Logan County Fair

Army Band's patriotic music and salute to veterans opens 2015 Logan County Fair and start of harness racing

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[August 13, 2015]  LINCOLN - As customary, the 79th Annual Logan County Fair opened on Sunday afternoon with recognition of all military service veterans.

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Enhancing the afternoon and providing a greater appreciation for those serving in our armed forces was the performance of the 144th Army Band, Illinois Army National Guard. The band is stationed at Camp Lincoln in Springfield and performs at military and civilian events throughout Illinois.

The Guard performed a wide selection of great patriotic music such as, "You're a grand old flag."

The Army Band was asked to join in the all-service veteran photo.




For the second year, the 2015 Logan County Fair that traditionally opens on Tuesday, opened on Sunday with harness racing. The Downstate Classic "Pick a Winner" was scheduled to begin 1:30 on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, but Sunday's races were delayed an hour when a torrential rain shortly before race time made the track too hazardous for horses to run. Grading was conducted until soil was more dried and firm.



In the Grandstand, audience members were entertained by the Army Band during the delay.

 

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At various locations surrounding the track, families and friend groups could be seen partaking in an age-old Fair tradition -- tailgating and picnicking -- some on blankets, others in lawn chairs, and several with their own tents.




Heading around to the horse barns, owners and jockeys, and other support personnel were also enjoying the summer and the start of "Pick a winner." In every race, somebody's going to win.



Some of the horses are from as near as Springfield and many travel all over the United States. A couple two-year olds with promise were taking the field on Sunday.

Entry to the grounds is free before noon through Saturday. Access to the Grandstand for 1:30 Harness racing is free each day through Tuesday.

[Jan Youngquist]

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