SEMO District Fair is week of thrills, fun

Today marks the opening of the 146th annual SEMO District Fair, the oldest fair in Missouri.

The event transforms Arena Park in Cape Girardeau into a wonderland of colorful sights and tantalizing smells. There's literally something for everyone, from stomach-turning rides to livestock to country music.

It may be just a little tougher to get there this year. Due to bridge reconstruction, drivers accustomed to taking East Rodney Drive will have to take Hopper Road to Hawthorne Road to get to some fair parking this year. But it's just a minor inconvenience and well worth the effort.

The event runs through Sept. 15.

No one should miss out on this city treasure. It promises to be bigger and better than ever.