Congratulations is due today to the 16 Shad Derby Queen Candidates. To date, they've endured a grueling judging process, which began with speeches delivered in March at the annual Shad Derby Gala.
Tomorrow, Sat., May 4, history will be made when the judging process concludes, and the 48th Shad Derby Queen will be crowned at the annual coronation ball.
Each candidate will be given time to speak before the judges retire for their final deliberations and scoring.
In addition to the crowning of the queen, a number of titles will be given, Saturday, including Miss Congeniality, Princess Royal, First Princess and the Mary Ellin Messina award.
The Shad Derby Queen tradition began in 1966 with the crowning of Joan Dombkowski, Miss Windsor Garage.
Last year's queen was Miss Windsor Kiwanis, Bowie Wong.
This year's queen will be chosen from the following candidates:
Nicole Bach, Miss Ellsworth Medical
Hannah Cheney, Miss Exchange Club of Windsor
Sarah Cleveland, Miss Hairdresser on Fire
Castella Copeland, Miss Windsor Animal Clinic
Marissa Dembkoski, Miss Windsor Jaycees
Katie Diehl, Miss Dairy Bar
Jean Ersando, Miss China Sea
Casie Ferranti, Miss Windsor Lions Club
Laura Haspeslagh, Miss Washington Lodge #70 AF & AM
Jasmine Johnson-Giles, Miss PC Development Group
Ashley Morin, Miss Tunxis Grill
Sydnee Over, Miss Rice Hardware
Quinby Pepin, Miss Pelton Excavating Company
Gwendolyn Peyton, Miss Windsor Kiwanis
Allison Smith, Miss Ashley’s Distinctive Jewelry & Gifts
Kelly Weiss, Miss Union Street Tavern
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