Hernando DeSoto Historical Society hosts Musical & Fashion Show

PALMETTO -- Nine beaming women walked down the runway Tuesday in everything from summer dresses to dazzling gowns -- all eyes on them.

The women who comprise the 2016 DeSoto Queen's Court each had a chance in the spotlight during the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society's Musical & Fashion Show at the Bradenton Area Convention Center.

The event included special performances by singer Christopher Eisenberg, who appeared on the NBC show, "America's Got Talent," several years ago, and dance performances by the Manatee High School Sugar Canes and the Palmetto High School Dazzlers.

"I have a Queen's Court back there that is very excited to say hello to you, so cue the music and we'll begin!" said master of ceremonies Vernon DeSear before allowing each woman to introduce herself.

There was Sarah Jean Adams, an 18-year-old State College of Florida student who dreams of attending the University of South Florida and majoring in elementary education with a focus on special needs.

Enriqueta Rose Balandra, 20, who hopes to some day work in the entertainment industry, promoting music and television shows.

And there was Elizabeth Ann Curry, 21, whose plans include traveling as a nurse around the United States.

Other court members included: Monica Diane Mardones, 19; Michelle Katrina McFall, 18; Baylee Nicole Sawdy, 19; Rachel Lee Johnson, 21; Savanna Rae Moon, 18; and Cheyenne Nicole Thurman, 20.

According to the organization website, for more than 70 years the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society has celebrated the talents of a select group of special young women, ages 18-24, from the community by naming them to the De Soto Queen's Court, a scholarship program.

"Candidates are recommended by the community and then the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society makes its choices on the basis of character, appearance, scholastic ability, high morals, and personality," the description reads. "The DeSoto Queen's Court serves as goodwill ambassadors for the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society and Manatee County from the Festival season through the next year."

By the end of the fashion show, members of the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society were invited to vote for the 2016-17 Queen and Princess. Results will be available Friday.

"Under the capable leadership of a terrific team this year, our organization is doing exactly what it needs to do, and that's reaching out not only to our community, but to communities beyond this state," DeSear said. "This organization has traveled all over the country this year and has made such a strong impression that we have more than 200 guests coming here to visit us beginning (Wednesday), so that's not a bad thing to do!"

Other cameos included the 2016 Conquistadorables, a group of girls ages 7 to 9 who are nominated by the community.

Miss Florida Mary Katherine Fechtel, 20, also made an appearance, sharing her platform and even performing a dance routine.

Jercoiya Waiters, who was crowned 2014 Miss DeSoto Heritage Festival, sang for the audience.

"I thought it was absolutely amazing," said Ric Yrabedra, a member of the Hernando DeSoto Historical Society. "I thought it was well-organized. I think Vernon DeSear, who is my good friend, did a wonderful job emceeing. And I just loved the Conquistadorables. They were just so darling."

Amaris Castillo, law enforcement/island reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7051. Follow her on Twitter @AmarisCastillo.

This story was originally published April 26, 2016 at 11:13 PM with the headline "Hernando DeSoto Historical Society hosts Musical & Fashion Show ."