The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Dressed For the Ritz

by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher/Owner

14 June 2006

Although the Henderson County Fair Queen and Little Miss Contestants were "dressed for the Ritz," the choice for the 2006 Fair Queen was far from seeking robotic perfection, and modest and reserved behavior as in Emily Post days.

This year, the more relaxed attire of Master of Ceremonies Nick Burg (shorts and Croc sandals) and his teasing and witty personality, set the stage for a more relaxed and fun "bring it on" attitude.

The Henderson County Fair is, of course, just that.

Put on your shorts, your casual dress, and get ready to have some fun.

At the same time, it doesn't mean we are all a bunch of "hicks."

As the Disney movie "Princess Diary" shows, a young girl can transform in front of our eyes and that is beauty to behold. It shows us that in our towns, there are Cinderellas among us if we give them the opportunity.

Those who give this fairy tale dream-come-true opportunity to all the Queens and Little Misses in our homes are to be thanked, especially Sue Lyon and Stacie Arnold co-directors of the Pageant.

A special "thanks for always being there" to Delmar Jacob. He sets up and runs the sound system and makes introductions as needed, and you just know he will always be there to help. Many others help make the event successful, but I am sure they will all agree, it was worth the work to see the transformation of each girl into a "beauty Queen" and "lovely Little Miss."

Each girl was very special in their own unique way. Their speeches were simply amazing as many opened up their heart to show what is beyond beauty. Their beautiful gowns, modeling, concern for each other all unveiled royalty.

Only two were chosen, but all would be excellent representatives of "our" county fair.

Although they can dress for the Ritz and show their demure, they also showed their good attitudes and their ability to just have fun when they perfomed a lively group dance.

Thanks girls for giving the community a wonderful fun evening we will remember. And remember, we admire you, most importantly, for your beauty inside, as well as out. A good Queen reins with her heart!