An annual rite of summer has arrived with Saturday’s start ofthe Brookhaven Exchange Club Fair.

The fair, now in its 56th year, kicked off last night and willresume Monday evening after an off day Sunday. It will end nextSaturday night.

Traditionally, the fair is held the last full week before schoolresumes, thus giving students one last summer hoorah before goingback to class. And adults, many of whom were brought the fair bytheir parents, are able to relieve their childhood memories andshare in the joy thanks to the family friendly and safeenvironment.

For some, this year’s fair will be a bittersweet occasion due tothe absence and unknown whereabouts of Virginia Ratliff, who hasbeen missing since late February. Although their involvement hasdiminished in their retirement years, she and her husband Ploochiefor years manned the popular bingo concession at the clubpavilion.

Funds raised during the weeklong event go toward supportinglocal and national club efforts to prevent children abuse, parkupkeep, local educational scholarships and other activities.

Club members, as well as hundreds of volunteers, do yeoman’swork to produce the fair every year. Law enforcement and emergencypersonnel are also on hand throughout the week to lend a hand forsecurity and safety.

With good weather and good crowds, the 2008 edition of theBrookhaven Exchange Club Fair should be another great event toentertain families and help the club raise money for its manyworthwhile causes.