Fairgrounds receive grant funding

COLFAX - The Palouse Empire Fair was awarded a grant of $2,500 through AgWest to finish their Swine Barn Improvements.

AgWest Relationship Manager III/VP Ryan Kile said that the grant came through their rural grant program.

Palouse Empire Fair Manager Ashley Reisenauer said that the money was used for rebuilding a new swine barn office in the swine barn.

The new office was finished by fairground staff on Monday, July 22. "We purchased all of the lumber and materials last week and constructed," Reisenauer said, "It just needs to be painted."

Reisenauer said that they had wanted it to be done so it could be used during the fair this year.

"It's a pedestal type of office, new wood office kind of in a pedestal type of design," Reisenauer said.

Kile said that the grant program ranges from $500 on the low end to $5000 at the highest, coming to an average of $2,500. "Any non-profit that is located in the area or helps serve are eligible," he said, adding that many apply for electrical upgrades or to put in new facilities and help with new supplies.

"It was also supported by two letters from the community," Reisenauer said, adding that the fairgrounds are thankful to the community for their continuing support for improvements to the grounds and buildings.

"We're pretty excited," Reisenauer said, "It's always exciting to get more improvements out there to make it last longer."

The Palouse Empire Fair will take place Sept. 5 through the Sept. 8 this year.