Pageant News Bureau (PNB)

In a pageant scandal that has the flavor of a 1980s American sitcom, Lakshmi Pandit has surrendered her crown as Miss India World. She quit within a few days of her victory after rumors surfaced that she was actually married to a male model, Siddharth Mithra. Ms. Pandit denied that allegation, but said she and Mithra had pretended to be husband and wife in order to rent an apartment and live together. She declined to fight to keep the crown. Mithra reportedly has been barred from a male pageant for the same reasons as his non-bride. The winner of the 2004 Miss India contest, held March 27, 2004, in Mumbai, was Tanushree Dutta. She will represent the county in the 2004 Miss Universe Pageant in June in Ecuador. Ms. Pandit was the first runner-up. The second runner-up, awarded the title of Miss India-Earth, was Sayali Bhagat. She will compete in the 2004 Miss Earth Pageant in November.

Michelle Bissell, 23, of Ohio has been awarded the title of Ms. Midwest Ambassador 2004. She will compete for the 2005 Ms. Ambassador title in November 2004. She is a graduate student working on her Ph.D. in history.

The Mid-Atlantic Regional American Queen Pageant took place in Mt. Laurel, N.J., on March 28, 2004. Here are the official results: Miss Virginia – Brande Martin; first runner-up – Amy McFarland; Miss Pennsylvania – Renee Zawawi; first runner-up – Dana Maliniak; Miss Teen New Jersey – Tracy Swope; first runner-up – Ashli Crosson; Miss New Jersey – Denise Spaanstra; first runner-up – Jennifer Stella; second runner-up – Janeen Jeffra; Miss New York – Rebecca Kappler; first runner-up – Jessica Cagwin; Mrs. New Jersey – Shelley Marano; first runner-up – Khyrstyna Cusimano; Mrs. New York – Nicole Palmer; first runner-up – Veronica Salimo; Miss Pre-Teen New York – Alexis Voehl; Miss Pre-Teen New Jersey: Kaitlyn Kavanagh – Ms. New York, Kelly Platt. These newest American Queen State titleholders will represent their states at the National American Queen Pageant on a 7 night cruise in August. 2004. The community service distinction award was a tie between Amy McFarland of Winchester, Va., and Cynthia Stephans of Cherry Hill, N.J.; Supermodel with Style award – Lauren Biryla of New York; Congeniality awards – Cynthia Stephans, Shelly Marano, Khyrstyna Cusimano and Denise Spaanstra; Essay awards – Amy McFarland, Renee Zawawi; People's Choice awards – Nicole Palmer, Renee Zawawi; Photogenic awards – Ashli Crosson, Amy McFarland, Cynthia Stephans, Nicole Palmer,Jennifer Stella, Lauren Biryla,, Dana Maliniak; Interview awards – Tracy Swope, Brande Martin, Janeen Jeffra, Rebecca Kappler, Renee Zawawi, Shelly Marano, Nicole Palmer; Fitness awards – Ashli Crosson, Brande Martin, Jennifer Stella, Rebecca Kappler, Dana Maliniak, Shelley Marano, Nicole Palmer; Evening gown awards – Tracy Swope, Brande Martin, Denise Spaanstra, Rebecca Kappler, Dana Maliniak, Shelley Marano, Nicole Palmer.

The Jenkins County Forestry Pageant was held on March 27, 2004, in Millen, Ga. The winners were as follows: Baby Miss – Alaina Boulineau; Teeny Miss – Jessica Hendley; Tiny Miss – Cierra Linder; Little Miss – Victoria Becton; Junior Miss – Cara Reeves; Teen Miss – Claire Morris; Miss – Kimberly McMillan; Hospitality – Meghan Burke. The winners of the Charlton County Forestry Pageant, held the same day in Nahunta, Ga., were as follows: Baby – Natalie Davis; Teeny – Bailey Rhoden; Tiny – Sarah Thompson; Little – Taylor Haden; Junior – Amber Thompson; Teen – Tasha Roberson; Miss – Amber Tiede. The winners of the Brantley County Forestry Pageant, also held in Nahunta were as follows: Baby Miss – Aeianna Yadira Nakjesha Parrish; Teeny Miss – Salee Nora Breese; Tiny Miss – Shelby Iris Hurst; Little Miss – Hannah Cornelius; Junior Miss – Chelsea Carter; Teen Miss – Lacey Odum; Miss – Heather Fletcher.

Kendall Lauren Wilson, 14 years old, of Harrisonburg, Va., was crowned Junior Miss of America on March 28, 2004, in Charlottesville, Va .

Silvia Hackl, 21, of Linz was crowned Miss Austria 2004 on March 27, 2004, in the Casino of Baden. Ms. Hackl, whose boyfriend, David Königshofer, is the reigning Mister Austria, competed as Miss Oberösterreich. On the previous day she had won the Miss Elegance title. She will represent Austria in Miss World 2004. The first runner-up was Bianca Brauneis of Vienna, who will possibly go to Miss Europe 2004, and the second runner-up was Julia Bayer of Hallein.

Audrey Chubb has been crowned Ms. Kansas America Ambassador 2004. Hanh Chau has been crowned Ms. California America Ambassador 2004. Both will join the other delegates in promoting their respective platforms of service, volunteerism and leadership throughout their reign.

Tilla Wiesel has been named Miss Sweden Galaxy 2004. A German native living in Sweden, she represented her homeland as Miss Germany in the Miss Galaxy 2002 pageant.

A jury in North Carolina ruled on March 25, 2004, that beauty queen Rebekah Revels' former boyfriend harmed her career by sending topless photos of her through e-mail. Tosh Welch could be forced to pay damages. After viewing the photos in 2002, pageant officials persuaded Ms. Revels to give up her newly won crown of Miss North Carolina, along with her chance to compete at Miss America. She soon reconsidered and fought the decision, even traveling to Atlantic City during the Miss America Pageant and trying to assert a right to compete. But Misty Dawn Clymer, the former runner-up approved by state pageant officials, eventually was recognized instead. Later that year, Ms. Revels represented the United States at Miss World, finishing as a finalist. She has always contended the topless photos were taken without her approval.

Fiona Page was named Ms. Senior Georgia 2004 on March 21, 2004, confirming the fact that blindness need not be an obstacle on the road to achievement. The Dunwoody, Ga., resident, who is active as a storyteller, made her blindness the theme of her talent presentation, doing a creative monologue called "Life on a Blind Date." The first runner-up was Nell Veale of Savannah, and the second runner-up was Barbara Quinn of Atlanta. The third runner-up was Carolyn Bashlor of Springfield, and the fourth runner-up was Audray McCroskey of Smyrna. Marty Gardner of Marietta was named Ms. Congeniality.

Mrs. Apple Valley, Nancy Paradeise, 44, was crowned Mrs. Minnesota International 2004 on March 21, 2004, in St. Cloud, Minn. This was her second attempt at the title, as she was first runner-up in the 2003 pageant. She also won the preliminary Interview and Team Spirit (i.e. Most Ticket Sales) Awards. Mrs. Paradeise, who was crowned by Holly Ernst, Mrs. Minnesota International 2003, will represent Minnesota at the 2004 Mrs. International Pageant in July in Chicago. The first runner-up was Jennifer Sanneman, Mrs. Olmsted County, a new participant, and the second runner-up was Donnell Rank, Mrs. Minneapolis, a top 10 finisher in 2003, who also won the Photogenic and Director's Awards. The third runner-up was Annastasia Anderson, Mrs. Hennepin County, a new participant who tied for the Preliminary Evening Gown Award, and the fourth runner-up was Sondra Morgan, Mrs. Winona County, also the fourth runner-up in 2003.

Two state pageants were held in the lead-up to the 2004 Miss Venezuela contest, which will take place in fall 2004 in Caracas. Patricia Montenegro, Ghendry Gómez, Nathali Tiapa, Widmaru Calma, Indira González and Verónica Lanz were chosen as finalists in the Miss Bolívar Contest on March 20, 2004. In the Miss Costa Oriental del Lago Pageant, Desirée Cuevas González, Yuly Tovar, Luzmila Dubuc, Inmary Rodríguez Boscán, María Isabel Pirela, Yeniret Márquez and Johanny Díaz were all chosen as state finalists on March 18, 2004. These 13 women will advance to the final casting for Miss Venezuela 2004 in the summer, where the twenty-six national finalists will be selected.

Catherine Jackson has been chosen Mrs. Illinois North American. Stephanie Boren has been chosen Mrs. Lone Star North American. The two will compete for the Mrs. North American title to represent the married women of North America at the Continental World Pageant in October 2005.

Joy Finerson has been crowned Ms. New York America Ambassador 2004.

Margarita Krasnova and Veronika Tkach, representing the city of Brampton, were crowned Little Miss Canada Royalty and Miss Canada Royalty, respectively, on March 20, 2004, in Brampton, Ontario. Megan Mills of Stoneycreek was crowned Miss Teen Canada Royalty, and Ronda Copeland of Burlington, Ontario, was crowned Ms. Canada Royalty.

The Ms. America Ambassador Pageant Club announces that Trellyn Kaufman has been crowned Ms. Delaware America Ambassador 2004. Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Ms. Maine America Ambassador 2004. C.C. Jackson has been crowned Ms. Illinois America Ambassador 2004. These titleholder will represent this new pageant club system and their various platforms throughout the year.

The winners of the Elbert Madison County Forestry Pageant held on March 20, 2004, in Danielsville, Ga., and who will compete for the state title are as follows: Teeny Miss – Savannah Kylie Dove; Tiny Miss – Mallory Grace Smith; Little Miss – Madison Miranda Mitchell;
Junior Miss – Suzanne Michelle Smith; Teen Miss – Marla Danielle Ouzts; Miss – Phyllis Ashley Pierce. The 2004 Treutlen Forestry Queens crowned on March 20, 2004, in Soperton, Ga., and who will compete at the Miss Georgia Forestry Pageant, are as follows: Miss Treutlen Forestry – Necole Youmans (Interview, Speech, Prettiest Dress, Prettiest Smile and Photogenic); first runner-up – Jana Horn (People's Choice); second runner-up – Amanda Braddy; Miss Hospitality – Venessa Morman. Teen Miss Treutlen Forestry – Kimberly Champion (People's Choice, Prettiest Smile, Speech and Interview); first runner-up – Brooke Peters; second runner-up – Tiffany Braddy; third runner-up – Amy Powell (Photogenic and Prettiest Dress). Junior Miss Treutlen Forestry – Maggie Purcell (People's Choice, Photogenic, Prettiest Smile, and Prettiest Dress); first runner-up – Lindsey Ware; second runner-up – Susannah Brewton; Little Miss Treutlen Forestry – Kelly Clements (Photogenic, Prettiest Smile, and Prettiest Dress); first runner-up – Daisy Manning; second runner-up – Chelsea Fields; third runner-up – Courtney Brooks; fourth runner-up – Jerika Coody (People's Choice). Tiny Miss Treutlen Forestry – Madison Fields; first runner-up and Kaitlyn Wilch (Photogenic); second runner-up – Kelsey Pullen (People's Choice, Prettiest Dress, and Prettiest Smile); third runner-up – Amy Parker.

Kandice Pelletier, the reigning National Sweetheart, was crowned Miss Manhattan on March 20, 2004, in New York City. She won the swimsuit and talent categories as well. After previously competing in Georgia, this Rockette will now compete for the Miss New York crown in the Miss America system. The first runner-up was Amelia Nelson, and the second runner-up was Karmen Kluge. The third runner-up was Kimberly Prosa, and the fourth runner-up was Joy Bellamy. The pageant was directed with great aplomb by Dr. Paul Brown.

Doriana Portelli, a 22-year-old university student and model from B'Bugia, has been crowned Miss Maltese Galaxy 2004, and is the first woman to hold the title. She was crowned during a magnificent show in Malta where more than 300 guests attended. Alsison Galea Valletta was the first runner-up, followed by Caroline Buhagiar, the second runner-up, Greta Camilleri, the third runner-up, and M'Grace Delia, the fourth runner-up. Ms. Portelli will represent Malta in Ohio at the international Miss Galaxy Pageant.

Zita Galgociova, 17, has been crowned Miss Slovak Republic. The first runner-up was Zuzana Dvorska, and the second runner-up was Marina Gunisova. Ms. Galgociova is still too young to compete at Miss Universe 2004, so the country is likely to be represented by Ms. Dvorska.

Gergana Guncheva was crowned Miss Bulgaria 2004 on March 20, 2004, at the Bulgarian National Palace of Culture. She will represent the country at Miss World 2004 on Oct. 30 in China. Ivelina Petrova was named Miss Bulgaria Universe 2004 and will compete at Miss Universe. Kristiana Radneva was crowned Miss Bulgaria Europe 2004 and will compete at Miss Europe.

Deanna McCray, representing Maryland, has been crowned Ms. Black Continental U.S. She is a senior at the University of Maryland University College and will use her reign to speak out against sexual and domestic violence against young women and to promote youth involvement in the community. Natisha Webb, representing Georgia, was crowned Ms. Black Continental U.S. Woman. She is a graduate of Georgia State University and will spread her motivating message of "Queen Size...and loving it!" during her reign.

Kyra Korver has been crowned Miss Black Hills Gold. She will compete in the Miss South Dakota (America) Pageant in Hot Springs in June 2004.

Mindy Loudermilk has been crowned Mrs. West Virginia Galaxy 2004. Jenny Rajah, a Sri Lanka native now studying in the United Kingdom, has been crowned Miss Teen Sri Lanka Galaxy 2004. They will vie for Mrs. Galaxy 2005 and Miss Teen Galaxy 2005, respectively.

The winners of the Dougherty County Forestry Pageant, held in Albany, Ga., were as follows: Teeny Miss – Madison Casey; Tiny Miss – Noelle Clearman; Little Miss – Alex Gautny and Morgan Roberts; Junior Miss – Jessica Denney; Teen Miss – Julie Good; Miss – Joliegh Sartiano; Miss Hospitality – Mandy Copeland and Lilly Wernick. The Echols County Forestry Scholarship Pageant, held the same day in Statenville, Ga., were as follows: Teeny Miss – Savannah Winters; Tiny Miss – Ansley Tompkins; Little Miss – Amber White; Junior Miss – Adrianno Ramos; Teen Miss – Jamie Duff; Miss – Brittany Rodgers. The winners of the Macon County Forestry Scholarship Pageant, held in Montezuma, Ga., were: Tiny Miss – Camryn Thompson; Teen Miss – Lane Wooten; Miss – Kirby Perdue. The winners of the Bulloch County Forestry Pageant, held in Statesboro, Ga., were: Teeny Miss – Jaylee Mallard; Tiny Miss – Alexis Stewart; Little Miss – Savannah Morris; Junior Miss – Taylor Craft; Teen Miss – Ansley Oliver; Miss – Jill MacDonald. The winners of the Wayne County Forestry Pageant, held in Jesup, Ga., were as follows: Miss Queen – Beth Lewis; Teen Miss Queen – Meghan Gaskins; Junior Miss Queen – Ashlee O'Steen; Little Miss Queen – Tiffany Padgett; Tiny Miss Queen – Kassi King; Toddler Miss Queen – Johannah James; Baby Miss Queen – Zoe Smith.

Liza Kay Pitts, a freshman at the University of Georgia from Elberton, was crowned Miss Georgia National Teenager by Sara Waldman in Marietta, Ga., on March 14, 2004. The first runner-up was Kimberly Sellers, and the second runner-up was Andrea Poole. The third runner-up was Heather Greenway. Jena Simms of Winder was crowned Miss Georgia Junior National Teenager by Katie Conkle. The first runner-up was Melissa Gibbins, and the second runner-up was Lindsey Gabriel. The third runner-up was Celeste Higginbotham, and the fourth runner-up was Erica Smith. Both winners will compete in the Miss National Teenager Pageant in Nashville in summer. Addie Hampton, Miss Junior National Teenager 2003, was in attendance, as was Kimberly Harlan, Miss World U.S. This pageant was the first directed by Renee Fielden.

Samantha Fountain has been crowned Miss Teen Burbank 2004. The first runner-up was Ashleigh Moro of Burbank.

Sonja Avramidis, 16, has been crowned Miss Vienna 2004. The first runner-up was Michaela Wiesinger. Both will represent the Austrian capital in the Miss Austria Pageant 2004 on March 27, 2004. The Austrian pageant is a preliminary to Miss World.

The Coffee County Forestry Pageant was held in Douglas, Ga. on March 6th. The following winners will represent Coffee County at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Scholarship Pageant: Baby Miss – Abigail Richardson; Teeny Miss – Brylee Jade Moxley (also photogenic winner, people's choice winner, prettiest dress winner and smile winner); first runner-up – Macy Shattles; second runner-up – Joycelyn Reese; Tiny Miss – Haley Ann Mixon (also prettiest dress winner); first runner-up – Alora Gail DeLoach (also Photogenic & Prettiest Smile winner); second runner-up; second runner-up – Chasity Rose Bedgood (also people's choice winner); Little Miss – Kelsey Havana Cumbass (also people's choice winner, photogenic winner, prettiest dress winner, prettiest smile winner); first runner-up – Alix Troupe; second runner-up – Almeshia Collins; third runner-up – Miranda Stephens; 2004 Hospitality Queen for Coffee County – Kelsey Cumbass; Hospitality runner-up – Almeshia Collins. Junior Miss – Jamie Campbell (also photogenic winner, prettiest dress winner, prettiest smile winner); first runner-up Hannah Mathis (also people's choice winner); Teen Miss – Rekasa Deen (people's choice, prettiest dress and prettiest smile winner). 2004 Miss Coffee County – Kayla Jo Harper (speech/interview winner) first runner-up: Precious Brackins (people's choice winner); second runner-up: Samantha McCormick.

The Toombs County Forestry Pageant was held in Vidalia, Ga., the city famous for its delectable onions. The winners were as follows: Miss – Wendi Stripling; first runner-up – Tasha Sturgis; second runner-up – Ashley Copeland (Photogenic Winner); third runner-up – Megan Willett (Prettiest Dress & Smile Winner). Teen Miss – Karlee Jones (Prettiest Dress, Smile, & Photogenic Winner); first runner-up – Laura Jones; second runner-up – Megan Caraway; Junior Miss – Devin Jones (Prettiest Dress, Smile, & Photogenic Winner); first runner-up – Kaitlyn Osborne; second runner-Up – Tayler Brinson; third runner-up – Leslie Raiford; Little Miss – Madison Hart (Prettiest Dress & Smile Winner); first runner-up – Elizabeth Brazell (People’s Choice Winner); second runner-up – Kasie Burton; third runner-up – LeighAnna Carter (Photogenic Winner). Tiny Miss – Grace Cabrol (Prettiest Dress Winner; first runner-up – Baylee Mixon; second runner-up – Lily Manning (Photogenic Winner); third runner-up – Hunter Carter; fourth runner-up – Karlie Wright; fifth runner-up – Hayleigh Kersey; Teeny Miss – Liliann Pittman (Photogenic Winner); first runner-up – Makensey Grimes; second runner-up – Sydney Dorsey (Prettiest Dress Winner); third runner-up – Caitln Dykes (Prettiest Smile Winner).

The Early County Forestry Pageant was held in Blakely, Ga. Melanie Brown is the director. The following queens were crowned: Tiny Miss – Kenley Kennedy; Little Miss – Kelley Whitaker; Hospitality Queen – Ellie Rabon; Junior Miss – Haley Waller; Teen Miss – Lauren Stansell; Miss – Lauren Weaver.

The Colquitt County Forestry Pageant was held in Moultrie, Ga., on the same day. Denise Hicks is the director. The following queens were crowned: Teeny Miss – Lauren Stone; Tiny Miss – Caley Driggers; Little Miss – Emily Stone; Junior Miss – Kimberly Crawley; Teen Miss – Megan White; Miss Hospitality – Cathren Whitley; Miss – Jessi O'Neal.

Lindsey Nye of Lincoln University, a senior at Avon Grove High School, won the title of Pennsylvania's Junior Miss 2004 on March 6, 2004. She will go on to compete at America's Junior Miss in Mobile, Ala., in June 2004. The first runner-up was Catherine Spafford of Chicora. The overall scholastics winner was Anne Pavlick of York, who also received a special recognition award for best exemplifying the spirit of Junior Miss. Annalee Moyer of Waynesboro was the overall fitness winner, as well as the "Be Your Best Self" award winner. The overall poise winner was Tia Grayson of Grantville.

Kaitlyn Christopher was crowned Miss Teen Indiana Galaxy 2004 on March 7, 2004, in Evansville. Karmen Kordell was crowned Miss Indiana Galaxy 2004, and the winner of Mrs. Indiana Galaxy 2004 was Kimberly Townsend. It was the first ever Indiana Galaxy Pageant, held under the auspices of Coronation, Inc., and directed by Miss Galaxy 2003, Christina Rheinlander.

Salena Fall, 19, has been crowned Miss Frankfurt (Germany) 2004. The first runner-up was Agata Walczak, 19, and the second runner-up was Anja Genat, 17. All three will advance to the Miss Hessen (Universe) state pageant in November 2004, seeking to become Hessen's representative to Miss Deutschland 2005 (Germany Universe 2005).

Cortney Ferris was crowned Miss College Park 2004 on March 6, 2004, winning the right to compete for the Miss Maryland crown. She is a student at the University of Maryland at College Park and was third runner-up to Miss College Park last year. This will be her first trip to the Miss Maryland Pageant. Laura Kelly was the first runner-up, and Kinya Young was the second runner-up. Adrienne Geisler was the third runner-up, and Shannon Beam was the fourth runner-up. Ms. Kelly and Ms. Young tied for the Keri Schrader Top Interview Award. Ms. Geisler was awarded the Camille Lewis Top Talent Award. Tonya Hunte was awarded the Tiffany Jenkins Top Swimsuit Award. Ms. Beam was awarded the Erica Watson Top Newcomer Award, and Ms. Kelly was voted the Spirit Award winner by her fellow contestants.

Joeleen Osborn has been crowned Miss Sioux Valley, and Nikki Grandpre has been crowned Miss Great Plains. Both are preliminary titles to Miss South Dakota (America). The first runner-up to Miss Sioux Valley was Jenna Hardy. The first runner-up to Miss Great Plains was Grace Pellow. Ms. Osborn won the swimsuit competition, Ms. Grandpre the interview competition and Ms. Pellow the talent competition.

Yanina Gonzalez, 22, was crowned Miss Paraguay Universe on March 6, 2004. She will represent her country at Miss Universe. The first runner-up was Tania Domaniczky, the second runner-up was Adriana Garcia, and the third runner-up was Romina Bogado.

Brittany Griffin was crowned Miss Empire Rose on March 6, 2004. Kristen Pieper was crowned Miss Niagara County on the same day, and Safiya McClinton was crowned Miss Five Boroughs. All three will compete in the Miss New York State Pageant, a preliminary to Miss America.

Morgan Melissa Maholick, 22, of Greece, N.Y. , was crowned Miss Greater Rochester on the last weekend of February 2004. She also won the swimsuit competition. She will compete at Miss New York (in the Miss America system) in June 2004 in Watertown. She was Miss New York Teen USA 1999. Lauren Elizabeth Loss of Pittsford won the Community Service award. Jessica Lee Bryant of Newark and Laurianne Fleming of Martville tied for the interview award. Lindsay O'Neil of Sauquoit won the evening wear and talent awards. Miss New York 2003, Jessica Lynch, made a special guest appearance and performed during the competition.

Mount Olive, North Carolina (The Pickle Capital of the South) was the home of the 2004 North Carolina Pickle Princess Pageant. The pageant was hosted by the beautiful Miss North Carolina 2001, Ashley House Howell, with four distinguished judges (Julie Roberts, Miss United States 2004, Carolina Ramsuer-Tyndall Miss Pickle Festival 1998; Wendy Galle, Mrs. North Carolina 2002; and Sandra Fisher). Entertainment was provided by the outgoing 2003 North Carolina Pickle Princess Court, Kathryn Brooke McCloud, and Desiree Autrey. At the end of the sportswear, talent, swimwear, and evening gown competitions, the new 2004 North Carolina Pickle Princess Court was announced: Baby Miss – Taylor Jones; Mini Miss – Lauren Bonneville; Tiny Miss – Mikayla Koch; Little Miss – Ashlie Evans; Junior Miss – Hannah Morayati; Teen Miss – Brandy Hardison; Miss – Deandra Stewart; Ms. – Phaedra Flowers; Mrs. – Bria Worthington Hill; Overall Majestic – Candice Hill; Mini Majestic –Karley Kornegay; Greater Miss – Blair Mozingo, Greater Master – Kyle Cannon; and People's Choice – Montana Baysden. The 2004 winners will reign over the North Carolina Pickle Festival, which is the one of the premier festivals in the South, and will have the opportunity to advance onto to the Little Miss North Carolina, Miss North Carolina United States of America, Ms. North Carolina United States of America, and Mrs. North Carolina State Pageants, respectively.

Cynthia Edee Alcocer, 18, of Mission, Texas, won the title of Miss South Texas All American on Feb. 21, 2004, in Mercedes, Texas. She will represent South Texas at the All American Coed Pageant in Dallas in July 2004. The pageant was held by Starz Productions.

Brenda Wehrman of Ohio was crowned Ms. United American 2004 on Feb. 28, 2004, in Jacksonville, Fla. Cyndi Fraser of Florida was crowned Mrs. United American 2004, and was the talent winner. Rebecca Richardson of North Carolina was crowned Ms. United American Woman 2004. Erika Watkins of Florida was crowned Ms. Plus United American 2004 and was the non-performing talent winner. Glenda Byrd of Florida was crowned Ms. United American Lady 2004, and was the style winner and community service winner. Reginald Lewis of Georgia was chosen Mr. United American 2004, and was the photogenic and community service winner. Natisha Webb of Georgia was chosen Woman of the Year 2004. Nancy Bardwell won the Woman of Achievement 2004.

Nefertari Kirkman-Bey was crowned Miss Fulton County (Georgia) on Feb. 28, 2004. The Hampton University graduate, who is currently completing a master's degree in music education and jazz studies, was also the talent winner, singing "All of Me." The first runner-up was Stephanie Tyson, and the second runner-up was Sara Waldman. Ms. Waldman was the People's Choice and Spirit award winner, and tied with Courtney Jones for the swimsuit award.

Shari Murray of Sterling has been chosen Mrs. Virginia North American. She will be replacing Rebecca Crosen, who previously held the title but had to give it up due to contractual obligations with another title. She will be competing for the Mrs. North American title to represent the married woman of North America at the Continental World Pageant in October 2005.

Fast-rising dancer Katelyn Andrews was selected Cobb County's Junior Miss on Feb. 28, 2004. She will compete for the title of Georgia's Junior Miss.

Miss Ethiopia World, Yodit Getahun, has been stripped of her title after failing to return from a a trip to Japan and the Philippines, according to the pageant's sponsoring agency, the Ethiopian Life Foundation. Ms. Getahun, who won the Miss World Tourism crown in Moscow in autumn 2003, will be replaced as a Miss World contestant by Ethiopian runner-up Muna Kidane.

Radiah M. Hyatte is disputing the circumstances of her being relieved of her title as Miss Ethnic World 2004. The pageant's international director, Yolanda Makle, has told PNB that due to personal reasons, Ms. Hyatte could not fulfill her contractual duties. Ms. Hyatte, however, contacted PNB to say that she never had a written contract and did not feel she had failed to fulfill her responsibilities. It is unclear whether there will be a continuing dispute over this situation. Ms. Hyatte continues in her position as Ms. Northern Virginia Galaxy 2004, a title that is not affiliated with the Ethnic World system.

Chen Lili, 24, of Sichuan reportedly has been cleared to participate in Chinese preliminaries to Miss Universe, despite the fact that she was a man until 2003. This will possibly be the first case of a woman participating in the Miss Universe system after sex-change surgery.

Renée Hodder of Mount Pearl was crowned Miss Teen Newfoundland & Labrador 2004 in a gala show in St. John's on Feb. 22, 2004. She succeeds Ashley Bursey of St. John's, and will represent the province as a goodwill ambassador at nearly 100 events over the coming year. Ms. Hodder was also the Miss Teen Academic winner. The first and second runners-up were Melissa Jenkins and Adrian Peacock, both of Carbonear. (Ms. Peacock was also a Talent finalist). The third runner-up was Olivia Heaney of Mount Pearl, who also won the Miss Teen Photogenic, Friendship and Talent titles. Genelle Butler of Manuels was Miss Teen Fitness as well as a Talent finalist. It was the eighth edition of the pageant, recognized as one of the best events of its kind in Canada.

Jessica Snyder was crowned Miss Cherokee County (Georgia) on Feb. 21, 2004. The first runner-up was Jaime Simmons, and the second runner-up was Lace Larrabee. The third runner-up was Stephanie Tyson.

The 15th Annual Tift County Forestry and Pine Seedling Pageant was held on Feb. 21, 2004, in Tifton, Ga. The winners will represent Tift County at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Scholarship Pageant to be held in Tifton in June, and were as follows: Teeny Division: Queen and Prettiest Dress winner – Emily Marie Peacock; first runner-up and Prettiest Smile winner – Ainsley Michelle Story; second runner-up – Mackenzie Leigh Sanders; third runner-up and People's Choice winner – Ragen Lasseter; fourth runner-up and Photogenic winner – Chloe Ann Moore. Tiny Miss Division: Queen – Kelly Renee Hulett; first runner-up – Raylee Laura Kitchens; second runner-up – Anna Lynn Sumner; third runner-up and Photogenic winner – Caley Driggers; fourth runner-up and Prettiest Dress winner and Prettiest Smile winner – Marianne Maree Good; People's Choice Winner – Rayanna Walker. Little Miss Division: Queen and Prettiest Smile winner – Savannah Paige Ray; first runner-up – Savanna Faye Taunton; second runner-up, Photogenic winner and Prettiest Dress winner – Morgan Ciarra Roberts, third runner-up – Caitlyn Brooke Penney. Junior Miss Division: Queen, Photogenic winner, Prettiest Dress winner and Prettiest Smile winner – Amber Elizabeth Hattway, first runner-up – Adrianna Maria Ramos, second runner-up – Carla Lynn Penney; third runner-up and Photogenic winner – Chandler Morgan Williams. Teen Miss Division: Queen, Interview Winner, Speech Winner, and Prettiest Dress winner – Laura Lyn McLeod; first runner-up and Photogenic winner – Gina Lynn Stanfield; second runner-up – Katherine Leigh Johnson; third runner-up and People's Choice winner – Anna Kate Sumler; fourth runner-up and Prettiest Smile winner – Julie Elaine Good. Miss Division: Queen, Prettiest Dress winner, Prettiest smile winner and Miss Congeniality – Crystal Haralson; first runner-up and Interview winner – Bridgett Lauren Payne; second runner-up and People's Choice winner – Amanda Lewis; third runner-up – Miranda Lewis; fourth runner-up and Photogenic winner – Rachel Shay Lawler.

Jeannette Josue of Jersey City has been named Miss New Jersey Galaxy 2004. She will compete for the title of Miss Galaxy 2005 in Ohio in June 2004.

Blanka Bakos, 18, was crowned Miss Hungary Universe on Feb. 13, 2004. The first runner-up was Csilla Gyurjan, and the second runner-up was Krisztina Bodri.

The Swedish network TV3 has canceled plans to show the Miss Sweden Universe Pageant for 2004, citing lack of interest. The event therefore will not be held. Sweden has a history of some outstanding competitors and three Miss Universes.

Rebecca Crosen has been awarded the title of Mrs. Virginia International 2004. Crystal Worley has been awarded the title of Miss Teen Virginia International 2004. They will be competing in June for the international titles.

The Thomas County Forestry Pageant was held on Feb. 7, 2004, in Thomasville, Ga. Jennifer Suggs is the Director of the Thomas County Forestry Pageant. The winners were as follows: Teeny Miss: Queen (prettiest dress and prettiest smile) – Tatum Puckett; first runner-up – Hillary Castillo, second runner-up – Karley Jenkins (photogenic); third runner-up – Savanna McMullen (people's choice); Tiny Miss: Queen –Bailey Strickland (prettiest smile and photogenic); first runner-up – Abby Hurst; second runner-up – Mackenzie Puckett (prettiest dress, people's choice); Little Miss: Queen – Regan Alderman; first runner-up – Kaylin Tinsley (people's choice); second runner-up – Courtney Godwin (prettiest dress, prettiest smile, photogenic); Junior Miss: Queen – Kayla Alderman; first runner-up – Adrianna Ramos (prettiest dress); second runner-up – Callie Herold (people's choice); third runner-up – Courtney Atkinson (prettiest smile, photogenic); Teen Miss: Queen – Taylor Hoskins (prettiest dress, speech winner); first runner-up – Jessica Hicks (photogenic, prettiest smile, interview); second runner-up – Victoria Herold (people's choice); third runner-up – Katie Gaston; Miss: Queen – Beth Crane ( speech, interview, people's choice). The Bacon County Forestry Scholarship Pageant was held on Jan. 24, 2004. Jennifer Mosely and Shelly Howard are the directors of the Bacon County Forestry Pageant. The winners were as follows: Baby Miss – Madison Lingenfelter; Toddler Miss – MacKenzie Crawford; Tiny Miss – Kellyann Howard; Little Miss – Sydney Deen; Junior Miss – Amber Williamson; Teen Miss – DeeAnna Walker; Miss – Kelli Capps. The Pierce County Forestry Scholarship Pageant was also held on Jan. 24, 2004. Jennifer Mosely and Shelly Howard are the Directors of the Pierce County Forestry Pageant. The winners were as follows: Baby Miss – Cassidy Cason; Toddler Miss – Stella Altman; Tiny Miss – Jada Ussery; Little Miss – Madison Green; Junior Miss – Lora Doyle; Teen Miss – Kadie Sharpe; Miss – Kandice Moore; Hospitality – Faith Tanner. The winners will represent their counties at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry Pageant in Tifton, Ga., in June 2004. The 2004 Candler County Queens were: Miss – Brandi Bragdon; Teen Miss – Joni Cox (prettiest dress); first runner-up – Morgan Page (prettiest smile, photogenic); Junior Miss – Erin Patrick (prettiest dress, photogenic); first runner-up – Lesle Raiford (prettiest smile); second runner-up – Christin Sapp; third runner-up – Haley Craft; Little Miss – Lisa Caststeel; Tiny Miss – Madison Taylor (prettiest dress, prettiest smile); first runner-up – Courtney Ulmer; second runner-up – Amy Parker (photogenic); third runner-up – Kelsy Pullen; Teeny Miss – Bailey Heil (photogenic, prettiest dress; first runner-up – Sydney Dorsey (prettiest smile); second runner-up – Saleena Cauley.

Kendra Muhammed, competing as Mrs. Bloomington, was crowned Mrs. Illinois International on Feb. 1, 2004, in Chicago. She was also named the Community Service Award winner and Best Evening Gown winner. She was the second runner-up in the 2003 pageant. She will now compete in the Mrs. International Pageant in July 2004 in Skokie, Ill. The first runner-up was Julie Rhinehart, Mrs. Flora, who was also the Fitness Wear winner. The second runner-up was Terri Karch, Mrs. Mt. Vernon, and the third runner-up was Dena Porter, Mrs. Gurnee. The fourth runner-up was Michelle Beckwith, Mrs. Rock Island.

Accusations by Amber Shipman, Miss Montana 2003, that a female pageant volunteer sexually harassed her will not be pursued further by authorities. Police say there was not sufficient evidence to pursue any criminal charges against the woman, whose identity has not been disclosed. Ms. Shipman continues to maintain that her allegations are true, while pageant officials continue to say they are false. Ms. Shipman still will have her title until the beginning of summer 2004. It seems unlikely that pageant officials will take her crown, or that relations between the organizers and the queen will be repaired.

The Miss/Ms/Mrs African-American United online program has announced its 2004 winners and court. The new Miss African-American United is LaJuana Acklin. She was the overall platform winner, and winner of the Family, Leadership, and Community Service awards. The first runner-up was Miss Illinois, Lisa Lyons, who was the winner of the Career and School awards. The second runner up was Miss Texas, Rochelle Beckford, winner of the Science award. The new Ms. African-American United is Jennifer Anne Barbour. Ms Barbour represented Pennsylvania in the competition and was the winner of the Family, School, Career, and Arts awards. Miss/Ms/Mrs African-American United is now in the process of taking applications for the 2004-2005 year. Delegates may represent their state or U.S. region. For African-American History Month (February), delegates who enter may receive a $20.00 discount on the princess entry.

Amy Carol Harvey, 27, of Hollywood, Fla., was crowned Ms. Ambassador of 2004 on Jan. 31, 2004. She also received the award for Best Portrait. She previously held the title of Miss Florida Woman of 2003 and went on to compete for the national title.

Sheryl Roush has been crowned Ms. Heart of San Diego by Ms. American Achievement, Effie Horning. Ms. Roush is a professional motivational speaker and author. She will be addressing the Sharp Women's Symposium along with Olivia Newton John in February 2004, and will compete for the "crown for the cure" at the Worldwide Pageant in October 2004.

ABC-TV, which broadcasts the Miss America Pageant each September, has forced pageant organizers to shorten the event from three hours to two. Media reports have noted that the pageant was once a ratings blockbuster, and could dictate terms to networks. But the contest has been slipping for years, and ABC wants a faster-moving show to keep it worth televising. The network also reportedly desires to end the televised talent competition, and that could ignite a struggle. The talent events are often ridiculed by members of the public, but they are beloved by Miss America loyalists as a symbol that this is not merely a "beauty contest."

Chloe Harlan was crowned Baby Miss Jonquil on Feb. 8, 2004, in Smyrna, Ga., the Jonquil City, at the 2004 Jonquil Festival Pageant. Sydney Leigh McCullough was crowned Little Miss Jonquil. Alexandria Coffee was crowned Petite Miss Jonquil. Ariel Sloan Barnhill was crowned Pre-Teen Miss Jonquil. Kasey Barber was crowned Junior Miss Jonquil. Lindsey Laufersweiler was crowned Teen Miss Jonquil. Kristina Montanaro was crowned Miss Jonquil. Julie Graybill was crowned Mrs. Jonquil. The queens will reign over the annual Jonquil Festival.

Erica Johnson, a University of Georgia student who danced and twirled a baton for her talent, was crowned Miss South Georgia on Feb. 7, 2004, in Baxley. Rebecca Johnson was the first runner-up, and Mindy Adams was the second runner-up. Ms. Adams won Talent. Erin Leigh Lindsay, a student at the Medical College of Georgia, was crowned the first Miss Capital Cities on the same night in Atlanta. The first runner-up was Jenna Stanford, and the second runner-up was Kristina Crowder. The third runner-up was Erin Grizzle, and the fourth runner-up was Nefertari Bey. Ms. Crowder was the swimsuit winner, and Ms. Stanford was the talent winner. Both Ms. Johnson and Ms. Lindsay will compete at Miss Georgia.

Karla Albuquerque, Miss Ananinduea, was crowned Miss Pará on Feb. 3, 2004. She will represent the state in the fiftieth-anniversary Miss Brazil Pageant, to be held in São Paulo on April 17. The reigning Miss Brazil, Gislaine Ferreira, was president of the judging panel. Elsewhere in Brazil, Angélica Corona was crowned Miss Espírito Santo and Isabela Marinho won the title of Miss Paraíba. Both will represent their states in the same national pageant.

Canberra-based model Corrie Lee, 22, Miss December 2003, has been chosen by an overwhelming majority of Official Australian Swimsuit Calendar buyers as the most popular girl featured in the 2004 edition. She will now represent Australia in the Miss Calendar Girl World Finals in the Bahamas in November. The Miss Calendar Girl Search contest stretched from March to May 2003 and was held in 13 top entertainment venues all over Australia. More than 1,500 girls entered and competed for the 13 spots available in the 2004 Official Australian Swimsuit Calendar.

A Peruvian beauty queen alleges that she was lured to Gabon in January 2004 under the pretense of hosting a Miss Humanity Pageant and was propositioned by Gabonese President Omar Bongo. Ivette Santa Maria, 22, a Miss Peru America contestant, said she refused Bongo's advances and left the presidential palace without interference. But she said was left penniless and stranded for days in the country, which is best known for its oil wealth and biological diversity. She denied earlier reports that she had been held prisoner or that attempts were made to force her to have sex or work as a prostitute. Ms. Santa Maria said Gabonese officials told her the incident was a "misunderstanding." There have been previous reports that European agencies import prostitutes to Gabon for Bongo. This incident recalls the allegations by Shannon Marketic, Miss USA 1992, that she was lured to the oil-rich Asian nation of Brunei in 1997, and that top officials tried to pressure her to have sex. Media investigations confirmed that many models and beauty queens went to the country to make money in the high-end sex trade. But the allegations of coercion and fraud were never substantiated.

The Lee County Forestry Pageant was held in Leesburg, Ga., on Jan. 31, 2004. The newly crowned queens were as follows: Tiny Miss – Adahy Pritchett; Little Miss – Shelby Dedge; Junior Miss – Autumn Parsons; Teen Miss – Erica Tomlinson; Miss – Barbie Rainwater. Michelle Warren is the director of the Lee County Forestry Pageant. The Montgomery County Forestry Pageant was held in Mt. Vernon, Ga., also on Jan. 31. The new queens are as follows: Baby Miss – Morgan Taylor (also prettiest smile winner). Tiny Miss – Laura Bland; first runner-up – Haliegh Kersey; second runner up – Jacey Thomas (Photogenic winner); third runner-up – Kelli Couey (prettiest dress, people's choice and prettiest smile winner). Little Miss – Jordan Whitaker (photogenic winner, prettiest dress, and prettiest smile); first runner-up – Mercedes Amos; second runner-up – Shania Taylor; third runner-up – Amber Brantley; fourth runner-up – Emily Patrick. Junior Miss: Keri Knight (prettiest dress winner); first runner-up – Monti Winge; second runner-up – Brittany Patrick (photogenic winner, prettiest smile). Third runner-up – Kasimier Green. Teen Miss – Leann Braddy (prettiest smile, prettiest dress winner); first runner-up – Joni Cox (speech and interview winner); second runner-up – Crystal Adams (photogenic winner). Bonnie Peery is the director of the Montgomery County Forestry Pageant. The first annual Bleckley County Forestry Pageant was held in Cochran, Ga., also on Jan. 31. The winners were as follows: Teeny Miss – Sara Beth Martin, Tiny Miss – Tori Madison Little; Little Miss – Karlee Noelle West; Junior Miss – Ellie Marie Yearty, Teen Miss – Bailey Michelle Woodard, Miss – Mitzi Jeanine Bond. Mandy Jones is the director of the Bleckley County Forestry Pageant. Liberty County (Ga.) Forestry queens were crowned Feb. 2, 2004. Winners were Teeny Miss – My'Iana Grant; Tiny Miss – Amber Brooke Holland; Little Miss – Heather Rego; Junior Miss – Brittney Schaadt; Teen Miss – Jade Perrett (Speech & Interview Winner); Miss – Jessica Newsome (Speech & Interview Winner). Gail Standard is the director of the Liberty County Forestry Pageant. The queens will represent their respective counties at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Pageant in Tifton, Ga., in June.

Claudia Hein, 24, of Cologne was crowned Miss Germany (World) on Jan. 31, 2004. She competed as Miss Nordrhein-Westfalen. She is a fitness instructor, and will represent her nation at the Miss World Pageant. The first runner-up was Miss Rheinland-Pfalz, Inka Weickel, 20, of Alzey. The second runner-up was Ina Neuhaus, 21, of Kiel, who competed as Miss Schleswig-Holstein.

Ashlee Bronson has been named Miss Teen New York Galaxy. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2005 in June 2004 in Ohio.

Kristina Ellis of Vincennes has been crowned Ms. Teen Petite Indiana. Misty Freeman of Evansville has been crowned Ms. Petite Indiana. Katie Hafer of Mokena has been crowned Ms. Petite Illinois. Amy Carter of Indianapolis has been crowned Ms. Petite Indiana Woman. Stephanie Sylvester of Richton Park has been crowned Ms. Petite Illinois Woman. Each of these women will represent their states in the 2005 Ms. Petite Universal Pageant to be held in Indianapolis in August 2004. The Ms. Petite Universal Pageant is for teens and women 5 feet 6 inches and under.

Miss Ostdeutschland, Micaela Schäfer, has been stripped of her title on the brink of the Miss Germany World Pageant, scheduled for Jan. 31, 2004, because she has posed nude. She is being replaced by her first runner-up, Isabelle Knispel.

Brittany Garrido, 13, of Lafayette has been named Miss Teen California Galaxy 2004. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2005 in Ohio in June 2004.

The Berrien County Forestry Pageant was held on Jan. 24, 2004, in Nashville, Ga. The winners will represent Berrien County at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Pageant in Tifton in June 2004. The following were the winners in their respective categories: Baby Miss – Allison Leigh Story: Queen, prettiest dress; Rebecca Lynn Myers: First runner-up, Miss Hospitality Queen, Photogenic winner; Montana Lee Harrell – second runner-up. Teeny Miss – Emily Marie Peacock, Queen, prettiest dress; Harley Raylyn Eldridge, first runner-up, prettiest smile; Amber Nicole Myers, second runner-up, photogenic winner; Mackenzie Leigh Sanders, third runner-up. Tiny Miss – Lawson Elizabeth Lupo, Queen, People's Choice, Prettiest smile, dress and Photogenic winner; Kelly Renee Hulett, first runner-up. Little Miss: Mckenzie Asbell – Queen, prettiest dress; Emily Lauren Stone, first runner-up; Savannah Leigh Roberts, second runner-up, photogenic; Jordan Brooke Harrell, third runner-up, People's Choice; Cara Rebecca Davis, fourth runner-up. Junior Miss – MaKayla Ann Lindsey, Queen, prettiest dress, smile; Audrey Brooke Copeland, first runner-up; Ansleigh Jerilyn White, second runner up, photogenic winner. Teen Miss – Whitney Mitchell, Queen, People's Choice, Speech and Interview winner; Amanda Carol Roberts, first runner-up; Katelyn Rose Davis, second runner-up; Courtney Powell, third runner-up; Jessica Hicks, fourth runner-up, Photogenic, dress, smile winner. Miss – Jenna Knight, Queen, People's Choice and Speech winner; Heather Robinson, first runner-up; Interview winner; Leilani Welch, second runner-up; Starla Smith, third runner-up. Annie Morgan and Connie Luke are the directors of the Berrien County Forestry Scholarship Pageant.

Venessa Fisher, 18, of Waterdown, Ontario, was crowned Miss Universe Canada 2004 in Rama, Ontario, on January 25, 2004. The high school graduate succeeds Leanne Marie Cecile, 26, and will compete at the 2004 Miss Universe Pageant in Quito, Ecuador, on June 1, 2004. The first runner-up was Meighen Miller, 26, from London, Ontario, and the second runner-up was Monica Rajchel, 24, of Calgary, Alberta. The third runner-up was Natalie Glebova, 22, of Toronto, and the fourth runner-up was Olivia Gurun, 20, of Windsor, Ontario. The remaining top ten finalists were Christiana Marzec, 20, of Ottawa, Ontario, Veronica Marie Zivcic of Tecumseh, Ontario, Julie Hinton, 24, of Concord, Ontario, Ashley Devries, 19, of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and Anna Maria Ezechiels, 21, of Toronto. Rounding out the top 15 finalists were Laurie Mannette, 21, of Coquitlam, British Columbia, Brooke Johnston, 25, of Montréal, Québec, Claire Robinson, 21, of Vancouver, Sara Noble, 24, of Brampton, Ontario, and Vithya Gnanakumar, 21, of Calgary, Alberta. The Best Hair prize went to Janet Mackenzie, 23, of Victoria, British Columbia. Anna Maria Ezechiels was named Miss Photogenic, and Vithya Gnanakumar won the People's Choice Award. Miss Congeniality was Sherylynn Butt of Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador. The Miss Christina Swimwear winners were Veronica Marie Zivcic (1st), Ashley Devries (2nd) and Anna Maria Ezechiels (3rd). Ms. Fisher is the youngest Canadian representative since 1997: the most recent winners have been in their mid-20s.

Ashley Reiff has been named Teen Miss Georgia North American. She will compete for the title of Teen Miss North American in Maryland in August 2004. She replaces Katherine Conkle, a former PNB cover girl who previously held the title but withdrew from the competition because of health reasons.

Kristin Moye was crowned Miss Lake Lanier on Jan. 24, 2004. She also won the talent award. The first runner-up was Meredith Ley, and the second runner-up was Erica Johnson. The swimsuit winner was Jennifer Browning. Ms. Moye will compete at Miss Georgia. Also tapped to compete at Miss Georgia, and crowned the same night as Ms. Moye, was Kate Michael, who won the title of Miss Thunder Road. The first runner-up was Kristina Crowder, who was the swimsuit winner, and the second runner-up was Amber Blount. The Talent winner was Jessica Snyder. Crowned Miss Georgia Southern University on Jan. 24 was Kelley Bradshaw, a former Miss Albany who was also the Interview winner. The first runner-up was Lindsay Sikes, and the second runner-up was Rebecca Johnson. The third runner-up was Leslie Culbertson, who won the Talent Award. The fourth runner-up was Angela Boyd. Finally, Clark Sarullo, a former Miss North Georgia Mountains, was crowned Miss Georgia Agricultural Fairs on that same eventful night. She also won the swimsuit award. The first runner-up was Sara Waldman, and the second runner-up was Beth Keener. Tara Sherman won the Talent Award. Ms. Bradshaw and Ms. Sarullo also will compete at Miss Georgia.

Christy Passoth of Upland, Calif., has been named Mrs. West Coast Galaxy 2004. Ronda Copeland of Ontario will be returning as Miss Canada Galaxy 2004. Ms. Copeland represented Canada at Miss Galaxy in 2002. These delegates will compete for the titles of Mrs. Galaxy 2005 and Miss Galaxy 2005, respectively, in Ohio in June 2004.

Nataliya Gotsky, 19, of Ukraine won the Ford Models Supermodel of the World title on Jan. 20, 2004, in New York. Judges included Frederique van der Wal, Stephanie Seymour, Lydia Hearst, Patrick McMullan and Phillip Bloch.

Suzi Berriman, 19, of Colchester, Essex, England, has been chosen Calendar Girl UK. She will compete in the International Calendar Girl world finals in the Bahamas in December 2004.

Sarah Peters of Lake Jackson has been chosen Miss Texas Teen America 2004. She performed a dance to "Miss Independent" and impressed judges with her platform, "E2R - Entitled to Respect," educating teenagers on epilepsy. The first runner-up was El Paso Teen Rachel Leigh Warren, and the second runner-up was Dallas Teen Britton Lynn. The third runner-up was Harris County Teen Kristy Donnell, and the fourth runner-up was Garland Teen Jenee Lacy. Ms. Peters will compete at Miss Teen America in Nashville in July 2004.

The Miss Savannah Pageant will not be held in 2004, pageant organizers have announced. Murder charges against the reigning Miss Savannah, Sharron Nicole Redmond, in the shooting of boyfriend Kevin Shorter have subjected the pageant to intense, unfavorable publicity.

Danielle Jones, competing as Miss St. James, has been crowned Miss Trinidad and Tobago 2004, and will represent the nation at Miss Universe. Miss Diego Martin, Aqiyla Gomez, was the first runner-up, and Miss Woodbrook, Anya Mahara, was the second runner-up.

Amanda Beagle was crowned Miss Lake Erie 2004 (America) on Jan. 17, 2004, in Westlake, Ohio. Ms. Beagle was the winner of the interview and talent scholarships. The first runner-up was Jeana Jones, and the second runner-up was Meredith Driscoll. Zaina Agbo was the winner of the Spirit Award. Ms. Beagle will move on to the Miss Ohio Pageant, where she was first runner-up last year.

Kristen Elizabeth White, 22, a senior at Bauder College in Atlanta, has been crowned Miss Spirit of Georgia 2004. She is a fashion design major devoted to Project H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Excel). Also the winner of the Talent award, she sang the Broadway classic "I Am Changing" from "Dreamgirls." She will be making her second trip to the Miss Georgia Pageant, where she was the second runner-up in 2003. The first runner-up was Nefartari Kirkman Bey, and the second runner-up and Community Service Award winner was Whitney Cleveland. The third runner-up was Rebecca Johnson, who won both the swimsuit and evening wear awards. Michelle Phillips won the People's Choice award.

The Evans County Forestry Pageant was held in Claxton, Ga., on Jan. 10, 2004. The winners were as follows: Teeny Miss Queen – Victoria Sapp; Teeny Miss first runner-up – Sydney Dorsey; Teeny Miss second runner-up – Madeline Deal; Photogenic Winner – Victoria Sapp; Prettiest Dress Winner – Victoria Sapp; Prettiest Smile Winner – Victoria Sapp. Tiny Miss Queen – Presley Phillips; Tiny Miss first runner-up – Madison Taylor; Tiny Miss second runner-up – Jena Brown; Tiny Miss third runner-up – Alexis Phillips; Hospitality Queen – Alexis Phillips; Photogenic Winner – Madison Taylor; Prettiest Dress – Madison Taylor; Prettiest Smile – Presley Phillips; Little Miss Queen – Hannah Hill; Little Miss first runner-up – Maigan Gibson; Little Miss second runner-up – Katie Saunders; Photogenic Winner – Hannah Hill; Prettiest Dress Winner – Hannah Hill; Prettiest Smile Winner – Maigan Gibson; Junior Miss Queen – Katy Bland; Junior Miss first runner-up – Jincy Curl; Junior Miss second runner-up – Haley Craft; Junior Miss third runner-up – Erin Patrick; Junior Miss fourth runner-up – Maggie Purcell; Junior Miss fifth runner-up – Christin Sapp; Photogenic Winner – Jincy Curl; Prettiest Dress – Katy Bland; Prettiest Smile – Katy Bland; Miss Queen – Nicole Crosby; Speech Winner – Nicole Crosby; Interview Winner – Nicole Crosby. June Yarbrough is the director of the Evans County Forestry Pageant. Special guests were Smokey the Bear and Junior Miss Georgia Forestry Jamie Kay Ireland. Deidre Hadden Pinkerd, the 1997 Miss Georgia Forestry Queen, served as mistress of ceremonies. The winners will represent Evans County at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Pageant in Tifton in June.

Indian actress Aishwarya Rai, a former Miss World, has been voted the most attractive woman of 2003 by readers of www.hellomagazine.com.

Linda Chung Ka-Yun, Miss Vancouver, was crowned Miss Chinese International 2004 in Hong Kong on Jan. 17, 2004. She succeeds Rachel Tan of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and is the third Vancouverite in just four years to win the prestigious international crown. The first runner-up was Mandy Cho Mun-Lei, Miss Hong Kong, who also won the Miss Friendship prize. The second runner-up was Carlene Ang Aguilar, Miss Manila, who was also the recipient of the Best Smile award. The finalists were Vivien Yeo Sieu Hui from Kuala Lumpur, and Jessica Xu Jing Jie from Los Angeles. Twenty-one contestants from around the world competed in the 16th annual pageant, which always takes place in the days preceding Chinese New Year.

Elizabeth Flemming, competing as Montgomery County Junior Miss, was chosen Alabama's Junior Miss on Jan. 17, 2004. She won the overall talent competition for a vocal performance and was first place in poise. She will compete in the National Junior Miss competition in Mobile, Ala., in June 2004. The first runner-up was Jordan Hayles, Mobile County Junior Miss. The second runner-up was Leura Fine, Baldwin County Junior Miss.

Shermine Sharivar, 21, who competed as Miss Süddeutschland, has been crowned Miss Deutschland 2004. She will represent Germany at Miss Universe 2004. She is a student of literature and political science and is from Aachen. The first runner-up was 19-year-old Viktoria Stadtlander, Miss Niedersachsen, and the second runner-up was 21-year-old Cluadia Rössler, Miss Ostdeutschland. Others in the Top 5 were Ria Sommerfeldt, Miss Schleswig-Holstein, and Ivana Martinovic, Miss Baden-Württemberg.

Katie Meadowcroft is the newly crowned Teen Miss Mid-Atlantic North American. She will compete for the Teen Miss North American title August 20-22, 2004 in Baltimore.

Ashlee Heid of Illinois has been named Miss Teen North America Galaxy. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2005 in Ohio in June. She replaces Nina King of Ohio, who previously held the title but withdrew from the competition.

Stephanie Daughenbaugh of New York has been named Mrs. East Coast Galaxy 2004. Ms. Daughenbaugh was a cover girl on Supermodels Unlimited International Magazine in 2002. She works as a model in New York City and is the reigning Ms. World Elite 2003-04. She will compete for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2005 in June in Ohio 2004.

Tiffany Norton of Marysville, Wash., has been crowned Miss Snohomish County. The first runner-up and new Snohomish County Seafair was Meredith Imholt of Marysville. The second runner-up was Ellen Duffy. Jean Sun Hannah Ahn of Mill Creek was crowned Teen Snohomish County, and Heather Shilts of Arlington was the first runner-up and chosen Snohomish County Ambassador. Alana Blomstrand won the Director's Award, and Jean Sun Hannah Ahn was the People's Choice Talent winner. The Contestant's Choice winner was Meredith Imholt, and the Congeniality Award winner was Mary Welsh. The Teen T-shirt/shorts winner was Ms. Ahn, and the Miss swimsuit winner was Ms. Duffy.

Brooke Edenfield was crowned Miss Albany (Ga.) on Jan. 10, 2004. She will compete at Miss Georgia. The first runner-up was Haley Kilpatrick, and the second runner-up was Kimberly Perez. The third runner-up was Kimberly Steigel. The swimsuit winner was Ms. Kilpatrick, and the talent and Spirit of Miss Albany winner was Carla Hawkins.

Shawn Cunningham been crowned Miss Maine Outstanding Woman in America 2004 and Miss Maine US of A 2004. She is also the current Miss Maine Ethnic World and Ms. Maine Ambassador.

Daniela Scholz, representing Germany, was crowned Reina Internacional del Cafe (International Coffee Queen) in Manizales, Colombia, on Jan. 11, 2004. She also won the Best Legs and Miss Press prizes, and succeeds Raquel da Silva Pinto of Portugal. The first runner-up was Silvia Oliveira Dias of Portugal, and the second runner-up was Silvana Santaella Arellano of Venezuela. Laura García Alba of Spain was the third runner-up, and Melissa del Carmen Piedrahita of Panama was the fourth runner-up. The semi-finalists were Fabiana dos Santos of Brazil (also Best Hair), Gretal Montgomery of Canada, Adriana Salgado Gasca of Colombia, Andrea Hernández Tovar of El Salvador and Brisseida Myrella Moya Leal of Mexico. Leslie Paredes Barahona of Honduras won the Best National Costume Prize. The Reinado Internacional del Cafe began in 1957 and is widely recognized as the start of the 2004 "pageant season" across Latin America. Canada and Italy participated in the event for the first time this year.

Jill Myers of Lima, Ohio, has been named Mrs. Midwest U.S. Galaxy. She will compete for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2005 in June 2004.

The Crisp Dooly Forestry Pageant was held on Jan. 10, 2004, in Cordele, Ga. The winners will represent Crisp Dooly (a combination of two counties) at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Scholarship Pageant in Tifton in June 2004. Special entertainment was provided by the reigning Little Miss, Karlee West, and the reigning Teen Miss, Laura Lyn McCleoud. Winners were as follows: Teeny Miss - Lyndsen Childs, Tiny Miss - Gillian Leighann Pritchett, Little Miss - Taylor Fraser, Miss Hospitality - Scott Jo Coffee, Junior Miss - Alexis Vaughn, Teen Miss - Alexa Turpin, first runner-up - Brittanie Faircloth, second runner-up - Karlee Jones, and third runner-up, Luara Whitman. Meghan Miller was crowned the 2004 Miss Crisp Dooly Forestry Queen, with first runner-up going to Tara Nipper and second runner-up to Kelley Burnette. For more information, visit the Crisp Dooly Forestry Web site.

Brooke Garner was crowned Miss University of Georgia on Jan. 10, 2004. She is a dancer and former Miss Troup County. The first runner-up was Julia Tyndall, who finished in the same spot the year before, and the second runner-up was Lyndsey Mills. The third runner-up was Amber Blount. The talent category had a three-way tie, with Amanda Jones, Rachel Elliott and Janna Gay sharing the honor. Deondra Rose was the fourth runner-up.

Germantown Community College in Maryland was the venue for the Miss Gaithersburg/Miss Germantown Pageant on Jan. 3, 2004. Tiffany Jenkins was crowned Miss Germantown 2004, and the first runner-up was Stacey Miller. Ms. Jenkins sang "Reflections," made famous by Christina Aguilera. Her platform is "Relay for Life." This will be her second trip to the Miss Maryland Pageant, a preliminary to Miss America, and she was the second runner-up there last year. Ms. Jenkins is a graduate student at Howard University. Crowned Miss Germantown was Michelle Orey, and the first runner-up was Heather Diacus. Ms. Orey is a tap dancer and danced to Michael Jackson's "Annie, Are You O.K.?" Her platform is Parkinson's Disease Awareness and Research. This will be her third trip to Miss Maryland, where she has been a Top 10 semi-finalist the past two years. Ms. Orey is a junior at Penn State.

Ashley Serio, 23, was crowned Miss Memphis 2004 on Jan. 4, 2004, at Theatre Memphis. She will represent the city in the Miss Tennessee Pageant (MAO) in June 2004. The Miss Memphis Scholarship Pageant is the longest-running, and this was its 57th staging. The first runner-up was Jackie Patterson, and the second runner-up was Becky Burton. The third runner-up was Danielle Colburn, and the fourth runner-up was Aimee Parker. The Spirit of Miss Memphis (Congeniality) was awarded to Lindsey Combs, with Nakesha Duncan taking the Mutual of Omaha/Lee Ann Thomas Public Relations Award. Paige Copeland also received two awards, Non-Finalist Talent Award sponsored by former Miss Memphis Anita Heiskell and the Memphis Jr. Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award. The program, with the theme "That's Entertainment: A Tribute to Broadway Musicals," was directed by Shay Bader-Wallace (the pageant's executive director) and featured the contestants moving to the sounds of "Grease," "Funny Girl," "Cabaret," "Chicago," and much more.

Tracy Hancock of Cheraw, S.C., has been crowned Miss Darlington County 2004. She sang "Hopelessly Devoted to You" for her talent presentation and won the talent award. She is a junior at Winthrop University, majoring in Early Childhood Education. Her platform is a literacy program, "Leap Into Reading." When she competes at the Miss South Carolina Pageant in July 2004, it will be her third time in the state competition. The first runner-up and swimsuit winner was Terri Timmons, and the second runner-up was Crystal Brunson. The third runner-up was Quinn Johnson, and the fourth runner-up was Jessica Malphus.

Gretal Montgomery of Windsor, Ontario, has been elected as the Canadian representative to the 2004 Reinado Internacional del Café (International Coffee Queen Pageant). She is the first Canadian to compete in the prestigious event, which began in 1957. The finals will take place in Manizales, Colombia, on Jan. 11, 2004.

Anna Polijakova, 18, of Hürth was crowned Miss Westdeutschland (Universe) on Jan. 3, 2004. The first runner-up was Eva Süssmann of Aschaffenburg, who was also first runner-up in Miss Bayern two weeks earlier. The second runner-up was her sister Julia Süssmann of Aschaffenburg . Ms. Polijakova will compete as Miss Westdeutschland in Miss Deutschland (Germany Universe) on Jan. 17, 2004.

The Worth County Forestry Scholarship Pageant was held Jan. 3, 2003, in Sumner, Ga. Kayla Morris of Sylvester was named the 2004 Miss Worth County Forestry Queen, with Kelly Bozeman named first runner-up. Beth Crowe was named the 2004 Teen Miss Worth County Forestry Queen. The first runner-up was Alexis Turpin, and the second runner-up was Maegan Kuck. The winners will represent Worth County at the 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Scholarship Pageant in Tifton in June. The Miss Georgia Forestry State Scholarship Pageant is the oldest scholarship pageant in Georgia.

Katrine Sorland was crowned Miss Norway Universe on Jan. 3, 2004. She will represent her country in Miss Universe 2004 in Ecuador. She was Norway's representative at Miss World 2002 and was a finalist.

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