Crowns, Cows and Miss Congeniality

Megan Perry, Corner Post staff

Aug. 18, 2002, Sedalia, Mo. - "Yes the crown, wear the crown, BE the crown." This "Miss Congeniality" quote captured the spirit of 56 young ladies as they participated in the 2002 Missouri State Fair Queen contest in August. Representing agricultural organizations and industries from across the state, dynamic young women competed in various divisions to claim the crown.

The College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) was well-represented at the Fair in Sedalia. Lanie Ast, Laura Bondy, Erica Coble, Tiffany Cruise and Megan Perry proudly represented MU and CAFNR as State Fair Queen contestants.

Just as Sandra Bullock discovered, the stereotype classifying queen contestants as prissy airheads is incorrect. In many cases, the contestants made mad dashes from showing their livestock to competing in their events, the first of which was the interview. Topics ranged from Missouri agriculture, the future of ag industries, health issues facing Americans and the effect of 9-11 on the United States. The catchall answer "World Peace" would not suffice as contestants demonstrated their knowledge and ability to discuss current issues and express their ideas about improving and promoting agriculture.

Next, contestants took to the stage for the talent competition. Although no one gave a flaming baton routine or self-defense demonstration, talents included speeches; vocal and instrumental numbers; dance performances; and even auctioneering. This competition allowed each individual to showcase herself and her ideals.

The grace and poise of each woman was tested in the next - and what most contestants consider the most difficult event - the evening gown. After each contestant had taken her walk, the top ten were selected. The on-stage interviews began and each girl's ability to think on her feet was tested as she took her turn answering a question related to the fair and farm life.

Finally, the scores were tallied and the top five were announced. CAFNR students made a strong showing. Lanie Ast received first in the speech competition and fourth runner up over all. Megan Perry received third runner up. Kelly Rohfling, an MU graduate, was announced as the 2002 Miss Missouri State Fair Queen. Amanda Dyke, CAFNR student and the 2001 queen, summed up the competition by stating that the queen should not "be the crown," rather she should use it as a microphone to promote the issues most important to the agriculture industry.