Cara Marie Cunningham, a telecommunications and exercise science major from Covington, Ind., is the first representative from Fountain County in the 43-year history of the contest.

A 1999 graduate of Covington High School, she will visit more than 30 county fairs, festivals and pageants promoting the upcoming Indiana State Fair before serving as the official hostess of the event from Aug. 8-19.

She will receive the use of a car, jewelry and cash.

"Cara will be the eyes and ears of the state fair," said Bobbi Bates, Indiana State Fair pageant coordinator. "We believe she will be an outstanding spokesperson for the state fair, promoting the event across the state."

Covington is the daughter of Jim and Jena Cunningham of Covington, Ind. She has participated in the Fountain County 4-H program for 10 years.

By Marc Ransford, Communications Manager