FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 14, 2001

CONTACT:217-524-2751
TDD: 217-524-6858
FAX: 217-785-4505

COMMEMORATIVE BASKETS RETURN IN 2001 FOR ILLINOIS STATE FAIR COLLECTORS

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- For a third straight year, Illinois State Fair baskets are being offered to those wanting to commemorate their visit to the fair or add to their collection.

"We're happy to again offer these baskets to fairgoers and collectors," Illinois State Fair Manager Bud Ford said. "Collecting event memorabilia has become a very popular hobby. The State Fair historical display that we've put together was largely created from personal collections. People have been very generous and the display grows each year."

The oblong, snack-sized baskets measure 8 ¼ x 8 ¼ x 4 ¼ inches and are constructed with a tailored, green gingham, over-the-edge cloth liner and a clear plastic inside protector. This year's basket has a wooden lid with a laser-engraved picture of the Main Gate of the Illinois State Fairgrounds and the year 2001 surrounded in stars.

2001 baskets can be ordered by contacting the Illinois State Fair Office of Promotions at 217/782-0777. A limited supply of baskets from 2000 is available as well.

The Illinois State Fair runs August 10 - 19.

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