The School Queen Contest returns to the Columbia County Fair’s North Gate Stage after a two year absence Friday, September 2 at 5:30 p.m. This popular event, with a roster of active and talented young women, marks a longstanding Columbia County Fair tradition that has continued for more than 80 years.
Contestants, who will be entering their senior year in high school, are chosen by representatives of the county’s six public high schools. They will compete for the title and top prize of $500; all others receive $300 each.
Muriel Faxon and Edgar Acevedo are superintendents of the contest. Ms. Faxon is pleased to announce that this year, the winner will be crowned by the 1975 Queen, Donna Moore. “It’s a way of honoring our past and all the young women who have come before,” she said.
The newly designated Queen will appear in the Firefighters Parade the following day, Saturday, September 3. The event is sponsored by the C-GCC Dean of Students.
Alyssa Popow, daughter of William and Kathleen Popow of Hudson, will represent Hudson High School. A National Honor Society member, her favorite subject is science, and she serves on her class’s Yearbook Committee. Alyssa volunteers at her church, the food pantry, and library. She loves to bake, travel, and wants to train her new puppy to be a therapy dog.
Ichabod Crane High School is represented by Mariah Kratt. She is the daughter of Renee Groat and Daniel Kratt of Stuyvesant. Mariah has experience in student government, having served as a representative and as her class’s Vice-President. A National Honor Society member with an avid interest in science, she is also a member of the Varsity Track and Field Team. In her free time she enjoys participating in 4H, hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking.
Alexandra Sotek is New Lebanon HIgh’s representative. The daughter of Christine and Jeffrey Sotek, Alexandra’s favorite subject is science, specifically chemistry. She is considering a course of study in neuropsychology as she begins planning for college. Swimming has one of her biggest hobbies – and has paid off – she swims competitively as a member of her school’s Varsity swim team as well as participating as part of a club team.
Jacqueline Arre is Taconic Hills’ choice. She resides in Hillsdale and is the daughter of Melanie and James Arre. Jacqueline’s favorite subject is English and she loves to be active, working out and participating in Soccer and Swimming. School events like fundraisers and spirit week are also among her many interests.
