Lincoln couple will say 'I do, again' at the 2005 Illinois State Fair      

[AUG. 10, 2005]  SPRINGFIELD -- James and Jeannette Cabit may be the happiest pair at the 2005 Illinois State Fair. The lucky couple has been selected by popular vote to be "Married on the Midway," a special event sponsored by Clear Channel Radio Group/KISS-FM in Springfield and the Illinois State Fair.

"The fair is a place where we make memories happen," said Amy Bliefnick, state fair manager. "The neat twist to James and Jeanette's story is they're celebrating a nearly 30-year-old memory as they renew their vows at the 2005 Illinois State Fair."

James and Jeannette, of Lincoln, met on a blind date at the Illinois State Fair on Aug. 19, 1977. The evening was so special that James kept the newspaper from that day.

Now the Cabits will be renewing their vows in front of 100 of their closest friends and family members at the carnival midway area at the 2005 Illinois State Fair.

The Cabits were among 35 other couples competing for the grand prize. A panel of judges selected the top 10 applicant essays and photos, which were then posted on the Illinois State Fair website, www.illinoisstatefair.info, and the public voted for the winner.

[See "Marriage on the Midway" Web page.]

The couple and their friends will have access to all the midway has to offer -- rides, food and fun. All the needed elements for this special occasion will be provided gratis, including a justice of the peace, bouquets from 1-800 Flowers, wedding dress from ABS Gowns, Direct TV package, photographer, cake, midway food, and unlimited rides for the couple and their guests.

The ceremony will take place on Aug. 20 at 10 a.m.

[Illinois State Fair news release]