About Apples » Queen
Introducing the 2012 Michigan Apple Queen, Marissa Tidey
(pictured left to right: Marissa Tidey, 2012 Michigan Apple Queen and Emily Heeren, First Runner-up)
Marissa Tidey of Decatur has been crowned the 2012 Michigan Apple Queen. Tidey competed against four young women, all of whom have a connection to the Michigan Apple industry, to be its next ambassador.
Tidey, 20, is the daughter of Tim and Gayle Tidey. She is a student at Grand Valley State University where she is majoring in Therapeutic Recreation and minoring in Psychology with an emphasis on pediatrics.
“It is truly an honor to be crowned the Michigan Apple Queen,” said Denise Donohue, Executive Director of the Michigan Apple Committee, sponsor of the pageant. “Marissa will serve as a representative of the Michigan Apple industry, and we know she will do an excellent job when we send her to represent us at schools, parades, festivals and even grocery store events.”
Tidey will spend the next year attending different events and festivals as the face of the Michigan Apple industry. She will also travel to different schools throughout Michigan teaching students about apples.
Emily Heeren earned 1st runner-up at the pageant, which took place at the DeVos Place Ballroom on December 6. Heeren, 20, is the daughter of Brian and Linda Heeren and is attending Olivet College pursuing a degree in Biology.
The pageant marked the 61st year of the competition that awards an apple representative based on poise, beauty, apple knowledge, and public speaking ability.
Note: All photography courtesy of Lisa Shafer Photography.