Countdown to the start of the DeSoto Heritage Festival with the Children's Parade!
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Sponsored by James & Ashley Purmort & Superior Rescreening
Sponsored by Hascall-Denke & Clearview Windows & Wood, Inc.
Madyson is the 19-year-old daughter of Douglas and Rita Greeman. She is a 2024 graduate of Parrish Community High School. Madyson was the senior class president, a member of the varsity cheer team, track and field team, National Honor Society, Junior Advisory Board, and served as the school newspaper Editor. She was nominated for a Golden Herald Award in Journalism. She attends the University of Central Florida where she is pursuing her degree in Journalism.
Sponsored by Coastline Kitchen & Bath and Manatee Learning Academy
Hailey is the 19-year-old daughter of John and Tiffany Hurd. She is a 2024 graduate of Palmetto High School where she was a member of the Future Farmers of America, varsity dance, and Students Against Violence Everywhere Promise Club. She is currently enrolled at Manatee Technical College pursuing a degree in cosmetology and aspires to own her own Salon in the future. During her free time, Hailey loves spending time with her animals and “making others feel beautiful” by doing hair and make-up for her friends and family.
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Hailey is the 18-year-old daughter of Katherine and Chad Kerns. She is a 2024 graduate of Parrish Community High School where she was a member of JROTC, Varsity Lacrosse, Bible Study, National Honors Society, Girl Scouts, Color Guard, and Track & Field. Hailey is currently earning her bachelor’s degree in public health with a minor in military sciences at the University of South Florida. She aspires to be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army while advancing her education by attending Physician Assistant school.
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Julianna is the 18-year-old daughter of Chris and Carrie Mancusi. She is a 2024 graduate of Palmetto High School where she was a member of the Palmetto Dazzlers, AICE program, active in theater, and was proudly on the honor roll. She is currently enrolled at the State College of Florida where she is pursuing a degree as a dental assistant. During her free time, Julianna enjoys going to the beach, drawing, and hanging out with her little sister, Olivia.
Sponsored by Parrish Charter Academy, Life Saver Pool Fence, and Heffernan Insurance Brokers and Home Healing Concierge
Ryann is the 21-year-old daughter of Bruce and Kristi Patterson. She is a 2022 graduate of Bayshore High School where she participated in volleyball, cheerleading, and theater. She currently is working towards obtaining her life insurance license and plans to attend college, majoring in business with a minor in journalism. During her free time, Ryann likes to read, crochet, and go to the movies with her friends.
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Jordan is the 18-year-old daughter of Steve and Robin Rowland. She is a 2024 graduate of Bradenton Christian School where she was active in National Honor Society and Key Club. She is currently enrolled at the University of Florida where she is pursuing her undergraduate degree in Business with a concentration on Law. She is actively serving her community with ministry groups, the Cotillion Club, and Keep Manatee Beautiful. Jordan’s hobbies include reading, going to the gym, and playing pickleball and volleyball with her youth church groups.
Sponsored by Superior Rescreening and Royce Repairs
Taryn is the 21-year-old daughter of Brent and Andrea Shawley. Taryn is a 2023 graduate of Inspiration Academy. Her hobbies include watching Ultimate Fighting Championship matches with her friends, weightlifting, gymnastics, and journaling. She is currently studying for her early childhood development association credentialing and plans to attend the State College of Florida where she will pursue a degree in early childhood education.
Sponsored by Ashley & James Purmort, Motorworks Brewing & Blue Water Catering
Alexia is the 18-year-old daughter of Adam and Katie Kirksey. She is a 2024 graduate of Palmetto High School where she was a member of Future Business Leaders of America. Alexia is working in the Hospitality Industry while pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in dental hygiene at St. Petersburg Community College. During her free time, Alexia enjoys spending time with family and friends, boating and volunteering with local community organizations.
Sponsored by Jones and Sons Pest Control and Spartan Air Solutions
Grace is the 19-year-old daughter of Colin and Rebecca Tripp. She is a 2024 graduate of Palmetto High School and was a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Sports Medicine Training, and weightlifting. She was the recipient of two merit and academic scholarships. Grace plans to pursue a doctorate in Forensic Psychology and is currently attending State College of Florida. She has been “Blessed to go on four mission trips, ranging from the Amazon River villages of Brazil to the mountains of Rwanda.”
Sponsored by Barsota Services, Inc. and Next Level IT Pros, and More Than Words Therapies
For over 75 years, the De Soto Heritage Festival has celebrated the intellect and talent of a select group of special young women from the community by electing them to the De Soto Queen’s Court. Each member of the court serves as goodwill ambassadors for the Hernando de Soto Historical Society and Manatee County through the following spring. A $750.00 scholarship is presented to court members who satisfactorily complete their time on the court. The Queen and Princess receive additional scholarships at the completion of their reign.
Candidates are recommended by the community and then the Hernando de Soto Historical Society makes its choices on the basis of character, scholastic ability, high morals, and personality.
