Haley Akey was crowned Miss Apple Festival 2014 at the annual pageant Saturday night. (Leader photo/CRAIG HAUPERT)

Haley Akey was so surprised to hear her name called that she could not keep from crying. She covered her mouth with her hands as the Miss Apple Festival crown was placed on her head by last year’s winner, Kelsie Patrick.

“I honestly didn’t think I was going to get one thing,” said the Niles New Tech senior Saturday night. “I thought I bombed my interview and didn’t think I was top five. I am so shocked. That’s why I was balling my eyes out.”

Mackenzie Wideman, of Niles, was crowned Jr. Miss Apple Festival 2014. (Leader photo/CRAIG HAUPERT)

Twice a contestant before, 18-year-old Akey said she finished as second runner up in 2012. The new queen of Niles’ biggest festival of the year is looking forward to spending time with her court and being out in the community as much as possible.

“It is so crazy,” she said. “I am so happy to be able to represent such an amazing festival.”

Akey was equally happy to see her best friend Mackenzie Wideman crowned as Jr. Miss Apple Festival during Saturday night’s pageant in the auditorium at Niles High School.

A Niles New Tech student, Wideman was all smiles as she received her crown from last year’s Jr. Miss, Alexis Garcia.

“I felt like I was in a dream. I was shaking. I didn’t know what to think,” said the 15-year-old. “Inside my mind I was just screaming because I was so excited.

“I am so overwhelmed and I feel so blessed. This is everything I’ve ever wanted. I am looking forward to being a role model for the other girls in the community and to get more involved in the community.”

The 2014 Miss Apple Festival pageant featured seven contestants. Madeline Hemphill was first runner up, while Mollie Eichenberg finished second runner up. Shelby Fortune was chosen Miss Congeniality by her peers. Allison Suckle was the People’s Choice.

In addition to being crowned Miss Apple Festival, Akey also received a $250 scholarship by random drawing. Eichenberg was recognized for selling the most ads among the contestants.

There were 12 vying for Jr. Miss Apple Festival. Audrey-Beth Haimbaugh finished first runner-up and was People’s Choice, while Hallie Corzine took second runner up. Lucie Behrle was Miss Congeniality and sold the most ads. Tori Sarratore got the $250 random-drawing scholarship.