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* Press release…

Southern country-rock legend Charlie Daniels and the Charlie Daniels Band will return to the DuQuoin State Fair for a blockbuster concert at the Grandstand on Wednesday, September 2nd.

Few artists have left a more lasting mark on America’s musical landscape than Charlie Daniels. An outspoken patriot and road warrior at the age of 78, Charlie Daniels has transformed his passion for music into a multi-platinum career and a platform to support the military, underprivileged children and others in need.

Daniels is best known for songs such as, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “In America,” “Uneasy Rider,” “The South’s Gonna Do It,” and “Long Haired Country Boy.”

As always the DuQuoin State Fair loves to show off Illinois talent and the fair continues with that tradition with the Charlie Daniels Band. The group’s lead guitarist, Bruce Brown, is from West Frankfort, and fellow group guitarist, Chris Wormer, is a Peoria native.

Opening for the Charlie Daniels Band is Lee Roy Parnell. The guitarist and singer/songwriter is known for songs such as, “What Kind of Fool Do You Think I Am” and “Tender Moment.”

If no revenue increase is approved, we’re looking at a $4 billion possible hole next fiscal year. So…

* The Question: If the budget stalemate continues, should the Illinois State Fair and DuQuoin State Fair be canceled? Take the poll and then explain your answer in comments, please.

survey services

posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 12:51 pm

Comments

No, it would just be a Rauner theatrics stunt.

Comment by DuPage Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 12:55 pm
YES, if you don’t do your homework, you can’t go outside and play.
Simple

Comment by TROOPER Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 12:56 pm
If these fairs are not self-supported, they should be scratched… we can’t afford this non-essential stuff and the free market can provide access to this type of entertainment.

Comment by Just Observing Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 12:57 pm
No. People will something good to distract them from the other show in Springfield.

Comment by Left Leaner Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 12:57 pm
No, there are hundreds of people that work at the DuQuoin while it is going on.

Comment by East Central Illinois Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:00 pm
Cancel them. That will show that Chicago machine! /s

Comment by Juice Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:00 pm
Fairs are Luxuries , so voted Yes - BUT expect there may be Contract Provisions that would require payment Fair or No Fair , So Cancellation may not be possible = Yes BUT maybe not

Comment by x ace Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:01 pm
I say yes, its a luxury but most important will increase the ire of voters towards our elected officials who continue to fail us.

Comment by Very Fed Up Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:02 pm
Can you consolidate it to one fair instead of two? I voted no. My son’s State Fair 4-H experience was great last year. He was Lake County reserve champion for one of the photography categories and had an excellent State Fair delegate time.

Comment by 32nd Ward Roscoe Village Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:05 pm
It will actually cause more financial woe to cancel due to contracts with many providers of services as well as entertainment.
It is appropriate to consider the economic value of these 2 State Fairs in any budget cycle. Are they the economic engines that are sufficiently beneficial on the programs (Youth Ag programs) and tourism to justify? That would be a matter fair for debate in the long run.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:05 pm
No. How do you justify having a carnival, complete with politicians spouting rhetoric, to people going without pay.

Comment by Norseman Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:05 pm
Already cancelled the Cook County Fair. (in 1928) No reason to cancel the fairs, not going to make a difference in the budget hole, would only be for show.

Comment by OurMagician Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:07 pm
No. We’ve already indulged the ego of the governor too long.

If he wants to play, he can grab his golf clubs. But get something done before then.

The budget deal is there, he doesnt have the horses for the other stuff.

That’s representative democracy. He might not like it, but he wanted the gig.

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:08 pm
I voted yes and I love both fairs. The budget is VERY REAL to a lot of people. For those of us with the good fortune not to have to depend on the state as much this would be a small taste of what’s happening in our neighbor’s worlds.

Comment by Deep Yogurt Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:10 pm
No, and not for any practical reason like economic impact on communities, but rather so Rauner can experience governor’s day the way Quinn did. We’ll need an entertaing diversion while the state goes down in flames, and the See ‘n Say Rauner routine will have gotten old by then.

Comment by AC Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:11 pm
We need to do more to make the Fairs pay for themselves — perhaps not 100 percent, but the private sector needs to step up.

Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:11 pm
I voted no, primarily because everyone should hear Uneasy Rider. It’s the best reason why no one should take a haircut this year…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIHzdEAj2Vk

Comment by Bedbug Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:13 pm
Voted “No”
This will show Chicago machine bosses who is really in charge and force the Ds to walk in the blazing heat while TeamBungle and select GOPies cruise around in their shiney, new golf carts

Comment by Anonin' Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:15 pm
Although I’m not sure that Rauner can advise the Chicago Public Schools to declare bankruptcy and, at the same time, use state funds to throw not one, but two, parties…

Comment by Bedbug Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:15 pm
No, a mere pittance.
On a happier note, I saw CDB and the Marshall Tucker Band at Indiana State University in Terre Haute for my 18th birthday during my SIU days. A good time was had by all.

Comment by james the intolerant Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:16 pm
- Soccermom - Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:11 pm:

What? Why on Earth would the private sector need to step up?

Comment by Pete Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:17 pm
Yes!!!

Let’s not fool ourselves. We will have to endure pain to get out of the mess we are in.
I realize it will hurt not to have the fairs, but it’s part of a shared burden we will all have to endure.

Families that go through a financial crisis, often times have to cut back on previous “luxuries”. Not only does it save money, but it provides a reminder that everyone needs to look for ways to save.

Comment by Downstate Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:18 pm
Rich - sponsorship idea! Maybe - just maybe - if the budget impasse is finally over by the time the Twilight Parade rolls around, you could gather donations for the Lutheran Children’s Home, sponsor the parade and call it the “Cap Fax Lutheran Children’s Home State Fair Twilight Parade, Underwritten by the IHA, ComEd, CUB, Trial Lawyers and AT&T”. Everyone wins - at least until January 2, 2016.

Comment by Team Sleep Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:18 pm
I voted no…there is a lot of tax revenue generated for the state in the way of gasoline, hotels etc.

Comment by Kevin Highland Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:20 pm
If I remember right, $1 million from the State Fair Fund was recently swept in order to balance the 2015 state budget. Even if a new budget for FY 16 is reached, will there even be enough money to put on the state fairs. It also seems like both the State Fairs have always lost money. Someone can correct me on that if I’m wrong.

Comment by Joe M Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:21 pm
The governor has spent his entire campaign and all of his time in office touting the need to create and grow jobs and make Illinois competitive. While our state fairs may not sustain themselves (and that should be dealt with), they are places where small business functions and thrives at every level. From agriculture to homemade crafts to fried candy on a stick. To take away what is likely one of the most prosperous weeks for small business owners in Illinois, while screaming from the rafters that you want to make Illinois business friendly is somewhat akin to slashing funding for DCEO in order to balance the budget. Actions speak louder than words.

Comment by liberal muse Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:23 pm
Yes - the typical fair goer thinks they can bash big government, high taxes and Democrats and THEN use the Fair like a state-run day care center for their kids.

Fair attendees are the perfect audience to experience their own medicine.

Comment by VanillaMan Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:24 pm
lock out is lock out

Comment by alas Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:28 pm
Not sure what it accomplishes other than showing that we can’t have nice things.

Comment by Come on man! Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:28 pm
Non-essential: True. A luxury?: quite a stretch there.

The fair(s) may benefit with a year off and a little re calibrating actually.

Comment by A guy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:29 pm
The SPI State Fair must go on. My summer is simply not complete until the annual viewing of Rich driving his golf cart over the ledge and into the old Happy Hallow.

Comment by Give Me A Break Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:29 pm
Like the song says: “You gotta fight for your right to party . . .”

Comment by Bill White Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:33 pm
It’s time someone told the good people of DuQuoin that Illinois is one state and we have our state fair at the capitol, Springfield. I’ve never understood why we lose money on the state fair, and having two money-losing state fairs makes my head explode.

Sorry, and may the Rednours forgive me, but it’s time to euthanize the DuQuoin state fair.

Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:33 pm
No. Too late now. I would say cancel the political days but really, the show must go on.

Comment by Excesseively Rabid Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:33 pm
Voted yes, do not think we should have the frivolity with no substance

Comment by Anonymous Retiree Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:33 pm
I voted No. Scaled back to only its roots, maybe, but not cancelled. And by “roots” I mean the livestock, craft, and other competitions for youth and adults. Too often that seems to get lost in the overall “noise” of the Fair(s) commercialism.

Sponsor information on the State’s websites for the two fairs:

Illinois State Fair (Springfield)http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf/sponsors/

(DuQuoin) http://agr.state.il.us/dq/index.php?pg=144

Comment by Anon221 Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:35 pm
Except for the butter cow there’s really no point in having a state fair.

Comment by DuPage Dave Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:38 pm
The general public won’t have a very good understanding of the State’s fiscal situation until it starts to impact them in visible ways. (Almost) Nobody wants to be the Grinch but cancelling the fair could start educating the public

Comment by Bluegrass Boy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:42 pm
Defunding by the state and replacement by corporate sponsorship would seem to be the way to go.

I understand that many local businesses really cash in on these things. If the economic gain is less than the cost, 86 the thing.

Comment by Arizona Bob Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:45 pm
I would cancel it based on Charlie Daniels appearance. Who needs a sawed off Ted Nugent wannabe anyway.

Comment by horse w/ no name Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:47 pm
Voted yes with a conflicted heart

The Taste has been cut back because it was not making money (among other issues). The Fairs should be close to self-supporting as should the Taste.
I know multiple people who grew up on farms and some of these people used to exhibit at these Fairs. I have a clue about what the Fairs mean to families downstate as well as the local economies.
I doubt that 2015 could be or should be canceled at this late date.

Comment by Belle Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:48 pm
Not DuQuoin, anyway. They’ll burn the capitol and the governor’s mansion to the ground if Charlie Daniels gets cancelled.

Comment by Anon. Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:50 pm
Voted No, but these events need to be self-supporting going forward. Reduce dates, reduce live acts, increase admission.

Comment by Bogey Golfer Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:52 pm
No you won’t be able to buy the bull.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:53 pm
I believe there are a lot of contracts that cannot be voided. I think they should carry on.

Comment by He Makes Ryan Look Like a Saint Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 1:56 pm
“Not sure what it accomplishes other than showing that we can’t have nice things.” That’s the point. You don’t wanna pay more in taxes, you don’t get the perks. No free ride.

Comment by anon Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:00 pm
Cancel.

So we’re going to make huge cuts BUT don’t you dare touch my pizza on a stick??? Ummm… right.

Comment by The Muse Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:00 pm
Took a breath, closed my eyes, inhaled, exhaled…

Ok.

Voted no.

“Why?”

The utter chaos of those cheering for a shutdown/lockout abd wringing their hands with glee and the faux anger of “the Chicago machine politicians…” and the press conferences and photo ops of chained State Fair gates…

Enough. Just enough. The fairs, both fairs are needed for the people that both sides seem to think only matter when they scream at their opponents. Enough. It’s the fairs, it’s uniquely Illinois, because it’s what’s great about Illinois “outside Shee-Cau-Go”

Living in Kendall, I know people who love the fair, Springfield, and have multi-generational ties to this event. Enough.

There will be Democrats’ Day and Governor’s Day, and then quibble, but don’t hold the fairs hostage because it’s worth the symbolism.

It’s not.

Voted “No!”

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:01 pm
Defunding by the state and replacement by corporate sponsorship would seem to be the way to go.

I understand that many local businesses really cash in on these things. If the economic gain is less than the cost, 86 the thing.

If all you do is focus on the costs of something, you miss its value. You have a pauper’s soul, dude.

Comment by VanillaMan Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:05 pm
I voted yes. I don’t know what difference it is supposed to make if they are bringing in money. We still need to cut. Many times in making cuts we lose money like when Chicago closed down the mental health clinics so that people who needed those services could get them in emergency rooms and jails.

Comment by Carhartt Representative Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:06 pm
It makes me sad that we even need to consider this, but we do…

Comment by Arsenal Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:06 pm
Without a budget, state contracts with a Termination for Funding clause become void.

“Termination for Funding. (state agency) obligations hereunder shall cease immediately, without further payment being required, in any year for which the General Assembly of the state of Illinois or other legally applicable funding source fails to make an appropriation sufficient to pay such obligation.”

Comment by anon Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:08 pm
OW,
A good friend in in the assisted living business. They were just informed that some government funding will be reduced by as much as 11%. While his partners wanted to “storm the gates” of Springfield to express their displeasure, he calmly told them that EVERYONE was going to feel pain, including their organization.

We’ve got to start making cuts. And we can’t make those based on emotion, or who is screaming the loudest.

Comment by Downstate Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:08 pm
Keep them open, but ban all political activities and rhetoric.

Comment by Wensicia Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:09 pm
Since they’re not self-sufficient and therefore cost the state money, they should be cancelled.

As for this…

==No, there are hundreds of people that work at the DuQuoin while it is going on. ==

There are literally hundreds of thousands of people around the state who rely on a state budget for their wages and for the support they need so they can go earn those wages. In that scenario, a few hundred more can go without too.

Comment by Joe Bidenopolous Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:11 pm
“If the budget stalemate continues, should the Illinois State Fair and DuQuoin State Fair be canceled?”

I didn’t have a strong opinion either way, but VanillaMan’s argument — “Fair attendees are the perfect audience to experience their own medicine” — talked me into voting YES.

– MrJM

Comment by MrJM Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:13 pm
Voted Yes. As I understand it, you need a budget in place to have the spending authority to hold the Fair.

Comment by SAP Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:14 pm
I voted NO but after reading these rational, unemotional and fact-driven comments I have been coerced to change to YES. And, go another step further. Either enable sponsorship or even takeover of our state parks and recreation areas! I mean why let so many freeload off the taxpayers dime and use pavilions and park benches for free! And those who take their urch…I mean children fishing! So what they have a fishing license, let’s install tollbooth like access to them to not only recoup but make a buck or two! And those boaters, wow, charge them by the foot of their boats (again) for access. And we could pay either minimum wage, or, if the stars align, a piece-rate to those former unionized state workers who can’t afford their (former) extravagant life styles of cruising around Illinois to Arizona in their yachts. And, we could…..

(Snark)

Comment by LINK Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:20 pm
I don’t see the point. Much of the cost for this year’s fairs has probably already been expended or at least promised by contract, so canceling the fairs would probably save little but cost the state a lot in terms of lost ticket sales. Also, procedurally, I don’t know how money saved by not holding the fairs would be transferred to other areas of state government that need the money more. If the pols can agree on how to make that happen, sure. If not, it’s just symbolic.

Comment by Commander Norton Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:22 pm
- Downstate -

With sympathy and also respect to your friend and the situation;

The state fair since the 1850’s has only NOT been around a handful of times. World War II and the World’s Fair are two specific times of not having the fair.

If it finally made money, would you feel different?

I’m not choosing the fair over your friend here, I was tasked with a specific choice on the fair.

I own my choice, Madigan and Cullerton aren’t responsible for my own choosing, and Rauner need not worry, I’m not having him wear the jacket for my choice either.

The Budget can be resolved. The political symbolism of the fairs not open is as phony as BOTH budgets causing your friend and partners their pain.

The FY2016 wants no fairs, ok, so be it. No fairs. No fairs now is the posturing not helping either side get a budget.

With humbled respect.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:22 pm
I voted yes. It should be no, that it should go on, but Rauner needs to own up to the fact that his inaction to agrre to a buget has consequences and many Illinois voters will be very upset that Rauner caused the fairs to be cancelled. I’m guessing that the bands have contracts, which will require them to be paid, whether ther is a fair or not. They didn’t set those dates aside, just so they could stay home and not get paid. Rauner will be seen as the Grinch who stole Christmas.

Comment by Say It Ain't So!!! Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:26 pm
Yes. And all of us so voting will do a couple hours in the dunk tank with the take split between the Fair and Rich’s favorite charity.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:27 pm
Reluctantly “yes.”

If you ask me, now isn’t a time for a distraction “from the other show in Springfield.” If you want to talk about representative democracy, then show the electorate some of the consequences of the shaking up they bought into, and the absolute hypocrisy of their local reps supporting a budget that “matches the state’s needs” while completely ruling out raising taxes because it would “hurt working families” in the same breath like raising taxes is the only way you can hurt middle class.

To the thread - I would argue this year the “Chicago machine,” as you call it, WOULD care about the fairs being canceled. There are too many top-tier targets downstate. Can you imagine being district staff for Phelps, Forby, Bradley, Scherer, Smiddy, and Sullivan in the event of a cancellation? 4H parents don’t need TV and radio commercials before they organize.

/rant

Comment by Dirty Red Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:28 pm
Whoops. Make that “No. And all of us…favorite charity.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:28 pm
No. It just would play into the overblown narrative of Illinois going down the tubes, without having much positive impact.

Comment by walker Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:38 pm
OW,
Kind, thoughtful response. Thank you.
If the fair made money, then completely agree with you.
Interesting your mention of World War II being a time the fair was not held.
In a similar way, I guess I see the fair as a form of “Victory Garden” that the government encouraged during World War II. It’s the idea of shared sacrifice.
I mentioned my friends story, not to solicit sympathy, but more of an illustration that many of us realize that there will be pain. It simply can’t be avoided.
Thanks OW!

Comment by Downstate Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:38 pm
Yes, because it is only fair to cancel the fair. No, because Lee Roy Parnell is a great guitarist and I would rather see him than right wing zealot Charlie Daniels.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:38 pm
“all good things must come to an end”
Many past celebrations, fest, and fairs have come and gone. It is time for the State of Illinois to get out of show business and stop spending on money losing events like the State Fairs.

Comment by downstate person Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:39 pm
OW reminded me how much I am going to enjoy Democrats’ day this year. It will probably be the most unified the party has been in over a decade, should be a good time.

Comment by Juice Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:44 pm
Considering the union-bashing open letter published to his web site two days ago, I’d say that he’s not going to be canceled.

Comment by Stuff Happens Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:44 pm
Both fairs don’t break even in terms of their operating costs much less the capital costs of maintaining all that infrastructure. All these costs for 10 days use (at capacity) a year.

Comment by Sir Reel Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:45 pm
Voted no. State fair vendors and performers can wait for state payments just like the rest of us. Illinois: where borrowing from Peter to pay Paul is perfected to a saintly art form. /snark

Comment by Diogenes in DuPage Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:46 pm
I voted a slightly snarky “yes,” because you should always create a crisis so you can go lay waste to things.

Comment by Earnest Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:48 pm
Voted Yes. I’m sure most of the agricultural and small businesses at the fairs vote for and embraced the Governor’s message. When he cut other areas of Illinois government I heard them say “He has to start somewhere.” Well folks it’s your turn.

Comment by Tough Guy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:49 pm
Voted No. Pragmatic: Should be able to get enough corp sponsors to keep it in the black. Empathic: way too many lives impacted from Lake to Union, Adams to Vermillion.

Comment by Nick Danger Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:54 pm
Charlie has gone through some changes as he’s grown older and since he was born again, but he’s still a cool cat.

He could sling that guitar, too, back in the days when he was the hottest session player in Nashville.

Charlie rescued me from a killjoy trooper who didn’t appreciate my choices during a smoke break when I worked backstage at his concert at Chick Evans in DeKalb many years ago. The trooper was fixing to slip the bracelets on me when Charlie walked by, grabbed my arm, said “he’s with me” and walked me out of harm’s way. He’d never layed eyes on me before that moment.

So Charlie will always be cool to me, even if he won’t sing the original lyrics to “Long-Haired Country Boy” or “Uneasy Rider” anymore.

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:54 pm
I reversed my answer too. I meant yes. However I’d be happy to join AA with the dunk tank.

Comment by Norseman Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:55 pm
No. Get rid of all the political crap and privatize it like Texas.

Comment by Dudeman Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:58 pm
- Wordslinger -, write that book already! Good stuff.

That dunk tank idea might have legs… in our fantasy State Fair. Would be a blast.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 2:59 pm
Voted no, but leaning yes. The state’s cores problem has been a lack of recognition that state services are not free. Everyone expects the taxes to stay low and the services to continue. And, frankly, the downstate conservatives are among the biggest whiners. Elections have consequences and they elected a governor and GA members who prattle on and on about lowering taxes.

Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:01 pm
The Rauner’s should fund the fairs, they have plenty of money and want to help the middle class.
Now is the time!

Comment by Children First Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:02 pm
===privatize it like Texas===

As we’ve discussed before, the Texas State Fair is in one of the largest cities in the state. To model our state fair on that state’s, we’d have to move it to or close to Chicago.

Wanna do that?

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:03 pm
To follow-up on Sir Reel’s comment, is the annual cost of the fairgrounds charged against the revenue from the 10 days of the fair? If yes, would not having the fair help offset these costs?

Comment by cimry90 Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:05 pm
My dad used to take my brother and I to the stat fair when we were young-spend the whole day-climb on all of the tractors, look at all of the machinery, play with the goats…
Later a farm friend and I used to go ourselves; neither of us was in 4-H but we enjoyed seeing the stuff that city kids had no interest in…
The last couple of years, I have gone with 2 of my children with six kids (ages 3-10) between them. We had a blast! One of the few places truly family-friendly with enough different things to do and see that nobody got bored. Grandpa and the youngest one rested while the rest went to the carnival. Visited conservation world, visited all of the animal barns (looked up my summer helper showing cattle), grandpa and the 3-year rested while the older ones rode the carnival rides.
Economics or politics or whatever, bring on the fair!! NO!!!

Comment by downstate commissioner Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:11 pm
There’s more that could be done with the fairgrounds at other times during the year. State work rules are part of the problem. Just talk to anyone who has ever been involved in running one of the fairgrounds.

Comment by Downstate Illinois Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:13 pm
Wordslinger - If Madigan / Cullerton had the votes in the supermajority, couldn’t they force the gov’s hand? My guess is they don’t have the votes, because the will of the people is for change. Not another $4B of debt.

Comment by Willi P Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:19 pm
- Willi P -,

Is the Governor’s proposed budget… balanced.

Yes. Or no.

Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:21 pm
Unfortunately yes.
Our State has been trying to rip-off its pensioner-creditors and failing to make timely payments to its suppliers and insurance companies. Our Governor now proposes harmful measures to lower the standard of living for a significant number of our lower middle class workers (public & private sectors) to “reform” our state finances.
Shutting down the fairs, while painful, is not nearly as desperate and radical as what’s already been tried, done, or proposed.

Comment by Qui Tam Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 3:28 pm
The world did not collapse when income taxes were at 5%. The tax sunsetted as planned and a choice was made to leave the tax at the lower rate. This issue can come to a conclusion but 5 people are having an ego fight to get specific non-budget items items they want even as the GA and Gov’s budgets are both about $3.5B off. Collateral whacks to millions of Illinois citizens do not seem to be too important beyond talking points. Stay consistent: do not have the money so close the fairs and take the heat that will follow. Then also do the same with education, health care, and human services. Don’t want to do that? Then solve the budget problem.

Comment by zatoichi Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:01 pm
The state fairs are a luxury not a necessity. They should be canceled so that Illinois can, in (very) small part, pay off what it owes first.

Comment by Hit or Miss Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:02 pm
No. This is to some extent like calls to boycott Olympic games. These 4-H and FFA members have worked the entire year for this goal. It isn’t right to cancel the fair because the politicians can’t get it together. As a former 4-H, I would have been devastated if my last year of 4-H eligibility would have ended without a fair.

Comment by KJ Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:09 pm
Some real “pro-business” types flushing away commerce many have already spent and budgeted for.

For crying out loud, the fairs are in August. You want to pull the rug from underneath them in June? Great “business environment” you’re creating.

I guess if it’s not your business, it’s well worth it to indulge the governor’s ego.

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:14 pm
Sling, I’m not at all surprised that it took a guy like Charlie Daniels to ’save you’. lol.

Actually, I like that story quite a bit. If you write a book, I promise to borrow it from the library. Buying it would make you way too cocky. lol

Comment by A guy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:15 pm
Since the entertainment acts are already signed up for this year’s fairs, I voted no - the state would likely owe those performers anyway (budget or not). Next year’s fairs, though, could be fair game.

Comment by cover Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:17 pm
This year, absolutely NO. Planning has been going on for months, contracts are in place and a lot of money is already obligated, show or no show. Also a complete loss of entry fees, gate, parking and ticket revenues. If cancelled, the difference between a normal year’s loss and losses incurred by cancelling would be pocket change so go ahead and have it. And as KJ says, there are many people that have been planning and working toward this fair for a year. Folks, you don’t just snap your fingers and the fair starts. Takes a lot of effort by a lot of people over months and months.

If people feel the fair is a waste of taxpayer’s money and should be cancelled, fine, but cancel it a year ahead of time so everyone can be prepared. And if you do that, be sure to cancel “every” pork barrel project throughout the state that is deemed unnecessary.

An interesting question. What happens if there is a lockout during the fair? There are many union people who run and support the infrastructure of the fair.

Comment by Finally Out (and now very glad to be) Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:27 pm
For those of you voting that the show must go on, please explain how the State pays State Fair performers, maintenance crews, etc. without budgetary pending authority

Comment by SAP Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:33 pm
I voted ‘Yes’ only because there would be NO money to pay the workers or the bands, etc.. None of them work for free.

Comment by Mama Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:52 pm
++As we’ve discussed before, the Texas State Fair is in one of the largest cities in the state. To model our state fair on that state’s, we’d have to move it to or close to Chicago.

Wanna do that?++

NO way!

Comment by Mama Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 4:56 pm
Voted no. The fairs showcase agriculture, for those who care to look beyond the grandstand acts, and Illinois is still an ag state.

Comment by olddog Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 5:04 pm
Voted no. The state fair is one way for Illinois to create jobs.

Comment by Enviro Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 5:24 pm
Here’s why I think it’s appropriate for the private sector to help fund this celebration of Illinois’ great agricultural sector:
“The Iowa State Fair Authority is established as a public instrumentality of the state. The Authority is not an agency of state government; however, it is considered a state agency for the purposes of various administrative regulations. The law provides that all operating expense, maintenance, salaries, costs of entertainment, etc., shall be paid out of Fair revenue. No tax money is used. Legislative appropriations are used only for capital improvements or repair.”

I cannot imagine that a state fair is valuable for Iowa businesses but not for Illinois businesses.

Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 5:45 pm
Soccerrmom, the corporate sponsorship for the state fair has been anemic for years — no soft drink sponsor, hello? –particularly when compared to Iowa and Wisconsin, where local companies appear to see it as their civic duty.

Rauner’s new guy has said he’s going to step it up, and here’s wishing him good luck. I hope his boss helps him seal some deals because there are some obvious big-time corporations in Illinois — many who chronically have tneir hands out for state money - who should live up to tneir community partner p.r.

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 6:04 pm
Word has been preaching this for awhile and he is spot-on. The Farm Progress Show has hurt the Fair on the Ag Machinery Side, but there’s no reason Cat and Deere can’t pony up. For that matter, there’s a major Ag chemicals firm located within spitting distance of AA’s house that is flush enough to fund a NASCAR team; I suspect they would be a willing fair sponsor.

If we have to lift the Fair out from under the State bureaucracy to make it viable long term, then we should do that as well.

In any case, we shouldn’t throw the Fair out over an amount of money that is less than 1% of the problem.

Guy, you will serve a shift in the dunk tank. I think you’ll be a big moneymaker.

Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 7:06 pm
Rauner went down to Springfield, he was lookin’ for union rights to steal.
He was in a bind cause he was way out of line, he was unwilling to make a deal.

When he came across the Speaker sawin’ on a budget and playin’ it like it was shot
And Rauner jumped upon the bully pulpit and said “Speaker, let me tell you what.”

“I guess you didn’t know it, but I’m a game playin’ fool
And if you’d care to take a dare I’ll make a bet with you.
Now you play a pretty good partisan game, sir, but give Rauner his due.
I’ll bet you some union rights against my business might ’cause I think I’m better than you.”

The Speaker said, “My name’s Mike, and it might be a sin,
But I’ll take your bet; and you’re gonna regret ’cause I’m the best there’s ever been.”

The Speaker, rosin up your bow and play your politicking hard.
‘Cause Hell’s broke loose in Springfield and Rauner deals it hard.
And if you win you get this shiny budget full of gold
But if you lose Rauner gets your vote.

Rauner opened up his van and he said, “I’ll start this show.”
And fire flew from his lips as he rosined up the airwaves.
And he pulled his dollars across the screens and they made an evil hiss.
And a band of corporate demagogues joined in and it sounded something like this.

When Rauner finished, the Speaker said, “Well, you’re pretty good ol’ son,
But sit down in that chair right there and let me show you how it’s done.”

“Fire in the Chair.” Run, mushrooms, run!
Rauner’s in the house of the rising sun;
His gang of billionaires shellin’ out the dough.
Granny, do you vote? No, child, no.

Rauner bowed his head because he knew that he’d been beat.
And he laid that golden apple on the ground at the Speaker’s feet.
The Speaker said, “Rauner, just come on back if you ever wanna try again,
I done told you once—you son of a Motorola Executive—I’m the best that’s ever been.”
And he played:

“Fire in the Chair.” Run, mushrooms, run!
Rauner’s in the house of the rising sun;
His gang of billionaires shellin’ out the dough.
Granny, do you vote? No, child, no.

Comment by Mittuns Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 7:26 pm
Artie, anything for the team. Pleased to help.

Comment by À guy Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 7:32 pm
“He may look dumb but that’s just a disguise”

That’s a caption just waiting for a contest.

Comment by Freezeup Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 8:28 pm
Freezeup, that’s just classic spoken-word poetry, such a hilarious story of time and place, line after line.

I always thought it was Shel Silverstein who wrote it because it’s structured like “A Boy Named Sue,” but it was Charlie and the band.

“I don’t even have a garage, you can go home and ask my wife…..”

Comment by Wordslinger Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 8:43 pm
Mittuns - That was outstanding! You deserve extra points for working in the line about the Speakers apple.

Comment by AC Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 9:57 pm
Mittuns,

Perfect!

Comment by RNUG Thursday, Jun 11, 15 @ 10:43 pm
Mittuns, well played sir!

Comment by Arthur Andersen Friday, Jun 12, 15 @ 12:11 am
Oswego, My understanding was it was $2B off as well. The point I was trying to make to wordslinger was that there is a relief valve if the problem is actually only on one side. The supermajority is obviously not in favor of a $4B shortfall or they have the votes to push it through in the representative democracy. Both sides need to come together. Wordslinger seems to think that the governor needs to roll over because the legistlature passed something and that is not how a representative democracy works.

Comment by Willi P Friday, Jun 12, 15 @ 8:03 am
- Willi P -,

I don’t think you know how things “works”

Why give the Governor a budget he’ll veto, why override a veto for more revenue?

Unless Rauner will sign a budget and all 67 GOP GA members are “green” on that agreed budget, nothing is going to happen.

It’s up to the Governor to get a budget. That hasn’t changed, no matter who is governor, or who is a leader in the General Assembly.

Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Jun 12, 15 @ 8:20 am
The Inspector General’s Office got close to the prize when they investigated Rednour but they eventually missed a lot of stuff. Like where does the Rednour mansion get it gas and electricity from? And who likes the throw the N word around the fairgrounds? And whose livestock are winning all the shows? And why? Seems wrong that you can be a livestock manager and show livestock at the same time. Oh, this is just the tip of the iceberg…

Comment by Investigate Du Quoin Friday, Jun 12, 15 @ 10:08 am
In Du Quoin, how much money is spent on beer tent entertainment? And how much revenue does the beer tent actually generate for the fair?
Close the darn fair. It’s a waste.

Comment by Here's a good question Friday, Jun 12, 15 @ 10:59 am