Heritage Fair Pie Baking Contest

UNION – What this year’s Heritage Fair pie baking contest lacked in numbers, it made up for in quality.

This year’s judges – State Sen. Craig Wilcox, Carol Richardson of Richardson Adventure Farm in Richmond and the last Heritage Fair pie baking champ, Jim Ratway of Woodstock – set the table for a competitive taste-off by McHenry County Historical Society former Administrator Kurt Begalka. In the final analysis, Kathy Betke’s pecan pie prevailed as grand champion over still-warm peach of an entry. Judges remarked on its crust, texture and flavor.

This year’s winners were:

FRUIT: 1st – Judy Link, Marengo (peach); 2nd – Melissa and Oakley Schultz, Union (apple); 3rd – Adrianne Adams, Richmond (peach).

MIXED FRUIT/OTHER: 1st – Kathy Betke, McHenry (pecan); 2nd – Kathy Betke (strawberry/rhubarb); 3rd – Meg Shaw, Evanston (strawberry/rhubarb).

Thanks to all the bakers who participated in the contest and bake sale, which benefited MCHS. An apple pie contest is planned for Cider Fest on Sunday, Oct. 2. 2021.