2023 Rising Star Award

The Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs presented the 2023 Rising Star Award to Jessica Benner from Pittston Fair. Brittany Moon, the 2022 Rising Star, introduced Jessica as follows: "Jessica grew up on the Pittston fairgrounds and could always be found days before the fair opened each year helping to take care of the last minute details. During the fair, she could be found at the barn with her cows, but would also be available to help at the truck pulls and other mechanical events. As a previous contestant for the Strawberry Queen, Jessica performed hours of community service. After being crowned Queen in 2004, she finished her term and then continued to assist Liz Chaisson with the pageant in the years to follow. Jessica works side by side with her husband in coordinating the fair mechanical events and can always be available to answer questions when needed. When the Pittston Fair treasurer began to consider stepping down, Jessica put her degree in accounting to good use and began assisting the outgoing treasurer. In 2023, Jessica was chosen by the fair board to take over the position of Fair Treasurer. Elected to the board of directors in 2020, Jessica has brought a new youthful outlook on the fair events and activities. Finally, if you can’t find Jessica with the strawberry princesses, cows or the derby cars, head over to the Cook Shack. She has helped there for a long time, always with a warm, welcoming smile. We are proud to introduce you to the newest Rising Star - from Pittston Fair - the fair known as “Maine’s Friendliest Fair.”