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By Briana Porter

Becoming the 2021 Teen Ms. Franklin-Southampton County Fair has made the worst year a little bit bearable. I’ve met so many new people and made so many new friends. making little girls smile by just a picture with a princess, it’s so heartwarming to know how happy it makes all the little girls and boys to see a “real princess.” Back in 2021 I lost my grandpa and dad in the same month, which was a hard thing to bare. My dad always came to support me in the Franklin-Southampton County Fair Pageant and it was a big thing for us. I’ve been competing in this pageant since I was a little girl, and he would always be there at the end with flowers. After years of competing I won the teen division and sadly he wasn’t there with flowers and a hug, instead he was in the best seat in the house beside God and my grandpa watching me take on this role. I dedicate all my hard work into making them proud of me, and I’m so glad I competed last year. It was a boost not only for me but my family.

I want to thank my pageant director Janet Joyner. She has done the absolute most for everyone around her and is so compassionate for others, I’m so lucky to have a pageant director like her. I want to thank all my queen sisters for making this a memorable year. And, a big shout out to the Ms. Queen, Lainey Watson. the bond we have now is so surreal and I’ve loved spending every second by your side, sending the best wishes to you and your future. An even bigger shout-out to my mom, Amber Belcher, without her none of this would be possible. She is the best mom and role model, thank you mom.

Thank you to all the fair board members who have made me feel at home every time I step onto the fairgrounds. I love you all, this is my final goodbye as your Teen Ms. Franklin-Southampton County Fair.