The Marthasville resident and a 2008 Washington High School graduate was sponsored by the Warren County Record. "I am stunned," Gladden said. "I didn't know a lot of the girls real well and I felt kind of out of it. They all made me feel welcome. This is just really amazing. I know I have a lot of work ahead of me." Gladden also was honored for having the top talent. She sang and played "Simple Gifts," a traditional folk song, on her cello. The talent, interview, speech and evening gown portions were held the previous day. After the 10 semifinalists were cut down to six, it was Gladden and Amy Bonstell standing side-by-side clutching hands waiting to see who would be crowned. Gladden takes over for 2007 Queen Danielle Buxton, who will be entering her sophomore year at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Buxton will be competing at the Missouri State Fair in mid-August. As the lone contestant who didn't attend Warrenton or Wright City High School, Gladden admitted it took some urging from her family and friends to participate in the queen contest. But late Saturday evening she came to the realization she enjoyed every minute. "It was really cool to meet some Warrenton kids," said Gladden, who received a $1,000 cash scholarship and $100 cash prize. "I live a mile away from some of them and never got to meet them. It was a neat experience to meet some awesome girls that I never would have met." Bonstell, sponsored by Pitman Funeral Homes, received a $500 cash scholarship for being named first runner-up. "It was a blast," she said. "The girls were amazing. It was an amazing time. I never thought I would be standing there in front of the stage." Chosen as second runner-up was Meghan Wilson, sponsored by Edward Jones-Tom Nittler. Wilson also was recognized for having the top speech. Lynda Chandler, queen coordinator, praised the contestants for their commitment over the past several weeks in preparation for the final night. "All of the girls were extremely pleasant and cordial and bright and mature," she said. "It was a great group of girls. I would have been proud of any of them to wear the crown. "I am sure (Gladden) is overwhelmed, but I'm sure she will do an excellent job." Rounding out the queen's court were third runner-up Kylie Weaver (sponsored by Two Dudes BBQ), fourth runner-up Sarah Meyers (Great Transfauxmations) and fifth runner-up Alana Sherman (Jazz It Up Salon and Spa). Casey Witthaus (Gastorf Schrumpf Body Shop-Scott Hart) was selected as Miss Congeniality. Voted on by contestants prior to the coronation, Witthaus received a gift basket valued at over $1,000. "Standing back there I didn't think I was going to get anything," she said. "It was like the world." Other semifinalists were Karly Hollenbeck (Warrenton DECA), Becca Smith (S&S Jewelers), Laura Feldhaus (Dance Variations) and Teah Bowzer (Hometown Bakery) Marie Schneider (Dave's Auto Parts) was recognized for selling the most Fair season passes. She along with the other top sellers - Krista Smith (Hopkins and Hopkins), Feldhaus, Bonstell and Emily Burrows (Edwards Bros.) - each received a diamond and gemstone ring. Weaver won for top interview and Sherman was honored for best evening gown. But on this night, it was Gladden who stood out alongside the other contestants. "It's definitely going to make my life a little different," Gladden said.

Glad(den) to Be Queen

Glad(den) to Be Queen