Apple Blossom Queen

NFL Hall of Famer and retired wide receiver Jerry Rice places a crown of sparkling apple blossoms on the head of his daughter, Jaqui Rice, while his wife, Jacqueline, assists as their daughter is crowned Queen Shenandoah LXXXI of the 81st Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival during a coronation ceremony at the John Handley High School auditorium in Winchester, VA. Jaqui, 20, a 4.0 junior at Georgetown University, made history as the first Black to accept the invitation and hold the title. She's an aspiring singer who plans to release an upcoming debut CD, Luv N' Life. Singer Fantasia Barrino served as Grand Marshal of the Apple Blossom parade. Miss Apple Blossom is the official hostess of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival each year. She presides over the festival throughout its duration and is involved in several events. Miss Apple Blossom, which is affiliated with the Miss America Pageant, has competitions such as talent and gown in which judges choose the winner. Queen Shenandoah is designated or chosen by a festival committee and an invitation is sent inviting her to reign during the festival.

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