NEWPORT--Entries are now being accepted for the Cocke County A&I Fair Fairest of the Fair, which is set for Monday, Aug. 11, at 7:30 p.m.

The deadline to enter is Sunday, Aug. 3. Entries will be accepted at the fairgrounds two days only, Sunday, July 27, and Sunday, Aug. 3, from 3 to 5 p.m.

Entries can also be mailed in as long as they are received by the deadline. Entry forms are available in the fair book or by contacting the pageant directors.

Contestants must be permanent Cocke County residents who have reached their 16th birthday, but not their 21st birthday, by Dec. 31. Contestants must have never been married or pregnant, according to the rules.

The Fairest of the Fair will be expected to be at the fairgrounds every night of the fair to help with fair events as needed.  She will also need to attend the fair board meetings in September and February and will be required to participate in the Newport/Cocke County Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade.

The winner will have her expenses paid to compete on the state level. In addition, she will receive assorted items from area merchants, a crown, a trophy, and flowers.

The $25 entry fee may be paid by the contestant's family, friend, or sponsor. Contestants will model formal wear and will be required to attend an interview prior to the pageant.

According to pageant guidelines, contestants will be judged on beauty, poise, personality, and the interview.

Contestants are required to attend practices scheduled before the fair in order to compete in the pageant.
Score sheets will not be given out.
For additional information call (865) 397-3581. Additional rules are included on the entry form.
Entry forms, along with a wallet-sized picture and check made payable to Cocke County A&I Fair should be mailed to: Sue Henry, 2435 Rainwater Road, Dandridge, TN 37725, or Jill Henry, 2343 Rainwater Road, Dandridge, TN 37725.