The 100th O’Brien County Fair, held July 19-25 in Primghar, is in the history books. O’Brien County’s citizens and visitors were treated to an enjoyable, educational, and exceptional experience all week long. The fair board and volunteers, with an assist from comfortable weather, did a wonderful job. Numerous 4-H and FFA alumni attended festivities throughout the special week.
As coordinators (Carol McDowell and Ardith Evenson) of the first ever Traditional Cinnamon Roll Contest held Wednesday, July 24, we extend a heartfelt thanks to the 29 exhibitors who brought 41 delicious entries in two classes (caramel with or without nuts and frosted on the top only). Congratulations to Dee Akeson from Archer who won the caramel category and Brad Tebben from Sanborn who won the frosted category, taking home the $100 first place checks. Two judges, seven volunteers, and one emcee contributed significantly to the contest’s success, and the event attracted an audience of nearly 100 fairgoers. The O’Brien County Farm Bureau Board generously provided prize money and the contest could not have been a success without the support of the O’Brien County Fair Board and the promotion by local media.
Lastly, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the 17 restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores that generously provided door prizes for the audience. The following contributors included: Crazy Bob’s (Hartley), Casey’s (Paullina), Bob and Scott’s (Primghar), Jay’s (Sanborn), Rails (Sanborn), Brady’s Pub (Sheldon), Breu House (Sheldon), Chinese Chef (Sheldon), Dairy Dandy (Sheldon), Fareway (Sheldon), Hardees (Sheldon), Hy-Vee (Sheldon), Langer’s Bar and Grill/Cook’s Café (Sheldon), Taco John’s (Sheldon), Train Station (Sheldon), Legacy’s Bar and Grill (Sutherland), and Main Market (Sutherland). The door prizes and emcee Don McDowell added an element of excitement and were invaluable in making this event interactive and enjoyable. As one attendee commented, “The cinnamon roll contest was a hit!” We appreciated the friendly competition and the awesome taste testing afterwards. Thank you to all for making the O’Brien County Fair Traditional Cinnamon Roll Contest a success!
Carol McDowell
5071 370th St.
Sheldon, IA 51201