Reilly Bauer of Lansford is a force to be reckoned with, and she is certainly going places.

Two years ago, she was crowned Carbon County Fair’s Junior Miss, and Friday night Bauer was crowned Carbon County Fair’s Queen.

Although she certainly checks the box in the beauty category, there is much more to this 11th-grade Panther Valley student than a pretty face.

Bauer is autistic and has worked hard to push herself out of what she calls her comfort zone.

One of the requirements for the contestants is to compose an essay on what the Carbon County Fair means to the community and to Carbon County. It was easy, she said, because she has been coming to the fair and helping at the fair since she was a toddler. “I was only 2 years old. I have so many memories,” she said.

“What makes the fair important to people is it keeps the community connected. Especially during this year with the pandemic,” Bauer said.

The Carbon County Fair is not the only pageant she has under her belt. Bauer also competed in the Miss Amazing Pageant in Bethlehem for three years and even traveled to Chicago for the Miss Amazing Pageant. She has also competed in the Miss Greater Hazleton Pageant.

By her own admission, Bauer said, “It is easier for me to stand up and speak to a crowded room than to talk to just one person. I keep pushing myself to break boundaries and try new things.”

She is a cheerleader, belongs to the drama club, sings in the school’s chorus and is on the student council.

After high school, she plans to go to college and study business administration. “I love baking, so I want to open my own bakery and employ special needs people,” she said.

The only decision Bauer isn’t sure of yet is if she will open her bakery before she gets married and has children or after.

“I probably won’t have my bakery first because I really want to be married and have children.”

Her mom, Colleen Bauer, said, “My husband and I are so proud of all Reilly’s accomplishments and strengths,” said.