Five questions with Miss County Fair 2024

On Monday, Kate Wilson of Paxton was crowned the 2024 Miss Ford County Fair Queen at the fairgrounds in Melvin.

Readers might know Wilson from her time as a High School Confidential contributor who kept us in the know about happenings at Paxton-Buckley-Loda in the 2022-23 academic year.

She took time in her first week to chop it up with staff writer Luke Taylor.

So you’ve been busy since winning?

I’m at the fair going to every single event. Tuesday night (was) the talent show and Little Miss and Mr. Pageant. Wednesday and Thursday night we (had) the tractor pull. Friday night is the concert with Rodney Atkins and Chris Cagle. Saturday is the demolition derby.

The Ford County Fair is generally very small, but even though we are small, the whole community supports the fair and is involved!

Are you planning to compete in the statewide pageant?

Yes. That will take place in January. Preparation starts for that after fair week ends.

Why do you compete in pageants?

Because I enjoy being able to meet many new people. I also am very grateful for all of the relationships I’ve built throughout pageants.

What are you up to outside of pageants?

In the fall, I am starting my sophomore year at Illinois Wesleyan University majoring in marketing. I am currently working at Syd and Sadie’s Boutique in Gibson City and M2 The Place for Prom in Urbana.

What’s something about pageants that most people don’t know or that surprised you?

All of the contestants are very supportive of each other. It’s not always serious and always very fun!