BERRIEN SPRINGS — While animal exhibits, rides and entertainment are big reasons for visiting the Berrien County Youth Fair this week, many also go to get their fill of fair food.

All it takes is a brief stroll down the midway and one will experience the tantalizing scents of fried food, carried by the summer breeze. While there are ice cold bubble teas and elephant ears to choose from, those who follow their nose to The Korn Dog can enjoy a savory treat, while giving back to the Berrien Springs community.

The green and white food shack is run by the Friends for Berrien Springs, a nonprofit that donates the net proceeds from the sales back to the Berrien County community. Everyone who works at the stand is a volunteer.

Those who visit the stand can purchase corn dogs, mozzarella or cheddar cheese and vegetables, all hand dipped in freshly made batter and deep fried on the spot. A vegetarian corn dog is also available. All menu items are sold for $4 and under.

Barb Strefling is a retired member of the Friends for Berrien Springs and has been part of the organization for 46 years. Despite her retired status, Strefling helps out at The Korn Dog.

She said the nonprofit has been selling corn dogs at the fair since 1959.

On an average day at the fair, there is typically a line of hungry customers. Strefling said she believes The Korn Dog’s popularity is influenced by the low cost menu. 

“We think families should be able to come out here and bring their kids  to the fair and have a good time and buy something to eat and not have to mortgage their house,” Strefling said. “Which is why we keep our prices where we do.”

Strefling also said she believes hand dipping and frying the food on the spot make a big difference in the taste.

“We believe it’s important to have a good product,” Strefling said. “My granddaughter tells me the reason our corn dogs are so good is that they are made with love.”

Strefling estimated that on average The Korn Dog brings in about $50,000 during the fair before expenses are taken out, though, the weather is a contributing factor to how large the crowd is at the fair and how much is sold at The Korn Dog.

The Friends for Berrien Springs raises money to give back to the community in the form of scholarships for students, the purchase of playground equipment for local parks, Berrien Springs fireworks, the Easter Egg Hunt and many other endeavors. The organization is made up of volunteers from various organizations and Friends for Berrien Springs donates funds back to that volunteer’s organization based on the hours they work.

Strefling said she would encourage people to visit The Korn Dog this fair season and check out the menu.

“Because it’s good,” Strefling said. “It’s just kind of a family tradition. We love the fair and … we love fair food.”