Record opening at 91st Du Quoin fair
The 91st Du Quoin State Fair had the largest opening in recent memory with nearly 50,000 passing through the gates on opening day and the best opening weekend for Miller Spectacular Shows since 1989.
The forecast is calling for clear skies throughout the week as the 91st fair continues.
Democrats Day on Saturday
Southern Illinois Democrats honored southern Illinois working families on Democrat Day at the Du Quoin State Fair.
Families visiting the tent received pencils imprinted with the Pledge of Allegiance and patriotic wristbands for their children. Kids under 12 entered a free drawing for a red, white, and blue backpack and patriotic themed Beanie Babies.
Democratic elected officials-including Congressman Bill Enyart-were available in the tent from 1:00-2:00 pm to meet and discuss concerns with families.
Enyart also spent a half hour in country singer Darryl Worley's RV before last night's veterans show talking about the courage of American fighting troops in the Mideast.
Phones for victims of violence
Lt. Governor Sheila Simon announced that fairgoers will be able to donate old phones to benefit domestic violence victims, pose in a photo booth commemorating past Lt. Governors and take a no-texting-while-driving pledge at her tent this year at the Du Quoin State Fair.
"The Du Quoin State Fair is a fantastic opportunity to experience the many things that make our state great," said Simon. "Whether you are looking to sample some excellent Illinois products or enjoy family-friendly fun, the fair has something for everyone."
Simon is encouraging visitors to her tent to bring used cell phones, which will be refurbished and donated to survivors of domestic violence. Attendees will also be able to join Simon in taking the "It Can Wait" pledge to not text while driving.
Simon is also urging fair attendees to participate with her in a blood drive from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 31 in the First Heat Building. This will mark the third year Simon's office has joined efforts to collect lifesaving blood donations from local residents.
Lt. Governor Simon's tent is located in front of the main entrance to the grandstand and will be open through Tuesday, Sept. 3 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekends.
Murphysboro airman honored
U.S. Congressman Bill Enyart (D-IL) spoke Sunday at a ceremony honoring the 2013 Illinois Veteran of the Month, U.S. Air Force veteran Raymond T. Batty, from Murphysboro. at the DuQuoin State Fair.
The ceremony took place in the Senior Citizens Center. Congressman Enyart also met with representatives of the Illinois Lost Veterans Project as well as meeting and greeting veterans and military families on the fairgrounds.