See you at the fair

With gentle nudging from a certain climatologist we know, the weather gods have smiled on the 2012 North Idaho Fair and Rodeo.

Now in full swing, this year's fair has been accompanied by crystal-clear skies and temperatures about 25 degrees lower than last year's almost literal barn burner. In fact, patrons are advised to bring an extra layer of clothing if they're planning to stay up at the fair after the sun goes down.

We confess to feeling no small twinge of bittersweet joy at this latest edition of classic family fun. This is the swan song for longtime fair director Chris Holloway, whose behind-the-scenes dedication and professionalism have helped our regional fair blossom during some exceedingly difficult financial times. Amazingly well done, Chris.

But before that curtain closes, there are still plenty of headline events, including:

* Rodeo: 6:30 tonight; 6:30 p.m. on Saturday; 12:30 p.m. on Sunday

* Draft Horse Show and Pull: 2 p.m. on Saturday

* Texting Contest: Noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday

* Demolition Derby: 6 p.m. on Sunday

Those are big time crowd-pleasers in addition to the ongoing entertainment over the next three days. What many of us enjoy as much as anything, though, is wandering through the barns and buildings and absorbing the stunning works of Mother Nature and mankind. From livestock and a host of other critters to the terrific creations of local artists, photographers and craftspeople, a sensory overload awaits. Another indelible part of the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo experience is seeing so many familiar faces, many manning booths as volunteers for various causes.

And then there are the edible parts. Local organizations fill the food barn and dish up some tantalizing meals and treats that satisfy tummies and the desire to do some good in the community. Did you know that Press correspondent and all-around good guy Jack Evensizer has been the fair's services coordinator for 20 years now? Boiled down, Jack says that fancy title amounts to "head garbage man and table cleaner." He deploys troops of Lake City High cheerleaders and students from North Idaho Christian School to keep the eating areas neat and clean.

That's a microcosm of your fair: Local people up to their elbows in hard work, lots of learning and lots of fun. In our view, there is no better way for families to grow closer than to immerse themselves in this traditional late-summer celebration.