WAYNESBURG - Emily Block's crowning moment came when it was announced that she would serve as 2009's Miss Rain Day.

When Block, who received her crown from Miss Rain Day 2008, Elissa McCracken, won the title, she knew she would soon be experiencing new and exciting events.

"I've never really been out at the events in Greene County and I got the opportunity to do that and have an effect on people," said Block.

The Sheep and Fiber Fest, 50's Fest, various Christmas parades and Coal Show were some of the activities Block participated in. She also went to preschools and elementary schools to read to the students.

"Being the queen makes you feel important," said Block. "It's such a good feeling to know that you can represent a place like Waynesburg and Greene County. [Rain Day] is such a wonderful tradition."

This past Sunday, Block passed along the long tradition of representing the county as Miss Rain Day to one of her good friends, when she presented the crown to Kelcee Headlee of Waynesburg. Headlee won the 2010 title during a pageant Sunday at Waynesburg Central High School.

"I'm really proud of her and I'm excited to see her get to do the things I got to do this year," said Block.

This year's contestants took part in various activities, of which Block participated.

"I went on the events with the girls and talked to them about the experiences I had," said Block. "I helped them out, gave them advice and became really good friends with a lot of them."

Advice Block gave to this year's queen was passed down to her from McCracken and Miss Rain Day 2007, Erica Bristor.

"Enjoy the time of your reign," said Block. "It will fly by. Every time you're in your gown, just make the most of it."

The Rain Day Scholarship Inc. awarded over $6,000 in savings bonds last year. Contestants must be between the ages of 14-18 to compete in the contest. While the Miss Rain Day pageant is fun and exciting, it provides an opportunity for young women to build their self-esteem and confidence. According to event director Jeanine Henry, the pageant also prepares the women for their future careers and education.

Block, who is the daughter of Stan and Sandra Block, will be Waynesburg Central's representative in the running for Coal Queen this year.

While Block is undecided where she will attend college in the fall of 2011, she knows she wants to major in music and vocal performance with creative writing tied in.