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Newly-crowned Rachel Bramlett (center) beams after being crowned 2019 Dairy Festival Queen at Saturday’s pageant. From left: Katey Brown, third runner-up; Bramlett; Madison Nordin, first runner-up; and Ashlyn Bimmerle, second runner-up and Miss Congeniality. Staff photo by Tammy Vinson
Pageant caps off another successful Dairy Festival
Rachel Bramlett, the 17-year-old daughter of Mark and Brenda Pope, was crowned Dairy Festival queen at Saturday evening’s pageant. She wowed the audience and judges alike with her rendition of “Shy,” a comedic musical number from “Once Upon a Mattress,” also taking home the top prize in the talent competition.
During her speech just prior to being crowned, Bramlett thanked her family for their support. She described her grandfather teaching her that an oak tree needed a firm foundation in order to grow strong. She said her roots are firmly anchored in Hopkins County and will provide a strong foundation as she branches out.
Bramlett plans to attend college to study theater with a minor in journalism after graduating from Sulphur Springs High School. She received two scholarships for her two wins, $1,250 and $500.
Maddie Nordin, 17, daughter of Melissa Foster and Jason Goldsmith, was named first runner-up, receiving a $1,000 scholarship. Nordin also received an award for selling the most Dairy Festival Pageant tickets.
Ashlyn Bimmerle, 17, daughter of John and Kate Bimmerle, was named second runner-up and will receive a $750 scholarship. She was also chosen as Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants.
Katey Brown, 16, daughter of Chris and Lezley Brown was third runner-up and received a $500 scholarship.
Next year’s Dairy Festival is set for June 12-20, 2020.