Dinner-auction nets $25,000 for fair foundation projects

Palouse Empire Fair Foundation’s annual dinner and auction Dec. 5 raised more than $25,000 for fair improvement projects.

Brian Jacobs of Colfax, coordinator of the dinner, said near 240 people dined on barbecued baron of beef prepared by Jenny Meyer of Endicott.

Attendees bid on a number of items during the annual auction, which was conducted by Butch Booker of Colfax. Most competitive auction item was a set of four tires donated by Les Schwab. Jacobs said a number of people bid on the tires, which finally sold for $1,000.

Money from the auction will go toward foundation projects to improve the fairgrounds.

Jacobs said the group is looking at a number of projects, including an expansion of the fair’s RV park and remodeling of fair restrooms.

Past projects funded by the foundation have included the new show ring for sheep, paving of the parking space in the carnival area and the Youth Ag Pavillion.