Stephenson County kicks off fair week with crowning of queen
The Stephenson County Fair kicked off Tuesday in traditional fashion with the opening of the midway and the fair queen pageant.
There were 12 contestants in this year's pageant and three winners.
Jasmine Brinkmeier, 17, of Freeport was named the 2023 Stephenson County Fair Queen.
Addison Ames, 14, of Davis, was given the title of 2023 Junior Miss, and Mariah Brennan, 9, of Freeport, will assume the role of 2023 Little Miss.
Contestants competed in several categories: an interview portion that was held during the day, evening gown, swimsuit, business attire, public speaking and questions and answers.
More: Heading to the Stephenson County Fair? Here's what to know
Cindi Mielke, of Ridott, is in her 11th year as pageant director.
Mielke called the pageant experience a bond that contestants will never forget and a great opportunity to build life skills like confidence and maturity.
"The girls really become like sisters," Mielke said. "We start working together the first weekend of June. They become like my second set of daughters."
"They really come out of their shell," Mielke said of pageant's contestants. "They go up on stage at the grandstand, and they interact with people."
Brinkmeier, Ames and Brennan will be present at major events this week at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds. They'll also represent the fair in the coming year at parades and throughout the community.
The fair continues this week through Sunday at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds, 2250 S. Walnut Road in Freeport. Parking is free.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Stephenson County kicks off fair week with crowning of queen
