2022 Miss Ripley County, court ready to reign

The 2022 Miss Ripley County Pageant did not disappoint with Miss Karley Bushhorn taking the title, along with the Kompassion Award, People’s Choice Award and the Professional Wear Award.

In a sleek off-the-shoulder gown, Bushhorn exuded queen-like qualities. When asked her impromptu question about what her best advice for others would be, she didn’t hesitate, “Be Yourself.”

The 2022 Milan High School graduate is the daughter of Ron and Kris Bushhorn. She said she is excited about winning the pageant and looks forward to having fun with her reigning court at the upcoming Ripley County 4-H Fair set for July 17-23 at the Ripley County Fairgrounds Park in Osgood.
She is involved in a great deal of volunteer work that includes serving at her church and on the worship team, volunteering with the Milan Lions Club and Delaware Volunteer Fire Department.

The court consists of fourth runner-up Michelle Hoffrogge; third runner-up Emilee Knueven who also took the Miss Congeniality award; second runner-up Machaela Cobler, who also won the Formal Wear award in a stunning blue and silver sequined gown; and first runner-up Emily Campbell.

The People’s Choice award brought in a whopping $906.00 with the money going to the Sam Copeland family. Sam is battling cancer and is big in the 4-H community. Sam and wife, Amy, together with their daughter Cierra, participated in 4-H with Cierra being the Kompassion recipient. Emcee Brent Lee, WRBI Radio, noted, “Please add Sammy to your prayer list…we will remain “Sammy Strong”.

Co-chair of the pageant, Amanda Kunz said, “This is the best pageant around…these girls are just wonderful.” She said she had tremendous support from the committee, friends, family and everyone involved.

The night of sparkles and glam showcased nine local girls as they participated earlier in the private interviews and then brought their best performance to the stage Sunday evening at the Damm Theatre in Osgood. The crowning of the 63rd Queen was the highlight of the event.

Contestants brought their hero on stage, many with family members and grandparents, others with friends and teachers. They were also asked an impromptu question, which all of the girls answered with ease. When Machaela Cobler was asked what her one wish would be she said to remove hatred from the world.

Not only did each girl winning get a coveted sash to wear, but they were awarded money for their placement. The Queen’s Scholarship is $750.00; first runner-up received $150.00; The Kompassion Scholarship was $250.00 with all others receiving $100 each. The Kompassion Scholarship is in honor of Kristy Sams, who was a vital part of the pageant process before she passed away.

A surprise of the evening was the Gunter family of Holton, who presented royalty from the American Royal Beauties Pageant. Jenn Gunter and her daughters have all participated in the pageant and were wearing crowns Sunday evening. Adison, who is 10-years-old, just won the Spokesmodel for the pageant and recited a poem on Kindness. The impressive presentation had her having the crowd turn to each other and smile for a ripple of laughter and kindness throughout the large crowd. Little sister, Nora, who is only two-years-old has been crowned Tiny Princess and was also on stage. Jenn told the Osgood Journal she believes pageants help young girls build confidence and have the opportunity to interact with other girls.

Miss Ripley County Karley Bushhorn and her court will preside as official ambassadors of the 4-H organization. They will be seen at the Ripley County Fair throughout the week giving out ribbons and prizes. They will assist with a variety of activities going on and participate in the Barnyard Olympics, which is always a sight to see, ultimately kissing a pig!

Plan now to attend the fair and enjoy all of the festivities and support local children, teens, adult
organizations and businesses.