Longtime 4-H, fair supporter funds refurbished restrooms at Leavenworth County Fairgrounds
Marilyn Kay Parsons has wanted to contribute to improvements at the Leavenworth County Fairgrounds for several years.
On Tuesday, it became a reality.
Parsons recently donated funds to refurbish the Administration Building bathrooms.
After Tuesday’s Leavenworth County Fair opening ceremonies, officials headed inside for a ribbon cutting outside the restrooms.
Parsons had baby-changing stations added to both bathrooms, noting that she didn’t want to discriminate.
The overhaul of the bathrooms also included new color schemes and decorations. The men’s bathroom has a John Deere decoration, while the women’s bathroom will have a Kansas State University wall hanging.
She said she selected the green theme in the men’s restroom “because everybody drives John Deere tractors and lawnmowers and stuff.”
Jokingly asked whether the K-State theme was considered discrimination, she said no.
K-State is the agriculture school, after all, and has close ties to 4-H and county fairs.
Parsons said she had gotten positive feedback about the bathrooms, including a woman who was so thankful she installed the changing stations that she gave Parsons a hug.
“It’s great to have hugs when you do things for the organization,” Parsons said.
Her family is well known for its involvement and contributions to the Leavenworth County Fairgrounds and 4-H.
Her late father, Earl Parsons, donated money to construct the 4-H food stand at the fairgrounds.

