Brownsville teen crowned 2017 Bituminous Coal Queen
When 17-year-old Kacey Furlong of Brownsville was crowned the 2017 Bituminous Coal Queen earlier this month, she said it was a moment that left her at a loss for words.
But what she found, she said, was proof in the value of hard work.
“Practice really does pay off at achieving your goals,” she said.
Furlong, a daughter of Dr. David and Roxie Furlong of Brownville, received her crown during the pageant last weekend in the Stan Ferek Auditorium at Carmichaels Area High School.
Furlong represented Brownsville High School and performed a lyrical dance routine to “The Chance.” In addition to winning the title, she also won top talent, top answer to the impromptu question “What has been the biggest challenge you have faced and how did you overcome it?” and the Community Bank photogenic award.
First runner-up was Katrina David from Uniontown Area High School. She is the 16-year-old daughter of Charles and Samantha David of Ohiopyle. David performed a lyrical routine to “Bring Me Close.” She won top evening gown.
Second runner-up was Hunter Miller from Albert Gallatin High School. She is the 17-year-old daughter of Brian Miller and Laticia Libertino, and the stepdaughter of Todd Libertino. Miller performed a vocal selection to “Where the Boys Are.” She was the top bond seller.
Third runner-up was Macee Chesney from Mapletown High School. She is the 17-year-old daughter of Daniel and Mary Chesney. Chesney performed a contortion routine to “Intro.”
Fourth runner-up was Madison Church from Waynesburg Central High School. She is the 17-year-old daughter of Christine and William Church. Church performed a vocal selection “Hallelujah.” Church was chosen Miss Congeniality by the other contestants. She won top interview.
The 2016 Coal Queen Morgan Voithofer presented Furlong with roses, a bracelet and sash.
“It’s bittersweet,” said Voithofer. “It’s time for a new girl to enjoy the crown.”
Voithofer’s final performance was a musical theatre selection from the Addams Family performing Wendy’s Song “Pulled.”
Sponsors of the Coal Show are the Carmichaels Chamber of Commerce, Carmichaels-Cumberland Volunteer Fire Department and the Lions Club of Carmichaels.
Serving as Master of Ceremonies for the pageant was Craig Baily, who has been president of the Carmichaels-Cumberland Volunteer Fire Department for 32 years and a member for 39 years.
Baily, who earned a degree in music, said he enjoys watching the talent portion of the competition.
“The work that goes into this is unbelievable,” he said. “The Coal Show makes sure the candidate can be a success.”
The newly crowned 2017 Bituminous Coal Queen participated in several events throughout the week as she reigned over the annual King Coal Festival.
To conclude the week, Furlong and her court rode a float in the annual parade, Aug. 26.