A 13-year-old Salem girl was crowned as Marion County’s new Junior Miss at the fairgrounds Thursday night.
Aubrey Parker also won the Russler Award for her passion for the fair. Outgoing Queen Aubri Landreth crowned Parker.
“I was super excited and happy that I get to be a role model just like Aubri was.”
Parker was one of 18 contestants seeking the title.
“I was hoping I did. I was giving it my all so if I didn’t I would still be happy for who got it.”
Parker will be an eighth grader at Franklin Park Middle School in the fall.
Landreth says she had a great time serving and being alongside 2023 Marion County Fair Queen Kaitlyn Banning.
“You just go all over the County and state really. It was so nice. I can’t wait to see what Aubree has in store. We are best friends and did it together last year. I just can’t wait to see what they do this year and I’m excited to follow their journey.”
As far as her favorite part of her reign.
“My most enjoyable part of being queen is definitely my Color Run. I got to support a cause I have which is Alopecia Areata. And the funds from that color run are going to people who need wigs for any cause because that is something near and dear to my heart.”
First Runner Up and Best in Interview was Baylie Purcell. Second Runner Up was Avree Hodge who was also named Most Photogenic. Josslyn Beatty won Miss Congeniality, the People’s Award from online voting and Best in Stage Presence. Heaven Hudson was named Best in Theme Wear and Savannah Booher as Best in Communications.
2024 Marion County Junior Miss Aubrey Parker waives to the audience during her first walk as queen. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
The 18 candidates who vied for the 2024 Junior Miss Title along with outgoing queen Aubri Landreth. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
