LINN  — A year after COVID-19 created a lull at the Osage County Fair, last week’s event was also down a bit due to weather, though Thursday’s opening ceremony and the activities that followed were well-attended, as was the demolition derby on Friday.

“We were fortunate to have good weather for the opening night,” said Osage County Lions Club Fair Chairman Clell Baker. “People really seemed to enjoy the reptile show and the activities that night had a lot of interest too.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed, there was still a concern from health department officials about the Delta variant. However, there was be no mask requirement at the fair.

“We did see people social distancing when possible,” said Baker.

Main Stage Coordinator Mark Loethen oversaw the opening ceremony, which included an opening prayer by Rev. Bill Barkman of St. John’s United Methodist Church, the presentation of colors. By the Linn Fire Protection District Honor Guard, a performance of the National Anthem by Linn High School junior Faith McKim, and a tribute to veterans.

There also was an appreciation ceremony recognizing frontline healthcare workers, law enforcement officers, 911 employees, ambulance personnel, fire department volunteers, and first responders.

Rep. Aaron Griesheimer and Rep. Bruce Sassmann presented a House Resolution to members of the 2021 Linn baseball team in honor of their best season ever as the Wildcats finished second in Class 3 at the state tournament last month.

Unfortunately, the Miss Osage County Contest was canceled again this year due to a lack of interest but there were plenty of people on hand for the Little Mister & Miss Contest. Winners are pictured on Page 9.

Back by popular demand, “Steve the Reptile Man” presented a live show on the main stage. This informative session featured lizards, snakes, tarantulas, and many other reptiles.

Winners from various activities at the fair will be published elsewhere this week and next.

A new event this year was the demolition derby put on by FFT-Flowers Full Throttle Demolition Derby, LLC, which drew 31 competitors, which organizers agreed was a great turnout.

The greased-pig-catching contest was again a favorite but held on the west end of the track instead of the barn as originally planned. Organizers explained the move was made to eliminate the possibility of cross-contamination from anything animals shown at the fair might have introduced to the barn. There were several divisions due to the number of kids entered.

“We appreciate everyone who came out this year,” said Baker. “As always, we feel it was a great event for the community.”

Be sure to check out the UD this week and next for action and results from the Osage County Fair.