Eight young women spent weeks together in competition and friendship as they vied for the title of Warren County Fair Queen.On Sunday, July 1, the competition ended with Ana Russell crowned as the 2018 queen.Russell, the daughter of Tom and Patty Russell, was sponsored by Deerfield’s on Main. She will receive a $1,000 scholarship.She will earn her associate’s degree this year at St. Charles Community College where she is studying occupational therapy.“There wasn’t a dull moment with any of it,” said Russell. “All of the girls have been so encouraging and made me feel comfortable. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at the Fair. I can’t wait for the kids showing their livestock.”As Russell completes her degree, she said the scholarship will help with her fees and books. She is anxious to begin her career as an occupational therapist. Russell is currently working with geriatric patients, and hopes to concentrate on pediatrics in the future.She became aware of children with special needs when she was in fourth grade. Two of her “extraordinary” classmates had disabilities and they were often bullied. The experience left its mark on her.“They have a way of moving my heart that makes me smile,” she said.First runner-up was Logan Frye, sponsored by Nordwald Restoration. She is the daughter of Dean and Jennifer Frye.Second runner-up was Grace Owenby, sponsored by Main Street Real Estate. She is the daughter of Paul and Lisa Owenby.Jordan Rugh was selected by her fellow contestants as Miss Congeniality. She was sponsored by Owenby Transportation and is the daughter of Melody and Gene Rugh.“We all supported each other,” said Rugh. “It didn’t matter who got the crown.”Rugh said she was pleased with her role as Miss Congeniality. She said she always tries hard to be open to others and be positive in her interactions.“I can make you laugh,” she said. “Your day is completely better.”The top seller for the 31 raffle was Owenby. She also was the top seller of Fair passes, selling more than 140.Top interview was awarded to Russell. Top speech or talent was awarded to Rue and top gown was awarded to Russell.Students from Dance Variations entertained the crowd while contestants prepared to take their last walk before the crowd.Nick Schneider opened the coronation with a pitch-perfect a cappella version of the national anthem.The queen and her court will spend their week at the Warren County Fair through Saturday at the Warren County Fairgrounds, 615 Fairgrounds Road in Warrenton.

Ana Russell, daughter of Tom and Patty Russell, was crowned the 2018 Warren County Fair Queen Sunday, July 1. She will receive a scholarship for $1,000. Russell is a student at St. Charles Community College studying occupational therapy. 

Record photo/Cindy Gladden

Ana Russell, seated, was crowned the 2018 Warren County Fair Queen Sunday, July 1 at the Warren County Fairgrounds. Pictured from left are Abigail Thomas, Madison Bergmeyer, Miss Congeniality Jordan Rugh, First Runner-up Logan Frye, Russell, Second Runner-up Grace Owenby, Courtney Eckenfels, and Kayla Nelson. 

Record photo/Cindy Gladden