By Derrick Forsythe, Record Staff Writer
Part of representing Warren County as fair queen is having a strong understanding of the area’s heritage, commerce and government.That’s why seven candidates and a former queen spent their Tuesday exploring the county to gain insight about the population they hope to represent by wearing the crown and claiming the title of 2017 Warren County Fair Queen.This year’s candidate pool includes six from Warrenton High School, Madison Burgmeyer, Macie Sommer, Alex Buechner, Jordon Todd, Abby Schneider and Dana Sherman, along with a pair of Wright City High School students, Claire Ehlenbeck and Abigail Thomas.“A lot of the girls don’t know what all exists in the county,” said Queen Contest Coordinator Michelle Prior. “We take these tours so they can learn the insights of where do they register to vote or pay property taxes.”The candidates began their journey around Warren County with a stop at KFAV, where they were each interviewed by radio personality Mike Thomas.They also made an appearance on the AM program “Livewire.”The next stop was the courthouse, where the candidates sat in on a hearing presided by Judge Wes Dalton. They then visited Judge Mike Wright, who answered questions about his role in the county government.“A lot of them didn’t know that members of the public could go sit in on court cases,” said Prior. “They were really fascinated by that.”The candidates then ventured to the county administration building, where they met with the county commissioners and learned more about the working of the county government. That stop also included visits to the collector’s and assessor’s offices.Candidates had a chance to get better acquainted over lunch at Oliver’s Restaurant in Warrenton.“Part of the fun for them is getting to know each other and developing friendships,” said Prior.The candidates concluded their tour at Innsbrook, learning about the lakes and amenities available on the east side of the county.“If they are to become Miss Warren County, we want them to know about their county so when they go on to the Missouri State Fair they’re knowledgeable about the area they represent,” said Prior.The candidates still hope to take the traditional tour of the Warren County Jail, but have not yet done so due to schedule changes.In addition, each queen candidate is currently selling fair tickets and raffle tickets for a 31-day drawing throughout July.The Warren County Fair Queen candidates visited the courthouse as part of their tour through the county on Tuesday, June 13. They are pictured with Judge Mike Wright, from left, to right, Alex Buechner, XX, Claire Ehlenbeck, Abigail Thomas, Abby Schneider, Jordan Todd, Macie Sommer and Madison Burgmeyer. Record photo/Derrick Forsythe.
