The Meeker County American Dairy Association princess banquet took place Saturday, March 15th, 2008 at the Farmer’s Daughter in Litchfield. Rachael Becker, daughter of Joe and Karen Becker of Eden Valley, had the most points and received the first crown.

Becker will receive a 100-dollar scholarship and a trip to Alabama for the Peanut Butter and Milk Festival. The candidates were judged on a prepared speech, punctuality, a personal interview, group discussion, personal introductions and a spontaneous question.

The other candidates also received crowns. They include Jessica Becker – daughter of Joe and Karen Becker, Danielle Heuer daughter of Steve and Deb Heuer, and Jolene Schmitz, daughter of John and Julie Schmitz.

All of the candidates have a chance to go to St. Cloud for Princess Kay training in May. Twelve finalists for Princess Kay of the Milky Way will be selected that weekend from around Minnesota.

Last year, Jill Warren of Watkins was one of the 12 finalists chosen and went on to become a runner-up for Princess Kay of the Milky Way during a pageant last August at the Minnesota State Fair. Warren showed the audience a slide show of her year of activities Saturday night and then gave a farewell address.

Out-going Meeker County Dairy Princess Jennifer Becker also gave a farewell address. The Meeker County dairy ambassadors were also introduced. They include Emily Euerle, Kelsey Fisher, Nicole Thompson and Amanda and Jennifer Turck.

Emcee's for the program were Tim Bergstrom and Bob Greenhow. This year, banquet goers were asked to wear green in honor of St. Patrick's Day.