Pageant News Bureau (PNB)

The 2004 National Talented Pre-Teen Scholarship Program held its first national competition in Atlanta, where 12-year-old Broadway performer Alexandria Payne was the winner. The other national finalists included Jade Johnson of Arizona, Kianna Sanders of New Jersey, Jamila Allen of Tennessee and Jalese Johnson of Michigan.

Chelsea Gondek, 12, a resident of Cleveland, Tenn., won the citywide Sunburst USA Beauty Pageant, on Sept. 25, 2004 in Cleveland. It is her first pageant title and second pageant. She has been in the state less than two months, having moved from Snellville, Ga.

Some weeks after her selection, the formal announcement has been made that Julie Love Templeton, 30, has been crowned Mrs. America 2005. She represented Alabama and is from the city of Tuscaloosa. She is the youngest of 10 children and is the daughter of a lawyer. She has a doctorate in law and is a stage actress.

Crystal Snow of Deer Lake was crowned Miss Newfoundland & Labrador in Harbour Grace on Sept. 27, 2004. She previously had been first runner-up to Miss Teen Newfoundland & Labrador 2003, and succeeds Sherylynn Butt, who was fourth runner-up at Miss World Canada and Miss Congeniality at Miss Universe Canada this year. Sabrina Jenkins of Carbonear was first runner-up. Glenda Stagg of Elliston won Miss Congeniality and Miss Photogenic, and Lorna Walsh of St. Lawrence was named Miss Fitness.

Njegica Balarda of Zvornik has been chosen Miss Bosnia and Herzegovina for Miss World.

Due to technical errors in the recent Miss Switzerland Pageant, some results were tabulated incorrectly. Following are the corrections that were made: Fiona Hefti was chosen Miss Switzerland 2004. The first runner-up was Natasha Grippaldi, and the second runner-up was Michele Beglinger (who had been reported as second runner-up). The third runner-up was Francesca Kuonen (who had been listed as second runner-up). Miss Photogenic was Fiona Hefti, replacing Francesca Kuonen, who had been announced for this honor. Crystel Wagner was confirmed as a member of the Top 8 after originally being excluded. The Miss Switzerland Organization is considering action to compensate delegates inconvenienced by the errors and changes.

Anna Maria Ezechiels of Canada won the 2004 Reina Mundial del Banano (International Banana Queen) Pageant in Machala, Ecuador, on Sept. 25, 2004. She is the first Canadian to have participated in the contest. The prestigious event celebrated its 41st edition this year.

Eduard Kretzer, 27, of Griesheim, near Darmstadt, was chosen Mister Hessen 2004 in an internal selection process in mid-September 2004. He is a student of sports and computer technology at Darmstadt Technical University and is a single father. He will represent the state of Hessen in the Mister Deutschland (Mister Germany) Pageant in Dortmund on Oct. 2, 2004. The Mister Deutschland winner has the opportunity to represent Germany in Manhunt International, Mister International and Mister Intercontinental.

The Mrs. Singapore and Classic Mrs. Singapore 2004/5 Pageant was held on 26 Sept. 2004 at the Neptune Theatre. The top four winners in the Mrs. Singapore category will represent Singapore at international beauty pageants. There were 41 finalists in two categories. The winners in the Mrs. Singapore category (ages 20-44) are as follows: Julynn Soh - Mrs Singapore World 2005. She will represent Singapore in Mrs. World; Azalea Ong - Mrs Singapore Globe 2005. She will represent Singapore in Mrs. Globe; Arina Ngiam - Mrs. Singapore United Nation 2005. She will represent Singapore in Mrs United Nation, and also won Best in Interview Award; Jacqueline Teo - Mrs. Singapore Galaxy 2005. She will represent Singapore in Mrs. Galaxy; The first runner-up was Jeanie Lee, and the second runner-up was Nimfa Tingala Sudiono, who also won Mrs. Photogenic. Winners in the Classic Mrs. Singapore Category (45 and above) are as follows: Gina Chew - Classic Mrs Singapore Globe 2005. She also won Mrs. Charity, Mrs. Elegance and Mrs. Body Beautiful; Gretna Yen - Classic Mrs Singapore World 2005. She also won Mrs. Charity; May Ma - Classic Mrs Singapore United Nation 2005. She also won Best in Talent. The first runner up was Linda Ong, who also won Mrs. Crowning Glory. The second runner-up was Elizabeth Ow - Za, who also won Best in Talent.

Pageant lovers of the world, unite! Vote in the online pageant "Miss Rhein-Main-Net 2004." The Miss Hessen Organisation, affiliated with Miss Germany Universe, is holding the online pageant in cooperation with its media partner, "Rhein-Main-Net." The vote will be open until Oct. 22, 2004, and the winner of the online pageant is automatically qualified for the Miss Hessen (Universe) state pageant, which will be at the end of the year in Frankfurt. There the online winner, and possibly the first and second runner-up as well, will compete against local winners. The winner of Miss Hessen will participate in the Miss Deutschland (Germany Universe) 2005 Pageant on Jan. 13, 2005, in Aachen. Click here and then proceed. Remember that many of the pictures are not professionally made, so vote for the girl.

Two women from opposite sites of the globe will compete in the Galaxy International Pageant in June 2005 in Ohio. Alexia Fairbrother has been confirmed as Miss New Zealand Galaxy 2005 and will vie for the title of Miss Galaxy 2006. Kathy Lauer of Massachusetts will be competing for the Mrs. Galaxy 2006 crown as Mrs. New England.

Salome Margvelashvili will return to the Miss Teen Galaxy 2005 Pageant as Miss Teen Pennsylvania Galaxy 2005. She participated in the pageant, representing the Keystone State, in June 2004.

Christina Stucker of Louisville has been crowned Mrs. Kentucky Globe. She will represent Kentucky at the next Mrs. U. S. Globe contest in July 2005.

Brianna Clarke, 23, was crowned Miss Bahamas World 2004 on Sept. 22, 2004, in Freeport, Grand Bahama. She will compete at Miss World. Because of recent hurricanes, the pageant had to be postponed twice, and finally was held in a low-key format. Ms. Clarke was Miss Teen Bahamas in 1996 and won the Miss Young Teen International. She was first runner-up to Glennis Knowles in Miss Bahamas 1998.

Shawn Cunningham has been named Ms. Maine Ambassador 2005. She will compete for the Ms. National Ambassador title for 2005.

DeLisa Simon-Dawkins of Simpsonville, S.C., has been crowned Ms. South Carolina in the US Continental Pageant system. Ms. DeLisa will compete for the title of Ms US Continental in West Palm Beach, Fla., in July 2005.

The Miss America Pageant on Sept. 18, 2004, got the lowest television ratings in the event's history. This year's event was the 50th telecast, and pageant officials made efforts to publicize the supposedly "viewer-friendly" changes to the show – a shorter running time, far fewer talent performances, supposedly skimpier swimsuits. Traditional media outlets generally noted the changes, to little effect.

Michelle Fisher of Kelly, N.C., has won the title of 2004-2005 Dublin Peanut Festival Sweetheart. She will represent the peanut farmers of Dublin and Bladen County during her reign. She also serves as director of the Greater Miss Carolina Sweetheart Pageant and the Bladen County Fourth of July Pageant.

The three winners of Illinois Galaxy have been chosen. They are Miss Teen Illinois Galaxy, Gabreille Simmons; Miss Illinois Galaxy, Motise Jones; and Mrs. Illinois Galaxy, Belinda Todd. They will compete for the titles of Miss Teen Galaxy 2006, Miss Galaxy 2006 and Mrs. Galaxy 2006, respectively, in Ohio in June 2005.

Deidre Downs of Alabama was crowned Miss America 2005 on Sept. 18, 2004, in Atlantic City. The first runner-up was Jennifer Dupont of Louisiana, a veteran of both the Miss Teen USA and Miss USA pageants. In a novel twist, the field was whittled down to two well before the end of the program, with the last two standing getting to perform their talents. Miss North Carolina, Kirstin Marie Elrod, was the second runner-up. Miss Arkansas, Lacy Fleming, was the third runner-up, and Miss California, Veena Goel, was the fourth runner-up. Others among the 10 semifinalists were Christina Ellington of New York, Danica Tisdale of Georgia, Jamie Story of Texas, Elizabeth Kinney of Oklahoma and Megan Bushell of Kansas. It was the 50th telecast of the show, which is currently with ABC.

Fiona Hefti, 24, of Zurich has been crowned Miss Switzerland 2004/2005. She will represent Switzerland in Miss World 2004 and Miss Universe 2005. The first runner-up was Natasha Grippaldi, and the second runner-up was Francesca Kuonen, who also won Miss Photogenic. The Miss Congeniality winner was Jasmina Sarajlic.

Shari Murray of Virginia has been awarded the title of Mrs. East Coast American Coronet and will compete for the title of Mrs. American Coronet over the next year. She is the reigning Virginia's Brilliant Miss and former Mrs. Virginia All American.

Miss Massachusetts, Erika Ebbel, was the Monday night preliminary talent winner on Sept. 13, 2004, in Atlantic City in the run-up to Miss America. She played Chopin's "Fantasie Impromptu" on the piano in historic Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall during the first night of competition. Miss Florida, Jenna Edwards, won the preliminary swimsuit (lifestyle and fitness) award. Miss California, Veena Goel, was the Tuesday night preliminary talent winner (on Sept. 14) for her dance performance to "Hot Honey Rag," while Miss Louisiana, Jennifer Dupont, was the preliminary swimsuit winner.

Peggy Conrad of North Carolina has been selected as Ms Black North Carolina Universe 2005. Enesha Webster has been awarded the title of Miss Black Alabama Universe 2005. In a title change, Candace Sample is now Miss Black Maryland Universe 2005. The women will compete for the international title in their respective divisions in August 2005 at the Miss Black Universe Pageant.

Ana-Alicia Anguiano of Del Rio was crowned Miss Texas Teen Latina 2005 on Sept. 12, 2004. The first runner-up was Miss Central Texas Teen, Brenda Torres, and the second runner-up was Lone Star Teen, Stephanie Cavazos. The third runner-up was South Texas Teen, Elsa Villarreal, and the fourth runner-up was Miss Southwest Texas Teen, Anita Pruneda. Diana Munoz of Dallas was crowned Miss Texas Latina 2005. The first runner-up was Miss Rio Grande Valley, Jacquelyn Nicole Muniz, and the second runner-up was Miss Laredo, Stephanie Martinez. The third runner-up was Miss Maverick County, Azorean Canales, and the fourth runner-up was Miss Val Verde County, Veronica Jo Soot. Ms. Anguiano was named Miss Congeniality by her competitors.

Rosa María Hernández was crowned Miss Panama Universe 2005 on Sept. 11, 2004. The first runner-up was Ana Isabel Ibáñez, and the second runner-up was Rosmery Suárez. The third runner-up was Mercy Correia, and the fourth runner-up was Mayte Sánchez.

Andrea Abudinen, 20, competing as Miss Santa Cruz, was crowned Miss Bolivia Universe on Sept. 10, 2004. She will represent her nation at Miss Universe 2005. Nuvia Montenegro, competing as Miss Beni, was chosen Miss Bolivia World, and will represent the country at Miss World 2004. Vanessa Moron, competing as Miss Tarija, was crowned Miss Bolivia International. She will compete at Miss International 2004.

Laura Elizondo, 20, representing the state of Tamaulipas, was crowned Nuestra Belleza Mexico (Miss Mexico Universe) on Sept. 10, 2004. She will represent Mexico at Miss Universe 2005. Dafbe Molina, representing the Federal District, won the right to represent Mexico in Miss World 2005.

Tijana Arnautovic, 18, representing Ottawa, was crowned Miss World Canada 2004 in Toronto on Sept. 9, 2004. She will represent the Land of the Maple Leaf at the 2004 Miss World Contest in Sanya, China, on Dec. 4. The first runner-up was Marie-Andrée Poulin, 24, of Montréal, and the second runner-up was Victoria Kukushkina, 20, representing Eastern Ontario. The third runner-up was Natalie Mec, 20, of Etobicoke, and Sherylynn Butt of Labrador, 25, was the fourth runner-up. Ashley Paniyuk-Dean, 21, of the Inuit self-governed territory of Nunavut, was awarded the Elizabeth Arden Heart and Soul Award by her fellow delegates, and earned a berth in the top 12. It was the first time a woman of Inuit descent competed in any such major event in Canadian history. Jessica Rose, 24, of London, Ontario, won the fitness pre-event and was named Miss Sport, also earning a spot in the semi-finals. Victoria Kukushkina was the winner of the Beach Beauty Prize, and also received a bye into the top 12. The remaining semi-finalists were Kylie McMullan, 22, representing the Fraser Valley of British Columbia; Marie Nicola, 24, of Toronto; Veronica Zivcic, 21, of Western Ontario; Ashley Murphy, 18, of Prince Edward Island, and Andrea Early, 21, of Saskatchewan. Yasmin Ali, 23, of North York, Ontario, won the Salon Jie Style Award. Nazanin Afshin-Jam of Vancouver, Queen of the Americas, Miss Sport and first runner-up at Miss World 2003, was present to pass on her title.

Teresa Bringas has been confirmed as Miss Hawaii Galaxy 2005. She will compete for the title of Miss Galaxy 2006 in June 2005 in Ohio.

The first annual Miss Black Alabama USA Pageant was held in Montgomery, Ala., on Sept. 4, 2004. Chanukah Gray, a student
at Troy State University, was crowned Miss Black Alabama 2004. She also won the Interview Award. The first runner-up was Kimberly Brown
of Alabama A&M University. She also won the Eveningwear award. She will go to Miss Black United States as Alabama's entry. The second runner-up was Enesha Webster, also of Alabama AM University. She will go to Miss Black Universe as Alabama's representative. Ashley J. Moore of Pell City was third runner-up and won Congeniality. DeShawnda Partlow, a student at Alabama State University, was the fourth runner-up, won the People's Choice award and was named Miss Black Montgomery.

Lutchelle Volcy of Canada has been selected as Miss Black Haiti Universe 2005. She will compete for the title of Miss Black Universe 2005 in August 2005 in Chicago.

Holly Sue Harris of Westerville North High School was awarded the title of Franklin County’s Junior Miss 2005 in Ohio on Sept. 4, 2004. She will go on to compete in the Ohio’s Junior Miss State Finals in Mount Vernon in February 2005. The first runner-up was Jazmin Haver of Westerville South High School. She also received the Spirit of Junior Miss honors. Kara Ganser of St. Francis DeSales High School received a scholarship for overall scholastics. Kelsey Kitzmiller of Gahanna Lincoln High School received a scholarship for the winning essay.

For the second time in two years, a Georgian – and PNB cover girl – has been crowned National Sweetheart. Monica Pang, who was first runner-up at Miss Georgia, won the Sweetheart title on Sept. 5, 2004, Hoopeston, Ill. The first runner-up was Jocey Kenrick of Missouri, and the second runner-up was Shannon Schambeau of Florida. The third runner-up was Kelly Gibbons of Washington, and the fourth runner-up was Marie Corsi of Michigan. Hillary Gaston of Arkansas was selected as Miss Congeniality. The contest, held in association with Hoopeston's National Sweetcorn Festival, is open to runners-up from state preliminaries to Miss America. Look for an exciting PNB feature about this contest soon.

Brittany Hogan, competing as Miss City of San Diego USA, was crowned Miss California USA 2005 on Sept. 5, 2004, in Fresno. Stephanie Brink, competing as Miss Lakewood Teen USA, was crowned Miss California Teen USA 2005.

Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Miss Maine American Coronet 2005. Maureen Lewis-Huebel has been crowned Mrs. Michigan America Ambassador 2004. Christina Peters has been crowned Mrs. Pacific Coast US America Ambassador 2004.

Bernadette Wolfe of Tooele, Utah, has been selected as the new Ms. Utah US Continental. She will compete for the title of Ms. US Continental in July 2005.

Krystyna Williams of North Carolina won the Mrs. Division of the American Renaissance Pageant on Aug. 29, 2004, in Greensboro, N.C. The first runner-up was Catherine Blades of Texas, and the second runner-up was Karin Jenkins of Ohio. The third runner-up was Charlene Bruce of Louisiana, and the fourth runner-up was Nicole Palmer of New York. Nicki Lingo of Louisiana won the Ms. Division. The first runner-up was Sharon Ashley of North Carolina. The second runner-up was Audrey Lorence of Florida. The third runner-up was Pam Bolter of Hawaii, and the fourth runner-up was Joy Finerson of New York. Lauren Monahan of Tennessee was the Ms Classic winner. The first runner-up was Katherine Lauer of Massachusetts, and the second runner-up was Sharon Stanley of California. The third runner-up was Sheila Klein of Texas. Karin Jenkins was chosen Ms. Civic.

Ghinelle Germaine, 15, won the female division of the Pulse Model Search on Aug. 29, 2004, in Jamaica. She won "Jamaica Fashion Model" and the "Caribbean Fashion Model" titles. Orane Barrett, 19, won the male category.

Alyson Nicely, competing as Miss Teen Petite Hoosier State, was crowned Miss Teen Petite Universal 2005 on Aug. 29, 2004, in Indianapolis. Chasity Butcher, competing as Ms. Petite Kentucky, was crowned Ms. Petite Universal 2005. Amy Carter, competing as Ms. Petite Indiana Woman, was crowned Ms. Petite Universal Woman 2005. Also awarded at the pageant were: Staff's Award: MaryAnn Conte (Ms. Petite Southern Indiana Woman); Miss Congeniality: MaryAnn Conte (Ms. Petite Southern Indiana Woman); People's Choice Award: MaryAnn Conte; Contestants' Choice: Amy Carter (Ms. Petite Indiana Woman); Photogenic: Kristina Ellis (Ms. Teen Petite Indiana); Portfolio: Charity Warren (Ms. Petite West Virginia); Best in Interview: MaryAnn Conte; Best in Gown: Stephanie Sylvester (Ms. Petite Illinois Woman); Best in Casual Wear: Chasity Butcher; Supermodel with Style Award: Stephanie Sylvester (Ms. Petite Illinois Woman)

Helene Trasavik, 18, of Egersund was crowned Miss Norway Universe on Aug. 29, 2004. She is half-Thai and will represent Norway in Miss Universe 2005. Hege Torresdal, 20, was crowned Miss Norway World, and will compete at Miss World.

Jennis Diaz, 19, of the Dominican Republic, competing as Miss Hispaniola, was crowned Teen Model of the World on Aug. 29, 2004, in Cottbus, Germany. The first runner-up was Brittany Mason, 17, of the USA, and the second runner-up was Wendy Paola Serpa Salcedo, 19, of Venezuela.

Eva Venegas, 24, of Streamwood was crowned Miss Illinois Latina 2005 in River Grove on Aug. 22, 2004. She is of Mexican origin and will represent her state at the national Miss Latina U.S. 2005 Pageant in summer 2005. The first runner-up was Patricia Henao, a Chicago resident of Colombian descent, followed respectively by Stephanie Turcios of Waukegan (of Honduran descent), Virginia Bogdanic of Elgin (of Chilean descent) and Marcela Boganic of Crystal Lake (also of Chilean descent). The reigning Miss Latina U.S. 2004, Graciela Stanley, co-hosted the pageant along with Chicago radio personality Alexis Hernandez.

Michelle Marquez was crowned Miss Urban California 2005 on Aug. 7, 2004, in Walnut Creek, Calif. Monica Justuce was crowned Ms Urban California 2005.

Angela L. Larson has been crowned Miss Kentucky Hawaiian Tropic 2004 at Jeff Ruby's Tropican in Newport, Ky. Brandy Noble was the first runner-up, and Jennifer Warner was the second runner-up. Dayna Gutterman was the third runner-up.

Claudette Armbrister of Florida has been selected as Miss Black Florida Plus Universe 2005, and Tamara Tamiko Porter of South Carolina has been selected as Ms Black South Carolina Universe 2005. Both will compete for the world title in their respective divisions at the 2005 Miss Black Universe pageant in August of 2005 in Chicago.

The North American World Continental Pageant was held in Baltimore on Aug. 22-23, 2004. The results are as follows: The new Teen North American World Continental is Teen Nevada, Nicole Sathers, and the first runner-up was Carrie Lambert, Teen Maryland. The new Miss North American World Continental is Miss District of Columbia, Yolanda Mackle, and the first runner-up was Tia Conner, Miss North Carolina. The new Mrs. North American World Continental is Mrs. Massachusetts, Katey McMahon, and the first runner-up was Tammy Caison, Mrs. Colorado. The second runner-up was Simone Janey, Mrs. Maryland.

Shawn Cunningham was crowned Ms. US of America 2004 on Aug. 23, 2004, at Foxwoods Resort Casino. She won the overall interview award and won first runner-up awards in both modeling and talent.

Trellyn Kaufman has been crowned Miss Kentucky US States 2004.

Marco Albat, 25, a police officer from Hannover, was chosen Mister Germany 2004 on Aug. 25, 2004, on the North Sea island of Borkim. He participated as Mister Niedersachsen. He will compete at Mister World. Among the judges was Miss Germany (World) 2004, Claudia Hein.

The finals of 2004 Miss World Canada National Capital Region were held on Aug. 22, 2004, in Hull, Quebec, and chose three winners for the 2004 Miss World Canada Contest. Tijana Arnautovic, 18, Victoria Kukushkina, 20, and Ivana Mastilio, 19, all advance to the national contest, which culminates on Sept. 9 in Toronto.

Verity Conrad, 18, was crowned Miss Victoria on Aug. 22, 2004. She will represent British Columbia's capital in the Miss World Canada Contest on Sept. 9 in Toronto. The first runner-up was Sarah Jones, 20, and the second runner-up was Elisha Blank, 18.

Breanne Ashley, 20, of Newnan, Ga., was crowned Miss Resaca Beach on Aug. 21, 2004, at the Resaca Beach Calendar Girl Contest in Dalton, Ga. Jill Lyons, 22, of Ringgold, Ga., was the first runner-up. Picked as Resaca Beach's 12 additional calendar girls were April Johnson, Breanne Jackson, Candi Floyd, Melinda Smith, Nisa Rayburn, Kristy Collins, J. Dawn Smith, Morgan Luffmann, Camille Holbrook, Amanda Smith, Tamara Gourley, Kaylee McClary and Stacy Johnson. Watch for an exciting feature about this hip and historic pageant, coming soon on PNB.

Suzie Dupler-Telle of Ohio has been chosen by the Worldwide Pageant as 2005 La Reina de Esperanza, Queen of Hope. Now in its fourth year, La Reina de Esperanza is a unique pageant that raises money for cancer charities.

Judy Samuel, 23, a model and university graduate, won the title of Miss World Vancouver on Aug. 21, 2004. She will represent Canada's Pacific gateway city in the Miss World Canada Contest on Sept. 9. The first runner-up was Laurie Mannette, 22, and the second runner-up was Kristy Chu, 20.

Michelle Prior has been named Ms. Black America Ambassador 2004. Angela Ingels has been named Miss North Texas America Ambassador 2004. Wanda Jones has been named Ms. Senior Texas America Ambassador 2004.

The National American Queen Pageant, known for holding its main events on cruise liners, has decided to dock. Its 2005 competition will be held on solid ground at the Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando in Florida. The event will be in August 2005.

Alyshia Kitchen, 18, was crowned Miss Yukon 2004 in Whitehorse on Aug. 14, 2004. The first runner-up was Sara Galbraith, 22. Both young women will advance to the 2004 Miss World Canada Contest, to be held in Toronto on Sept. 9. The second runner-up was Gabrielle Van Klavern, 19. This is the first time that the Yukon Territory, one of Canada's northernmost and most sparsely populated areas, will be represented in a major national pageant since 1986. Nazanin Afshin-Jam, the reigning Miss World Canada and first runner-up to Miss World 2003, was a special guest at the event.

The Miss Black Universe organization has announced that the following women have gained the following titles: Tasha Muskgrove of Illinois has been selected as Miss Black Illinois Universe 2005, Winnie Omwakwe of Ontario has been selected as Miss Black Canada Universe 2005, Ivory Narvell of Texas has been selected as Ms. Black Texas Universe 2005, Jackie Rivera of Pennsylvania has been selected as Miss Black Teen Pennsylvania Universe 2005, Ashley Thompson of Texas has been selected as Miss Black Teen Texas Universe 2005, and Tausi Abdallah has been selected as Miss Black East Africa Universe 2005. The pageant also announced that Shawn Cunningham has been relieved of her title as Miss Black New England Universe 2005 and that Deanna McCray-James has been relieved of her title as Mrs. Black Maryland Universe 2005. The pageant cited "unforeseen circumstances," but Ms. Cunningham and Ms. McCray-James, in separate communications to PNB, indicated that they departed on their own initiative.

Kayla Michelle Pellum has been confirmed as Miss Teen Georgia Galaxy 2005. Kathleen Wong has been confirmed as Miss California Galaxy 2005. Both will compete in the Galaxy International Pageant in Ohio in June 2005.

Geysha Gonzalez was crowned Miss Teen Illinois Latina 2005 in on Aug. 8, 2004, in River Grove, Ill. The 16-year-old Darien resident is of Puerto Rican descent, and will represent Illinois at the 2005 national Miss Teen U.S. Latina Pageant in 2005.

No judging for this lad: Summer 2004 has been the season for choreographer Cris Judd and the beauty queens. In a few short weeks, he has been romantically linked to three entertainers with distinguished pageant pedigrees: Miss Teen USA 1985, Kelly Hu; Miss USA 1996, Ali Landry; and Miss Teen USA 1998, Vanessa Minnillo. Who's next?

Professional basketball player Rick Fox has filed for divorce from wife Vanessa Williams, an entertainer who was Miss America 1984 and lost her crown in the most famous scandal in the history of pageants. The couple have been married for five years and have a 4-year-old daughter. She has children from a previous marriage.

The 2005 Pageant Gal America Winners were announced on August 5, 2004. Alyssa Bragg of California was named Preteen Miss Pageant Gal America 2005. Denise Williams of Phoenix was named Miss Pageant Gal America 2005. Joanne Grey of Camp Verde, Ariz., was named Ms. Lady Pageant Gal America 2005. Judie Cole of Massachusetts was named Ms. Pageant Gal America 2005. Steven Anthony Walters was named Mr. Pageant Gal America 2005. The High Point Winner was Mrs. Pageant Gal America 2005, Rebecca Eliseo of New York.

The 2004 American Queen Pageant took place during the week of Aug. 1-8, 2004, on the Carnival cruise ship "Pride" off the Mexican Riviera. The 2004 titleholders were crowned Aug. 7. They are: Miss Pre-Teen American Queen 2004 – Sherry Totten of Washington; first runner-up – Morgan Tufarolo; second runner-up – Alexis Voehl, New York; Miss Teen American Queen 2004 – Ashley Ward of South Carolina; first runner-up – Tracy Swope of New Jersey; second runner-up – Shirley Martinez of Massachusetts; Miss American Queen 2004 – Denise Spaanstra of New Jersey; first runner-up – Rebecca Kappler of New York; second runner-up – Renee Zawawi of Pennsylvania; third runner-up – Kristen Guinane of Massachusetts; Ms. American Queen 2004 – Valerie Sheppard of Georgia; first runner-up – Kelly Platt of New York; second runner-up – Robin Garafolo of Connecticut; Mrs. American Queen 2004 – Jaime Lyn Owens of Indiana; first runner-up – Shelley Marano of New Jersey; second runner-up – Peggy Malzacher of Nebraska; third runner-up – Susan Paris-Gomez of Nevada; Ms. Classic American Queen 2004 – Christy Passoth of California; first runner-up – Joan Thurstans of New Jersey; second runner-up – Donna DeLaney Weeks of Missouri.

Chauna Howard of Eldorado, Ark., has been crowned 2004 Plus America Elite in Monroe, La. Winning the Division titles were Debbie Shannon of Georgia – 2004 Ms Plus America, Nanette Watts of Texas – 2004 Ms Plus America Woman, Erica Collins of New York – 2004 Miss Plus America, Jessica Williams of Arkansas – 2004 Miss Teen Plus America.

Edrienne Carpenter of Texas has been crowned Mrs. United States 2004. She was also the fitness winner. The first runner-up was Alicia Jones of Hawaii. The second runner-up was Shanna Hill of Missouri, and the third runner-up was Kirstin Snow of Pennsylvania. The fourth runner-up was Janet McCulloh of Connecticut The other semifinalists were Gloria Pietsch of Illinois, Candace Yost of North Carolina, Mayda Mifflin of Arizona, Lisa Piepsny of Ohio and Julie Graybill of Georgia. Yyanisha Gregory of Iowa was Mrs. Congeniality. The Best Program Book Ad winner was Sheila Bratten of Alaska, and the Audience Choice was Donna Perkins of North Dakota. The Internet Choice winner was Mrs. Snow. The Photogenic winner was Sherry Strother of Louisiana. The Community Service winner was Elizabeth Leska of New Jersey. The Rookie Director of the Year Award went to Lonnie Gibson of Colorado, and the Director of the Year Award went to Pamela Bolter (Mrs. Florida 2001) of Florida and Puerto Rico.

Anne-Marie Ashley of El Dorado Hills has been confirmed as Miss Teen California Galaxy 2005. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2006 in Ohio in June 2005.

Britany Belczak of Ohio was crowned Miss Teen International 2004 on July 31, 2004, in Skokie, Ill. The first runner up was Whitney Kraus of Indiana, and the second runner-up was Kimberly Krueger of North Dakota. The third runner-up was Nina Musumeci of Connecticut, and the fourth runner-up was Alanna Giuliani of New Jersey.

Amanda Kozak was crowned Miss Warner Robins 2005 on July 31, 2004. She also won the swimsuit category. She will compete at Miss Georgia. The first runner-up was Kasey Minyard, who won talent, and the second runner-up was Jenison Cooper, who won the interview category. The third runner-up was Erin Atcheson, and the fourth runner-up was Tara Sherman. On the same night, Channing Wood was crowned Miss Teen Warner Robins 2005.

Sara Buck, 22, was crowned Miss Cobb County on July 31, 2004, in Marietta, Ga. The first runner-up was Julia Tyndall, 21, and the second runner-up was Stephanie Tyson, 23. The third runner-up was Clark Sarullo, 21, and the fourth runner-up was Lace Larrabee, 20. Pageant history was made as nine ties in preliminary judging were announced and duplicate cash scholarships were awarded to each winner. Interview was a two-way tie for Sara Buck and Stephanie Tyson. Talent was a three-way tie for Lara Carr, 23; Cindy Mora, 20; and Julia Tyndall. Swimsuit was a four-way tie for Lace Larrabee, Clark Sarullo, Cindy Mora and Lauren Lovett, 19. The Miss Cobb County Scholarship Pageant consistently ranks No. 1 in cash scholarships for the Miss Georgia America system.

In a surprise move, two crowns were awarded at the Miss Greater Cleveland Scholarship Program in North Royalton, Ohio, on July 31, 2004. Miss Greater Cleveland 2004-2005 is Paulette Penzvalto, a 22-year-old Avon resident and vocal performance major at Cleveland State University. Paulette was also the Interview and Talent winner. Miss Open City 2004-2005 is Allison Krucek, a 19-year-old resident of North Canton and a physical therapy major at the University of Toledo. Allison was also a Community Service Award recipient. The first runner-up was Laura Estrada, and the second runner-up was Cristin Vimmerstedt. The third runner-up was Kristine Zindriski, and the fourth runner-up was Brandi Shepard. Additional award winners were: Most Prompt - Zephylia Khooblall; Luck Lines Sales - Cristin Vimmerstedt; Community Service Awards - Merideth Driscoll, Allison Krucek, Angela Speece, Melanie Murphy and Brandi Shepard; Photogenic - Kristine Zindroski; Spirit - Kristine Zindroski; Swimsuit - Andrea Andryscik; Evening Wear - Laura Estrada; Talent - Paulette Penzvalto; Interview - Paulette Penzvalto. Numerous former titleholders were in attendance in honor of Executive Director Sylvia Jensen's 40th year as a volunteer with the Miss America Organization. Notable Miss Greater Cleveland alumnae include: Tiffany Baumann Cantelupe, MGC 1998-99 / Miss Ohio 1999; Christi Paul, MGC 1991-92, now an anchor on CNN Headline News; and Dr. Robin Bobal-Savage, M.D., MGC 1996-97, the first recipient of the Miss America Allman Medical Scholarship.

Representing the state of Indiana, 17-year-old Brittany Mason is America's Southern Teen 2004. She is a home-schooled senior who plans to pursue a degree in broadcast journalism. She is also the creator of the H.O.P.E. Program and wants to become a motivational speaker to youth. Not only has she lived and worked in New York City as an aspiring model, but she was also recently selected to represent the United States at the Teen Model of the World competition in Germany. The first runner-up was Kentucky Teen, Krista Ennis, and second runner-up honors went to North Carolina Teen, Jessica Lowman. The third runner-up was Virginia Teen, Samantha Casey, and rounding out the top five as fourth runner-up was Mississippi Teen, Lauren Barker. The remaining semi-finalists included Ark-La-Tex Teen, Whitney Worden, Tennessee Teen, Julie Case, Southern Coast Teen, Hannah Moore, Oklahoma Teen, Danielle White, and Louisiana Teen, Jessica Lace. Indiana Teen, Brittany Mason, won the Personal Expression phase of competition and tied for Evening Wear with North Carolina Teen, Jessica Lowman, who was also the physical fitness winner. The interview award was won by Louisiana Teen, Jessica Lace.

Carissa Capobianco, dubbed by PNB as "Comet Capobianco," was crowned Miss Petite Teen International 2004 on July 31, 2004. The Gwinnett County, Ga., resident is a busy young actress who will soon be pursuing her career in Los Angeles.

Emily Ann Hughes, 21, of Gilmanton was crowned Miss Stratham Fair 2004-2005, a local preliminary to the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship pageant, on July 30, 2004, in Stratham. In May, she was fourth runner-up to Miss New Hampshire 2004, Alyssa E. Spellman; and was second runner-up at the 2003 pageant and third runner-up in 2002. She will compete in the 2005 Miss New Hampshire Pageant in May 2005 in Manchester. She is a tap dancer who attends the University of New Hampshire, and her platform, "Helping Hands," is intended to promote volunteerism and community service. Just prior to the crowning, Diane Morgera received honors for her 10th anniversary as pageant director.

Aura Avila Serrano, 18, of Venezuela, has been crowned International Sugar Cane Queen 2004 (Reina Caña de Azucar 2004) in Ecuador. The pageant was run by the corporation Queen of Ecuador Inc., led by Cesar Montecé Ochoa. Other international finalists were Joice Caetano of Brazil, Bushra Nasr of Lebanon, Priscila Leugui of Bolivia, Pamela Chávez of Peru and Jennifer Grijalva of Ecuador.

Juliette Rizzo, 36, representing Maryland, was crowned Ms. Wheelchair America 2005 on July 31, 2004, in Richmond, Va. She is an official of the U.S. Department of Education.

Theresa Dame has been confirmed as Mrs. Italy Galaxy 2005. She will compete for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2006 in Ohio in June 2005.

    Confirming a rumor that was buzzing for months, organizers have announced that the Miss America Pageant in September 2004 will not feature a talent competition among finalists. Talent will remain part of the overall judging, but the performances will be barely glimpsed by TV viewers. One contestant, to be chosen by pageant officials, will perform live on the program. Parts of other talent performances from the previous week will be shown in a video montage.
    Pageant officials expressed regret about the decision, acknowledging that ABC pressed for the change and that the move is unpopular with many people close to the pageant.
    The Miss America Pageant has always been proud of its talent competition, which is a mandatory category. But because the performances last only two minutes each, it has been possible for a woman to briefly "get a talent" – to memorize one song, instrumental piece or dance routine without becoming a really proficient performer. With minimally talented contestants occasionally reaching the national level, TV audiences have been treated to less than world-class entertainment.
    One element in media stories about the change reflected an outdated public view of Miss America culture. Reporters referred to the offbeat acts such as ventriloquism, poetry reading and pottery-throwing. Such talents have been scarcely visible at the national level for decades. "Classical" entertainment such as opera and ballet has been favored by judges.

The Mrs. / Miss / Teen Texas Galaxy Pageant was held on July 25, 2004. The winners were: Miss Teen Texas Galaxy 2005, Jessica Garza; Miss Texas Galaxy 2005, Abby Meeks; Mrs. Texas Galaxy 2005, Tien Davis.

Kalii Buckingham has been confirmed as Miss Teen Arizona Galaxy 2005. Heidi Scheer has been confirmed as Mrs. Michigan Galaxy 2005.

Parul Sharma, 19, a vocalist and student at the University of Ottawa, was crowned Miss India Canada in Mississauga, Ontario, on July 23, 2004.

Patti Simmons, competing as Mrs. Georgia, was crowned Mrs. International on July 24, 2004, in Skokie, Ill. The first runner-up was Mrs. South Carolina, Tammy McDonald, and the second runner-up was Mrs.Hawaii, Geri Berger. The third runner-up was Mrs. Illinois, Kendra Muhammed, and the fourth runner-up was Mrs. Gulf States, Carolyn Duren. Under her maiden name, Patti Dunn, the new Mrs. International was Miss Georgia USA 2000.

Jessica Coscia has resigned her title as Miss North Carolina Latina 2004 due to new professional obligations. The first runner-up in the state pageant, Ashae Reagan, was unable to take over because she had since won another pageant. Michel Hernandez, 20, of Puerto Rico, who was the second runner-up, has now assumed the title of Miss North Carolina Latina 2004. Her platform is breast cancer awareness.

Deisy Catalina Valencia of Colombia was crowned Miss Intercontinental 2004 on July 24, 2004, in China. The first runner-up was Xuedong Qu of Macao, and the second runner-up was Gheidy Marquez of the Dominican Republic.

Michelle Matlock of Colorado has been named Miss Teen Polonia Galaxy 2005. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2006 in June 2005 in Ohio.

Three women qualified for the 2004 Miss World Canada Contest in the Toronto Regional finals, held in Toronto on July 17, 2004. Sara Noble, 24, of Brampton, Marie Ann Nicola, 24, of Toronto and Yasmin Ali, 22, of Scarborough were chosen as winners in the local contest, and will compete in the national contest, to be held in Toronto on Sept. 9. The first runner-up was Patricia Jaggernauth, 21, of Scarborough, and the second runner-up was Justine Vella, 19, of Vaughan. The third runner-up was Angela Derry, 21, from Oshawa. Yasmin Ali won the Best in Interview prize, and tied with Sara Noble for Best in Swimwear. Marie Nicola won the Best Talent award for her opera solo. Patricia Jaggernauth was named Miss Congeniality, and Stefany Singh was Miss Entrepreneur. Miss World Canada preliminaries continue in August in Vancouver, Victoria, Whitehorse, Halifax and Ottawa.

Shawn Cunningham of Maine has been awarded the title of Miss Black New England Universe 2005. Candace Sample of Virginia has been awarded the title of Miss Black Virginia Universe 2005. Deanna McCray James of Maryland has been awarded the title of Mrs Black Maryland Universe 2005. Chinda Kpanja of Africa has been awarded the title of Miss Black West Africa Universe 2005. Briana Steele of Virginia has been awarded the title of Miss Black Virginia Teen Universe 2005 and Angel Jarvis has been awarded the title of Miss Black Arkansas Teen Universe 2005.

Kaitlyn Christopher, Miss Kentuckiana, was crowned America's National Miss 2004 in Indianapolis on July 10, 2004. She also won the Best Runway and Best in Swimsuit. The first runner-up was Jamie Wilson, Miss State of Louisiana, and the second runner-up was Katherine Faulkner, Miss Bluegrass State. Amber Yoder, Miss State of Indiana, was the third runner-up, and Krystal Knapp, Miss State of Michigan, was the fourth runner-up. The rapidly growing contest is being billed as the Miss USA system's equivalent to the National Sweetheart Pageant, where the contestants are given the chance to hone their presentation skills before hopefully taking home a state Miss USA crown. Tashina Kastigar, Miss Indiana USA 2003, and Kelly Lloyd, Indiana state triple crown winner (Teen USA 1993, America 1999, USA 2002), were among the judges, as was Jimmy Steele, the redoubtable pageant writer and organizer from Canada.

Six of the nine young women who went to China for the "Miss Kite of the World" competition were among those chosen to return to China for the finals in August 2004. Of the six, three of them were from the Montana USA program. They are Kristi Krings, Miss Montana Teen USA 2001, Meredith McCannel, Miss Montana USA 2003, and Amanda Kimmel, first runner-up at Miss Montana USA 2003 and 2004.

Michelle Vilanova of San Diego has been named Mrs. California Galaxy 2005. Tammy Esguerra of Fullerton has been named Mrs. Golden State Galaxy 2005. Both women will be vying for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2006 in June 2005.

Chelsea Fahey of Illinois has been crowned Miss Teen America. Among other activities, she will compete in the Miss Teen Galaxy Pageant in June 2005.

Fabien Hauquier of Belgium was chosen Zeus of the World in a new male pageant held July 9, 2004, in Hollywood. The first runner-up was Richard De Stefano of Venezuela, and the second runner-up was Peter Hance of Puerto Rico.

Ana Adams has been awarded the title of Mrs. Black New Jersey Universe 2005. She will compete for the international title of Mrs. Black Universe 2005 in August 2005. She is the former Mrs. Pennsylvania America 2002, MS New Jersey Woman 2002, Ms American US and Mrs. New Jersey United Nation 2004.

Melissa Witek was crowned Miss Florida USA 2005 on July 10, 2004. She will represent the state in the Miss USA Pageant in early 2005.

Maria Beall, a former PNB cover girl and Mrs. Galaxy, has won the title of Ms. Global America 2004. She also received the highest interview scores and won the community service award.

Elizabeth Muto of Las Vegas was crowned Miss Nevada on July 3, 2004. She will represent the state at Miss America. Erin Granat was the first runner-up. Ms. Muto has an extraordinary story. She was abandoned as a baby at the Reno, Nev., airport, and was raised by adoptive parents.

Martina Andrews was crowned Miss Hooters International 2004 on June 30, 2004, in Miami Beach. The first runner-up was Michelle Moya, and the second runner-up was Ursula Maciejewski. The third runner-up was Roxanne Hughes, and the fourth runner-up was Laura Croft. The pageant was shown live on closed-circuit television in Hooters Restaurants.

Yolanda Makle will be returning to compete in the Miss Galaxy 2005 Pageant as Miss District of Columbia Galaxy. She was fourth runner-up and also won the Photogenic competition in her division in the pageant in June 2004. Miss Latina Galaxy 2005. Gloria Anglòn, who was unable to participate in the 2004 Miss Galaxy Pageant due to school commitments, will compete in 2005 as Miss Latina Galaxy. Randi King will return to the 2005 Mrs. Galaxy Pageant as Mrs. Northcoast 2005. Norma Varrichio will return to the Galaxy International Pageant as Mrs. New York Galaxy 2005. Charli Hathcox will return to the Miss Teen Galaxy pageant as Miss U.S. Teen Galaxy 2005. Her placement as first runner-up in the Teen division earned her the right to represent the U.S. in the 2005 competition. Sharon Carlos will be rejoining the Galaxy International Pageant as Mrs. Southern U.S. Galaxy 2005. She represented North Carolina in the inaugural 2002 Mrs. Galaxy Pageant and won the Ms. Amity Award.

Angela Howell has won the U S National Achiever Ambassador 2004 title, and also won the Universal Spokes Model 2004 title.

Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Ms. United States Global Ambassador 2005. She will represent her title on many appearances throughout the year and compete for the international Ms. Global Ambassador title in June 2005.

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