As State Fair Hound continues to look back at the 2015 New York State Fair, there are many memorable moments to recall. These short vignettes are some that stand out.
A small boy totes a large stuffed bear on his shoulders, gently bumping those he passes on the midway. 
Long after the animal has been discarded, the kid will cherish the State Fair memory, perhaps as he brings his own kids for rides and thrills.
Strong Hearts Café opens in the International Pavilion, marking the first appearance on the grounds of an entirely vegan eatery. For some, it’s counterintuitive to have meatless, non-dairy chow at the Fair, but for those who prefer it, it’s a welcome choice.
A woman sitting at a picnic table in the crowded Pan African tent frantically digs through her bag before pronouncing, “Damn, I’m out of cigarettes.” A small moment to be sure, but one greeted with silent cheers by those nearby who didn’t want to breathe her pollution while eating.
A family shares breakfast under the shade of a canopy on a hot September morning in the infield campground. 
It’s a scene that has played out thousands of times over the years, but this is the last year, at least in the current configuration. Nearby, the vacant Grandstand awaited its last hurrah on Super Dirt Week, never to see another State Fair.
Acting Director Troy Waffner stands before a late-night television camera to announce that rapper Nas has been retained to replace Snoop Dog, who cancelled his appearance at the last minute, reportedly due to illness. Troy looks exhausted, but the booking by his team has saved the night as Nas pleases a sizable crowd in his pinch-hit role.
A television celebrity stamps the New York State Fair as an event worthy of a high-profile visit when Cooking Channel’s Noah Cappe (Tip of the Cappe, Aug. 30, 2015) 
brings his big personality and passion for fried foods to a stand on the grounds to tape an episode of Carnival Eats.
The poultry barn is eerily quiet as avian flu has banished feathered creatures, leaving the barn full of rabbits and guinea pigs. 
Likewise, the chicks hatching in the Youth Building are kept in their cages, disappointing folks who love to hold them.
More review of this year’s Fair and some ideas for the future coming up in State Far Hound.
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