Popcorn Snacks by Day, Popcorn Royalty by Night, Hendrix Crowned

Phyllis Hendrix was named Ms. Marion Popcorn Festival during the popcorn royalty festivities Saturday evening at Grant Middle School.  She earned her title by competing in an Interview session and Popcorn Wear.

Phyllis Hendrix is the Project Manager/Marketing at Wyandot, Inc.  She and her husband, Jack, are the parents of Brad Eversole, Vickie Smith, Tim Hendrix, and Jackie Hendrix.

Hendrix, who has donated a considerable amount of time to local non-profit organizations throughout the years, said, “I’m honored to have this chance to represent the Marion community where I’ve lived my entire life. This title – which could easily have been won by any of the Ms. contestants –is a privilege and one I will proudly wear.”

First runner-up was Marianne Kay Curry who is a physician’s assistant at Midwest Internal Medicine. She and her husband, Craig, are the parents of three children; Marin, Leo, and Layne. Curry also garnered the People’s Choice Award, which was determined by monetary votes.

Debara Tinerello, second runner up, is the owner/hair designer of Arts of Illusion Hair Salon. She and her husband, Barry, are the parents of a daughter, Lyndsay, and a son, Chad.

The third runner up position was claimed by Norma Castanien. She is a retired member of the Marion community and has three children, Jan Castanien, Jill Draper, and Dean Castanien.

Fifth runner up, Tammy Harrison, is employed as a member service representative at the Marion Community Credit Union. She and her husband, Joseph, are the parents of Ranissa, Joseph II, and Christian Faith.

Director Shanna Sharp was “very pleased” with all the contestants’ efforts.

Slated for September 10, 11, and 12, the Marion Popcorn Festival is the largest popcorn festival in the world with an annual attendance estimated in excess of 250,000 over the three-day festival. The Miss Teeny Pop and Miss Teen Popcorn Pageants are slated for 9:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. respectively on Saturday, August 22, at River Valley High School.

For more information regarding the full slate of Marion Popcorn entertainment and activities, go to www.popcornfestival.com. The Marion Popcorn Festival is sponsored in part by the City of Marion.