Photo submitted to the Times Observer Outgoing Warren County Fair Court members, from left, first runner-up Veronica Ludwick, Junior Miss Alexis Stec and Queen Cassie Dalrymple.

Experiences can be over in the blink of an eye, but memories can last a lifetime.

Outgoing Warren County Fair Queen Cassie Dalrymple, First Runner-up Veronica Ludwick and Junior Miss Alexis Stec said their time serving on fair court gave them friendships and exposure to things that will stick with them long after their reign is over.

“During my reign as Warren County Fair queen I was able to learn so much more about the behind the scenes aspects of the fair,” Dalrymple said. “I was able to see what goes into making the fair happen year after year.

I was given the opportunity to participate in activities throughout Warren County such as parades, being able to share something I love with the community I am a part of. Through this experience I was blessed also with gaining two wonderful friends who feel the same way I do about it.”

Stec agreed, saying, “Overall this has been an amazing experience that taught me so much about the fair, not only fair week, but all year. As a court member this has been incredible, I could not have asked for a better runner up and queen for the year.”

The group highlighted the challenges, and rewards, of the competition process.

“The contest aspect of Fair Queen is challenging yet very rewarding,” Dalrymple said. “As a contestant you are required to write a short essay, give a speech in front of three judges, as well as interview with the judges.”

While Dalrymple pointed to the challenges of competing, all three noted the rewards.

“It has been a very positive experience that pushed me to go outside my comfort zone,” Ludwick said.

“To anyone interested in doing the Warren County Fair pageant, please take part in this tradition,” Stec implored. “Even if you don’t come out with the crown you’ll make amazing friendships.”

“I believe this process helped me grow more confident in speaking in front of others as well as being confident in what I had to say,” Dalrymple noted. “This also enhanced my practical skills for working with the public as well as interviewing for jobs as I move forward in my career.”

Looking back the trio cited the memories they made during their reign.

“One of my most memorable highlights of (working with the) fair was being able to be the first fair court member to participate in the firemens’ water battle,” Stec noted.

“The highlights of my reign were the memories with my court. As well as being able to promote the fair to my community and spend time in the county that I love,” Dalrymple said. “I was able to get to see the aspects of fair most people don’t and appreciate more all that goes into making our fair the best around.”

They also had some advice for the incoming fair court.

“To the new royalty, smile! Be confident in yourself! You are amazing and I am so proud of all of the work you have put into this,” Dalrymple said. “Most importantly, take advantage of every opportunity this year flies by but it is so worth it.”

“Cherish every minute because your reign will be over before you know it,” Ludwick added.

“To the incoming junior miss, I strongly suggest you take the time and thank any fair worker for all the things coming your way,” Stec said.

The group also urged others to participate in the pageant.

“I would strongly encourage them (interested girls) to do it because I have made some of the best friendships,” Ludwick said.

“Please just try,” Dalrymple said. “Going into this year I only ran because I thought I would not win. I am so glad that I did. The experiences I was blessed with were better than I could ever imagine.”

The group made sure to thank those who make it all possible as well.

“I would love to thank the fair board and many volunteers for keeping the best fair around running smooth and for being the wonderful supportive people that they are.” Dalrymple said.

“One thing that I would like to say is a huge thank you to anyone who puts their time into the Warren County Fair,” Stec added. “Not only would my reign not have been possible, but this 92-year-old fair would not be as spectacular as it is today.”