Rachel Syktich Crowned 2009 Clearfield County Fair Queen

Her fan section belted out “We Love You,” as she was called to center stage. Rachel Syktich, 19 of DuBois, was also the judges’ favorite and crowned the 2009 Clearfield County Fair Queen at the grandstand Sunday afternoon. “It’s so surreal. It’s real. It’s happening. It’s real. I’m just living it right now,” she said. “And, it’s only just begun.” Syktich said that last year’s queen Leah Carr has been a mentor. She said that she learned a great deal as a member of her court. “She’s been such an inspiration. She made me want to do it again with her amazing queen ability. I felt that I could try to live up to those standards,” Syktich said. “She loves our fair and its agriculture. It’s a big part of all our lives and is what will stick with me. She taught me how to promote and love our fair.” During the contest, Syktich said her hope was to attract others to her fair that is the fifth largest in the state. She said the “changing times” was a recurring theme at this year’s Pennsylvania State Association of County Fairs Convention. She said that change is currently surrounding everyone due to the economic turbulence. “I hope you all can change that for one week. I see and know the times have changed. But for once time stood still,” Syktich said. Despite entering the contest as the previous year’s first runner-up, Syktich admitted that she was uncertain about the end result. She said that she had questions marks running through her thoughts. “All of those 10 girls were amazing. They were all true, good moraled girls. I think that they should all run again if they have the chance,” she said. She said that when announced the new fair queen, it was a dream come true. “It was like ‘wait, did they say my name. Did they just say my name right now? I’m the next fair queen, did they just say that.’ It’s just a beautiful dream that I’m living right now,” Syktich said. Syktich said that although she did not have her name called two years ago, she was inspired by friends, family and the queen committee to vie for the crown again both last and this year. “They are the reason I have this crown on my head,” she said. She said that she not only looks forward to promoting her fair with a smile, but also sharing the experience and memories with her court. “They are really great girls, and I am so proud to be standing with them. I know that we’ll all become great friends.” Syktich will be joined by Carrie Flanagan, first runner-up; Joslyn Smeal, second runner-up; Halee Kephart, third runner-up; and Devon Lucas, fourth runner-up.