The 65th annual Logan County Tobacco and Heritage Festival Queen’s Pageant took place on Sept. 28, at the historic deGraffenried Auditorium in Russellville. Sixteen young women from Logan County took to the stage in a graceful display of poise, beauty, and talent, competing for the coveted title of Festival Queen.
The evening was filled with excitement and celebration, and by the end of the night, one young lady’s dream came true.
Heer Patel, a sophomore at Russellville High School, was crowned the 2024 Logan County Tobacco and Heritage Festival Queen. Patel, the daughter of Asha and Kevin Patel, was also named Miss Congeniality, a testament to her kindness and positive spirit throughout the competition.
Along with the prestigious title, Patel will receive a $1,000 scholarship to the college of her choice, giving her a head start on her educational goals.
The pageant also saw Isabelle Dennis being named First Runner-Up, Madelyne George as Second Runner-Up, and Kailynn Adler rounding out the court as Third Runner-Up. The top eight finalists included Sophia Corbin, Alexis Mowles, Marlie Mason, and Reese Weston, all of whom represented Logan County with grace and elegance.
In addition to the crowning of a new queen, the pageant paid tribute to the rich history of the event by honoring past winners. Twelve former queens were in attendance, spanning nearly six decades of the festival's legacy. The returning queens included Ann Elyse Boortz (2023), Rachel Dezarn (2019), Shelby Baldwin Haley (2013), Molly Clark Steenbergen (2010), Polly Cowan Steenbergen (2009), Lacey Trimble Holloway (2003), Emily Trimble Christian (1995), Darla Sherrod Barrow (1989), Tammy Haley Palmore (1987), Shannon Taylor Batchelor (1985), Kay Penick Meade (1983), and Lucy Chapman Boudris (1966).
Their presence highlighted the deep-rooted tradition of the pageant and the lasting impact it has had on the Logan County community.
The evening was masterfully emceed by Polly Steenbergen, Executive Director of the Logan County Chamber of Commerce, who kept the audience entertained and engaged throughout the event.
The beautiful stage décor, provided by Oak N Ivy Florist and Ruth Ellen's, added to the elegance of the occasion, while a dedicated team of volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event’s success.
As the new Queen, Heer Patel, along with her court, will be featured in the Logan County Tobacco and Heritage Festival Parade on Oct. 12, continuing the pageant's rich tradition of community involvement and celebration.
Congratulations to Queen Heer, her court, and all the participants of the 2024 Queen’s Pageant. The festival is sure to be a memorable event with such a talented and inspiring group of young women leading the way!