Fair features tech advance

There's a lot to love about a local fair, including the way businesses and other organizations come together to make them happen.

From high-tech companies like Frontier Communications to the kids in 4-H - and hordes of corporate supporters and volunteers in between - a massive five-day-and-night production like the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo is made possible.

We mention Frontier Communications because they stepped forward as the fair's premier sponsor this year. Frontier has installed at the fairgrounds state-of-the-art WiFi service. That means the many vendors (and thousands of fairgoers) can access the Internet 24/7 from their smartphone, laptop, iPad or other data device.

The technological advance means better communication for fair staff, as well.

"They [Frontier] have done an amazing job with connecting our community," said Chelsea Rosenberger, sponsorship and events coordinator for the fair. "The WiFi services allow us to take our venue to the next level, as well as have an improved ability to connect with our staff."

One of the things we love most about our fair is that it's a throwback not just to earlier days, but other eras. As gathering places for celebrations and competitions, fairs go back centuries, spanning countless cultures.

While we're celebrating traditional family fun and enrichment on so many levels, it's good to know that this year, vendors can stay in closer-than-ever contact with their offices and customers, fair staff can head off potential problems with lightning speed, and kids won't miss a beat in updating their Facebook pages.

To everyone, have fun at the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo. We'll see you there.