Out of a group of 11 contestants, Brookelynn Warner, of Hemingford, was crowned the 2023 Box Butte County Fair Queen on August 9, achieving a goal she has long dreamed of.
“It’s been amazing,” said Warner. “This week was so busy, but it was great. I’ve shown, and been a part of 4-H and FFA for six years, and I did some things that I’ve never done before. It was really interesting to see something new.”
Warner explained that she has always watched older girls participate in the Queen Contest, noting that she has desired to take a chance at becoming the queen herself.
“I’ve always just wanted to do it,” Warner said. “I always looked up to them and thought it would be an amazing thing to try, and this year, decided to give it a shot. I was really in shock after I heard the three girls be called, I was just so excited for everything that was about to happen. I just thought it was really amazing to have the opportunity to represent Box Butte County.”
Warner is expected to make several appearances at area festivals and parades over the course of the next year. Warner shared advice for those who would like to someday wear the crown.
“If they are really wanting to do it, and watching it, and just really think it would be awesome to have a chance to do, just practice and practice and practice,” said Warner. “That’s what I did. Do mock interviews with other people. Try practicing walking in your heels; I had to do that a lot.”
Barbie Applegarth, who coordinates the contest, believes the contest went well.
“We had 11 fantastic girls,” said Applegarth. “It was a very, very close competition. The girls seemed to have a great week up at the fair. I talked to them several times every day, and they did a great job. They represented our county very, very well.”
Warner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Kalli Bridge was named First Attendant, earning an $800 scholarship; Carlie Schneider was named the Second Attendant, earning a $700 scholarship; and Reese Swanson was named Miss Congeniality.