Michigan Apple Committee Crowns Apple Queen

Kirstin Miller of Vassar was crowned the 2010 Michigan Apple Queen at the 2009 Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO in Grand Rapids on Dec. 8. She selected from a field of six contestants competing to be the next ambassador on behalf of the state’s apple industry.

Daughter of apple growers Adam and Jennifer Miller, Kirstin is 19 years old and attends Central Michigan University. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering at a nursing home, walking dogs at a local animal shelter and contributing to a cause that helps provide clean drinking water to people in India. Her long-term goal is to attend law school, in hopes of eventually working to defend human rights both domestically and abroad.

“I consider this a great privilege and honor to serve on behalf of the fine apple growers here in Michigan,” said Kirsten. “I look forward to the year ahead and spreading the word about this vibrant industry.”

In addition to the announcement of 2010 Michigan Apple Queen, judges also named Katie Rasch of Conklin as 1st Runner-up and Amanda Geldersma of Belding as 2nd Runner-up. Katie, 19, is the daughter of Joe and Mary Rasch. She attends Grand Valley State University. Amanda, 17, is the daughter of Douglas and Debora Geldersma. She attends Lowell High School.

The Queen and her court make appearances throughout the year at festivals, parades, schools and in-store events.

Michigan Apple Committee Executive Director Denise Donohue said the Queen and her Court provide an asset to the industry by raising the profile of the industry and educating consumers.

“The Queen serves as a valuable spokesperson and ambassador for the Michigan Apple industry,” said Donohue. “She is more than just a pretty face – she is a voice of the industry.”

A panel of judges ranked the contestants on poise, apple knowledge and beauty following a private interview, as well as an appearance on stage in front of an audience. Queen contestants must be between 17 and 23 years of age and have a link to the apple industry. The Michigan Apple Committee sponsors the annual 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.