Community

Fair queen encourages area teens to take part in 2023 contest

MACKEYVILLE -- The 2022 Clinton County Fair Queen, Bryley Miller, and the fair board are encouraging area young ladies to take part in the 2023 queen contest during the 50th year of the fair.

Miller released the following statement regarding the contest and the impact it's had on her since being crowned last year:

"Since 1991, the Clinton County Fair Queen program has been providing a way for local young women to showcase their unique personalities and strengths. Exceptional young women aged 16 to 20 are invited to be a Clinton County Fair Queen contestant at this year's 50th Clinton County Fair.

Contestants experience the exciting opportunity to promote our rich agricultural heritage AND influence the young people of our community by providing solid role models in the process!

No, you don't need to live on a farm, be a member of 4-H, show livestock or have entries in the fair to be a contestant, although all young ladies are encouraged to participate in this year's fair to be a part of the fun.

The Fair Queen program is looking for you -- a strong and independent young woman, willing to begin a memorable journey of developing her unique skill set for the betterment of our community.

As the current 2022 Clinton County Fair Queen, I can attest to how this program may change your life. I remember the moment, as my name was announced, the crowd roared, and the gorgeous crown was placed on my head. I was certainly enjoying that, but I had no idea that the best was yet to come! I had the opportunity to meet so many incredible people over the week of fair, as I handed out ribbons, mingled with fairgoers and participated in several fair events. I made lifelong memories as I waved the green flag at the racetrack and competed with the kids in the Pedal Tractor Pull!

The experience didn't stop there; this year has found me waving in parades, going to festivals and events, stopping in at local businesses, and my personal favorite, visiting our schools to teach children about the fair! Not only was I able to promote my fair, which is very near to my heart, but I also forged so many relationships, and had a blast along the way!

This program presents an opportunity for a gift you can put towards your future, since the Queen will receive a $200 premium, in addition to the $300 Founders Award. The First Alternate receives a $100 premium, and every participant receives a contestant gift.

Applying to compete may seem intimidating, but the process is simple and well-organized! After you complete a simple application, you write a 300-word essay on "What My Fair Means to My Community." After submitting your application and essay, the Fair Queen committee will immediately be in touch to get you started on the next steps! At the competition, you must present your 3-5 minutes speech entitled, "Why You Should Come to My Fair" as well as answer an impromptu question onstage and participate in a brief judged interview the morning of the contest.

Information on the official rules and electronic application can be found at: https://clintoncountyfairpa.com/queencontest.php or by contacting the Fair Queen Committee Chairperson, Dominique Miller, at 570-295-1015 or clintoncountyfairqueen@gmail.com. The application and essay are due no later than June 16, 2023. Connect with them on Facebook and Instagram as well, @clintoncountyfairqueen

The Clinton County Fair Queen program is sponsored by Gary Thull Pools, Charmaine Beth Nyman, Heidi Nyman Weeder, Ed & Connie Peiffer and Toner Auto Parts.