ERIE — The Neosho County Fair began on Thursday morning with the coronation of this year’s fair royalty.
Marie Wright, Cali Courter, and Fletcher VanHouden of the Neosho Valley Busy Bees 4-H Club, and Braxton Clasen of the Jolly Jayhawkers 4-H Club were crowned during the opening ceremony. Marie as Queen, Braxton as King, Cali as Princess, and Fletcher as Prince.
Candidates from all clubs raised over $17,000 during their campaigns.
“It’s an honor to be named King,” Braxton said. “Thank you to everyone who donated.”
Cali said she enjoyed raising funds by selling statefair-style lemonade. “It was for a good cause and it was super fun to raise the money,” Cali said.
During Marie’s campaign, she said she also raised awareness around a meaningful cause.
“I’m glad that while winning, I also raised awareness for teen mental health.”
Marie partnered with several community organizations to host a mental health night at FireEscape Coffee House in May, where youth could ask questions and get resources on how to support friends going through a mental health crisis, or for themselves.
In other fair-related news, this year marks the first year that attendees can make use of several upgrades to the open class building, according to Fair Board Treasurer Kathy Brazle.
“It’s so different,” Brazle said.
She said that this year, a new roof, ceiling, and lighting has been installed, as well as air conditioning. Brazle said this was done through a Farm Credit Grant.
She said she was excited for those participating in the indoor exhibits to get to utilize these improved changes.
A full review of the fair winners, including photos will be published in the upcoming Neosho County Fair Recap section of the Chanute Tribune, which is scheduled to publish in early August.
Neosho County Fair Queen Candidate Aubrey Taylor, left, and King Braxton Clasen, right, wait for royalty results. Hannah Emberton | Tribune
