Junior grangers finding acceptance in fairs

PASCO — An old organization is making a comeback in Washington state, bolstered by woke shifts in Washington State University Extension Office’s 4-H and school-based Future Farmers of America programs.

Washington State Grange, founded in 1889, is now providing an alternative way for rural families to participate in fairs statewide.

Grange is a rural organization that unites rural families with agricultural programs, community halls and activities, and more statewide.

The Benton-Franklin Fair in Kennewick was initially hesitant to allow junior grangers to participate in fairs outside of 4-H and...