EDITORIAL: Fabulous fairs don't happen by accident

You remember the best dang elephant ears you’ve ever eaten in your life, and your mouth can finally start some serious watering today.

Visiting an urban oasis populated by intriguing beasts, exotic plants, splendid arts and crafts from talented locals, prolific product booths, games, performers, shows, concerts, a rodeo, carnival rides and trappings for kids of all ages from all walks of life? Along with your hot, delicious elephant ear, you get all of that, too.

All you gotta do is get yourself to the North Idaho State Fair.

Today through Aug. 25, it’s all happening at the fair, and you’re invited.

First-timers, prepare for one of the region’s grandest offerings, a sweet, sensation-stimulating farewell to another glorious North Idaho summer. Perhaps you’ll then better understand why most locals want the fairgrounds preserved for just such events as this rather than eroded or moved entirely in the name of government expansion.

But today’s editorial is less about politics and more about something many people don’t stop to consider even as they’re having a blast at the North Idaho State Fair. As with almost everything else, quality is directly linked to the human beings dedicated to its highest level of attainment.

General Manager/CEO Alexcia Jordan isn’t just competent; she’s one of the very best in the business, anywhere and anytime. 

According to the fair’s website, Alexcia is surrounded by 14 outstanding staff members: Shanda Masterson, Amy Ballance, Vanessa Brinkley, Hannah Booth, Blake McLean, Emma Tanner, Deanna Taub, Serena Caples, Greg Bennett, Jesse Welch, Laura Burrow, Nic Yamaguchi, Jake Davila and Adam Vincent. 

Other behind-the-scenes stars, people without whom none of this joy would happen, are members of the Fair Board: Chair Gerald Johnson, Vice Chair Elise Burton, Joe Dollefield, Kevin Kirking, Sharon Nelson, Linda Rider and Timothy Vulles, with alternates Christina Petit, Mike McLean and Todd Feusier.

And don't forget the volunteers, more than half a thousand of them, anonymous here but valued and appreciated.

Over the next 10 days, everything fairgoers enjoy will have these dedicated, talented individuals’ fingerprints all over them. We thought that today would be a good time to let you know who to thank.