1931 was the first year for the Spud Day Queen and Miss Shelley.

Contestants sold Booster Buttons to help finance the celebration and the winners were sent on an all expense paid trip to the Worlds Fair.

Today, the Senior class girls participate in Miss Russet Pageant for poise & beauty, talent, and a service project for a $2000 college scholarship. The first runner-up will receive a $1500 scholarship, the second runner-up receives $1000 and third runner-up $750.

Miss Russet and her court presides over the Spud Day Parade down State Street in Shelley and helps hand out the free baked potatoes in the park. One of the official duties of Miss Russet is to taste the mashed potatoes in the pit before the Spud tug and give her official approval. She also makes an appearance at the Easter Egg Hunt, the Lighting Ceremony with Santa Claus and to the Kiwanis Club.

For any questions regarding the Miss Russet Pageant, please contact Christine Nelson at 208-680-1600 or send an email to gc_nelson@hotmail.com.