The fair has started!

The Palouse Empire Fair is back on center stage.

The fair has been a long-running show for the county at its permanent home outside Colfax at Mockonema, at the intersection of Highway 26 and Endicott Road.

Every year improvements are made at the site. The most dramatic ones to greet visitors this year are the additions and improvements to the Community Building.

Regardless of the changes and improvements, the fair is really about people.

It is one of the greatest meeting places in the county. Rural residents and city residents mingle at the fair. Old friends reconnect and new friendships are made. Families come to see children and grandchildren show their animals or to gaze at the myriad of projects entered for judging.

A blue ribbon is nothing to sneer at. Neither is the mere fact that so many people submit their favorite and best projects, be it baking, photography, canning or quilting. The variety of local talent is amazing. So is the variety of different entries.

The Palouse Empire Fair still has the flavor of an old-time rural fair. It is not too big to get around. It is not expensive. People openly enjoy themselves. Parking attendants are even on horseback.

If the exhibits are not enough, food is plentiful and varied. Entertainment is virtually nonstop. And, there is the carnival for thrill seekers of all ages.

A very important part of the fair is the stock show and sale. Kids raise market animals. Their hope at the very least is to make back more than the project cost them. The real hope is that the proceeds will help them pay for college or other important life goals.

Another special attraction awaits. The fair is celebrating the 50th year of hosting a rodeo. As it has been for the last several years, the rodeo is included in the fair admission price.

And, after all the fun, the food, the socializing, a spelling bee for adults who wish to participate will be conducted at the old Jones Schoolhouse.

There is a lot more to the fair than just this quick overview. Details and a full schedule were published last week in the Gazette. There are still some copies left.

The reasons for attending the fair are varied and numerous. There is literally something for everyone.

But, perhaps; the best reasons are to enjoy yourself and to be surrounded by people enjoying themselves.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher