August 11, 1999

Contestants via for fair queen crown

By Justin Trapp
Herald Staff Writer
       There was no escape. She ducked down in between 4-H box displays but the man always followed her, seeming to watch her every move.
      Exaggerated, yes, but that's one of the many changes happening at the 1999 Northwestern Michigan Fair Queen Pageant this year: secret judges determining the newest royal member of the fair family.
      The second annual Northwestern Michigan Fair Queen candidates will be judged throughout the week on their involvement, how they interact with crowds, and their overall fair disposition. The best representative of the fair will be crowned queen, and move on to the Miss Michigan Pageant.
      Stephanie Baker, 1998 Northwestern Mich. Fair Queen, said that the new queen will participate in parades and fairs around the area, and need to be knowledgeable about fair events, history and people.
      The basic application all contestants fill out asks for a brief biographical sketch, and the judges in all their secrecy take it from there. Their decision will also include results from leisure wear, evening wear, and talent segments of the pageant. Winners will be announced on Saturday.
      Competing for this year's title are:
      - Katy Belanger of Bellaire, a 17-year-old senior at Bellaire High School, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Belanger, sponsored by the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce. Belanger said, " I've seen what's outside of Northern Michigan. I just prefer it better here, and that's what I can bring to the fair: the view of an outsider."
      - Clarissa Leach of Williamsburg, a 21-year-old junior at Ferris State University, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Leach, sponsored by Whiney Acres Farm. Leach said, "My advantage is that I was in 4-H for 10 years. I understand the responsibility each child has to their animals and to the fair."
      - Dianna Renee Martin, a 17- year-old junior at Traverse City West Senior High School, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Martin, sponsored by First Choice Auto. Martin said "I think I'm a good singer - I'm really good people. That's my advantage."
      - Sarah Olds, a 17-year-old freshman at Ferris State University, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Olds, sponsored by Olds Brothers Maple Syrup. Olds said, "I'm outgoing. My big advantage is that I know what's going on in the fair."