Jonny Hirsch blows a cool sax at the Altamont Fair Tuesday as cloudy skies silhouette a near-empty midway ride. Opening day started with heavy rain, which gradually cleared until a sudden evening deluge left a lake to be swept, while reflecting the glow of midway lights, beckoning no one.

But the storm didn't stop kids like Ali Card, 7, at bottom, from having fun. Her big brown eyes are filled with hope as her brow furrows in concentration. Rifle in hand, she aims at plastic cups, pulls the trigger and makes a hit.