By NICK YAMASHITA
The Progress
Some new flavors as well as the usual delectable treats will be provided by food vendors at the Clark County Fair this year which runs from April 10-14.
“We love the organizers of the fair,” said the legendary Texas Twister vendor Diane Memmott. “They treat us very well and take good care of our needs.They work very hard to make the fair a success. And with the choice of vendors they have, it is successful.”
The “One and Only Original” Texas Twister drink has been part of the fair’s cuisine for 27 years now. They are generally accepted as a regular menu option at the Clark County Fair every year.
Originally from Texas, Dwight and Diane Memmott – who have owned Texas Twister since 2006 – have since relocated to Utah and, as of last year, are retired. But this beloved drink has stayed all in the family as their son and his family have taken over the business.
Memmett said their grandson will be at the fair this year selling the favorite drink in its boot-shaped cups.
“Please meet them and ask for Jesse, Bobby or Jody Memmott,” she added. “Y’all will love them as much as you do Momma and Papa Twister!”
Memmott also sent a reminder that there are many imitations of Texas Twister out there, but there’s nothing like the original and their logo is on all of their cups.
She added that, while they may be from out of town, they have felt as if they are part of Moapa Valley for many years.
“All of our workers at the fair are from Moapa Valley,” she said. “They are hard workers and we love them. They are family to us.”
To say thanks to their local friends and supporters the vendor will once again have a coupon printed in the Progress during Fair week for locals.
Moapa Valley-owned Kuppa Joe will also be back at the fair ready to serve its selection of cafe-style drinks. These include their coffee, teas and boba.
But this time, Kuppa Joe owner Bernie Conrique will be offering a new menu item which has gained notoriety lately. The “Bernie Burger,” with its perfectly spiced ingredients will make its grand entrance at the fair.
This burger comes with the tender juicy hamburger patty and bun with sautéed onions and of American or Colby Jack Cheese. And of course, it is seasoned with Bernie’s own top secret blend of spices.
The options of other toppings can be added including bacon, mushrooms and jalapeños for a dollar more each.
The starting price for the burger is $8.00.
It has been hailed by local rodeo-goers, gymkhana riders and others who have had the blessing to try one at local events where Kuppa Joe has set up its trailer.
“We are excited to offer this year’s new menu item and will be at our usual spot over by the Showcase Stage,” Bernie Conrique said. “We always look forward to seeing our regulars as well as meeting new customers.”
He added that the recent addition of seating nearby and the growing popularity of such events as the mutton-busting has helped their sales at the fair with a huge difference.
They also employ the local high school kids and adults, including a military wife. As veterans themselves, the Conriques hold a special place in their heart for Moapa Valley and local military families.
“We look forward to bringing our menu to fairgoers,” Conrique said. “Our burger will definitely be a game changer for us.”
Both the Memmott and Conriques are just a small portion of the options of the food offered at the fair which includes such things as pizza, turkey legs, Greek, BBQ and more.
Those who don’t find the fair options to their liking will have other options from local restaurants and food trucks which will be positioned throughout the valley. One such food truck is White Boy’s Tacos and Mama which will be nearby Green Valley Grocery during lunch hours. Co-Owner Kerri Gomez said unfortunately due to certain circumstances she wasn’t able to be within the fair fence this year.
Still she wished all food vendors a beneficial experience at the fair.
For all food vendors within the Clark County Fair there is a vendor map shown at the fair’s website located at www.fair.com.
