The Leader-Herald/Richard Nilsen Josh Jones, in the foreground, of Oneida helps other staff from Brownie’s Tents and Awnings of Clinton put up a tent Tuesday in preparation for the Fonda Fair.

FONDA — For some like Fonda Fair General Manager Jake Sammons, the fair is a half-century tradition, while for others like Cornell Cooperative Extension Horticulture and Agriculture Educator Crystal Stewart, it’s a first-time experience. The 167th Fonda Fair starts Tuesday at 8 a.m. and ends Labor Day at 5 p.m. “My biggest surprise is that the extension office takes a bigger role in the fair here,” Stewart said. “The office is very strong here.” Stewart said her main role will be as horticulture display judge, but she will also help with some animal competition judging. “I will be judging the 4-H meat goats and sheep,” Stewart said. “It’s a fairly big class with 70 kids.” Stewart said the class could get a little raucous since goats aren’t as docile as cattle. She also said she liked how involved the community was at the fair. “This is a more centered and community involved fair than I’m used to,” Stewart said.