Season 2, Episode 46 - A Conversation with the El Paso County Fair Queen

A Conversation with the El Paso County Fair Queen

 

In this episode of the podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Maddy Norton, the 2024 El Paso County Fair Queen. With the El Paso County Fair just around the corner, Maddy shared fascinating insights into her role, the fair's significance, and what attendees can look forward to this year.

From Rangerette to Fair Queen:  Since her early years, Maddy Norton has had an intimate connection with horses and the western heritage of El Paso County. Inspired by her older sister, who also held the prestigious title of Fair Queen in 2022, Maddy's journey in the fair queen program is a testament to familial influence and personal passion.

"My sister's dedication and community involvement were truly inspiring," Maddy shared, reflecting on how watching her sister inspired her to follow suit. As a Rangerette, Maddy contributed to community service acts and performed at local events, which further solidified her desire to become a Fair Queen.

The Rigorous Path to Becoming Fair Queen:  Becoming the Fair Queen is no small feat. It involves an intense selection process that includes a personal interview, giving a public speech, and demonstrating horsemanship skills. Maddy's dedication and hard work paid off, despite the challenges she faced during interviews due to limited prior experience.

"The interview process was the most daunting for me," she admitted. Yet, her years of horsemanship training made that aspect of the competition more natural. Maddy now rides a majestic horse named Bean and equates her relationship with her horse to that of a trusted team member.

The Role of the Fair Queen:  Maddy's role as Fair Queen goes beyond titles and crowns; it embodies preserving and promoting the rich western heritage of El Paso County. As she travels around the county, participating in rodeos and community events, Maddy serves as an ambassador who connects the community to its historical roots.

“One of my favorite duties is engaging with younger kids and inspiring them,” Maddy said. Through her role, she hopes to plant the seeds of western traditions in future generations.

The El Paso County Fair:  With a legacy spanning 119 years, the El Paso County Fair is an essential cultural touchstone in the community. It offers a variety of activities, ensuring something for every attendee. From auto races and demolition derbies to concerts and carnival rides, the fair is a hub of entertainment.

Maddy highlighted several new attractions in this year’s fair that promise to keep the excitement alive. One such event is the "Silent Goat Disco," a quirky yet undoubtedly enjoyable fusion of silent disco and live goats. Participants wear headphones and dance to different music channels while friendly goats wander around.

Another fresh addition is the "Epic Eras Tour Party," aimed at celebrating an unnamed pop icon known for their significant influence and currently making headlines for dating a football player.

One of the greatest aspects of the fair is its accessibility. Various days offer different deals, like Dollar Day on July 17th, where general admission is only $1, and El Paso County Day on July 15th, which offers free admission. These initiatives ensure that everyone in the community can partake in the festivities.

Cultivating Future Leaders:  In discussing the fair, Maddy also shed light on the 4-H program, an essential part of the fair that not everyone may be familiar with. 4-H is a youth development program that imparts various life skills through hands-on projects, including livestock management. It culminates in a livestock show and sale on the fair’s last day, underscoring the program's significant educational impact.

Maddy Norton’s journey and her insights into the El Paso County Fair provide a rich narrative that captures the essence of tradition, community, and excitement that the fair represents. Don't miss your chance to be part of this historic and joyous event. Tune in to additional episodes of the podcast for more engaging stories from our community.