Would you like the world...on a stick?

The question seemed fitting as the crowds strolled past the new Concordia booth in the education building at the Minnesota State Fair this fall. A world-on-a-stick fan was the ideal conversation starter for people interested in the college and Concordia Language Villages. Visitors also dropped by the booth to visit about programs and register for a chance to win an iPod touch.

"We are so glad you are here this year," an alumna said as she found Concordia in the building. The college had been on a waiting list for years for booth space at the "Great Minnesota Get-Together."

Representatives from Concordia staffed the booth during the fair's 12-day run that ended on Labor Day. They enjoyed conversing with thousands of visitors, but some fairgoers wanted more.

"May I have one of those fans?" an out-of-breath fairgoer asked on a beautiful, hot day. "I've heard they are the best." After waving it in front of her flushed face, she smiled. "Oh, that does work great."

Story: Amy E. Kelly / Photos: Briann Koterba