Hundreds came out to Arena Park for the dual demolition derby and other activities at the SEMO District Fair.

"I came out for the derby and I want to see one," said David Kelch of Thebes, Ill.

Kelch and wife, Rhonda, brought twin sons Cayden and Brayden, 4, to cheer on friend Derek Temke of the Podunk Racing Team. Tiffany and John Doyle Jr. were also cheering on their favorite Podunk derby rider, John Doyle Sr. Father and son Cline and Cory Myers of Scott City both had cars entered in this year's derby.

"It's exciting and fun to crash," Cory Myers said. Racing with his father, he said, is "a great bonding experience."

Cory Myers said he has been competing in demolition derbies for the past year and his father since 2000.

Other fair activities Tuesday included the baby contest. Hannah Connor of Essex, Mo., finished third place in the 13- to 23-month division.

"I'm excited Hannah won," said grandmother Regina Williams.

For Hallie Hoover, this was her second year competing. She did not win, but her family said they had a good time.

"This contest is quick, fun, easy and right here in town," mother Leslie Hoover said.

Regina Hudspeth of Delta came to the fair to share her faith. She and some area Christian businessmen said they have prayed with more than 2,500 people at this year's fair.

"We're not interested in getting people to go to church but being the church. We want to see people go to heaven," Hudspeth said.

Nancy Mitchell of Mitchell Marionettes said this year was their first time coming to the SEMO District Fair and she enjoyed the "nice physical ambience" of the fair.

Mitchell said she and her husband tour fairs from coast to coast. She said she loves the trees and shade Arena Park offers.

"We love the trees and atmosphere. It's wonderful for our audiences and people have a better time," Mitchell said. "The people here have been very nice and responsive. We love interacting with the children and putting on a show that also appeals to adults."

Mitchell is a third-generation puppeteer. Their interactive show combined magic, ventriloquism, hand puppets and marionettes.

"My parents made this so much fun I never wanted to do anything else," she said. "We are a family of puppeteers doing shows for families."

For more information and a schedule of events, go to www.semofair.com.

apicar@semissourian.com

388-3648

Pertinent address:

Arena Park, Cape Girardeau, MO