By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES – They wore black face paint and with camoflauge pants with shirts that said "Support Our Troops." When asked what reality show would make it and why, they were quick to answer "American Idol, because the rejects are so darn funny."
With this, Shane and Christina Allen were crowned the 2007 Mr. and Ms. Riverfest Thursday night.
"We're real excited. Just two minutes ago I was a nervous wreck, but not now, I'm very happy," Shane said. "I'm exstatic, thank you so much," Christina added after being crowned.
First runners-up were Chris Thompson and Kim Teeter, both of Niles.
More than 100 people set up lawn chairs along at the Amphitheater in Riverfront Park to watch five couples participate in the pageant. Along with the spectators, Shane's pool team was on hand, giving much support to the couple.
"I just want to thank my family and friends, my pool team and everyone who cheered for us," Shane added.
The two were recently married on Valentine's Day and reside in Niles. Christina currently attends Southwestern Michigan College, where she is working on a psychology degree. She is employeed with Family Video of Niles.
Shane is the manager of a plastic colorant lab.
All five couples used different techniques to try and win over the judges and the crowd. Most handed out candy, while one couple handed out popsicles.
Mr. and Ms. Riverfest 2006, Kevin and Teri Latislaw, crowned the couple after talking briefly about their time as Mr. and Ms.
"We've had fun. It's been a challenging year, but we made it through. Being Mr. and Ms. Riverfest was something we will never forget," Kevin said.
The next step for Mr. and Ms. Riverfest is joining the Anything That Floats Raft Race Saturday at 2 p.m. Float decorating will began today at noon and will continue until 10 p.m. at the boat ramp behind the old Police station.
Other events taking place today will be the Greene Township Lions train ride, which will be held from Noon to 8 p.m.
Music will fill the Amphitheater tonight as Eddy Lee kicks things off at 3 p.m. At 4 p.m., the Moon Travelers will take stage, while Ten Minute Warmup begins at 6 p.m. The Michana Cloggers will perform dancing at 8 p.m. and the Van Dyke Revue will rock out on the Riverfront Park North Stage at 8:30 p.m.