Tradition continues at Fulton County Fair - Canton, IL - Canton Daily Ledger

Tradition continues at Fulton County Fair - Canton, IL - Canton Daily Ledger.

"We are continuing the tradition of great county fairs," said Hancil Miller during the annual press party announcing the 104th Fulton County Fair. "The schedule is the same as last year, and we are trying to keep the costs down," Miller noted, commenting that funding was down from the state. Adding to this year's expense was the building of a new goat barn, replacing one that had been at the site for at least 70 years. "The cost of repairs was half of what a new barn would cost and it was too old for insurance," Miller explained. But despite these challenges, Miller was still enthusiastic about people coming to the fair, noting the price of admission had not been raised to help people dealing with the uncertain economy. "Everybody come and stay all day," Miller invited area residents. "Enjoy the fun, the races, the motocross, the queen pageant." This year nine young ladies are vying for the crown which will be relinquished by 2008 Miss Fulton County Fair Queen Jamie Linville. "This year has gone by so fast I can't believe it," Linvlle said. "The highlight was definitely the state pageant. I can't even begin to explain what I got to do." Some of those "unbelievable" things included a number of firsts — working with sheep and cows, judging a beef cook-off and a lip sync contest, and riding a motorcycle. Still Linville had time to give some advice to this year's contestants. "Be confident, be yourself. Don't worry about what other people think. Get up there and have fun." Linville thanked those who helped make her year so successful, beginning with her parents "for always being there." She also thanked Melinda Evers, the Fulton County pageant coordinator. "You couldn't ask for a better pageant head," said Linville. In addition, Linville thanked her sponsors Rick and Connie Collins ("Without them I wouldn't be here.")