Tue Feb 09 2010
By JARED ORZOLEK
It's been 50 years since the first Henry County Tomato Festival Parade and Pageant took place and the 2009 event promises to recognize those decades of Henry County heritage.
Set for Sunday, the parade theme is "50 years of Pageantry at the Henry County Fair." Featured as grand marshals will be past tomato festival queens (or family members).
"It's something huge for Henry County. There aren't many events that can sit back and say they've been a part of a community for 50 years. This is one of a very few," said Joel Miller, master of ceremonies for the event.
"When you think about the pageant being a scholarship event ... you have to think, 'Wow, that's helped a lot of people take care of their education and better our area.'
"It's really exciting to see all the people lined up for the parade. People know they are going to see a great parade. I remember watching the parade when I was a kid. It's neat to be a part of the tradition."
The parade will start at 6 p.m. on North Perry Street and proceed south, ending at the grandstand area of the fairgrounds around 6:30 p.m., when the scholarship pageant will begin with Miss Ohio 2009 Erica Gelhaus as the guest of honor.
"It's an honor to be a part of the tomato festival," said Miller. "I've met so many great people over the years. This will be my 18th time as MC, believe it or not. There's a lot of work that goes on to put the parade and pageant on every year and it's great to be involved with people who care so much.
"It's fun to watch contestants who were so nervous earlier in the day just relax and have fun in the end. It's fun to meet Miss Ohio and then cheer her on in the Miss America pageant later on TV. One of the great things lately has been bringing my daughters up to meet Miss Ohio and the local contestants. They love it and hopefully will always remember the fun they've had."
The woman who wins the pageant will receive a $1,000 scholarship courtesy of the Campbell Soup Supply Co. Second place will receive $650; third, $500; fourth, $475; and Miss Congeniality, $100.
All contestants will receive a $50 scholarship.
Seeking the pageant crown are Alexis Almanza of Deshler village, Rachel Knepley of Napoleon city, Sara Cole of Pleasant Township, Tiffany Brubaker of Bartlow Township, Mackenzie Hawkins of Damascus Township, Kara Elling of Freedom Township, Cerra Sonnenberg of Harrison Township, Casey Bostelman of Liberty Center village, Jaclyn Dishop of Liberty Township, Meagan Buenger of Marion Township, Natasha Buehrer of Napoleon Township, Tia Hornish of Richfield Township, Renee Hurst of Ridgeville Township and Ashton Blue of Washington Township.
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