By Mary Drier (Contact / Staff Bio)
August 23, 2008 - 12:00 a.m. EST

FAIRGROVE ‹ There will be five young ladies competing for the title of Michigan Bean Queen 2008 during the 62nd Michigan Bean Festival Labor Day Weekend.

One candidate has some experience of what being a bean queen entails. Meggen Young of Fairgrove was the runner-up at last year’s queen contest.

Others seeking the crown are Melissa Erdman from Sanilac County, Julia Voelker from Huron County, Kimberlee Kennard from Vassar and Erica Becking from Bad Axe.

Candidates must be a single female, ages 17-22, and have graduated from high school.

The winner receives a $1,000 college scholarship, a plaque and sash. The queen will attend about 12 events throughout the year, representing the Michigan Dry Bean Industry.

Michigan Bean Queen 2007 Connie Tenbusch will crown the new queen at 7 p.m. Saturday in the events building.

Mary Drier is a staff writer for the Tuscola County Advertiser. She can be reached at drier@tcadvertiser.com.