A Queen's farewell: Reflecting on her reign

Being the 2023 Miss Wasco Rose Queen has been one of the biggest honors and titles I have ever held. It is still hard for me to find the words to describe how exactly I felt when I heard the MC say that contestant number 14, Esmeralda Rodriguez, was the winner of the pageant because of all the emotions that took over me. I was shocked, excited, happy and even fearful. That fear quickly left me as I let confidence take over my emotions.

Getting ready for an event each day felt unreal and being there felt even more surreal. I will never forget the events when little kids would make me sweet notes, ask me what castle I lived in, or ask me where my prince charming was just to remind them that a queen does not need a prince charming to be a queen. They also never forgot to mention how much they loved me. Every smile, hug, or sweet letter always kept me going and reminded me how important it was to me to continue being an inspiration to everyone in my town.

This whole experience was only possible because of the Wasco Rose Queen Committee. They volunteer many hours every year for the pageant to be beautiful, and they never fail to blow the crowd away. I also want to thank my family members, friends and boyfriend for being my absolute biggest supporters throughout everything. Lastly, I want to thank every single one of you. Thank you, Wasco, for being such an amazing town to me these past 18 years, but especially this past year. As I move on from living in this small town, I will never forget how special home is. It was an honor being your 2023 Miss Wasco Rose Queen. Boss Lady out!

–Esmeralda Rodriguez

Miss Wasco Rose Queen 2023