There are two additional fundraising requirements for each Delegate. First, you must raise $300 in a new spotfund, set up after your local competition, by May 1, 2026. Second, you must raise $620 in Salute Pages or Raffle Tickets (or a combination thereof) to be paid on March 21, 2026 at Spring Kick Off.

You must attend or have an excused absence for the Spring Kick Off meeting on March 21, 2026 at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel.

Simply Elegant by Cheri will be coordinating the opening number dress sales and fittings. The cost of the dress will be paid by the contestant. Simply Elegant by Cheri can be reached at 217-651-8282 and cheri@simplyelegantbycheri.com. You may visit them at your convenience to be fitted and select your dress from an approved collection. To guarantee delivery, you must select and pay for a dress on or before March 21, 2026. If you choose not to purchase an opening number gown from Simply Elegant by Cheri, then you will not be on stage during the opening number, but you will still walk out to be introduced/say your name/have your name announced, but you will then exit the stage for the final pose of the opening number.