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Fair offers another diverse lineup

By Laura Chapman, The Southern

Monday, June 30, 2008 10:24 PM CDT

DU QUOIN - Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced the grandstand lineup for the 86th annual Du Quoin State Fair on Monday.

The lineup will include Kellie Pickler, Sawyer Brown, P.O.D. and Corbin Bleu, according to a news release.

"The 2008 Du Quoin State Fair is once again offering families a diverse and affordable lineup," Blagojevich said in the news release. "In addition to the fine grandstand attractions, there'll be standout harness horse and motorized racing as well as other features at Du Quoin."

Kellie Pickler, a 2006 American Idol finalist, will perform on Aug. 27. Pickler released her first single, "Small Town Girl," two years ago, and has had other songs in the charts, such as "Red High Heels," "Santa Baby" and "I Wonder."

Bucky Covington, also of American Idol fame, will open for Pickler. Covington is recording his first album with Sawyer Brown singer Mark Miller.

On Aug 28, Sawyer Brown, an award-winning country music band, will headline the grandstand stage.

P.O.D., an alternative metal band, will perform Aug. 29. The band released its 11th CD this spring. Sevendust, an alternative metal band, will open for P.O.D.

The final grandstand performer will be Corbin Bleu, who was made famous from his role in the "High School Musical" franchise. He will take the stage Aug. 30. Justin Stein, who is touring with Corbin Bleu this summer, will open.

Other grandstand events include the World Trotting Derby's five-day harness program and motorized racing.

Tickets for grandstand shows will be available July 21 at the main grandstand office. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

laura.chapman@thesouthern.com / 351-5816

Du Quoin State Fair grandstand events

Aug. 23: American Motorcycle Association motorcycle races

Aug. 24: Automobile Racing Club of America truck and crate late model races

Aug. 25: Harness racing

Aug. 26: Harness racing

Aug. 27: Kellie Pickler after Bucky Covington

Aug. 28: Harness racing; Sawyer Brown

Aug. 29: Harness racing featuring the World Trotting Derby; P.O.D. after Sevendust

Aug. 30: Harness racing; Corbin Bleu after Justin Stein

Sept. 1: Automobile Racing Club of America car series and UMP modified stock car racing