Submitted Article
On Tuesday, May 26, Cedar County 4-H members showcased their creativity and food science expertise during the 2026 4-H Favorite Food Revue.
Held at the Hartington City Auditorium, 15 youth demonstrated their culinary skills by preparing themed table settings, complete with centerpieces to showcase their favorite food.
Contestants prepared a single serving of their favorite dish for the judge, who evaluated them on various criteria including food preparation and appearance, menu planning, meal management, nutrition, table setting, and overall display and presentation. Most participants also brought sample-sized portions of their favorite food for other exhibitors and their families to try, along with copies of their recipes to share. This event highlighted the impressive talents and knowledge of the 4-H members in the realm of food science.
In the Clover Kid Division (ages 5-7), receiving a Clover Kid Rainbow Ribbon were Blakelee Fleming, daughter of Ashlee & Weston Fleming of Hartington; Brooklyn Heimes, daughter of Julie & Steve Heimes of Wynot; Ella Heine, daughter of Lyndsey & Greg Heine of St Helena; Ellie Kathol, daughter of Katrina & Tyler Kathol of Hartington, Kella Koch, daughter of Mallorie & Chad Koch of Laurel; Levi Mann, son of Kayla & Austin Mann of Hartington; Rylee Mann, daughter of Kayla & Austin Mann; and Dani Schmit, daughter of Jessica & Nick Schmit of Coleridge.
In the Junior Division (ages 8-11), receiving blue ribbons were Vivia Becker, daughter of Lisa & Zach Becker of Hartington; Korbyn Gubbels, son of Kathi & Andy Gubbels of Hartington; and David Heine, son of Lyndsey & Greg Heine of St Helena. Receiving purple ribbons were Raegan Gubbels, daughter of Kathi & Andy Gubbels of Hartington; and Kaylin Kathol, daughter of Katrina & Tyler Kathol of Hartington. Ashley Schmit, daughter of Jessica & Nick Schmit of Coleridge, received a purple ribbon and the Reserve Champion rosette. Receiving a purple ribbon, the Junior Division Top Exhibit rosette, and the Overall Top Exhibit medal was Emily Erwin, daughter of Carol & Josh Erwin of Laurel.
Kim Bearnes and Mackenzie Sudbeck judged the event and provided excellent comments and encouragement to all the participants.
Security Bank sponsored the Overall Favorite Food Revue Top
Exhibit Medal.