Hello, my name is Heidi Kundinger, and I am your 2025 Central Wisconsin State Fair Fairest of the Fair. I grew up on my family’s small hobby farm, where we had llamas, goats, dogs, cats, rabbits, and chickens. I am currently studying Fire Science at Midstate Technical College. Through the years, the fair has become my home. Ever since I was a little girl, I have been showing animals at fairs. I started way back before I was a clover bud, making crafts with my sister and the rest of the 4-H members. Once I became a clover bud, my fair adventure took off. From llamas and goats to fair projects completed a week, sometimes a day before the fair, I was always happy to show them off when it came to fair time.
As the years progressed, I have found much more meaning in the fair than ribbons and awards. The fair has become my family. Without the fair, I would not have the lasting friendships that I have today. These friendships come from not just the llama barn but many other barns and organizations through the fair. Through the years, I have been involved in many youth organizations, the Pittsville FFA, the Lindsey 4-H, and the Richfield 4-H. The fair allowed me to see new and exciting projects I could participate in. This helped me expand my knowledge and growth within the clover. My fair journey is not over; I still have more llama-tastic shows to attend, your fair stories to hear, and continuing to grow my fair family.
When I think of the fair, I think about the heart of the fair - the people: the excited kids, the exhibitor who got their first first-place ribbon, the couple who got engaged, the family enjoying fair food together, and the live entertainment. During my reign as fairest, I hope to burn bright with passion for the Central Wisconsin State Fair and the community it serves. The fair teaches youth leadership, growth, compassion, responsibility, and confidence, which I am proud to be a part of. I am thankful for everything the fair has given me. I hope the fair brings you joy as it has to me!