The excitement in the Perry High School gym was at a high pitch Thursday, as students and the public gathered for a pep rally and the crowning of 2019 Homecoming King and Queen.
Jasmin Tobar, 2018 Queen, was on hand to crown her successor, while 2018 King Mario Cruz was unable to attend, as he is currently in basic training for the National Guard.
Junior Class President Jayson Chavez stood in for Cruz, and, after teasing the crowd by standing behind each candidate, placed the royal blue crown on Parnell as the audience broke into applause.
The suspense for the queen’s crowning was high, with each of the candidates receiving loud ovations as the diadem was passed behind each of the five young ladies. At the last it was placed on the head of Hannah Peterson, who reacted in surprise at the honor.
Other members of the queen’s court included Angela Hernandez, Carly Herrera, Jasmin Olmos and Magley Orellana, with Chase Archer, Tony Burgos, Wilber Ramirez and Ever Tobar composing the king’s court.
The event began with the Perry pep band playing the fight song and with performances from the Perry Cheerleaders and Pulse Dancers. The candidates were introduced, with a brief and hilarious version of Hungry, Hungry Hippos played by several members of the football team and a few of the cheerleaders.
The cheerleaders and dancers performed again, and football head coach Matt Hardy addressed the crowd. He thanked the community for the show of support and mentioned increased participation in the middle school and youth football programs, a trend he strongly hoped would continue.
The coronation ceremony capped the event.
Perry will host Webster City at 7 p.m. at Dewey Field tonight. The Homecoming Dance will be held, in the PHS Commons, from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m.
