Chester
Emma Byrd
Emma Lee Byrd, daughter of Jason and Becki Byrd, proudly represents Chester as a Lady in Waiting. She will be escorted by Kasen Daniel Citrano, son of Jason and Candice Citrano.
Emma plans to attend Blinn College to become a physical therapist assistant, a career inspired by her own experiences overcoming athletic injuries with the help of dedicated physical therapists. Her three favorite things are volleyball, lake days, and sunshine—reflecting her love for sports and the outdoors.
One of her proudest accomplishments was receiving the JP Johnson/Aubry Bradley Athletic Award, recognizing her dedication as an athlete. Her favorite Dogwood memories include attending the parades and helping her mom take pictures at Dogwood events.
She was active in volleyball, cheerleading, basketball, track and field, and sports training. She is a regional qualifier in UIL academics. Emma is excited to experience the festival as part of the royal court and create lasting memories.
Abby Grimes
Abby Gayle Grimes, daughter of Bronson and Susan Grimes, is honored to represent Chester as a Lady in
Waiting. She will be escorted by Joshua Augustus "Gus" David, son of Bob and Melissa David.
After graduation, Abby plans to pursue online courses to obtain her real estate license. She has a deep love for her family and her dog, and she is passionate about showing Brahman cattle through FFA. One of her favorite Dogwood memories is watching her sister represent Chester as Princess, and she is excited to now have her own opportunity to be a part of this special tradition.
Abby is highly involved in FFA, where she competes in contests, shows cattle and swine, and has earned the
prestigious Lonestar Degree. She is also part of the chapter conducting team. In addition, she serves as the National Honor Society Secretary, Class Secretary, and participates in basketball and volleyball.
Kyli Handley
Kyli Rei Handley, daughter of Coty and Kana Handley, is proud to represent Chester as a Lady in Waiting. She
will be escorted by Gabrien Rex Monroe Gilzow, son of Gabe and Sandy Gilzow.
Kyli plans to pursue her dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot after attending college. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and hunting. One of her greatest life experiences was traveling to Japan to visit her grandmother, meet relatives, and immerse herself in the culture.
She is most excited for the Kingsman’s Ball, where she looks forward to having fun with everyone who came to the first night of judging and bonding with everyone involved in the Dogwood Festival. Kyli has been an active participant in high school, excelling and earning honors in volleyball, basketball, track and field, cross country, UIL academics, and serving as a member of the National Honor Society.