Sunday, June 29, 2008

Putnam County Fair

Well after plenty of rain in Ottawa, Ohio the sun finally appeared for a few short hours on Saturday just in time for me to get to visit and tour the Putnam County Fair. After making the long drive up, I was greeted by Don Verhoff, Senior Fairboard President, who gave me a tour of the fairgrounds. My first stop was to visit the sales arena to watch the famous Beef, Lamb and Goat Obstacle Course. This event was hilarious and definitely a crowd favorite. After that I watched another crowd favorite, the decorated animal contest. The kids had a great time and came up with some pretty creative costumes. Despite the rain it was a very fun and exciting day! Thanks Putnam County for making my visit memorable!!!

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Scioto County Fair Queen's Contest

Today I traveled to Portsmouth, Ohio to judge 11 young women who were vying for the 2008 Scioto County Fair Queen and Court title. Each contestant participated in a ten minute interview with myself and one other judge and then later answered an onstage question in front of family and friends. At the end of the evening the five finalists were announced; however, the official results will not be revealed until opening ceremonies of the fair. All of the girls did a wonderful job and all should be proud of their accomplishments. Also, congratulations to outgoing queen Meighan Stevens and good luck at the state competition!

Monday, June 23, 2008

Pickaway County Fair

Today I traveled to Circleville, Ohio for the Pickaway County Fair! Upon arrival I was given a tour by a junior fairboard member and then escorted to the main stage for the King and Queen contest. Before the contest there was a brief introduction of dignitaries and public officials including Director of Agriculture Robert Boggs, State Representative John Schlichter and Senator John Carey. Following that was the introduction of the king and queen contestants and then the crowning of the King and Queen. Congrats to Katie Liff and Will Ett on being crowned the 2008 Pickaway County Queen and King!

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Jackson County Queen's Contest

On Saturday evening I had the privilege to MC the Jackson County Queen's Contest. There were 13 well qualified contestants who were vying the for title of the 2008 Jackson County Fair Queen. These women each went through an interview, which was held during the day and onstage questions in front of not only the 3 judge panel but an audience of family and friends as well. I was so happy to be a part of this contest because when I was competing for the state title I met their 2006 Fair Queen Jill Hamblin, who is a lovely woman who I'm glad I had the opportunity to meet. Congratulations to the outgoing queen and her court; Kendel Arthur, Molly Brown and Katie Downey! Congratulations to the five finalists and good luck!

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Paulding County Fair

Well the fairs have officially started!!! My first stop of the season was yesterday in Paulding County for their first day of their fair. Upon arrival I was greeted by the current reigning king and queen, Elizabeth and Travis. They took me on a tour of the fairgrounds and then took me to watch the Prince and Princess and Jr. King and Queen Contest. After watching the cute little ones on stage we then got in line for the opening day parade, I was lucky enough to get to ride with Jr. Fairboard member Jessie in his blue El Camero!! At the conclusion of the parade was the coronation of the 2008 Paulding County Fair King and Queen. Congratulations to Amber Gebers and Caleb Schlatter! I'm sure you both will represent Paulding County well and will have a fantastic year doing so. After a long day of horse shows, hog shows, style reviews and more, I decided to make the long drive home! Thanks to all those people who welcomed me to Paulding County, especially the gentlemen who gave me free homemade ice cream! It was delicious!