The judge: Sheep man comes from Ohio for second year

Thumbs in pockets, he watched.

Arms folded, he paced.

The sheep judge directed junior showmen boys and girls to move in a circle along the arena fence.

Rows of spectators observed, while sunlight inched across the blanket of sawdust Friday morning at Palouse Empire Fair.

Sheep Superintendent Eric Appel stood at one corner as the judge continued, gesturing with one hand for certain sheep and showmen to step forward.

Wearing an Ohio State Fair belt buckle, the judge cued all of the competitors to go around the perimeter once again.

He split them into two groups, one row against one fence, one ag...