Fonner Park

07/31/2026

On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, Jayne Smith of Aurora, Nebraska became the first woman to be named President of the Hall County Livestock Improvement Assn, aka Fonner Park. Additionally, Steve Kunzman was inducted into the Fonner Park Lifetime Achievement Award Hall of Fame. These two people are class acts and have been tremendous advocates and leaders for Fonner Park. Thank you to all of our Directors and Members who attended the Annual Membership meeting. Of equal importance, 80+year-old Clarence Zlomke (a Fonner member for 50+ years) loved the prime rib au jus served by Whitefoot Catering.

07/23/2026

History lives here! 📍✨

We are honored to share that Fonner Park is now home to an official Nebraska State Historical Marker!

Before becoming a hub for thoroughbred racing and major events, this land was the family farm of John and Lizzie Fonner. Their son, Gus Fonner, partnered with local farmers and business leaders to create a permanent home for the Hall County Fair and horse racing in Grand Island. From 4-H traditions in the Big Red Barns to hosting the Nebraska State Fair starting in 2010, this property holds a special place in central Nebraska history.

Join us and the Hall County Historical Society today, July 23, at 5:00 p.m. at Fonner Park for the official dedication ceremony as we celebrate our rich past and look toward the future!

https://www.ksnblocal4.com/2026/07/21/fonner-park-receives-state-historical-marker-recognizing-its-roots-grand-island/

Marker traces property's history from family farm to Nebraska State Fair home.

07/08/2026

Thank you Grand Island!!

07/08/2026

Lot's going on at Fonner Park!!

07/04/2026

Happy 4th of July from all of us at Fonner Park! 🇺🇸✨

​Today, we celebrate the freedom, community, and heritage that make our country and Central Nebraska so incredibly special. Whether you are spending the day at the lake, grilling in the backyard, or getting ready to enjoy the local fireworks shows around Grand Island later tonight, the staff and management here wish you a safe and memorable holiday surrounded by family and friends.

​Thank you for being such a wonderful part of the Fonner Park family and supporting our springtime racing traditions and year-round community events. We are proud to call the heart of Nebraska home!

​Have a fantastic and safe Independence Day! 🎉❤️🤍💙

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06/29/2026

Behind every successful event, every full barn, and every memorable experience at Fonner Park is an incredible team making it all happen.

We're proud to work alongside a group of passionate, hardworking individuals who go above and beyond every single day. From preparing for national livestock shows to welcoming thousands of guests and keeping our campus running smoothly, their dedication is what makes Fonner Park such a special place.

As we continue through a busy summer season, we're grateful for each member of our team who helps bring our mission to life. Thank you for your commitment, your teamwork, and the pride you take in making Fonner Park a destination our community can be proud of.

Here's to the people behind the scenes who make the magic happen! 💙🐴🌟

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — The barns at Fonner Park have been full, the crews have been busy and Andrea Peachey has had little time to ease into her new role. Peachey is executive director of GI Expo Events…

06/24/2026

The Restaurant Assistant Manager oversees daily dining operations to ensure high-quality service, staff efficiency and scheduling, and profitability. The ideal candidate will assist with food and beverage operations during the live horse racing season and potentially be involved with catering, concessions, and F&B service for Grand Island Expo events.

Responsibilities:
• Supervise daily floor operations, front-of-house staff, and guest service during regular dining hours.
• Assist in training, scheduling, and managing restaurant and bar personnel to maintain service standards.
• Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and manage cash handling and daily receipts.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and liquor liability regulations.
• Resolve guest inquiries and complaints promptly and professionally.
• Provide supervisory support for all food and beverage demands during the live horse racing season.
• Manage full-time waitstaff, and temporary racing season staff.
• Oversee bar and alcohol service, ensuring responsible service and compliance during peak racing hours.
• Assist with catering, concessions, and bar service for events hosted at Grand Island Expo Events & Livestock.
• Supervise food and beverage staffing, ordering, and service delivery across all event spaces and banquet rooms.
• Monitor concession inventory, alcohol service compliance, and point-of-sale efficiency during high-traffic events.

Qualifications:
• Proven experience in restaurant supervision, staff management, and/or event beverage management.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of bar operations, inventory management, and responsible alcohol service standards.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, particularly during major events and racing days.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays according to the event and racing calendar.

Complete the application online or call the Fonner Park offices at 308-382-4515.

Restaurant Assistant Manager & Events Food/Beverage Coordinator

06/19/2026

Out with the old and in with the new. Or do it all at once. A synchronized flip, and a thing of beauty. Another cattle show will load in tomorrow.

I am so proud of my crew. GI Expo rocks!

06/04/2026