As my year comes to an end I am filled with both gratitude and sadness. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities this year as presented me with. I am grateful for to have had the opportunity to promote Green County agriculture and its tourism while attending so many wonderful events. I am grateful for being able to make a difference, being able to help and serve others.

In the last year I have attended a wide variety of events. Even though they were all great, there were a few that stood out to me as special. I won't forget the look of joy in some of the faces of the residents as we played Bingo at different nursing homes. Being the reason for the joy is a feeling you can't forget. It felt good to make a difference for them even if it was just one day. One of the most unforgettable experiences was Princess on the square. Each queen dressed up as their favorite princess and played games with the kids. It was a neat experience as we walked the streets and to see the kids following in our footsteps. This is the moment we realized how much the kids look up to us.

I would like to thank Rae Reeson for being a truly amazing leader. She was always there for us. Thank you to my drivers for always making sure the car looked perfect and always taking time out of their busy schedules to drive me. I would also like to thank Sue Rieder and the community for giving me the chance to serve my town and for supporting me every step of the way.

I would like to thank the Ag Chest and everyone involved for giving me this wonderful opportunity. The dairy queen program is an amazing experience. There are so many things that we will take with us from this program, skills that will last a lifetime. It has grown our confidence levels and encouraged us all to do great things. The wide varieties of opportunities we have been presented with are truly amazing.

This past year has been fun and I will miss it more than you can ever imagine. This program has taught me a lot and I will be walking away with so many new skills. Even though my year with this program is technically at an end, it doesn't end here. I have met many new people and made some amazing friends. I have gained countless memories and skills that will follow me through life. As sad as I am to be giving up my crown I am glad that someone else will be able to experience the joy of being a queen as well. This has been an experience I will never forget.

For the last time I am your 2017-2018 Monticello Dairy Queen, Lindsey Pence.