Ninety degree temperatures and thunderstorm forecasts can mean only one thing: The Lawrence County Fair is here.

It seems this is what Mother Nature brings each and every year at the annual event held in Rome Township that impacts youth and attracts visitors from all of Lawrence County and beyond.

But the weather never dampens the enthusiasm or melts the passion for this rite of summer that offers something for everyone.

County fairs are most commonly associated with 4-H. And that is a big part of the event, allowing these youth to showcase their work with the organization that focuses on raising livestock but also instilling life skills in numerous areas.

But the county fair is so much more than that.

The fair is a homecoming of sorts mixed with a splash of family reunion. Many people use this one time of the year to catch up with family and old friends, maybe making some new ones along the way.

The fair is also an economic boost locally and beyond. In addition to the money generated by the animal sales, the event will bring thousands of people to the eastern end of Lawrence County.

And of course it offers some entertainment to help fill those hot summer evenings. Organizers have tried to find something for just about everyone.

The diverse list includes demolition derbies, motocross, monster trucks, horse and tractor pulls and a variety of musical talent.

And let’s not forget what the fair offers in terms of culinary delights. From funnel cakes to bloomin’ onions to lemon ice and everything in between, there is nothing like fair food to fill your belly and remind you of days gone by.

Slated to run through Saturday, the Lawrence County Fair will offer it all — rain or shine.

History tells us there will likely be a whole lot of both.