Emily McGuire passes on title to new DYW Friday

It has been a busy year for the Class of 2024's Shafter Distinguished Young Woman, Emily Mcguire.

In addition to representing Shafter in the state competition, Emily had the opportunity to attend events such as the Cinco de Mayo Parade and the Christmas Parade. She also had the opportunity to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the Fourth of July Celebration, cut the ribbon for a new caboose at the Shafter Train Depot, light the town's Christmas tree and sing carols with her DYW sisters.

Emily also read to students at Sequoia and Golden Oak Elementary schools for Read Across America week, in addition to giving the invocation at the Shafter Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet just this past Saturday. "These experiences allowed me to connect with the community I love and cherish deeply. I am so blessed to have this loving community encouraging and supporting me in everything I do," Emily said.

She also commented that she is thankful for the wonderful support system that she has, including her parents, DYW sisters, current participants in the program and her sponsor, Richland Chevrolet.

It will be a bittersweet moment as she hands the title to the new winner on Friday night in the Fred Starrh Performing Arts Center, but she said that she is thrilled and excited for all of the girls. " I will never forget all the fun we had at rehearsals and the epic DYW sleepover with the has-beens! I have loved every single minute being their big sister. They all are so uniquely beautiful. Every one of them has grown into an incredible young woman, and each one of them is deserving of this honor."

She advised this year's participants, "Let your light shine through on even the darkest of days. Continue to hold your head up high, and strive to be your very best self. "

Tickets to the 6 p.m. event are available at simpletix.com.