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Eighteen-year-old Jessica Stakey of Kamrar was crowned the Hamilton County Fair Queen Wednesday night during a coronation ceremony in the grandstand.

Stakey, the daughter of Doran and Cathy Stakey, also received the leadership award. Stakey thanked the fair board and all of the people involved with the contest, especially the "queen mothers," referring to the committee of Kathy Anderson, Kathleen Hay and Kim Schaa.

Bethany Olson, 17, of Jewell, the daughter of Rod and Terri Olson, was named first runner-up. Breanna Gourley, 18, Webster City, was named second runner-up. She is the daughter of Gerald and Terry Gourley. Ceara VanLangen, the 17-year-old daughter of Doug and Konni VanLangen of Ellsworth, was presented the Congeniality Award.

Other members of the court included, Mary Carlson, 18, of Stratford, daughter of Chris Carlson and Anne Arklie; Stephanie Carlson, 18, Stratford, daughter of Greg and Marlys Carlson; and Laura Grubb, 18, Ellsworth, daughter of Mark and Holly Grubb.

Prior to passing on the crown and cape, Caity Johnson, 2008 Hamilton County Fair Queen, gave her farewell speech and took a walk through the crowd.

Members of the Hamilton County Fair Board gathered on stage to introduce the recipients of the Friends of the Fair Awards. Fair Secretary Holly Meyers presented a plaque the Sylvester Family for their contributions to the fair. Accepting the award were Meyer's her mother and sister, Barbara and Amber Sylvester. Her father, Jim, was unable to attend due to ill health.

Board Member Amy Ratcliff presented a plaque to Mary Jo Johnson and her family, recognizing the contributions of the late Hamilton County Supervisor Marvin Johnson.

Throughout the evening, The Warnock Family entertained the audience and Whitney and Afton Holt served as hostesses for the event.