At the 2025 Mercer County Fair, it’s not just kids and livestock filling the barns—it’s also local leaders showing their support. Among them is City of Aledo Alderman Mario Pauley, who stopped by the fairgrounds to soak in the energy, cheer on young exhibitors, and reminisce about his own fair days.
“It’s great to be here watching these kids pour their hearts out and show their animals,” Pauley said. “It’s a great time.”
As both a local businessman and elected official, Pauley sees the fair as more than just an event—it’s a reflection of the community. “It’s an opportunity to come together, support our kids and our town,” he said, also giving credit to the fair board for keeping the grounds in top shape. “Shout out to them—they’ve done a great job this year.”
And while Alderman Pauley may be focused on city matters now, he was once just a teenager chasing thrills and fair food like everyone else. His favorite ride? “The Tomahawk—loved going upside down,” he laughed, recalling just a bit too much movement in the seat. “That’s called unsafe, sir,” joked WRMJ’s Terry James.
When it comes to food, his go-to remains a fair classic: “Corn dogs and Jaycee’s pork chops—they’re a hit, absolutely.”
It’s clear that for Mario Pauley, the fair is more than just a summer tradition—it’s a meaningful celebration of community pride, local youth, and good old-fashioned fun.