Public Museum Operating Grants Program

Public Museum Operating Grants Program is sponsored by Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). This program is designed to improve and enhance the capacity of public museums with established educational programs to more effectively utilize their museum resources to supplement the learning process of Illinois school children.

**SPRINGFIELD –** The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will accept sealed bids this fall for about 40 agricultural lease contracts for crop years 2027-2031. IDNR utilizes agricultural leases as a tool to support wildlife populations and recreational opportunities at sites owned or managed by the agency.

The leases developed under this program will promote ecologically sound agricultural practices to improve soil health, minimize soil erosion, improve water quality and reduce chemical impacts to benefit wildlife populations and their habitats. IDNR sites with leases open for bid will be publicly announced on BidBuy, the State of Illinois’ eProcurement system.

A vendor conference will be conducted for each open lease with details included in the public notice.

Bidders registered in BidBuy will receive an email notification with the times and locations for the following agricultural lease meetings: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area in Cass County Big Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area in Whiteside County Hanover Bluff State Natural Area in Jo Daviess County Pere Marquette State Park in Jersey County Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County Pyramid State Recreation Area in Perry County Mount Vernon Game Propagation Center in Jefferson County Double T State Fish and Wildlife Area in Fulton County Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area in Jefferson County Rice Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Fulton County Moraine Hills State Park in Lake County Harry “Babe” Woodyard State Natural Area in Vermilion County Iroquois County State Fish and Wildlife Area Shabbona Lake State Park in Dekalb County Clinton Lake State Recreation Area in DeWitt County Moraine View State Park in McLean County Sanganois State Fish and Wildlife Area in Cass County Sangchris Lake State Park in Christian County Chauncey Marsh State Natural Area in Crawford County Sam Dale Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area in Wayne County Turkey Bluff State Fish and Wildlife Area in Randolph County All prospective bidders must register with BidBuy to be eligible to enter a contract with the state.

To register, visit the following link: bidbuy. illinois. gov/bso.

When asked for a NIGP code, enter 944-00 (Farming and Ranching) and 944-48 (Hay Farming). Other codes are 944-34 (Corn Farming), 944-76 (Soybean Farming), 944-38 (Crop Farming NEC and Grain Farming NEC). Once registered in BidBuy, prospective bidders will be notified by email when any agricultural lease bid openings are posted.

Prospective bidders will need to download and print the necessary forms from the BidBuy website prior to the vendor conference. In accordance with state and federal law, the State of Illinois does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or any other protected category in employment, contracts or any other activity.

For more information, visit the IDNR agriculture lease website or use the contact information listed for each lease in BidBuy. **SPRINGFIELD –** The Illinois State Museum (ISM) is collaborating with the National Park Service, the New Philadelphia Association, and the Springfield state historic sites to host Free Frank Freedom Day on Sunday, Sept. 13.

The event commemorates the freedom of Frank McWorter, entrepreneur, freedom seeker, and founder of New Philadelphia in Pike County. The event at the ISM location in Springfield will feature free family-friendly activities from noon to 2 p. m.

, including hands-on projects, art, and discussion questions that share the story of Free Frank with younger audiences. The New Philadelphia Association will host a formal ceremony at 2 p. m.

in the ISM auditorium featuring speeches from McWorter descendants Gerald McWorter and Sheena Franklin, a performance by the Springfield Collective Community Dance Team, and a reception with light refreshments.

**About the Illinois State Museum** Established in 1877, the Illinois State Museum is a dynamic institution that inspires the exploration of Illinois' past and present to inform and enrich everyday life and promote stewardship of cultural and natural resources.

Headquartered in Springfield with branch facilities in Lewistown and Lockport, ISM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a proud member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.

_**Department recovered nearly $4 million in back wages for Illinois workers and continued expanding enforcement, education and access to services**_ **SPRINGFIELD –**This Labor Day, the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) is recognizing the contributions of working people across Illinois and highlighting the Department’s work over the past year to protect workers’ wages, rights, welfare and safety.

The Department’s 2026 Labor Day Report details IDOL’s enforcement, education and outreach efforts, including nearly $3. 9 million collected in back wages for workers and more than 3,300 individual wage payments issued. IDOL also collected more than $1.

4 million in penalties from employers found to have violated Illinois labor laws. “Labor Day is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of workers and to reflect on the protections that make Illinois a great place to work,” **said Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan**.

“Every day, IDOL strives to ensure that workers receive the wages and protections they have earned, employers understand their responsibilities, and Illinois workplaces are safe. We are proud of the progress we have made this year, and we remain committed to making our services more accessible and responsive to workers and employers across the state.

” Among the highlights from IDOL’s 2026 Labor Day Report: **Protecting Workers’ Wages:** IDOL received more than 9,000 complaints this year and conducted more than 2,900 administrative hearings and pre-hearings to help resolve wage and hour disputes. The Department also continued expanding mediation and informal resolution efforts to help workers recover wages more quickly.

**Enforcing Prevailing Wage Protections:**IDOL recovered hundreds of thousands of dollars in unpaid wages and penalties through investigations of public works projects across Illinois. In one investigation involving a solar energy project in Winnebago County, for example, 27 workers received nearly $92,000 in back wages after their employer failed to pay required prevailing wage rates.

**Advancing Equal Pay:** IDOL continued enforcing the Illinois Equal Pay Act, including protections against employers requesting applicants’ salary histories and requirements for greater pay transparency in job postings. The Department also partnered with the University of Illinois’ Project for Middle Class Renewal to analyze more than 3.

2 million payroll records and examine progress and continuing disparities in pay equity across the state. **Expanding Leave Protections:**The Family Neonatal Intensive Care Leave Act took effect June 1, 2026, providing eligible employees of employers with 16 or more employees with up to 20 days of unpaid, job-protected leave while their child is a patient in a neonatal intensive care unit.

IDOL also continued enforcing the Paid Leave for All Workers Act and successfully resolved nearly 400 complaints involving rights to leave. **Promoting Workplace Safety:** IDOL’s Illinois OSHA and On-Site programs continued working with employers to identify hazards, improve safety programs and prevent workplace injuries.

The City of Freeport Public Works Department became the first public works department in Illinois to achieve Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program status, recognizing its exemplary workplace safety and health program. **Keeping Amusements and Attractions Safe:** IDOL’s Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Division conducted thousands of inspections and continued modernizing the permitting process.

During the 2026 permit year, more than 3,500 inspection reports had been entered into the Department’s online portal and made available to applicants and permit holders.

**Making Labor Rights More Accessible:** IDOL expanded its outreach and education efforts, delivering more than 60 workshops and presentations across Illinois on topics including minimum wage, wage theft, child labor, leave protections, and the process for filing a complaint. The Department also continued strengthening language access and improving its website to make information about workplace rights easier to understand and navigate.

Illinois has a long history of advancing protections for working people, from early child labor safeguards and the fight for the eight-hour workday to modern protections involving wages, leave, pay equity and workplace safety. The 2026 Labor Day Report reflects IDOL’s continued commitment to that history and ensuring workers across the state can access the protections provided under Illinois law.

The mission of the Illinois Department of Labor is to protect and promote the wages, welfare, working conditions and safety of Illinois workers by enforcing state labor and employment laws, providing compliance assistance to employers, and increasing public awareness of workplace protections.

Through enforcement, education and community partnerships, the Department works to ensure that workers are paid what they are owed and that employers who follow the law remain competitive.

_**Illinois welcomed 115 million visitors in 2025, generating $88 billion in economic impact**_ **CHICAGO –**Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced record-breaking growth across Illinois’ tourism industry in 2025. The state welcomed 115 million domestic and international visitors in 2025 – an increase from 2024.

"Illinois continues to attract visitors from across the country and around the world, delivering economic benefits that reach communities in every corner of our state,” **said Governor JB Pritzke****r. ** “The growth of our tourism industry supports local businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens our economy while showcasing the incredible people, places and experiences that make Illinois a world-class destination.

” "We're in the Middle of Everything and there's something here for everyone—from the beaches of Lake Michigan to the rolling prairies of Southern Illinois," **said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton**. "Illinois has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty and we’re excited to welcome people from near and far to enjoy it all." According to data provided by Tourism Economics, visitor spending grew 3.

5% to $50. 2 billion, surpassing the $50 billion mark for the first time in Illinois history. As a result of tourist spending and visits in 2025, the total economic impact amounted to $88 billion and produced $4.

9 billion in direct state and local tax revenue, reinforcing tourism’s role as a key driver of economic growth in communities across Illinois. Helping drive this growth is the state’s award-winning “Middle of Everything” tourism campaign, which continues to inspire travelers to explore destinations and experiences throughout Illinois. In 2025, the campaign generated an additional 2.

78 million trips and $904 million in visitor spending. Further, the state’s lodging industry also continued its strong performance, generating a record $372 million in total hotel tax revenue. Illinois continued to make significant investments in the travel and tourism industry in FY25, awarding more than $3.

3 million in grants to support communities, enhance attractions, and encourage overnight stays. The funding also helped destinations improve visitor experiences and prepare for two major 2026 milestones – the Route 66 Centennial and America’s 250th anniversary. “The continued growth of Illinois’ visitor economy demonstrates the value of investing in tourism as a development strategy,” **said DCEO Director Kristin Richards**.

“Through initiatives that enhance visitor attractions, grow major events, expand international tourism, and strengthen outdoor recreation opportunities across the state, Illinois is creating more reasons for travelers to visit and explore. These investments also support job growth and delivermeaningful economic benefits to communities across Illinois.

” Illinois is also expanding its focus on outdoor recreation through a dedicated unit within DCEO’s Office of Tourism. The unit will support communities in leveraging their natural assets to attract visitors and position Illinois for lasting success as a premier travel destination. Looking ahead, the 2027 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism will return to Navy Pier in Chicago from March 1-3, 2027.

This year’s theme, The Next Great Adventure: Reimagining the Journey, reinforces Illinois as a destination of endless possibilities while exploring new initiatives to help shape the future of the industry. Please visit ilgovconference. com for more updates on this industry conference.

_**Smoking was the leading cause in 29% of fatal campus fires**_ Normal, Ill- September is Campus Fire Safety Month and Illinois joins numerous states across the country to raise awareness of fire safety in on and off-campus housing. Governor JB Pritzker has again proclaimed September as Campus Fire Safety Month in Illinois.

This month is a time for universities and colleges to work with their local fire departments to ensure students reside in a fire-safe living environment and are provided with fire safety information. College is often the first time many young people are living away from home, meaning it’s more important than ever for them to understand how to create and practice a fire safety escape plan.

Having working smoke alarms, sprinkled residential dwellings, and other fire safety plans in place can create a safe living environment. “College students are balancing busy schedules, new responsibilities and life away from home, but taking a few minutes for fire safety can make all the difference.

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices’ students rely on every day, and when they are damaged, improperly charged or used incorrectly, they can create a serious fire risk,” **said Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow**. “As students settle into the new school year, I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to identify their escape routes, keep exits clear, charge devices safely and know what to do if a fire occurs.

A few simple precautions can make a lifesaving difference. ” “Fire safety doesn’t stop at the edge of campus. For students living in off-campus apartments and houses, making sure there are working smoke alarms, knowing two ways out and understanding the importance of fire sprinklers can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy,” **said Normal Fire Department Fire Inspector/PIO Matt Swaney**.

“This demonstration gives students a firsthand look at just how quickly a fire can grow into a deadly inferno, and how much of a difference a fire sprinkler can make. ” According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), September and October are the peak months for fires in dormitory properties, with cooking being the main cause of these fires. Fires most commonly occur during the evening hours.

Approximately 25% of all campus fire fatalities follow a party. In a report by the U. S Fire Administration, smoking was the leading cause in 29% of fatal campus fires.

In approximately half of the fatal fires determined to be caused by smoking, cigarettes smoldered in a couch over time with a third of the couches located outside on either a porch or deck. A fatal campus fire is most likely to happen over the weekend (71% of the time) and almost three-quarters of the fatal fires occur between midnight and 6 a. m.

According to data from the Center for Campus Fire Safety, from January 2000 to September 2024, 94 fatal fires have been documented that occurred on a college campus, in Greek housing, or in off-campus housing within three miles of the campus and claimed 134 lives. An astonishing 94 percent of fatal campus fires examined took place in off-campus housing, with 7 fatalities occurring here in Illinois since 2000.

While cooking remains a leading cause of fires in campus housing, there is growing concern on college campuses about the increasing number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. Many college students rely on e-bikes, e-scooters, laptops, and other electronic devices powered by these batteries, but mishandling or misuse of these batteries can lead to safety hazards such as overheating, fire, or even explosions.

Students are encouraged to learn how to safely charge, store, and use these devices and other electronics properly. The NFPA offers safety tips on their website at Lithium-Ion Battery Safety (nfpa. org).

“Through the Fire Sprinkler Dormitory and Greek Housing Fire Safety Acts—enacted in 2005 and 2011, respectively—Illinois has been a national leader in ensuring students living on college and university campuses are protected by fire sprinkler systems in dormitories and fraternity and sorority housing,” **said Erik Hoffer, Executive Director of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board**.

“That investment in fire safety paid off here at Illinois State University in September 2024, when the fire sprinkler system in the south tower of Watterson Towers controlled a fire in a second-floor staff workroom, preventing injuries and limiting the fire’s impact.

” Here are some fire safety tips and ways to help keep students safe when choosing a residence: * Look for housing whether on or off campus that is outfitted with working sprinklers. * Make sure you can hear the building’s fire alarm system. * Check to make sure all sleeping rooms and common areas have functioning smoke alarms.

For optimal protection, all smoke alarms in the home should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound. * Never remove batteries or disable or cover any alarm device. * Test all smoke alarms at least monthly.

* Whether you live on or off campus, have a fire escape plan with two ways out of every room. * Learn the building’s evacuation plan and practice all drills as if they were the real thing. * When the smoke alarm or CO alarm sounds, exit the building quickly and stay out until given instructions to return.

* Use only the charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Never use damaged or counterfeit chargers or batteries. * Never charge e-bikes, e-scooters, phones, laptops or other lithium-ion battery devices while sleeping or when you are away from home.

Charge them on a hard, flat surface away from exits, beds, couches and anything that can burn. * If you smoke, smoke outside and only in designated areas. * Dispose of used smoking materials in proper receptacles.

* Never leave the kitchen when cooking. * Check with your local fire department, building management, or campus office before using a barbeque grill or fire pit. * Never overload electrical outlets and check with the school to make sure what electrical appliances are allowed.

* More campus fire safety information can be found by visiting OSFM’s website. Governor Pritzker’s Proclamation is attached. _**Eligible entities can now apply for the sixth round of funding through Illinois Works**_ **CHICAGO –**Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced applications are now open for the sixth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline, and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades. Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process. “Illinois Works is about opening doors to opportunity and giving every Illinoisan a clear path to a good career and a good life,” **said Governor JB Pritzker**.

“This latest round of funding will build on our continued success investing in our people, fostering a diverse talent pipeline, and giving businesses the skilled workforce they need to grow and thrive in our state. ” “Illinois Works is an invaluable asset, creating opportunities for all Illinoisans, including good-paying jobs in the trades.

These opportunities are especially meaningful for expanding diversity in the workforce,” **said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton**. “We're committed to making Illinois the best place to live, work and raise a family. Bettering our infrastructure and creating long-term success is key to doing just that.

” This round of $25 million in funding will increase the representation of underrepresented groups – including people of color, veterans, and women in the construction trades. This round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program will fund up to 45 programs throughout the state including new grantees, serving nearly 2,000 residents.

“The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a great example of how the state prioritizes investments in our world-class workforce,” **said DCEO Director Kristin Richards**. “Through this program, we are continuing to create a diverse pipeline of talent ensuring Illinois continues to be a leader in the construction trades.

” The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing access to apprenticeship programs to a more diverse pool of candidates. These comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide graduates a greater opportunity to start a long-term career in the trades.

Since the program’s inception Illinois Works has awarded over $70 million serving over 7,000 residents. Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive, barrier reduction services, to help enter the construction industry.

Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry aligned certifications, which will prepare and qualify them to continue to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades. Illinois Works is expanding DCEO’s statewide network of providers to recruit, prescreen, and provide pre-apprenticeship skills training.

The program providers offer structured pathways and manage the program graduates' transition from the pre-apprenticeship program to a registered apprenticeship program in construction and the building trades. “I’m thrilled to hear about the continued success of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program,” **said Representative Will Davis**.

“Creating a diverse pipeline of talent is critical to ensuring all Illinoisians have an opportunity to succeed and obtain a good paying job that result in long term careers. ” “Initiatives like the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program are crucial in preparing the next generation of Illinoisians for careers in the construction trades,” **said Senator Cristina Castro**.

“The success of this program has been transformative for not only the residents of Illinois but for the state’s overall economic development. ” Eligible applicants include non-profit, community-based organizations, such as industry associations, chambers of commerce, local workforce areas, community colleges, technical schools, and school districts.

Experienced and new providers are encouraged to apply, along with existing Illinois Works grantees who propose to serve a different geographic area or Economic Development Region than they were originally contracted to serve. Priority will be given to applicants serving priority Economic Development Regions and underrepresented populations as outlined in the NOFO. Qualified entities can apply for grants between $150,000 to $550,000.

Applications will be accepted until October 2, 2026, at 5:00 p. m. To view the NOFO and apply for the grant, please visit the DCEO website.

Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to CEO. GrantHelp@illinois. gov for application assistance.

To help applicants prepare to apply for funding, DCEO will also be providing technical assistance in the form of webinars, regional meetings, and FAQ. Signed into law in 2019, the Illinois Works Jobs Program Act is designed to promote diversity, inclusion, and use of apprentices in state-funded capital projects.

The Act created three major programs: the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, the Illinois Works Apprenticeship Initiative, and the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program. Together these three programs aim to create a talent pipeline of skilled and diverse candidates to fill new job opportunities created by the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan.

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor of: Please lower the United States flags and the State flags at all buildings occupied by your agency’s personnel from: **Sunrise Friday, September 11, 2026** **until Sunset Friday, September 11, 2026** _**State, local health departments mobilize after at least four confirmed cases of measles identified in area residents**_ **KEY POINTS FOR MEDIA:** * At least four confirmed, linked cases of measles have been identified in Douglas County * IDPH is working with area health departments and providers to offer immunizations, identify exposure locations, and provide guidance for exposed persons * Immunization remains the best protection against measles; two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles **SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is responding to an outbreak of measles in Douglas County, Illinois, involving at least four cases.

An outbreak is defined as three or more cases that are connected by a common exposure source or epidemiological link. IDPH is working with local health departments to identify residents who were exposed to patients during their infectious period and offer vaccination to those who are high-risk, as well as others in the community.

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be administered to unvaccinated persons six months and older who are exposed to measles, but they must receive the shot within 72 hours of first exposure. In addition, an injection known as immune globulin can be provided to high-risk individuals who cannot receive the measles vaccine or who missed the 72-hour window, including infants, pregnant persons, or people who are immunocompromised.

People who are non-immune (have no protection from measles) are encouraged to get vaccinated in consultation with a health care provider. It is important that all residents who are not immune (or protected from measles) get vaccinated at least two weeks before international travel or travel to areas with measles outbreaks.

“Illinois is fortunate to have high vaccination rates overall that protect most Illinois residents from measles,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “However, there are still areas across the state with lower vaccination rates where people are at high risk.

With almost 3,000 cases in the US so far this year, IDPH has been preparing and works closely with local public health and health care partners on strategies to reduce spread and minimize outbreaks. IDPH continues to urge clinicians to be attentive to pre-travel vaccination needs and consider a measles diagnosis in patients with consistent symptoms and alert their local health department immediately if they suspect a case.

” “The key to preventing measles is the highly effective measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of measles vaccine are 97% effective in preventing measles,” said Dr. Vohra. “I recommend that our Illinois residents make sure that they and their family members are up to date on the MMR vaccine and all other age-appropriate immunizations.

” Measles is a highly contagious disease, which is caused by a virus. It can easily be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with nose or throat secretions from an infected individual. Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but unfortunately it has seen a resurgence in recent years as national immunization rates have dropped.

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is administered in two doses. The first is usually given around one year of age and the second between four and six years of age, usually before the child starts school, but can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose. A single dose is 93% effective in preventing measles, while the two-dose regimen is 97% effective.

**SPRINGFIELD –**The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) invites interested vendors to attend a pre-bid meeting for operating a gift shop concession at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Randolph County. The pre-bid meeting will take place at 10 a. m.

Tuesday, Sept. 15 via WebEx. Call 1-312-535-8110 and enter access code 2861 583 2096.

During the meeting, participants will receive essential details on the bid submission process, contract terms, expectations and requirements. IDNR encourages all interested vendors to register in BidBuy at bidbuy. illinois.

gov. There is no cost to register. Additional site-specific concessions information and meeting information is available on the BidBuy website. Search NIGP code 961-15 to receive notifications for upcoming IDNR concession pre-bid meetings.

The World Shooting and Recreational Complex is located at 1 Main Event Lane in Sparta. The site features premier shooting events including the American Trapshooting Association’s Grand American Championships. For additional information call 217-782-5707.

**DU QUOIN, IL –** The Du Quoin State Fair celebrates Illinois agriculture – the state’s number one industry – and there’s no better way to experience it than with a visit to the 2026 Illinois Product Expo.

“Consumers are increasingly interested in where their food comes from, and the Illinois Product Expo is a great way to connect buyers with local farmers and producers,” **said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA)**. “With demand for locally grown products on the rise, we’re excited to showcase the best of Illinois agriculture at the Du Quoin State Fair.

” The Illinois Product Expo, located in the Expo Hall, will be open the second weekend of the Du Quoin State Fair. Shop for local products Friday, Sept. 4 from 5 to 9 p.

m. ; Saturday, Sept. 5 from 9 a.

m. to 8 p. m.

; and Sunday, Sept. 6 from 11 a. m.

to 5 p. m. Vendors will be offering samples and selling seasonings, jellies and jams, honey, freeze dried candy, salsa, coffee, herbal tea, soaps, lip balm, birdhouses, wood and gourd crafts, candles and much more.

In addition, several Illinois wineries will offer wine tasting. "The Illinois Product Expo in Du Quoin is one of my favorite opportunities to celebrate the incredible flavors of Southern Illinois,” **said Kayla Graven, IDOA Domestic Marketing Manager**. “It’s a chance for people to sample outstanding local products and support the companies that make Illinois so vibrant.

We’re proud to showcase the creativity and quality of the businesses." The Du Quoin State Fair runs from August 28 - September 7. Admission to the fair is free.

Please visit dsf. illinois. gov for additional information including seasonal parking and handicap parking details.