HINTON (Hinton News) – The Water Festival is one of the biggest events to occur in Hinton West Virginia. One of the main occurrences during the festival is the crowning of the Queen Mermaid. Each year, a young woman is chosen as the embodiment of the event; someone community-minded and kind. This year, DaNaylee Long received the crown.
Long, now a student at West Virginia University, said her mermaid journey began in high school when she was asked to join the court. She said, ” In high school, I was asked to join the court and it was an easy decision for me because it was a wonderful way for me to connect with my community.”
Receiving the honor of Queen Mermaid means something different to each individual. For Long, it provides a tie to her community. She stated, “Being Queen Mermaid for me means being tied closer to my community. My heritage is so important to my character and my values. I believe that if you pour into your community it will in return pour back into you, so I’m really excited about this opportunity and the ways it will potentially allow me to further serve Hinton/Summers County.”
The Mermaid Court participates in several events together. Long noted that her favorite part of the process was these moments; “I enjoyed any of the events where I got to connect with my fellow court members. They are all amazing young ladies.”
The moment, the new queen is announced creates a flood of emotions. Each person on the stage and in attendance waits with bated breath for the announcement. No one knows what their reaction will be if their name is called. Long said, “Honestly, at first I was shocked because every one of the Maids was equally as deserving. However, I am excited and honored to have been chosen. Ever since I was a baby I’ve been attending the West Virginia Water Festival and I was always in awe of the Queen Mermaid in the parade.”
The Water Festival contains many different events. From food truck frenzies to pet parades to the always-anticipated fireman’s parade, the young ladies of the court are always involved. Each event is unique and provides entertainment in different ways. When asked about her favorite part of the festival, Long said. “I love the excitement that is felt in the community and people congregating on the streets to celebrate. I really enjoy the fireman’s parade and the fireworks too. This year I got to help with the pet parade and it was a blast! There were so many unique animals.”
Outside of her new title, Long has high goals and aspirations for her life. She stated, “I’m an immunology and medical microbiology major at West Virginia University, and I work as a research intern in the vaccine development center. All of that to say I love what I do! I love medical research and hope to pursue my doctorate once I obtain my bachelor’s degree.”
Long says she would not be where she is without her strong support system. She said, “I’m so lucky to have such an amazing support system. Between my mom Tracey Foster-Long, my dad, Douglas Long, and grandmothers, Carolyn Foster and Carol Grimmet. I wouldn’t be here without them!”
To learn more about the Queen Mermaid or other aspects of the Water Festival, visit the WV State Water Festival Facebook page.
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