Madison Phelps crowned Miss Dowagiac 2017

Published 9:44 am Monday, January 23, 2017

By Ted Yoakum

The reign of Dowagiac’s newest queen blossomed to life inside “the secret garden” onstage the middle school auditorium Saturday evening, as Madison Phelps was crowned as Miss Dowagiac 2017.

The Dowagiac Union High School senior was crowned as the community’s 78th queen in front a packed house inside the middle school performing arts center. Phelps was one of 11 young women vying for the crown and sash — as well as more than $9,000 worth of scholarship funds.

The daughter of Rebecca and Michael Phelps, the 18-year-old student is heavily involved with her church, volunteering with local food pantries and food trucks as well as participating in mission trips. Following her graduation, Phelps plans on attending a private Christian university where she will study music worship and mission studies.

She will receive a $4,000 scholarship along with the title.

Immediately after winning the crown, Phelps thanked the judges, her family and God for guiding her to this moment.

In her platform earlier that evening, Phelps paid tribute to the outgoing queen, Miss Dowagiac 2016 Anne Zebell, with whom she traveled to Peru on a mission trip several years ago, she said.

“Her kindness and generosity has influenced my love of missions, which I plan on pursue after graduation,” Phelps said. “She has planted a selfless appreciation for serving and volunteering inside my heart, and her cheerfulness is truly contagious.”

Like Zebell the year before, Phelps also received an additional $1,000 scholarship through the Judy Dodd Community Service Award, given to her due to her volunteer efforts in the community.

Crowned as first runner-up Saturday was 17-year-old Emily Dodd, the daughter of Jerry and Lynn Dodd. The Dowagiac Union High School student senate president will receive a $2,000 scholarship with her title.

Dodd plans on attending Southwestern Michigan College after graduation, and plans to pursue a degree in sonography.

Receiving the title of second runner-up was 17-year-old Amanda DeLong, the daughter of Brian and Tami DeLong. A cheerleader and a Sunday school teacher at her church, DeLong will receive a $1,500 scholarship.

She plans on studying at Southwestern Michigan College following graduation to pursue a degree in elementary education.

DeLong also won an additional $250 scholarship for the pageant’s communication award, for her platform entitled “A Woman of Faith.”

Rounding out the 2017 court of honor is the new Miss Congeniality, 18-year-old Vivianna Lucio, who will receive a $250 scholarship with the title. The daughter of Lynda Saldana and Rolando Lucio Sr., Lucio is the president of Dowagiac Union High School’s Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates as well as its humanities club.

More Business

Wings Etc. locations to offer free entrée on Veterans Day to honor military service

Dowagiac to welcome the holiday season with festive event lineup

New Buchanan tattoo parlor ‘a dream come true’ for owner

Fernwood Botanical Garden announces new Executive Director

Print Article

SportsPlus