The Illinois Association of County Fairs has set up shop in Springfield with their annual convention. Over the next few days they will hold a meeting and host the State County Fair Queen contest. 
Ken Tyrrell, the incoming President of the Association says that they hear from their members that the financial burden of running a fair is growing as state funding dries up.

73 county fair queens walk the stage on Sunday night and the winner will become the State County Fair Queen and reign throughout the year and be a major part of the Illinois State Fair.