Ron Dukes

I was invited on the Committee by George Harvestine. I started back in 1996. My first job on the Committee was helping organize the Parking. I invited Boy Scout Troop 71 from Plano, Illinois. Then a few years later they were joined by Boy Scout Troop 7 from Elburn, Illinois. They both do a great job with the parking. Wanting to be more involved in the Event. Jim Allan took me under his wing and trained as a Vendor Chairperson. After working with him for a couple of Years, Jim let me fly solo. Once I mastered Vendor Chairperson I was voted in as President of the Committee. How enjoyed being President for a few years. Because of a job Change I took a leave of absence do to relocating in another state. I actually relocated back to Illinois and was approached to come back and help out on the Committee. I waited a year or so being a Volunteer Fireman took a lot of my spare time. Finally in 2008 I returned to Committee to again help out. I started back in the Parking area and for the 2009 show was elected back as President as well as being the Vendor chair. I enjoy helping introduce or reintroduce the Outdoors to everyone who is interested.

I’m married to my wonderful wife Susan and we’ve been together for almost 18 years. We have 3 awesome kids Evan, Emilie, and Ethan. My family helps at the show and also helps me prepare for the Event. Lastly I could not do what I do for the Event without the Love and Support from my Family. I love them very much.