Kaitlan Bloomquist

Kaitlan bloomquist is the 20 year old daughter of Kim Donahue and Brad Bloomquist. She has attended the University of North Dakota and will be attending St. Cloud State University with a major in psychology and a minor in business.

Representing the city of Willmar has been an exciting ride as well as a blessing. Being the International Princess has given the life long dream of becoming a princess a reality. Seeing the twinkle in little girls' eyes as we wave at them and blow kisses for the boys is something one can never forget.  

Thanks go out to the Willmar Fests board for the opportunity and privilege to be a 2013 Willmar Fests ambassador, as well as thanks  to the community of volunteers and families that made this wonderful experience possible.

Marie Niles-Melchert

Marie Nilles-Melchert is the 19 year old daughter of Cathy Nilles and Bruce Melchert and is truly a Willmar native, having been born and raised in the community. Marie graduated from Willmar Senior High with highest honors in 2011. She was involved in a variety of activities throughout her high school career: she was a member of the speech team, cross country ski team, and an actor in one act plays, and was highly involved in the school's and Barn Theater music programs. She played clarinet in band, viola in orchestra, and sang in both the mixed and jazz choirs.

Marie currently attends (and loves) the College of Saint Benedict in St. Joseph, MN where she is a sophomore pursuing majors in Chemistry and Peace Studies. She is minoring in French and Pre-medicine. Currently, she is a member of the Women’s Choir and Dynamix, a women’s a Capella choir. This spring, she also made her first venture into collegiate theater, performing in the musical Quilters. Upon graduating, Marie aspires to attend medical school and earn an M.D. and a Masters in Public Health. Marie is a lover of learning and looks forward to continuing to learn in her career as a doctor.

During the summer, Marie enjoys riding, training, and showing horses at both the local and state level. She completed her 4-H horse career the fall of 2012, passing the Level 6 Achievement riding and knowledge test. Some of her other hobbies include running, baking, eating, reading, laughing with family and friends, and attending Willmar Fests events!

While travelling the state attending different events and festivals, Marie has met many young women proudly representing their cities and towns. She thanks each and every ambassador, festival, and city for the warm hospitality and gracious reception found at every event.

Marie’s reign as Willmar Fests Queen of Festivals would not be all that it is without the support of many incredibly generous people and businesses. The festival as a whole would not have been possible without the Willmar Fests board; the volunteerism exhibited by this group of people is a source of inspiration and will continue to be, reminding her of the importance of being an active, involved community member.

The city of Willmar and the businesses in the community continue to amaze Marie with their generosity. Marie has seen so many examples of their dedication to this community and to the Willmar Fests program. “To every business associated with Willmar Fests, to the city of Willmar, and to the community as a whole,” she says, “know that your support is essential to the program and that it is so greatly appreciated. I am so grateful for and humbled by your generosity. I am so incredibly honored and proud to be able to represent the people and area that shaped me into who I am today. Thank you so very much!”

Sarah Rodelius

Sarah Rodelius is the 19 year old daughter of Steven and Amy Rodelius. She is a 2011 honors graduate from Willmar Senior High School.  While in high school she was a member of the swimming and diving team, the color guard, Key Club, and the Cardinal Service Club.

Sarah was also involved in many church activities such as a mission trip to Martin, South Dakota and  two mission trips to New Orleans, Louisiana.  She also volunteered in Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Sarah is now attending Saint Cloud State University, where she is majoring in Early Childhood Education.

She is currently employed at the Green Mill in Willmar and Frieda’s Cafe.

Some of Sarah's favorite activities include, spending time with family and friends, reading, camping, working out, cooking, shopping, and playing with her cat.

Jesus Castellano

Jesus Castellano age 9 son of Jesus Castellano Sr & Katie Johnson of Willmar attends 3rd grade @ Kennedy Elementary enjoys playing soccer, video games, drawing, legos, & fishing in his spare time. His favorite part of being Jr prince was seeing all the cool floats & cars in the parades.

Allison Bruhn

Allison Bruhn, daughter of Jason and Beth Bruhn.  She is 8 years old and in 3rd grade at Kennedy Elementary.  Allison enjoys dance, piano, cheerleading, doing crafts and playing with her dog.  Ali’s favorite things about being a Jr. Ambassador are the parades and being with the other girls.  She has truly enjoyed her reign as Jr. Princess for Willmar.