Special thanks to all involved in producing fair

There was plenty of food, rides, music, vendors and more. And the weather, minus a little rain and cool temperatures, was nice for the recent SEMO District Fair.

The annual event that traditionally draws tens of thousands capped off eight days of fun on Saturday at Arena Park. Official attendance numbers were not available on Tuesday, but Pete Poe, a longtime SEMO District Fair organizer, said the numbers were down slightly from last year due to the rain and cooler temperatures.

The festivities included many of the traditional staples and also some new ones. The entertainment lineup added contemporary Christian singer Jeremy Camp. Other musical performers were Grand Funk Railroad and country music singers Chris Janson and Clay Walker.

The Ashley Furniture Home Store Heartland Idol contest, originally scheduled for Wednesday, was moved to Saturday due to rain. Anna Nice of Cape Girardeau was the winner of the cash prize and a recording session with the Brothers Walker, twin brothers from Bernie, Missouri, who appeared on NBC's show "The Voice."

If you visited the fair this year, you likely noticed how much logistical effort it requires. From parking attendents to grandstand support and many other tasks, it takes many people to make it possible. Thanks to all those who helped make this year's fair a success.