ROME TOWNSHIP — The Lawrence County Fair officially opened with its traditional ceremony and the crowning of this year’s Fair Queen and Fair Princess.

Ernest Earl, chaplain of the VFW Post 6878 of Proctorville, offered the opening prayer calling the U.S. “the strongest, lovingest nation in the world.”

As the honor guard of the Post presented a 21-gun salute, last year’s fair princess Kayla Smith sang the National Anthem.

Then Marilyn Ashcraft from the office of State Auditor Mary Taylor presented a proclamation from Taylor lauding the county.

“Your commitment to emphasizing one of Ohio’s most important industries is commendable,” the proclamation said.

Then began the Fair Queen and Princess contest. Chosen Queen was Chelsey Keathley, daughter of Michael and Melissa Keathley, and a member of the Farm Hands 4-H Club.

“I’m excited,” Chelsey said about the honor. She has been in 4-H for nine years and is showing market steers, feeder steers, feeder heifers and breeding heifers.

Chelsey will go on to compete for Ohio State Fair Queen.

First runner-up was LaTosha Hatfield of Arabia All-Stars 4-H.

Second runner-up was Kayla Smith, a member of Scottown Farmers and Farmerettes 4-H.

Princess for 2009 is Skye Barnett of the Country Rebels 4-H. Skye is the daughter of Larry and Beth Barnett.

“I’m just so happy,” Skye said about being princess. She has been in 4-H for six years and is showing market goats.

First runner-up is Bethanie Chaffin of Clever Clovers 4-H Club. Second runner-up is Cami Hillier of Farm Hands 4-H.