10/13/2026
Statement Regarding the Fair and Frontier Days Royalty Selection
On September 30, 2026, Fairgrounds management determined that Ashley Woiblet was ineligible to serve on the Royalty Court. This was through no fault of Ms. Woiblet; but rather because of a change to the eligibility requirements on the application packet that had not been approved by Fair management. We wish Ashley Woiblet the best in her future endeavors and believe she will be a success.
After conversations with the families of Helen Hellberg-Wilson and Kallie Jo Prince, we believe the fairest and most consistent course of action is to advance each of these young ladies to their respective positions based on overall scoring. Helen Hellberg-Wilson has accepted the position of Queen of the 2027 Walla Walla Fair and Frontier Days Royalty. We are still awaiting confirmation from Kallie Jo Prince as to whether she is willing to serve as Princess. We would, of course, welcome her participation.
This approach honors the original results among the eligible contestants and avoids conducting a new selection process after the competition has been completed. We have confirmed that the judging in the competition was unbiased, and we appreciate the work of the three judges who evaluated the candidates.
We recognize that this has been a difficult process for the contestants and their families. The eligibility error was not the contestants’ fault, and we sincerely regret the confusion and disappointment it has caused. Our responsibility is to apply the corrected requirements consistently, protect the integrity of the royalty program, and treat every participant with dignity and respect.
We are working to ensure that we have clear policies, controls and procedures going forward. We appreciate the community’s patience and ask that discussions surrounding this matter remain respectful of all involved as we move forward. We appreciate all contestants’ participation in the Royalty contest, as well as the hard work involved by those involved in the evaluation of the candidates.
Adopted by:
The Board of Walla Walla County Commissioners
October 12, 2026
Supported by:
Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days Manager See less