Message from Miss Ford County Fair 2023

Embracing agriculture, an industry that unites us all regardless of our location, is where my true passion lies. Advocating for the agriculture industry and serving others are two things that I strive to do each and every day. When the opportunity arose to participate in the Miss Ford County Fair Queen pageant, I knew instantly it was an experience I couldn’t pass up. Improving my confidence, poise, public speaking, and interview skills were aspects I eagerly anticipated in this journey. After weeks of preparation, the pageant night had finally arrived. Throughout the competition, I realized that, regardless of the outcome, I had gained valuable skills, created friendships, and made memories that will last a lifetime. The surreal moment of hearing my name announced as the new queen marked the beginning of an entire year representing the county I hold dear, an opportunity for which I am endlessly grateful.

In the days following the pageant, I immersed myself in all the Ford County Fair had to offer. Witnessing the dedication and hard work put into livestock and 4-H shows during the day resonated with my own passion for agriculture. Despite my wonderful days in the barns, evenings were spent welcoming the community to the grandstand events, allowing me to connect with new people and showcase the uniqueness of our fair, which brought me immense joy.

While fair week has been the busiest week I’ve experienced, the rest of the year involved attending neighboring County Fair Queen Pageants, participating in parades, and engaging in local events. In January, I competed in the Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Pageant and was blessed to be named 4th Runner-Up. Mrs. Wyatt and Alaina, thank you for always pushing me to be my very best and for never letting me give up on my goals.

As my time as Miss Ford County comes to a close, it is a bittersweet feeling to know that it is now the time to pass on the crown to another deserving young woman. To the lucky girl who gets to reign as queen, be intentional in every connection you make and take in every opportunity that comes your way; you are in for the best year of your life.

Ford County, thank you for being my steadfast support system this year and making me feel so loved as your queen. Thank you will simply never be enough. To the Fair Board, your trust in allowing me to represent Ford County daily has been a genuine blessing, and it has truly been a blessing getting to work with you all. To my pageant crew, you ladies have been such a joy to have in my corner. From the moment I was crowned to the state pageant and beyond, you all have been so helpful in every way possible. Without the love and support received, this year wouldn’t have been possible. The lessons and skills I have gained will resonate with me for a lifetime, and I am genuinely a better leader because of this experience. My love for Ford County knows no bounds, and I am honored to have represented the best county and the agriculture industry all year long.

Forever and always, your 2023 Miss Ford County Fair Queen, Maci Kingren