Have you been to the Clayton Fair lately? I had not, and was pleased to see it has grown in size, attendance, and events over the years. Helping with the Miss Deer Park Scholarship Program, I knew that our Clayton Fair had royalty. I knew how involved the Fair Royalty is in our community and outlying community events; however, I did not know how Fair Royalty is selected.

Candidates for Royalty selection are entering grades 8 through 11, have an exhibit in the current fair, and must have a strong parental/guardian support system, as there are many events to attend throughout the coming year. The entry form asks each candidate to describe what FAIR means to her or to him, to share something that makes them stand out to the judges, interests outside school and sports, and a short summary on why he or she wants to become Fair Royalty.

The judging is a two day event, with results announced on day three. Day one consists of individual interviews with the panel of judges. Day two, candidates are judged on personality, poise, and appearance by presenting a two to three minute speech on why each candidate feels he or she would be a good representative for the fair, along with the presentation of a talent/demonstration of a skill.

Karen Martino oversees this program, and attends the events with the Fair Royalty over the next year. You can see the pride on her face when she is with current royalty and new candidates. Attending the crowning on Sunday, even with the cooler weather, definitely warmed my heart.

Congratulations to this year’s Clayton Community Fair Queen Harriet Riebold, and her Princess, Maddi Stehlar. Last year’s royalty, Queen Karli Kastner and Princess Hannah Moore, did a wonderful job representing our Clayton Community Fair at local events, many parades, and setting a great example for our community youth. It was also heartwarming to see our Miss Deer Park representatives, among other visiting and past royalty, there to support the Fair Royalty.