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Michigan Apple Queen Contestants Announced

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Diane Smith
(800) 456-2753

DeWitt, Mich. – Five young women with connections to the Michigan Apple industry will compete to be crowned 2012 Michigan Apple Queen. 

“The winner of the Michigan Apple Queen pageant will serve as an ambassador on behalf of the industry,” said Denise Donohue, Executive Director of the Michigan Apple Committee.  “She’ll make numerous public appearances throughout the year, in parades and festivals, and will also visit public schools and teach students about the Michigan Apple industry.” 

Contestants will be interviewed by a panel of judges who will rate them on a number of categories including one-on-one interview, apple knowledge and public speaking ability.  The contestants must be poised and professional to win the title.

The contestants for 2012 Michigan Apple Queen are:

  • Emily Berry, 23, of Ottawa Lake.  Daughter of Glen and Jane Berry.  Emily attends Lourdes University in Sylvania, Ohio and she is the granddaughter of apple growers.
  • Emily Heeren, 20, of Rockford.  Daughter of Brian and Linda Heeren.  Emily attends Olivet College, in Olivet, Michigan and is a fifth generation grower, packer and shipper.
  • Jennifer Kalchik, 20, of Northport.  Daughter of Steven and Kathy Kalchik.  Jennifer attends Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan and is the daughter of a third generation apple grower.
  • Marissa Tidey, 20, of Decatur.  Daughter of Tim and Gayle Tidey.  Marissa attends Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan and is the granddaughter and employee of an apple farm.
  • Elizabeth Wittenbach, 17, of Belding.  Daughter of Mike and Marnie Wittenbach.  Elizabeth attends Belding High School and is the daughter, granddaughter and great granddaughter of apple growers.

The pageant will take place Tuesday, December 6th at 8 p.m. at the DeVos Place Ballroom B in Grand Rapids.  The pageant is sponsored by the Michigan Apple Committee and is open to the public. 

2011 Michigan Apple Queen, Alyson Wendzel, has enjoyed visiting schools and attending events during her year-long reign as Queen.  She will make her farewell presentation during the December 6th pageant. 

The Michigan Apple Committee is a grower-funded nonprofit organization devoted to promotion, education and research activities to distinguish the Michigan Apple and encourage its consumption by consumers in Michigan and around the world. For more information, visit MichiganApples.com.