BELLVILLE, Ohio – The reigning queen over this year’s 165th Bellville Street Fair is 16-year-old Cora McConkie, officially crowned at Wednesday night’s queen contest.
McConkie was one of 11 girls competing in this year’s Bellville Fair Queen contest, a tradition dating back to 1974. The Bellville Fair Queen must be 16 years or older and still enrolled in school, and live in the Clear Fork School District. She must have never been married or have had a child, and must hold a 2.0 or higher GPA from the previous school year.
“We’re really looking for a girl who is just an outstanding, well-rounded girl and a very good role model for the community,” said Fair Queen advisor Brandy Weyhmeller, who was the Bellville Fair Queen in 1991. “We promote self confidence and pride in your community.”
Each of the 11 contestants introduced themselves on stage, highlighting their extracurricular activities and their families, and answered a random question. Wednesday’s contest was part two of the Fair Queen contest; Weyhmeller noted all contestants met the previous Saturday for personal interviews. The two parts of the competition make up 50 percent of each contestant’s score.
“It didn’t use to be 50/50 but to me, it takes a lot more to stand in front of your community and peers and speak well, so I thought it should be an even match,” said Weyhmeller.
Weyhmeller said 40 different clubs, activities and community service projects were represented between the contestants. McConkie is involved in Science Club, Tech Team, Spanish Club and French Club, serves as secretary of the Clear Fork FFA chapter and vice president of her 4-H club. According
Onstage, McConkie was asked who is the biggest inspiration in her life, and why. She talked about her mother, and how even though they didn’t always get along there was still a lot of love between them.
“She’s always there, and has always been my biggest supporter,” said McConkie. “She always makes sure I look my best.”
The second runner-up as Bellville Fair Queen was 17-year-old Brittany Watts; first runner-up was 18-year-old Ellie Shinabarker.
When asked what went through her head when her name was announced as the winner, McConkie replied, “Is this really happening?”
“I had it pinned on someone else, but I was still super happy,” she said.
Weyhmeller said McConkie will have the opportunity to compete in the Ohio State Fair Queen contest in January if she wants to. She will represent Bellville for the next year in parade, visiting fairs, and starting community service projects if she chooses to.
But what’s McConkie most excited about being Bellville’s next Fair Queen?
“Wearing the sash,” she said with a laugh.
Sponsors of this year’s Queen Contest include Todd and Becky Sipe of Sipe’s Concessions, and Griffon Jewelers who donated the tiara.
