GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Sara Reisinger of Freeland has been crowned the 2016 Michigan Apple Queen. Hannah Rasch of Conklin is First Runner-Up. Contestants for Michigan Apple Queen must have a connection to the Michigan Apple industry in order to serve as its ambassador.
Sara Reisinger is the daughter of Alan and Jaye Reisinger and is a communication student at Saginaw Valley State University. She is the daughter and niece of apple growers.
“The Michigan Apple Queen has an important role as the representative of the Michigan Apple industry,” said Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee. “The candidates go through a rigorous interview and essay writing process for the competition. Sara will serve the industry well as an ambassador at schools, parades, festivals, grocery store events and more.”
Reisinger will spend the next year attending events and festivals as the face of the Michigan Apple industry. She will also travel to schools throughout Michigan teaching students about apples.
Hannah Rasch is the daughter of Fred and Deanna Rasch, and is a student at Davenport University. She is the daughter and granddaughter of apple growers.
The contest took place on Dec. 8 at the 13th annual Michigan Apple Committee grower luncheon. It marks the 65th year of the competition that awards an apple representative based on poise, beauty, apple knowledge and public speaking ability.
Queen contestants must be between 17 and 23 years of age and have a link to the Michigan Apple industry. The Michigan Apple Committee sponsors the annual event. The Queen and First Runner Up each receive scholarships from the Michigan Apple Committee and the Michigan State Horticultural Society.
The Michigan Apple Committee is a grower-funded nonprofit organization devoted to marketing, education and research activities to distinguish the Michigan apple and encourage its consumption in Michigan and around the world.
For more information, visit www.MichiganApples.com .
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