CASSOPOLIS — There was a moment of suspense Saturday night at the Cass County Fair Grounds Grand Stadium, as the glittering 2016 crown was carried across the stage and tauntingly hovered over each of the final contestant’s heads before Cassopolis native Monica Ward was finally crowned.

Ward beamed as she leaned down to accept the crown, sash and an armful of roses.

“It felt great — really exciting,” Ward gushed.

Ward said she had competed for the crown in 2015 without a win, but among Ward’s passion for reading, shopping, dancing and working with the FFA is her aptitude for determination. She also said a little encouragement from her mom, Rachele Ward also helped her take the stage this year. On Saturday, Ward reflected on the journey and her love for running as fair royalty.

“I like meeting all the people. I know a lot of them because they are in the area, but meeting the (new contestants) is a lot of fun,” Ward said. Additionally, Ward said she has pride for her hometown and the community’s bond.

“I love the closeness of the area,” she said.

After this summer, Ward will head to Michigan State College, where she will study human biology.

Also crowned fair royalty, was 2016 fair princess, Erin Quigg of Union.

“I put so much work into this and I’m very proud of myself,” Quigg said as she stood amongst family and friends.

Quigg said she practiced reciting her answers to the interview question in a clear speaking voice. She said she loves the Cass County Fair and has been coming with her family for the past five years.

“It’s part of my life,” she said.

Next, Quigg said she looks forward to showing her rabbit, Clover in the upcoming animal showing for rabbits on Wednesday.

The following contestants were all crowned as fair royalty:

Fair queen: Monica Ward of Cassopolis

Fair princess: Erin Quigg of Union

Fair king: Zach Davis of Dowagiac

Fair prince: Austin Smego of Cassopolis

The runners up for fair royalty were as follows:

First runner-up for queen: Brittney Prestly of Cassopolis

First runner-up for king: Jacob Koth of Cassopolis

First runner-up for princess: Taylor Palmer of Dowagiac

First runner-up for prince: Chase Brawley of Cassopolis