DU QUION - With the snip of a pair of scissors Gov. Pat Quinn and several other state officials cut the ribbon marking the official opening of the 92nd Annual Du Quoin State Fair. And what a fair it is shaping up to be. A record number of entrants in this year’s parade go hand-in-hand with a record number of vendors, record ticket sales and a record number of rides on the Midway. “It’s a certainty that these record numbers are proof of the enthusiasm that the good folks of Southern Illinois have for the Du Quoin State Fair,” said manager Shannon Woodworth. “I traveled throughout Southern Illinois for months talking to city councils and civic organizations promoting this event. We have worked hard to extend our arms wide open to welcome folks from the throughout the region.” After welcoming a host of dignitaries and a large crowd gathered at the fair’s main entrance, Woodworth introduced Gov. Pat Quinn who gave a brief talk and later walked in the parade. “What a great way to start the fair and once again open one of the premiere events in the Midwest,” said Quinn. “The theme this year is “Love A Fair” and it’s evident by the number of entrants and the crowd on hand at tonight’s parade that Southern Illinoisans love their fair.” Roger Brand, parade coordinator, said along with the record-setting 125 entries this year’s parade will have more than 2,500 participants. “Our parade just about exceeded the street, we’ve literally taken over a neighborhood,” Brand joked. “We’re also very excited to have the SIU Marching Salukis for the first time ever.” Woodworth was quick to spread the praise for the great start to the annual event. “I have the greatest staff on earth, he said. “They have worked unbelievably hard to make everyone’s visit to the fair an enjoyable and pleasant experience.” Jeannine Baxter is celebrating her 25th anniversary at the fair serving as the parade marshal. She works in the fair administrative office as a receptionist and resource person. Baxter worked for more than two decades for Illinois Power before beginning her second career at the Du Quoin State Farm. Baxter said she was “truly honored” to be chosen to lead the event. “There are so many people, people who make this fair the great event that it is, that they could have chosen a lot of different people,” said Baxter. “It’s just quite an honor and I am thrilled.” Woodworth called Baxter “the darling of Du Quoin.” “Jeannine is the backbone of the fair,” said Woodworth. “She is the central command for everybody’s wants – security, maintenance – it doesn’t matter, if you have a question you go to Jeannine. She is very deserving to be the grand marshal for this great event.”
Posted on: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 00:37:21 +0000
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