American Honey Queen to visit Ohio State Fair

We recently had a chat with the 2012 American Honey Queen Alyssa Fine, who is going to be visiting the Fair. The 23 year-old Monongahela, Pa.native will be in OhioJuly 24 – Aug. 2. Come meet Fine at the Fair this summer! She is Fairtastic—if we do say so ourselves—so if you can’t, get to know her a little better here:

OSF: How did you get started in pageants? 

Fine: The American Honey Queen Program is definitely not a pageant, but more of a full-time job as a representative for beekeepers all across the United States. I grew up with a background in beekeeping, so when I came across the opportunity to compete for the Pennsylvania Honey Queen title, I was excited for the chance to promote an industry that I have grown to love. As the Pennsylvania Honey Queen, I was eligible to compete for the American Honey Queen title.

OSF: What are previous titles that you have held?

Fine: I was the 2011 Pennsylvania Honey Queen prior to my current position.

OSF: What is your favorite thing about fairs in general?

Fine: Fairs have so many wonderful attractions and events to offer. They often showcase the best of regional agriculture in a family-friendly atmosphere. I enjoy spending time looking at the judged displays just as much as I enjoy answering questions about honeybees at the beekeeping booths.

OSF: Have you been to the Ohio State Fair before?

Fine: This will be my first time attending the Ohio State Fair.

OSF: What are you looking forward to the most about coming to the Fair?

Fine: I am excited to work with members of the Ohio State Beekeepers Association at their display in the DiSalle Center Patio. I will be giving daily talks and many cooking demonstrations featuring honey during the course of my visit to the Fair.

OSF: Explain the American Honey Queen pageant process.

Fine: The selection process for the American Honey Queen position is much like a job interview. Candidates are expected to have not only an in-depth knowledge of honeybees and beekeeping, but excellent communication and presentation skills as well. I was required to write an essay on a honey-related topic, give a marketing presentation about beeswax, and interview with a panel of judges before being selected as the 2012 American Honey Queen.

OSF: What are your duties as the American Honey Queen?

Fine: As the 2012 American Honey Queen, I travel the United Statesfor one year representing beekeepers across the entire country. First and foremost, I am an educator. I attend a variety of venues such as schools, fairs and festivals, farmers markets, and government meetings to educate the public about the importance of honeybees. I work with various media outlets such as newspapers, radio stations, and television studios to reach a larger audience, as well. Every person has the power to protect and provide for honeybees- and I intend to teach them why and how to do that.