The fair opens

The Palouse Empire Fair starts its annual run today. The fair is a long-held tradition on the Palouse.

The tradition itself goes back to ancient times. Fairs were a time to celebrate and give thanks for harvest. It is little different today.

This fair is an opportunity to lay aside work, take comfort in knowing that the crops are harvested and to celebrate with others the end of the season. It is also the time to take a deep breath before preparing for the upcoming year.

For others, it is a chance to see some parts of rural life they are not familiar with and enjoy some traditional country hos...