Barn animals are back, rides have increased, and the grounds are spruced up for the 42nd annual Southeast Alaska State Fair.

Contests, displays and workshops will punctuate the four-day Haines tradition that begins at noon Thursday. Organizers are excited for a banner year.

“We’ve been working really hard getting ready for this big week, and it’s all coming together. I’m really excited,” said fair director Kelly Hostetler.

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Farm animals will be on display at…