Press Releases '11

SALE OF CHAMPIONS BREAKS THREE RECORDS
Event raises $135,200 for junior producers and the state's 4-H and FFA education programs

With the encouragement of the governor, three records were broken. The first was for Sarah DeSchepper's Grand Champion Wether. The second record was for the sales price of the Land of Lincoln Grand Champion Barrow. It fetched $10,100 for showman Adam Gradert. The third record was for Sherman teenager Austin Burris and his Grand Champion Steer.

RECOGNITION WALL TO BE ERECTED ON ILLINOIS STATE FAIRGROUNDS
Monument will pay tribute to those who have made the fair a premiere event, its patrons, vendors and exhibitors

Fairgoers have a chance to etch their names into the Illinois State Fairgrounds and become a permanent part of the fair's history.

THE 2011 R.J. VOLLMER SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE FARMER WINNER NAMED

Jack Erisman of Pana will receive the 2011 "R.J. Vollmer Sustainable Agriculture Farmer of the Year" tomorrow at noon at the Agriculture Day Luncheon on the Director's Lawn at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. Reduced price to ride the giant slide, upcoming events for Tuesday, August 16, Agriculture Day.

HUSBAND AND HOG CALLING WINNERS CROWNED

For the winner of the 2011 Illinois State Fair's Husband Calling Contest, it was a birthday present she had not wished for.

THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR OFFERS AFFORDABLE ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

The Illinois State Fair offers families food, fun and an affordable way to spend the day together. It has 14 stages of free entertainment this year. The acts include everything from music and magic to competitions and demonstrations. Winners of the Fiddle and Banjo Contest and Talent Contest for Group Vocal, Male Vocal Solo and Keyboard or Instrumental performance have been announced. Upcoming Events for Monday, August 15, Senior Citizens/Scout Day.

DREAM COMES TRUE FOR SANGAMON COUNTY TEENAGER

Hard work paid off for 18-year-old Austin Burris of Sherman Saturday evening when his crossbred was selected grand champion of the Illinois State Fair Junior Steer Show. Elaine Richardson, 16, of Jacksonville took the Reserve Grand Champion and Land of Lincoln Grand Champion titles.

ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TENT FEATURES FREE FOOD AND COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

Twenty-two Illinois food companies are giving away free samples of their products in the Department of Agriculture Tent at the 2011 Illinois State Fair. Winners of the Illinois State Fair photo contests have been announced. Upcoming events for Sunday, August 14, Veteran's Day

ILLINOIS STATE FAIR JUNIOR MEAT GOAT AND BARROW SHOWS SELECT GRAND CHAMPIONS
Winners will take part in Governor's Sale of Champions on Ag Day

A succession of wins, first for his class and then for his division, at the Illinois State Fair Junior Meat Goat Show brought Dylan Hummel and his wether, Kelly, into the Grand Champion drive.

BUTTER COW TO BE SCULPTED LIVE THE FIRST TWO DAYS OF THE ILLINOIS STATE FAIR
A new twist on an old Illinois State Fair tradition

Butter cows contuinuing to be scuplted live, color being added. Alton teen becoes 4 time winner in Jr. Wether Show, Upcoming events for Saturday, August 13, Local Official's Day.

ILLINOIS STATE FAIR CROWNS FIRST GRAND CHAMPIONS IN JUNIOR LIVESTOCK SHOW

Poultry Trio and rabbit champions swerfe announced, Criag Campbell to open for Luke Bryan, upcoming events for Friday, August 12, County Fair & Horse Racing Day.

DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR 2011 ILLINOIS STATE FAIR PHOTO CONTESTS AND TALENT COMPETITION

The August 2 deadline is approaching for enter the Illinois State Fair Dog Photo Contest, Baby Photo Contest and Talent Competition.

HEAD EAST TO PLAY 2011 ILLINOIS STATE FAIR

Head East will perform at the Illinois State Fair Friday, Aug. 19, replacing April Wine in the Classic Rock-a-Palooza show that also features The Tubes, Loverboy and 38 Special.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR ILLINOIS STATE FAIR

The Illinois State Fair is looking for volunteers to help in a number of areas throughout the ten days of this year's fair. These areas include information booths, various buildings, the Illinois State Fair Museum and the interactive agricultural exhibit, "Farmer's Little Helpers."

LAST CHANCE TO PURCHASE A 2011 ILLINOIS STATE FAIR MEGA PASS FOR DISCOUNTED PRICE

Fairgoers wanting to experience the excitement of unlimited rides on the Carnival Midway and Adventure Village attractions can purchase a Mega Pass for $55 if they act quickly. The final day the pass will be sold for $55 is Saturday, July 16.

DEADLINES APPROACHING FOR TWILIGHT PARADE AND JUNIOR LIVESTOCK ENTRIES

Those interested in participating in the 25th annual Illinois State Fair Twilight Parade and Marching Band Competition must act soon; the deadline to enter is July 8, 2011. The junior livestock entry and ethics deadlines for all species except horses have been extended to July 8.

ILLINOIS STATE FAIR MEGA PASS TO GO ON SALE
Pass good for unlimited carnival rides during 2011 Illinois State Fair
New, single-day ride bracelets also to be introduced

Mega Passes for the 2011 Illinois State Fair go on sale June 16.  The popular carnival ride passes will be available for a discounted price of $55 until Monday, July 18, when the cost will increase to $65.

STATE FAIR GRANDSTAND BOX OFFICE OPENS SATURDAY
Teen Pop Star Greyson Chance added to entertainment line-up; will open for Allstar Weekend Aug. 18

We have country, comedy, rock, rap, R&B and even a Broadway musical.  There's something for everyone to enjoy!

NOMINEES FOR ILLINOISAN OF THE DAY SOUGHT
Illinoisan of the Day Recognizes Dedicated Community Servants During the 2011 State Fair

The Illinois State Fair Museum Foundation is seeking ten individuals to spotlight as an Illinoisan of the Day. The deadline for nominations is June 15.

2011 ILLINOIS STATE FAIR GRANDSTAND ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP ANNOUNCED
Country Superstars Lady Antebellum and Jason Aldean Among Scheduled Performers

We have country, comedy, rock, rap, R&B and even a Broadway musical. There's something for everyone.

2011 ILLINOIS STATE FAIR CONTEST INFO NOW AVAILABLE ON THE WEB
Premium books explain the rules and entry deadlines for thousands of state fair contests

The books include the rules, entry forms and prizes for the fair's more than 8,700 competitive events ranging from livestock competitions to the tastiest breakfast on a stick to the best bocce ball team.

MISS HENRY COUNTY CROWNED 2011 MISS ILLINOIS COUNTY FAIR
Jackie Driscoll will reign over 2011 Illinois and DuQuoin State Fairs

As Illinois County Fair Queen, Jackie will reign over the 2011 Illinois State Fair, Aug. 12-21, and the DuQuoin State Fair, Aug. 26-Sept. 5.