Michelle Carter named 'Queen for a Day

WARWICK — On Thursday evening, Aug. 22, Mayor Michael Newhard continued a longtime tradition when he introduced this year’s “Queen for a Day,” Michelle Carter, director of the Warwick Ecumenical Council Food Pantry.

It was the 13th anniversary of this special event held during the annual celebration of Ladies Night Out.

As usual Newhard read the winning nomination letter, only this time it was his letter which nominated and described Carter as, “A Friend to Warwick.”

Many years ago Carter owned and operated the Pioneer Restaurant. During that time she raised six children and as Newhard mentioned in his letter, “The Carter family had an extended family of many other children and young adults - some without families of their own.”

That generous spirit spilled over during the 20 years Carter has been running the Food Pantry. She spearheaded and co-chairs the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas basket programs, which provide as many as 500 holiday meals to needy families.

“Michelle does this work,” said Newhard, “because she sees a need to be filled and a person in need. She would never expect any type of honor because she does this work out of love and humility.”

For the past 13 years “Queen for a Day” has been an opportunity for a special woman to be recognized by her family or friends for her generous spirit, caring heart and selfless nature.

The winner also receives a valuable assortment of gift certificates and merchandise from Warwick business owners. Thanks to efforts of businesswoman Barbara Laurence, participating merchants contributed more than $1,000 in gifts and services that were presented to the Queen.

Nomination applications are made available each year at downtown shops and anyone who believes he or she knows a person who deserves the crown is invited to participate. Members of the Warwick Merchants’ Guild then review the nominations and select the winner at a special meeting before “Ladies Night Out.”

Past “Queens” in chronological order include Maria Codd Perez, Karen Cleary, Dorothy Anderson, Gloria Okon, Joy Hansen, Suzyn Barron and Lee Peterson from the Warwick Valley Humane Society, who shared the award, Betty Garrison, Pearl Lendzian, Marge King-Porter, Dorothy Eumont, Karen Thomas and Terry Odell.

- Roger Gavan

Editor’s note: Check the story and photos from Ladies Night Out online at warwickadvertiser.com.