PITTSTON — A new queen has taken the throne as Bianca Mazzarella was named the 2018 Pittston Tomato Festival Queen.
Mazzarella, 17, of Pittston, was one of four contestants this year. Also vying for the title were Sofia Costagliola, 16, of Pittston; Gina Kirkpatrick, 18, of Pittston; and Gianna Paolini, 17, of Wyoming.
“It’s such an honor,” Mazzarella said. “I saw in the newspaper that there were only three girls and I’ve always seen this as a kid. I come here every single year, see them perform and compete and thought I might as well. But, it’s really such an honor and genuine surprise. I’m really glad I participated.”
Each contestant answered a series of questions asked by Dr. Joseph Lombardo who served as master of ceremonies and then performed a talent.
Mazzarella performed “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley on the keyboard, and dedicated it to her parents. It was their wedding song and they’re celebrating 25 years of marriage later this year.
“I already had it learned, but I surprised them on their last anniversary with that song,” she said.
During the talent part of the show, the skies opened and the rain began to pour which could have caused distraction. Mazzarella, however, was unfazed.
“I usually play for family functions and they’re all screaming and singing along,” she said. “I definitely thank them for that because it helped.”
With an upcoming year of responsibilities as the new Tomato Queen, Mazzarella is eager to get involved.
“(I’ll be) getting involved in the community even more,” she said. “I’ll be doing the best I can in fulfilling my role as the queen.”
