American Legion Irvin Hiskey Post 535 performed an honor guard ceremony on Wednesday for opening night of the Bellville Street Fair. They were followed by a moment of silence and the ringing of the bell at the bandstand in honor of 9/11. The 40th annual Bellville Fair queen contest began shortly after.
For the sixth year, Brandy Weyhmeller has served as Fair Queen pageant director and held the title herself in 1991. “I enjoy working with the girls, they are among the finest young ladies in the community,”said Weyhmeller, adding,”Between them, they are involved in 32 clubs and organizations and activities, that says a lot about our youth.”
There were seven contestants: Maria Marzarotto, Darby George, Camryn Crill, Jenna Mascazzini, Jillian Stuff, Makayla Arnold and Caroline Parnisari.
According to Weyhmeller criteria to qualify for entry included being at least 16 years of age, living in the school district and a pre-interview where the girls had to submit a portfolio of their accomplishments and express the reasons for wanting to be queen and what they offer as role models.
Character, poise, confidence, appearance and communication skills were qualities considered by the judges. The overall best representative of her community and involvement in community were also considered.
The girls took stage one by one introducing themselves and answering one random question as judges, Molly McCue, Lisa King and Erin Schemine, a 2011 runner-up, considered their replies.
As the judges excused themselves to make their decision the Clear Fork High School, Middle School and Pony League cheerleaders performed for the crowd.
Darby George was named the 2013 Bellville Fair Queen with Caroline Parnisari as second runner-up and Jenna Mascazzini first runner-up.
George a senior at Clear Fork is active in Spanish Club, History, Art and Science Club. She is also a member of Student Council, SAD and is vice-president of the National Honor Society. George plans to attend Indiana Wesleyan University when she graduates and plans to pursue a major in nursing.
George commented that she really didn’t expect to win, believing it was a toss-up as she feels all the contestants were very qualified.
“I just want to thank my family and friends for all their support, the girls too. We helped each other,” she said. “I couldn’t have done it without them.”
George looks forward to fulfilling her duties as fair queen and representing the community to the best of her ability.
“I’ve been looking into volunteering with BNOC and the food Pantry, I feel that is a good way to serve the community,” George said.
First prize was $100 cash presented by the Fair Board. Griffon Jewelers donated the crown and the flowers and sash were provided by Bellville Flowers and Gifts.
“I just want to thank my family and friends for all their support, the girls too. We helped each other,” said Darby George. “I couldn’t have done it without them.”
