An ’80s theme defined the 12th annual Beaver Queen Pageant, which attracted about 1,000 people from across the Triangle to Duke Park to crown the next Beaver Queen. Contestants and audience members alike showed off their best ’80s attire, including Michael Jackson and Madonna costumes. The pageant first started in 2005 when the construction of I-85 threatened the local Duke Park beavers. The judging panel, fondly known as the Board of Corruption, were bribed and bought by donations as they selected their winners for Best Tail (Muffy Beavereau), Best Talent (Purdy Holsom Beaver), Best Bribes (Twiggy Sawdust), Best Stage Presence and Miss Hygeniality (both won by Carry Beaverwood). People’s Choice and the crown for 2016 Beaver Queen went to “Beaver Juice” – Anastasia Maddox. The proceeds each year have helped to improve and protect local ecosystems from harm. More than $18,000 was raised this year for the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association as they continue to protect and save Durham’s waterways and wildlife.
