in everything he did, she also found time to be involved in many community activities. Among them: Charter Member of Crayon Corner Pre-School; President, Gladbrook Library Board; President Gladbrook Republican Women's Club; President, Alpha Study Club; and President, Gladbrook-Reinbeck School Board. In addition, Emily has been a member of the Gladbrook Women's Club, Legion Auxiliary, and the Tama County Republican Women's Club. Currently she is a Trustee of the Gladbrook Methodist Church and serves on the Cedar Valley Hospice Board.
 

Paid for by Putney for Senate