HerrinFesta Italiana 2007 is officially underway as Miss Tyra Zoeller was crowned Miss HerrinFesta Italiana 2007 Monday night at the Herrin Civic Center. Miss Zoeller will receive a $3,000 scholarship, trophy, flowers, the use of a 2007 Saturn Sky roadster complements of Saturn of Carbondale and will participate in numerous activities at this year’s ‘festa.
Judging the contest were Conne Ash, Jim Storch, Cheryl Kiehna, Jim Rasor, Jill Calcaterra, and Lisa Lukens. Steve J. Falat, Sales Manager at River Radio, served as Master of Ceremonies.
Out of eleven contestants, the top five finalists were awarded scholarships and trophies. First runner up, Miss Rachel Brock of DuQuoin will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Second runner up, Miss Brittany Dunning, will receive a $500 scholarship. Third runner up, Miss Samantha Gusentine of West Frankfort, will receive a $300 scholarship. Finally, fourth runner up, Miss Claire Thorpe-Klinsky of New Baden, will receive a $200 scholarship.
The scholarship pageant was held Monday, May 21 at the Herrin Civic Center. Eleven young ladies competed in the area’s largest scholarship pageant, which was underwritten by Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home and sponsored by Rubright Spinal Rehabilitation in Herrin and Calcaterra Drug Company.
HerrinFesta continues Wednesday with a talent show beginning at 6:00pm in the Herrin Civic Center.
Entertainment begins on Thursday at 7:00 with DJ Chuck Ryan and Dr. Zhivegas at 8:00.
A complete calendar of events can be found at www.herrinfesta.com or by calling the HerrinFesta Hotline at 1-800-IT-FESTA.
Photos from the pageant will be posted to ‘Festa Live as soon as possible. Check back for that addition.