'Utah's Own' showcases state businesses at fair

Fairs started out so farmers could show off the fruits of their labors.

With the passing of time, more events, such as carnivals and live entertainment, have been added and slowly taken over.

This year, Utah State Fair executive director Rick Frenette is hoping a new balance can be found between modern forms of entertainment and the old ways of the fair.

The 2006 fair is highlighting "Utah's Own" — locally produced food stuffs — to educate people on how much farmers and food manufacturers contribute to the local economy.

Terrel's Country Bakery is a local frozen roll and doughnut maker based in Sanpete County. The Mt. Pleasant business has been in operation for five years.

The local business keeps money in Utah, uses local goods and keeps jobs in Utah.

That's also a focus of FatBoy Ice Cream. They too use local goods, produce their goods in Utah and support other businesses.

Over the last year, FatBoy has spent about $500,000 to educate people that it is a Utah product, said Tom Brough, the company's director of special events. FatBoy's frozen treats are in 26 states now and growing.

More importantly, the business wants Utahns to get used to new and unique foods.

"Utah needs a change," said Lee Banks, restaurant manager of Young Living Farms.

One of his most popular items is a beef brisket wrap. There are people who have stopped by his booth every day to get the wrap and still have not tired of it, Banks said.

Change is something Utah lamb growers have had to sell many people on. Many have preconceived notions about the product, but have never tried it.

Samples were given out to reluctant tasters.

A cowboy favorite, reportedly, is lamb shank — a huge, meaty drumstick.

Other Utah businesses on scene at the fair are Morrison Meat Pies, Norbest Turkey, Colosimo's Sausage, Chaparro's Tamales and Spotted Dog Ice Cream.

The "Utah's Own" organization is like a family of businesses who support each other, Banks said.

Many of the businesses said they have gotten a good response from fair-goers, many of whom have returned to the food windows to compliment the chefs.

"Utah's Own" food court is located on the north side of the fair grounds. It is open throughout the day.

"This beats all of our expectations," Brough said. ""Utah's Own" has worked well with us and the people have been supportive."

For more information about the Utah State Fair, visit www.utahstatefair.com.

---

E-mail: blee@desnews.com