MIDDLEBOURNE - Linda Buck, 2011 Tyler County Fair Queen, will crown the queen of the 50th annual Tyler County Fair on Monday.
Seven contestants are vying for the honor. They are:
* Stephanie Marie Wright, 15, the daughter of Jay and Shannon Wright
* Becky Harter, 18, the daughter of Donna and Mike Harter
* Asia S. Richmond, 17, the daughter of Jae and Byron Lenew
* Taylor Clem, 17, the daughter of Rob Clem and Kitty Miller
* Karlie Hilpert, 18, the daughter of Bobby and Becky Hilpert
* Maika McIntyre, 20, the daughter of Billy McIntyre and Heather Smith.
* Miranda Taylor, 17, daughter of Larry and Katrina Taylor.
The reigning queen will crown her successor immediately following the Prince & Princess and the Tyler County Jr. Miss pageants, slated to begin at 7 p.m. Judging for the queen's contest will be based on a one-on-one interview with each judge, event promotion consisting of a 30-second commercial about the fair, and a traditional evening gown competition.
The 2011 Fair Queen commented on her reign, "On Aug. 8, 2011 my dream came true. I was crowned the Tyler County Fair Queen and my year was forever changed. Being the fair queen has been so much more than I ever imagined," Buck said. "Throughout the week of the fair, the people of Tyler County met me with arms wide open and truly made me realize that the Tyler County Fair is a week to celebrate the amazing citizens of our county."
Buck recalled the numerous events and parades she attended this past year. "Every time I put on the crown and sash, I am so honored to be representing such an amazing fair. I love getting to meet new people and seeing the smile on the little girls' faces as they ask to take a picture with a 'queen'," she said. "There is nothing like being able to make someone smile while getting to do something that you love, as well."
She offered some advice to the 2012 Queen. "Be prepared for the journey you are about to embark on. Pack your boots and learn to love the barn! Enjoy every second of the year and try not to blink, because before you know it the year will have gone by.
"I am very sad to see my year come to an end," she concluded. "but I will forever cherish the memories I have made along the way. It has truly been an honor to be the queen, and I am thankful for the opportunity!"
