138TH DISTRICT FAIR OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

The SEMO District Fair is poised to open its 138th edition. Today marks the official start with free admission and parking. Cooler temperatures and a top-notch entertainment lineup could combine for one of the most well-attended district fairs in years.

Cape Girardeau and the region take pride in this fair, and for good reason. It's the fourth largest in the state, coming in behind the state fair in Sedalia, and festivals in St. Louis and Kansas City. The crowds keep returning year after year because of a commitment to family entertainment and agriculture.

Over the years, the SEMO District Fair has modernized but hasn't strayed far from its roots. Begun as a way for farmers to show off their wares, agriculture remains a fair staple today. The fair offers a chance for rural and city traditions and lifestyles to blend. As a way to expand the educational aspect of the fair, walking agriculture tours will be offered this year. It should provide a good opportunity for "city folks" to become familiar with farming in general and livestock production.

But the fair doesn't stop there. Ask five people and they'll probably give five different answers on what they like best about the fair. Grandstand entertainment is always a favorite, and this year's lineup combines old favorites - like the demolition derby and tractor pull - with country stars. Gibson/Miller Band, Charlie Daniels Band and Collin Raye should draw big crowds. The Big Bull Chute-out, popular in its debut last year, returns.

Also returning to the Midway are Farrow Shows, which have provided high quality carnival rides to the district fair for a number of years. Area residents will help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Ferris Wheel with Farrow's 100 foot tall giant, said to be the world's largest portable Ferris Wheel.

Fair food is another big attraction. The district fair typically attracts a large number of concessionaires and this year is no exception. Local health inspectors ensure that fair food is safe for consumption. The Monday night parade from Capaha Park to the fairgrounds is another crowd pleaser. The R&R tent will be home to a number of activities this year - including musical performances, beauty pageants, and screenings. And the best thing about the R&R tent is the cost - all the fun doesn't cost fairgoers an additional dime. The list of fair favorites just goes on and on.

Those who run the fair do a good job. Problems are kept to a minimum, and the grounds remain clean. Fairgoers should also be appreciative of the fact that admission and parking prices have remained the same for several years.

For the most part, the fair runs smoothly each year - thanks to a large crew of dedicated volunteers. The fair association itself is non-profit - putting proceeds back into fairground improvements. We applaud Fair Board president Bob Nitsch and his army of volunteers for a job well done, year after year.

The SEMO District Fair is far from merely "fair." It's a top-notch celebration that brings farm and city folk together for a week of down-to-earth fun.