PERRY — It takes hundreds of people to get the fair ready for the public, but one family has been running these rides for decades.
Before the fair even starts, Richard Reithoffer is making sure everything is in working order, but for him, it's more than just a regular job.
"My great-great-grandfather started the company in 1896. We're 122 years old this year. He started with a steam driver carousel, [he] started it as a summer job to make some extra money," Reithoffer said.
Reithoffer's granddad then went off to fight World War II, but while fighting, he realized he had the chance to bring thrill rides back to the States.
"His experience over in Europe let him know that you are able to bring back some of the largest portable rides, from Europe to the United States, and that was really where he got his start, bringing the major ride from Europe," Reithoffer said.
Now the family tradition continues with new rides this year, like tea cups, a kiddie carousel and
the 'EuroSlide,' which is 75 feet tall.
Reithoffer says the more than 70 rides makes working the fair worth it.
"I really enjoy when the families are all out here and we're out here and you hear kids screaming and laughing, but I just thought, that would be a fun way to make a living," Reithoffer said.
This may be Reithoffers full-time job, but he says at the end of the day, the 'F' in in fair is all about family.
"I think it's a great value to come out with your family and have some fun on the rides. We're coming to your town...you don't have to travel, just come see us," Reithoffer said.