The annual Derby Days Medallion Hunt, sponsored by the Valley News, starts today. The finder will receive a $200 cash prize.

What: The Minnesota State Fair’s Amateur Talent Contest auditions begin Monday, July 28. Head to the fairgrounds for audition footage and interviews with performers.

Who: Dancers, singers, comedians, jugglers - you name it! Performers of all ages audition in hopes of being one of the 120 chosen to perform during semi-finals at the 2008 Minnesota State Fair.

Think you’re fast on a mountain bike? Can your time hold up to those of other competitors? Are you up for the challenge?

Then compete in the “Murphy Mountain Bike Sprint Series” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, Aug. 6, 13 and 20 at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve in Savage.

Come see how early tradesmen and women shaped the history of Minnesota on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 2 and 3 at Murphy’s Landing in Shakopee.

The Scott County Fair opened today and will run through Sunday at the county fairgrounds, 7151 190th St. W., in St. Lawrence Township, near Jordan.

There is no admission fee, but parking and grandstand charges apply. For more information, call (952) 492-2436 or go to www.scottcountyfair.com.

Here is the schedule of events:

Wednesday, July 23

The annual Derby Days Medallion Hunt, sponsored by the Valley News, starts Thursday when the first clue will be published in our print edition. The first clue will appear on this Web site at 6 p.m. Thursday.

Magician Matt Dunn will entertain people of all ages at the Huber Park Amphitheater today at 7 p.m. It's free!

The Scott County Fair runs from Wednesday, July 23 through Sunday, July 27 at the county fairgrounds, 7151 190th St. W., in St. Lawrence Township, near Jordan.

There is no admission fee, but parking and grandstand charges apply. For more information, call (952) 492-2436 or go to www.scottcountyfair.com.

Local restaurant owner Bryan Turtle said there could be 500 vehicles showing up for tonight's Minnesota Valley Rally in downtown Shakopee.

A spin-off of a car show that used to occur mid-week, the rally is expected to draw a much larger crowd because it's being held Fridays, every other week.

There will be street vendors and area shops will also be open. The first event is tonight, with remaining shows scheduled for July 18; August 1, 15 and 29 and Sept. 12 and 26.

An entertaining Shakopee Valley News blog by Steve Sorensen about Brett Favre is currently the #1 sports blog on MySpace. Check it out on our site or on MySpace.