Pageant News Bureau (PNB)

Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Miss Maine United States of America. She will be competing in Perfect Productions' United States of America National Pageant in July 2003 in Atlanta.

Amy Carol Harvey has been crowned Miss Florida Woman Of The Year 2003. She will compete for the national title in summer 2003. She is a college sophomore, majoring in education and minoring in art. She plans to teach people the importance that art plays in a well-rounded education.

Jasminder Kaur Chalal, 19, was crowned Miss Malaysia-India Worldwide on Sept. 28, 2002, in Petaling Jaya. She is an information technology student, and will represent her country in the Miss India Worldwide 2002 Pageant in Durban, South Africa, on Nov. 3. The first runner-up was systems analyst Kamaleswari Natarajan, 21.

The winners of the Miss Hawaiian Tropic US 2002 honors are Ashley Stanifer of Houston, Ashley Smith of Orlando, Tiffany Scott of Dallas and Nicole Bennett of Spring Break Tour, Pacific. All four will compete for Miss Hawaiian Tropic International. Miss Photogenic was Jasmyn Huntington of Lake George, N.Y., and Miss Congeniality was Jennifer Parisi of Milford, Conn.

The Pakistani government has decided to bar Miss Pakistan, Neelam Noorani, from using the country's name in the Miss International Beauty Pageant in Tokyo. She left the pageant in tears on Sept. 28, being supported by the other representatives. Ms. Noorani, certainly the most famous beauty queen in Pakistani history, has been caught up in the country's social turbulence.

Lori Dunphy of St. Lawrence was crowned Miss Newfoundland & Labrador in Harbour Grace on Sept. 24, 2002. The first runner-up and Miss Friendship winner was Melissa Kendall of Mount Pearl. Outgoing queen Lori O'Keefe of Port Saunders will be representing the province at the Miss Oktoberfest Pageant in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, on Oct. 10.

Weerayut Phumkham, 20, a computer science undergraduate from Hua Chau Chinese University, won the Manhunt Thailand title on Sept 25, 2002, in Future City, Bangkok. He also won the Mr Photogenic and Mr Sexy awards. The first runner-up was Sarayat Suwanpaiboon, 20, a student, and the second runner-up was Sittisak Omlami, 21, an undergraduate who also won Mr Talent. The third runner-up was Nattaphon Phongjai, 19. The fourth runner-up was Surachet Autkanta, 20. All winners also won contracts to act on ITV Broadcast Station.

Wan Yei, representing China, won the Miss Photogenic prize at the traditional presentation to the world press at the 2002 Miss International Pageant in Tokyo on Sept. 26, 2002. The final of the prestigious pageant is Sept. 30, where Poland's Malgorzata Rozniecka will pass on her crown.

Holly Toppe has won the title of Jackson County Festival Queen 2002 at an event staged at the Brownstown Central High School Auditorium. She will now compete for the title of Miss Indiana State Festival Queen on November 9, 2002. She is a freshman at Indiana University and this summer just ended her reign as Miss Jackson County Fair Queen 2001. Her Festival Queen Court included her college roommate, Kasee Warren, as first runner-up and Brittani Amos as second runner-up. The event was part of a dual pageant that also ended with the crowning of the new Teen Jackson County. Ericka Schroer of Seymour won the 2002 Teen Title. The court consisted of first runner-up Heather Cavendish and second runner-up Nicole Killey. Ms. Schroer will represent Jackson County, Ind., in the 2003 Kentuckiana Teen Pageant.

Neelam Noorani, the Miss Pakistan Pageant winner who gained fame on PNB and in The Wall Street Journal, is back representing her country in the pageant world. She left for Tokyo in late September 2002 to compete for the Miss International title. Earlier, due to a dispute with pageant authorities, first runner-up Najah Ghassan was announced as Miss Pakistan Quest, replacing Ms. Noorani. Now, the issue has been resolved, and Ms.Noorani is competing as Miss Pakistan International.

Two representatives of Canada for international competitions have been elected after castings across the country. Miss Earth Canada is Melanie Grace Bennett, an 18-year-old student from Surrey, British Columbia. She will compete at the Miss Earth Pageant on Oct. 20, 2002, in Manila, Philippines. Miss Asia Pacific Canada is Rachel Solidarios, a 20-year-old fashion and special effects makeup artist from Vancouver, British Columbia. She will compete at Miss Asia Pacific in November in the Philippines.

Oxana Fedorova, the first Russian ever to become Miss Universe, has been dethroned by Miss Universe Inc. The change is reportedly because she failed to live up to contractual obligations, but the organization is providing few details. Its Web site simply shows Justine Pasek, Ms. Fedorova's first runner-up, as the reigning Miss Universe. The unexpected announcement has the pageant world buzzing with speculation. One theory is that the Miss Universe organization sought to garner the level of publicity the Miss America Pageant recently received when two young women were fighting over the title of Miss North Carolina. Another theory is that the organization is somehow trying to curry favor with Panama, which is Ms. Pasek's home country and the site of the next Miss Universe Pageant. Neither seems credible, but further details are expected.

Mrs. Alabama, Kristi Leigh Phillips, was crowned Mrs. America on Sept. 20, 2002, in Honolulu. She is 25 and a youth pastor from Montgomery. She will represent her country at the Mrs. World Pageant on Dec. 15 in Bucharest, Romania. Charity Kelly, Mrs. Minnesota, 26, was the first runner-up, and Allison Meeks Hood, 26, Mrs. Georgia, was the second runner-up. The third runner-up was Helen Berger, 30, who represented Hawaii. The Mrs. America Pageant will be broadcast by Pax TV on Oct. 12, 2002.

Miss Illinois, Erika Natali Louise Harold, 22, of Urbana, Il., was crowned Miss America 2003 on Sept. 21, 2002, in Atlantic City, N.J., by Miss America 2002, Katie Marie Harman, 22, of Oregon. Ms. Harold, a classical vocalist and pre-law graduate of the University of Illinois-Urbana/Champaign, became the fifth Miss Illinois and sixth black woman to win the Miss America title. The first runner-up was Miss Alabama, Scarlotte Lee Deupree, 22, of Birmingham, a literacy advocate and Enlgish major at Samford Univeristy. Miss Oklahoma, Casey Preslar, 22, of Tulsa was the second runner-up, while Miss Nevada, Teresa Francesca Benitez, 24, of Reno was the third runner-up. Miss Maryland, Camille Jeanee' Lewis, 22, of Silver Spring was the fourth runner-up. While serving as president of Phi Eta Sigma at UI-UC, Ms. Harold helped develop two volunteer service projects and was vice president of Black Thought, a minority student campus newspaper. She has aspirations of becoming a lawyer and later a politician. Her state pageant first runner-up, Michelle Lane LaGroue, 22, of Naperville, now has the opportunity to assume the 2002 Miss Illinois title. Miss North Carolina, Misty Dawn Clymer, 24, of Laurinburg, was among the 15 quarter finalists. She along with Rebekah Chantay Revels, 24, of Saint Pauls, N.C., was a subject of pre-pageant publicity regarding who would represent the state at the national pageant. Ms. Revels, the original Miss North Carolina, resigned July 23 after an ex-boyfriend told pageant officials he had unauthorized topless photos of her. Ms. Clymer assumed the title, but Ms. Revels changed her mind and went to federal court to block Ms. Clymer's participation in the Miss America Pageant. She lost the case, but pageant officials awarded Revels VIP status during the remainder of the two-week pageant. Legal issues remain to be settled in North Carolina. As Miss America 2003, Ms. Harold won a $50,000 scholarship.

Mariángel Ruiz, representing Aragua, was crowned Miss Venezuela 2002 in Caracas on Sept. 20, 2002. She will represent her country at the Miss Universe Pageant in Panama in May 2003. The first runner-up was Amara Barroeta, Miss Distrito Capital, and the second runner-up was Driva Cedeño, Miss Nueva Esparta. Melissa Wolf, Miss Miranda, was the third runner-up, and Ana Quintero, Miss Zulia, was the fourth runner-up. Miss Photogenic was Vanessa Fanesi, Miss Yaracuy, and María Fernanda León, Miss Portuguesa, was named Miss Internet. Outgoing queen Cynthia Lander Zamora was on hand to crown her successor, and a few hours after the conclusion of the show, she boarded a plane to Japan to represent her country at the Miss International Pageant.

Isabel Estrada Cano, representing Colombia, won the Reina Mundial del Banano (International Banana Queen) Pageant in Machala, Ecuador, on Sept. 19, 2002. Susanne Tockan of Germany was the first runner-up and winner of the Best Skin prize. Laura Molina of Venezuela was the second runner-up, and Gabriela Riquelme of Paraguay was the third runner-up. Priscila del Salto was the fourth runner-up. Paula Amartino of Argentina was Miss Friendship. The pageant began as a local event in 1964, and organizers started inviting international contestants in 1985. The contest is extremely popular across Latin America and attracts contestants who are reputed to be "professional beauty queens." (Not that there's anything wrong with that!)

Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Miss Black United States 2003, and will compete in the first ever Miss Black Universe Pageant to be held in Chicago in August 2003. She is a multiple titleholder of numerous pageants. Some of her other current titles include Miss Black American Ambassador, Miss Maine Woman of the Year, and Ms. Greater Maine American States. She is the prime-time anchor of the 530 p.m. newscast for WAGM-TV, the CBS affiliate in Northern Maine.

Laith Al Asad has been officially stripped of his title as Mr. Iraq 2002 as of Aug. 2, 2002. According to the Miss Iraq Committee, which runs the contest, Mr. Asad's family disapproved of his winning and filed a lawsuit against the committee. Edith Nouri, head of the committee, said, "Mr. Asad is over 18 years of age and we have his application form, and according to the rules and regulations of the pageant, an entrant over 18 does not require a guardian / parent's permission." The issue is to be settled in an Iraqi court in November 2002. Alexander Steves, 24, will take over as Mr. Iraq as of December 1, 2002. Mrs. Nouri said there have been several cases of Mr. Iraq winners being disqualified for violating rules.

Libya, a nation known for its revolutionary and Islamic values, is planning to host the first pageant in its history. Miss Net World, which began in France in 2001, will be telecast from Libya on Oct. 27, 2002. Contestants will wear jeans and T-shirts instead of swimsuits to satisfy those in the country who are offended by swimsuits.

The 2002 Miss Cayman Islands Pageant has been postponed until 2003. Because of a low pool of contestants for various reasons, pageant organizers chose to postpone the competition and restructure the event.

Nadine Vinzens, 19, has been crowned Miss Switzerland. She will compete at Miss World 2002 (provided she does not participate in the boycott) and at Miss Universe 2003. The first runner-up was Claudia Oehler, and the second runner-up was Pamela Trincado.

Miss World franchise holders for the Bahamas have reaffirmed that T'Shura Ambrose will be the country's representative at Miss World 2002. They describe all reports to the contrary as false.

Lauren Jollay was crowned Miss Gwinnett County on Sept. 14, 2002, winning the right to compete at the Miss Georgia Pageant. She was also the talent winner. She competed at the 2002 Miss Georgia Pageant as Miss Conyers Cherry Blossom. Lena Hood was the first runner-up to Ms. Jollay and was the swimsuit winner. The second runner-up was Katie Raney, and the third runner-up was Jessica Baughan. For years, the Miss Gwinnett County Pageant had the somewhat quirky distinction of being held on the same night as Miss America. That practice now appears defunct.

Carla Tricoli, Miss Vieques, was crowned Miss Puerto Rico Universe 2003 in San Juan on Sept. 12, 2002. She will represent the Commonwealth in the 2003 Miss Universe Pageant in Panama City, Panama. The first runner-up was Cynthia Olavarría, Miss San Juan, and the second runner-up was Marcela Cortés, Miss Barranquitas. Hometown girl Denise Quiñones, Miss Universe 2001, returned to the island to co-host the pageant. The reigning Miss Universe, Oxana Fedorova of Russia, crowned the new queen.

Marisol González Casas, representing the state of Coahuila, was crowned Nuestra Belleza México 2002 on Sept. 4, 2002, in Boca del Río, Mexico. She will represent her country in the 2003 Miss Universe Pageant. The same evening, Blanca Rosalía Zumárraga Contreras, of Puebla state, was named Nuestra Belleza México Mundo, and will compete at the Miss World Pageant in Nigeria on Nov. 30.

Leah M. Carter, 24, of Mesa has been chosen to compete as Ms. Arizona Ambassador in the 2003 Ms. Ambassador Pageant.

A judge's ruling on Sept. 12, 2002, effectively sank Rebekah Revels' attempt to represent North Carolina at Miss America. Ms. Revels, who had originally won the state crown, yielded it in the summer after reports that a live-in boyfriend had photographed her topless. Misty Clymer, Ms. Revels' first runner-up, was appointed to replace her. But Ms. Revels changed her mind and took pageant officials to court in an attempt to get the title back. Miss America officials sided with Ms. Clymer, but with the issue up in the air, they allowed both women to take part in some early festivities before the Sept. 21 finals. Though court actions may continue at a state level, Ms. Clymer will be the sole North Carolina representative at Miss America.

Sandra Bortolini was crowned Miss Illinois Latina 2003 on Sept. 6, 2002, in Chicago. She is an 18- year-old college student of Italian and Mexican heritage. Sandy Almanza was the first runner-up, and Araceli Castañeda was the second runner-up. Alma Vasquez was the third runner-up, and Idalia Sandoval was the fourth runner-up. Judges for the pageant included the world-renowned celebrity stylist and Univision personality Samy. Ms. Bortolini will represent her state at the Miss Latina U.S. Pageant in 2003. It is a national preliminary to Miss Latin America.

Jose Ignacio Tobias, Mister New Jersey, has been chosen Mister America 2002. The first runner-up was Justin Popovics, Mister New York, and the second runner-up was Darryl Wood, Mister Tennessee. The third runner-up was Reginald D. Lewis, Mister Georgia, and the fourth runner-up was Erick De Larosa, Mister Texas.

Carrie Beth Spivey of Snellville, Ga., was crowned Miss Mall of Georgia on Sept. 7, 2002. She also won the swimsuit and talent awards. She will be returning to the Miss Georgia Pageant, in which she made the top 10 in 2002. The first runner-up was Brooke Garner, and the second runner-up was Leslie Pruett. The third runner-up was Kristen White.

Natascha Börger of Germany was crowned Top Model of the World in Aachen, Germany, on Sept. 10, 2002. The first runner-up was the U.S. representative, Nicole "Nikki" Forman, who has dual U.S.-German citizenship and has already won a preliminary for Miss Germany Universe 2003. Kristina Tudiková of Slovakia was the second runner-up. Adanelli Núñez of Mexico was the third runner-up, and Justine Gabionza of the Philippines was the fourth runner-up.

Jamie Haines of Pitman, N.J., won the Atlantic City regional finals of Miss Hawaiian Tropic on Aug. 31, 2002, at the Trump Taj Mahal. The first runner-up was Neisha Basilone of Nutley, N.J., and the second runner-up was Amber Ettinger of Jersey City. The third runner-up was Alison Barber of Wilmington, Del., and the fourth runner-up was Ami Lyn Sharpe of Morristown, N.J. The Fitness Award went to Donna Shepherd of Dallas, Pa., and the Spirit Award went to Alison Barber of Wilmington. The Fashion Award was given to Stephanie Scalfaro.

With the courts delaying a final decision, the early events of the annual Miss America Pageant will include both claimants for the title of Miss North Carolina. Rebekah Revels and Misty Clymer are fighting over the title, and Ms. Revels has won some preliminary victories in court. National pageant officials, who favor Ms. Clymer, are allowing both to participate for the moment.

Marianela Lacayo Mendoza, representing Nicaragua, was crowned Miss Mundo Latino International in Woodbridge, Ontario, on Sept. 6. She is the reigning Miss Nicaragua Universe, and also won the Best National Costume and Miss Photogenic prizes. The first runner-up was Paola Galeano Ramírez of Colombia, who also won the Best Evening Gown prize. The second runner-up was Rebecca Caroline Sprock of Curacao, who also won the Best Skin award. The third runner-up was Viviana Andrea Cisterna Blanco of Chile, who was named Miss Friendship. The fourth runner-up and Best Hair awardee was Miss Bolivia, Ericka Fátima Cuéllar. Fourteen contestants from across the Americas competed in the eleventh annual pageant.

Stefanie de Roux, 20, was crowned Miss Panama on Sept. 5, 2002, and will represent the country at Miss Universe. The first runner-up, who will compete at Miss World, was Yoselyn Sanchez, 21.

Miss France, Sylvie Teller, has confirmed that she is joining the boycott of the Miss World Pageant in November 2002. Miss Belgium also reportedly will do the same. The boycott is a reaction to harsh treatment of women under the type of Islamic law practiced in parts of Nigeria. The precipitating event is a death sentence imposed on a young woman for having a child out of wedlock.

The battle over who is the rightful Miss North Carolina is in federal court. A state judge has ruled for Rebekah Revels, the original winner, and the Miss America Organization is siding with Misty Clymer, who was the first runner-up in the state pageant. Ms. Revels gave up her crown in a dispute over topless photos, allowing it to pass to Ms. Clymer, but then sued to get it back. The dispute is taking place as the Miss America Pageant looms.

Jennifer Ruiz of Texas won the Ms. Belleza Latina 2003 title on Sept. 1, 2002, in Chicago. The first runner-up was Margarita Santiago of Puerto Rico, who was also Miss Congeniality. Haifa Matos of New York was the second runner-up, and Gabriela Abad of North Carolina was the third runner-up. The first runner-up was Jessica Kovacevich of Washington. Abigail Sanchez of Connecticut was Ms. Photogenic. Wilmaris Vasquez Pabon of Puerto Rico was crowned Miss Teen Belleza Latina 2003, and also won Teen Photogenic. Savannah Gonzalez of Texas was the first runner-up, and Damaressa Quiles of Illinois was the second runner-up. Ana Urbano of Florida won Ms. Woman Belleza Latina 2003, and the first runner-up was Ines Chaparro of Michigan. Other special awards were National Teen Ambassador --Yvonne Badillo, Oklahoma Teen; National Ms. Ambassador -- Marianela Enriquez, District of Columbia; Miss Elegancia -- Wilmarie Vasquez Pabon, Puerto Rico Teen; Director's Award -- Ana Urbano, Florida Woman, and Ms. Maryland, Yolanda Makle.

Cindy Taylor has won the right to host the E! Entertainment Network variety program "Wild On . . ." Her victory was announced on Sept. 3, 2002, in a special program that featured her and the 11 other remaining finalists. The finalists, and many others among the thousands of original contestants, included various pageant stars and PNB cover girls. Ms. Taylor succeeds the previous host, swimsuit model Brooke Burke.

Starshiners! Productions, an Alabama-based organization that promotes speakers and entertainers, including many from the pageant world, is suspending operations as of Sept. 1, 2002. Further developments will be announced.

Madonna Kimberly Emond, representing Michigan, was crowned Miss National Sweetheart on Sept. 2, 2002, in Hoopeston, Ill. She was also the talent winner. The event, which is a part of the annual National Sweet Corn Festival, features runners-up from state Miss America preliminaries. Ms. Emond was third runner-up to National Sweetheart in 2001. In a rare move, the reigning Miss America, Katie Harman, attended the competition. The Miss America Organization does not endorse the Hoopeston pageant, but Ms. Harman is a former National Sweetheart competitor and, perhaps coincidentally, has sometimes feuded with Miss America officials. The first runner-up to Ms. Emond was Joan-Marie Burns of Georgia, and the second runner-up was Cheri Gorin of California. The third runner-up was Bryn Lawton Chapman of Kentucky, and the fourth runner-up was Molly Clare Causey of Miss Louisiana. Miss Congeniality was Abby Norman of Wyoming.

Marking 2002 as the year of the double gimmick, a Miss America slot machine is being released in September, to coincide with pre-pageant publicity. Some former Miss Americas have spoken out against using the pageant's image to promote gambling, but others appear unruffled. The other gimmick is allowing a newspaper reporter to compete unofficially in some pageant events.

Candice Sanders of Los Angeles won the Miss California USA Pageant in Fresno on Aug. 31, 2002. She will represent the Golden State in the Miss USA Pageant in 2003. She is a former Tennessee pageant star. The first runner-up was Stephanie Simons, Miss Bay Cities, and the second runner-up was Krystal Marshall, Miss Regional Coastal Cities. The third runner-up was Heidi Watney, Miss San Diego, and the fourth runner-up was Courtney Friel, Miss Pacific Beach.

Kim Kötter, Miss Universe Netherlands 2002, recently released her first single. "Give Me Wings" shot up the Dutch charts over the summer and was a No. 1 entry on the Newcomers Top 40 in Holland. With her musical partner, she is part of the duo of Kim and Duncan, and they are working on their first CD.

Tamara Gervasoni, representing Italy, has won the Rose of Tralee 2002 title. The contest is open to women of Irish descent from around the world.

Danielle O'Hayon was crowned Miss Jamaica World in Kingston on Aug. 31, 2002. She will represent her country at the Miss World Pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, on Nov. 30. For the first time in the pageant's history, two secondary titles were awarded: Miss Jamaica International 2002 is Natalia Casado and Miss Jamaica Caribbean 2002 is Leanna Prendergast. The remaining finalists in the top five were Melissa Roche and Thersa Lindo.

Goizeder Azua, Miss Carabobo, won the Miss World Venezuela crown in Caracas on Aug. 31, 2002, as part of the "Gala de la Belleza" preliminary show of the Miss Venezuela Pageant. She will represent her country in the Miss World Pageant, slated for Nov. 30 in Abuja, Nigeria. The finals of the Miss Venezuela Pageant are set for Sept. 20, and that event's winner will compete at the Miss Universe Pageant. Ms. Azua also won three of the seven awards handed out at the preliminary show: Best Catwalk (Miss Desfile Fashion), Miss Friendship (Miss Simpatia Luchi) and Miss Personality (Miss Personalidad). Miss Vargas, Andreína Abrahamz (whose sister Hilda was Miss World Venezuela 1980), won the Best Hair Award (Miss Cabello Palmolive Optims). Miss Portuguesa, María Fernanda León, won the Most Beautiful Face Award (Rostro Evel), while Miss Amazonas, Aida Yéspica, won the Best Skin Award (Miss Piel Palmolive). The Best Figure prize went to Miss Distrito Capital, Amara Barroeta (Miss Figura Pepsi).

Catalina Inés Acosta Albarracín, representing Colombia, was crowned Miss Italia nel Mondo (Miss Italy in the World) 2002 in Salsomaggiore, Italy, on Aug. 31, 2002. She is a former Señorita Colombia and was a top ten finalist at the 2000 Miss Universe Pageant in Cyprus. The first runner-up was Monique Volanthen Binder of Switzerland, and the second runner-up was Francesca Secondulfo of Great Britain. Barbara Khashuon, representing Syria, was the third runner-up, and Sandrine Re of Morocco was the fourth runner-up. This was the twelfth annual pageant, which aims to celebrate and link women of Italian descent worldwide.

Irene Aguilera, 23, a business student who competed as Miss Santa Cruz, was crowned Miss Bolivia 2002 on Aug. 30, 2002. She will represent the country at Miss Universe 2003. The first runner-up was Alejandra Montero, Miss Beni, who will go on to compete at Miss World 2002. The second runner-up was Carla Ameller, Miss Litoral, who will compete at Miss International 2002.

A judge has restored the Miss North Carolina crown to Rebekah Revels a month after she gave it up in a controversy over semi-nude photos. Contest officials had appointed first runner-up Misty Clymer. Revels now claims she was pressured to yield the crown, and she filed a breach-of-contract suit against the organizers. A judge ruled on Sept. 4, 2002, that Rebekah Revels is the real Miss North Carolina. Her first runner-up, Misty Clymer, received the crown from the Miss North Carolina organization after Ms. Revels stepped down amid publicity over topless photos. Ms. Revels later sued to recover the crown. With a new Miss America to be chosen within a few weeks, the decision does not settle definitively who will represent the state at the pageant. It does, however, call into question the legality of anti-nudity clauses in pageant rules.

In an unusual move, the Miss America Pageant has arranged for a reporter from the newspaper USA Today to take part in preliminary events. She will not be eligible to win. Miss America is known for September gimmicks to attract coverage, and such strategies generally work, despite the fact that large segments of the American media have disdain for pageants. (Some newspapers and broadcast outlets devote moderate attention to Miss America events in September so they can ignore other contests throughout the year.) The strongest objection to the move has come from pageant fans. They say a woman who has not won the right to be at Miss America should not be there.

Miss Wisconsin Teen USA, Vanessa Marie Semrow, 17, of Rhinelander, was crowned Miss Teen USA 2002 on Aug. 28, 2002 in South Padre Island, Texas, at the conclusion of the 20th annual Miss Teen USA Pageant televised live nationally on CBS. She is the first Wisconsin contestant to win the national title and the first to place among the semifinalists since 1984, when Adrianne Hazelwood placed among the top ten. The petite brunette beauty succeeds Marissa Whitley, 19, of Springfield, Mo. The first runner-up was Miss California Teen USA, Jennifer Morgan, 16, an honor student and Red Cross volunteer from La Mesa, Calif. The second runner-up was Miss Kentucky Teen USA, Tara Elizabeth Conner, 16, of Russell Springs, Ky., followed by Miss Maryland Teen USA, Michelle Natasha Attai, 18, of Severn, Md., who was third runner-up. Miss Georgia Teen USA, Kimberly Harlan, 18, of Marietta, was the fourth runner-up. The winner of the Miss Photogenic Award was Miss Tennessee Teen USA, Rachel Renee Smith, 17, of Clarksville, who was also among the 10 semifinalists. Miss South Carolina Teen USA, Austen Brown, 17, of Charleston was selected by the other delegates as Miss Congeniality. Ms. Semrow's first runner-up in Wisconsin, Amy Lynn Garza, 16, of La Crosse, now has the opportunity to assume the Miss Wisconsin Teen USA title. The 2003 Miss Wisconsin Teen USA Pageant is scheduled for mid-October in Madison. This was the last pageant to be televised on CBS, as NBC will take over broadcast rights in 2003 for airing the Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants.

Simone Wulf-Reinfurt of Darmstadt, who was first runner-up to Katrin Wrobel for the Miss Germany World title, has been designated to represent the country at Miss World. Ms. Wrobel will not be participating after widely publicized tensions with pageant officials.

Talk of a boycott of the Miss World Pageant -- scheduled for November 2002 in Abuja, Nigeria -- continues to grow. Miss Norway and several African beauty queens have floated the idea because of ill treatment of women under a version of Islamic law practiced in parts of Nigeria. Several cases have made headlines in recent months. The possible boycott could force the relocation of the pageant or action by the Nigerian government to rein in the states involved.

Miss Honduras national director Eduardo Zablah has denied accusations by beauty queen Erika Ramirez about alleged mistreatment of her. He held a special news conference to disclaim any knowledge of her allegations.

Miss Norway, Katrine Sorland, reportedly is threatening to boycott the Miss World Pageant in Nigeria in November 2002 because of death penalties imposed on women in parts of that country. The highly publicized cases in areas under Islamic law involve women who allegedly had sexual relations outside marriage. The cases have provoked an international outcry. The controversial legal system is in place in mostly Muslim northern Nigeria, but not in Abuja, where the contest is to be held.

In a complex dispute, Miss Bahamas World, T'shura Ambrose, has been dethroned for an allegedly "uncooperative" attitude. But she is disputing the dethronement and saying she still has the right to represent the country at Miss World. Officials of a different pageant organization are supporting her. This leaves two claimants to the Miss Bahamas World title, Ms. Ambrose and her former first runner-up, Shemeka Fernander. The dispute is reminiscent of a feud in the United States in autumn 2001 over which of two former friends would compete at Miss World. The controversy was bitter at times, but was overshadowed by the national security crisis over terrorist attacks.

Miss Germany World, Kathrin Wrobel, who won her crown in January 2002, reportedly has canceled her contract with Miss Germany Corporation, the German franchise holder for Miss World. Presumably someone one else will represent Germany at Miss World, a pageant that Ms. Wrobel had previously discussed in negative terms.

Erika Ramírez, Miss Honduras 2002, has publicly alleged that her national director, Eduardo Zablah, has mistreated and sexually harassed her. The "La Prensa" newspaper quoted the queen as saying, "Since I returned from Puerto Rico on the first of June, where I participated in Miss Universe, I have been living a nightmare. I fear for my life." Ms. Ramírez also said that she has not received many of the prizes she won in the national pageant. She said she fears that because she came forward, "he will destroy me publicly and will ensure that I will never be able to leave the country."

Jessica Holley was crowned Miss Mercer County 2002-2003 on Aug. 10, 2002, in Bluefield, W.Va. She will compete in the Miss West Virginia Pageant, a preliminary to Miss America. The first runner-up was Amanda Martin, and the second runner-up was Cheri Ann Thompson. Ms. Holley succeeds Miss Mercer County 2001-2002, Leigh Farmer, who was a finalist in the Miss West Virginia Pageant in summer 2002. The Miss Mercer County program is described as one of the oldest Miss America preliminaries in the nation.

Danitra Oliver has been crowned Miss Black World National 2003 in New York. She also captured the Communications Award, Miss Photogenic and the Best Swimwear Award. She is a second-year law student at Fordham University, and the first Virginian to win the crown.

Keli Kaniak, representing Brazil, was crowned Miss Mesoamérica International on Aug. 17, 2002, in Houston, Texas. The first runner-up was Cynthia Lander, Miss Venezuela.

Elsa Burgos, representing Mexico, was crowned Reina de la Costa Maya (Queen of the Mayan Coast) in San Pedro, Belize, on Aug. 17, 2002.

Casandra Polo Berríos, Miss Guaynabo, was crowned Miss World Puerto Rico on Aug. 15, 2002. She will represent the Commonwealth at the Miss World Pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, on Nov. 30.

Ohio's Perfect Miss 2002, Keri Fussell, was crowned Ms. American Woman 2002 at the national competition in Las Vegas on Aug. 11, 2002. She was also the Photogenic Winner. She is a third- grade teacher in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio. She received $5000 in cash and other prizes. The first runner-up was Michelle Beaumont, Ms. Georgetown, D.C., and the second runner-up was Rhonda Shappert, Ms. Central Ohio. Tara Sanders, Miss San Diego (Calif.), was crowned Miss Teen of the Nation 2002. The first runner-up was LeeAna Butler, Miss Western Texas. The second runner-up was Danielle Wiggins, Miss Honolulu County.

Rehema Nakuya, 23, a final year medical student, was crowned Miss Uganda on Aug. 10, 2002. She will represent her country at the Miss World Pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, on Nov. 30. Juliet Opio, 21, was the first runner-up and Miss Congeniality. Connie Nankya, 18, was the second runner-up and Miss Photogenic. Leila Farid, 18, won a special popularity prize by receiving the highest number of votes from a mobile phone poll.

Bethsaida Smith has been crowned Miss British Virgin Islands. She will represent the BVI at Miss Universe 2003 in Panama.

Jennifer Diana Sanquedolce, director of the Miss North Stonington Fair Queen Pageant, was crowned Miss Lebanon Fair 2002 on Aug. 9, 2002, in Connecticut. She also took home the Miss Congeniality honors. The first runner-up was Jessica Bain of Andover, Conn.

Jenna McKee, Ms. Teen Petite Tennessee, was crowned the 2002 Ms. Teen Petite Universal on Aug. 11, 2002, in Indianapolis, Ind. The first runner-up was Nicole Bader, Teen United States, who won the Director's award. The second runner-up was Jennifer Webster, Teen Indiana. Rena Kollias, Ms. Petite Illinois, was crowned Ms. Petite Universal 2002. Ms. Petite Puerto Rico Woman, Maria Torres, was crowned Ms. Petite Universal Woman 2002. The first runner-up was Vietnam Woman, Le Doan. The Photogenic award also went to Le Doan, and the Congeniality award to Ms. Torres, who also won the Staff award. Lindy Christopher, Ms. Teen Petite Universal 2000, was crowned the Ms. Petite Universal Lifetime Queen.

Tara Dale Sanders, 18, Miss Teenage California 2002, was crowned Miss Teen of the Nation 2002 at the national finals held in Las Vegas on Aug. 11, 2002. The Carlsbad High School graduate won a $5,000 cash prize and an assortment of gifts.

Jennifer Turner, representing Maine, was crowned Mrs. United States on Aug. 1, 2002. She will represent the country in the first ever Mrs. Universe International Pageant. As Jennifer "Jen" Krafve, she was Miss Massachusetts USA 1999. The first runner-up was Mrs. New York, Tricia Sanders, who also won Physical Fitness honors, and the second runner-up was Mrs. Virginia, Carole Withers. The third runner-up was Mrs. Missouri, Andrea Robertson, and the fourth runner-up was Mrs. Georgia, Javella Simmons. Best Costume honors went to Mrs. Illinois, Paula Scarbrough. Voted Most Photogenic was Mrs. Alabama, Kathy Midgley.

Nicolette Gustafson won the Miss West Coast Oktoberfest Pageant on Aug. 11, 2002, in Vancouver, British Columbia. The first runner-up (Oktoberfest Princess) was Mary de Vera. Both will compete in the Miss Oktoberfest Pageant in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, on Oct. 10. The second runner-up was Shannon Walter, and the third runner-up was Celeste Gendron, who was also Miss Friendship and runner-up for Best Vocal Presentation. Nadra Burns was the fourth runner-up and won the Best Vocal Presentation award. Joan Cabalu won the Best All-Around Talent prize, and Brenda Lopez won named Top Fund-raiser. Miss Oktoberfest is a North American tradition, and attracts women from across the United States and Canada. The show is renowned as one of the best and most professionally organized pageants on the continent, and will celebrate its 35th year in 2002.

Dolores Couceiro, a model from Madrid, Spain, has been crowned Mrs. Globe in Rancho Mirage, Calif., becoming the seventh woman to hold the prestigious title. She is the first from Spain. Mrs. Couceiro is president of Dolores Couceiro Modeling Agency. Mrs. Globe is the largest international pageant for married women in the world, airing in over 35 countries around the world. The Mrs. Globe contest is not just a celebration of beauty and culture, but more importantly, it serves as the primary fund-raiser for the non-profit charity Women In Need, a crisis outreach for women and children faced with abuse. The new Mrs. Globe now becomes international spokeswoman for the WIN.

Johanna Cure Lemus of Colombia won the Reinado Internacional de las Flores (International Flower Queen) Pageant on Aug. 10, 2002, in Medellín, Colombia. She is the second Colombian to win the title. The first runner-up was Venezuela's Ileyan Villarreal.

Johanna Acosta of Colombia was crowned World Coffee Queen 2002 in Seabrook, Texas, on Aug. 10, 2002.

The government of Nigeria has warned Miss World contests to avoid areas of the country enforcing Islamic law when they come to compete in the pageant in November 2002 in Abuja. There has been friction between Muslim and non-Muslim areas of the country, and some groups have denounced the pageant as allegedly incompatible with Islam. Abuja, near the center of the country, is not in an area where Islamic law is in force.

Tiffany Lam Man-Yee was crowned Miss Hong Kong on Aug. 11, 2002. She is a university student, and will represent her locality in the 2003 Miss Chinese International Pageant. The first runner-up was Victoria Jane Jolly, a university student studying in England, who will compete at the Miss World Pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, on Nov. 30. Cathy Wu Kar-Wai, a high school student, was second runner-up, and will compete at the Miss International Pageant in Hawaii on Oct. 4. Cerina Da Graca won the Miss Photogenic prize. The winner of this award has gone on to win the Miss Hong Kong title in a seemingly predictable pattern for several years; this year was the first in recent memory that Miss Photogenic did not take the crown.

Natalia Peralta Castro, Miss Antioquia, 21, was crowned Miss World Colombia on Aug. 10, 2002, in Cartagena. She is a dentistry student, and will represent her country in the Miss World Pageant on Nov. 30 in Abuja, Nigeria. The first runner-up was Beatriz Juliana Muñoz Murillo, Miss Valle del Cauca, 23, and the second runner-up was María Fernanda Kergelen, Miss Barranquilla, 21.

Chelsea Morgan, 14, competing as Miss Atlanta, has been crowned Miss Teen All American. It's a title that has brought several young women fame in the pageant world and beyond. The first runner-up was Miss Las Cruces (N.M.), Briana Bagwell, 15. The second runner-up was Miss Alabama, Lauren Stockton, 19. The other two finalists were Jessica Paul, 18, Miss Kansas City, and Jennifer Scott, 17, Miss Memphis. Ms. Morgan also won the Photogenic Award and the grand prize in the costume competition. Calista Phair, Miss Seattle, won the Amity award. Ms. Morgan, recently a featured personality on PNB, had an unusual route to the Miss Teen All American title. She was originally crowned Georgia's Perfect Teen, but when the America's Perfect Teen Pageant was not held for logistical reasons, she and other Perfect Teen candidates received slots at Teen All American.

Sarah Wyatt was crowned Miss Cobb County (Ga.) on Aug. 10, 2002. She is a student at Southern Methodist University, and singing was her performing talent. She will compete at the Miss Georgia (America) Pageant. The first runner-up was Kendra Pelletier, and the second runner-up was Erin Gallagher. The third runner-up was Anna Sparks-Hedman, and the fourth runner-up was Stephanie Tyson. Ms. Hedman was the talent winner, and Clark Sarullo was the swimsuit winner.

Whitney Cleveland has been crowned Miss Thomasville, winning the right to compete at the Miss Georgia (America) Pageant.

Coronation, Inc. has secured the domain name mrsgalaxy.com after prevailing in an arbitration process with what it termed a "cyber squatter." Coronation, Inc. runs the Mrs. Galaxy Pageant.

Vanessa John won the title of Miss Anguilla on Aug. 8, 2002, in the island's capital, The Valley. She swept six of the nine awards in the contest, and will represent the Caribbean nation as a tourism ambassadress. The first runner-up was Hazel Shermel Gumbs, and the second runner-up was Tashanata Brooks.

The new 2002 Ms. Petite International is Deidre Cannon, who competed as Ms. Petite South Korea. The first runner up was Ms. Petite Florida, Jaclyn Nesheiwat. The second runner-up was Ms. Petite Puerto Rico, Gina Ferrer, and the third runner-up was Ms. Petite Liberia, Tammie Garr. The fourth runner-up was Ms. Petite Texas, Jaclyn Smith. The new Miss Petite Teen International is Keri Shingledecker, who competed as Miss Petite Teen Florida. The first runner-up was Miss Petite Teen Texas, Stacey Russo, and the second runner-up was Miss Petite Teen Colorado, Katherine Andelman. The third runner-up was Miss Petite Teen Tennessee, Jenna McKee, and the fourth runner-up was Miss Petite Teen Louisiana, Brandi Parks.

Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Ms. Volunteer America National Ambassador 2003-04. She also received the state award of Ms. Maine Volunteer America, which enabled her to subsequently receive the national recognition.

Jessica Simons of Angola won the inaugural Miss Southern African Pageant on Aug. 3, 2002, in Harare, Zimbabwe. Sihle Ndlovu of Zimbabwe was the first runner-up, and Aminata Keita of Tanzania was the second runner-up. Fifteen countries constitute the Southern African Development Community, and all were invited to field contestants, but only six of them ultimately sent delegates to the pageant.

Reggie Lewis, a pageant competitor, pageant official and pageant writer, has been chosen Mister America Georgia 2002.

Diana María Moreno Hernández was crowned Miss Atlántico in Barranquilla, Colombia, on Aug. 6, 2002. She will represent the province in the Miss Colombia Pageant in November.

The Miss Global Beauty Venezuela finals were held on Aug. 6, 2002, in Caracas. The new Miss Global Queen Venezuela is Aurora Armesto, and Haddy Talavera was crowned Miss Global Petite Venezuela. Daniela Decenvirale won the title of Miss Global Teen Venezuela. All three will compete in their respective divisions at the finals of the Global Beauty Quest in Montréal, Canada on Nov. 9.

Katie Stam, 16, of Brownstown, Ind., was crowned America's Southern Teen 2002 on July 27, 2002, during the third annual event in Shreveport, La. She won the personal expression, fitness, and evening gown competitions. The first runner-up was Amber Seyer, Missouri Teen, who was also named Miss Photogenic. The second runner-up was Mallory Rigell, Virginia Beach Teen, and the third runner-up was Ashley Buckman, Gulf States Teen. The fourth runner-up was Ashley Deprow, Show-Me State Teen. The interview winner and member of the top 12 was Tia Ashton, Florida Teen. Kerry Dowd, Hossier State Teen, was selected as Miss Congeniality. Judges at the event included Jillian Parry, Miss Teen USA 2000; Kristen Johnson, Miss Teen Kentucky USA 2000 and Miss Model of Kentucky 2002; Kaya Wittenburg, best known as a participant on the TV show "Temptation Island"; Blake Mycoskie, winner on the TV Show "The Amazing Race" and Paul Martin, from the ABC show "Making the Band." The event was hosted by J. Scot Reid. Ms. Stam, by winning the national title, also made Indiana history. She is the second person from the state ever to win a triple crown within the same system. Ms. Stam won the Teen Jackson County Pageant, advanced and won the Kentuckiana Teen Pageant, and advanced and won the national America's Southern Teen Pageant. The first triple crown winner was Nicole Brink, who won Mrs. Indiana, then Mrs. America and Mrs. World.

Jennifer Schooler of the USA was crowned Miss Globe in Istanbul, Turkey, on July 30, 2002.

Just one week before the finals of the Miss World Colombia Pageant, Catalina Jaramillo Martínez, who represented the region of Arauca, withdrew from the national contest. She claimed that her involvement in the contest has caused her to neglect her university studies. Pageant officials, however, are furious, claiming her departure is related to other, more malicious factors.

Sofia Batista of Puerto Rico has been crowned Mrs. United Nation International. Kimberly Nelson has been crowned Mrs. United Nation U.S.

Heather Shaw, North Carolina's representative in the Senior Division, and Addie Hampton, who represented Georgia in the Junior Division, have been crowned America's National Teenagers for 2003 in Nashville. The first runner-up in the Senior Division was Laura Dudley of Virginia, and the second runner-up was Christie Youssef of California. The third runner-up was Jaclynn Ranallo of Oklahoma, and the fourth runner-up was Schuyler Bateman of Texas. The first runner-up in the Junior Division was Deseree Johnston of Nebraska, and the second runner-up was Elizabeth Wood of Tennessee. The third runner-up was Rikki Klaus of Florida, and the fourth runner-up was Chelsea Fahey of Illinois. Special Awards were presented in the following categories: Senior Talent Winner - Emily Doucette of Missouri; Junior Talent Winner - Addie Hampton of Georgia; Senior Volunteer Community Service - Fallon Branco of Massachusetts; Junior Volunteer Community Service winner - Kortni Washburn of Arkansas; Senior Photogenic winner - Megan Beals of Maine; Junior Photogenic winner - Melissa Youssef of California; Senior Congeniality winner - Miranda Zindel of Alaska; Junior Congeniality winner - Addie Hampton of Georgia.

Kelley Brown was crowned Miss Jefferson County in Birmingham on Aug. 3, 2002. She is an Auburn University student, and dance is her talent. She will compete in the Miss Alabama (America) Pageant. The first runner-up was Layla Carter, and the second runner-up was Alexa Jones. The third runner-up was Sandy Vandiver, and the fourth runner-up was Amanda Ward, the swimsuit winner.

Jessica Fox was crowned Miss Colonial Mall-Gadsden on Aug. 3, 2002. The Auburn University student, whose talent is singing, will compete at Miss Alabama.

Mercer University student Dana Robinson, whose talent is dance, was crowned Miss Warner Robins on Aug. 3, 2002. She will compete at Miss Georgia (America). The first runner-up was Amanda Kozak, the interview winner, and the second runner-up was Jennison Cooper, the swimsuit winner. The third runner-up was Ashley Anderson, and the fourth runner-up was Michelle Hart.

Miss Southwest Georgia and Miss Emanuel County were held together in Swainsboro, Ga., on Aug. 3, 2002. Goldei Baysu, a former Miss Augusta whose talent is piano, was crowned Miss Southwest Georgia. The first runner-up was Brandi Thornton, the talent winner, and the second runner-up was Kristen White. The third runner-up was Leslie Culberson, the swimsuit winner. Jenna Gray was crowned Miss Emanuel County. The first runner-up was Marsha Moore, the talent winner, and the second runner-up was Leigh Anne Hobbs. The third runner-up was Brittany Willis, the swimsuit winner. Both the night's queens will advance to the Miss America Pageant.

Brandi Brooks, a Valdosta State University student whose talent is singing, was crowned Miss Plantation Trace in Colquitt, Ga., on Aug. 3, 2002. She will compete at Miss Georgia (America). The first runner-up was Katie Lumpkin, and the second runner-up was Avis Porter. The third runner-up was Cami Grebel, and the fourth runner-up was Devan Fleming. Danielle Blankenship was the winner of the fitness and talent honors.

Mariela Lugo Marín, 20, who competed as Miss Yauco, was crowned Miss Puerto Rico Tourism in Guaynabo on Aug. 3, 2002. She will represent her country at the Miss International Pageant in Hawaii on Oct. 4.

Beth Finch of Clinton County was chosen Mississippi's Junior Miss on Aug. 3, 2002. The first alternate was Kristian Dambrino of Grenada County, and the second alternate was Rachael Deen of Meridian.

The Miss America Pageant has chosen its first black master of ceremonies. He is Wayne Brady, an Emmy-nominated TV comedian who is soon to have his own daytime variety show. Since the 1980 firing of longtime host Bert Parks, the pageant has experimented with numerous emcees. The list has included actors, athletes, talk show hosts and professional singers.

On her 17th birthday, Morgan Macy of Burlington, N.C., won the coveted title of Miss Internet. The pageant, open to young women 15 to 24, is judged through votes on a now closed Web site and is held bi-annually. The first runner-up was Sara Player, 15, of Columbia, S.C. Alicia Stowell, 24, the second runner-up, is a business major at SUNY Binghamton. The remaining eight finalists were Cassie Martin, 15, of Olney, Md.; Amy Kasi, 18, a fall freshman at Gettysburg College (Pa.); Kristi Berman, 17, of Syracuse, N.Y.; Lauren Hogan, 16, of DePere, Wis.; and Elizabeth Adams, 17, of Cedar Grove, N.J.

Amelia Vega, 18, of Santiago was crowned Miss Dominican Republic 2002 on July 29, 2002, in Santo Domingo. She will represent her country in the 2003 Miss Universe Pageant in Panama. The first runner-up was Jeimy Hernández of Bonao, who has the opportunity to represent her country at the Miss International Pageant in Hawaii on Oct. 4. The second runner-up was Carol Arcieniegas, of New York City, who represented the Dominican community in the United States. A plethora of past queens were present at the pageant, including Janelle Commissiong, Miss Universe 1977, who was honored with a special award on the twenty-fifth anniversary of her crowning as Miss Universe, and Milagros Germán, who was Miss Dominican Republic 1980 and Miss América Latina 1981. Sarah Olimpia Frometa de Schad, another former Miss Dominican Republic who tied for the Miss Amity award at Miss Universe 1962, was one of the event's judges.

A crowning ceremony was held July 28, 2002, at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, Calif., for Spirit Pageants 2002 International and National winners. The ladies of Spirit Pageants began the day with a photo session followed by the crowning ceremony. The celebration concluded at Goofy's Kitchen in the Disneyland Hotel with the Queens' brunch, where friends, family and the Disney characters congratulated the new titleholders. The 2002 queens are: Lisa Malcolm, Ms. Worldwide Spirit; Rita Gilmer, Mrs. All American Spirit; Dianna Gadbery, Ms. Classic All American Spirit; Patricia Schnieder, Ms. All American Spirit; Laura Ellis, Miss All American Spirit; Katie Bryan, Miss Teen All American Spirit; Brenna Bires, Junior Miss All American Spirit; and Gabby Gilmer, Little Miss All American Spirit. The women of Spirit Pageants will be participating in four service projects to help promote the spirit of goodwill in their communities.

Rebekah Revels has declared that she stepped down as Miss North Carolina 2002 because she had been photographed topless. Ms. Revels said a boyfriend -- whom she criticized as abusive when she announced her resignation -- snapped the two photos while she was dressing. She said the pictures were not made with her consent. Vanessa Williams resigned as Miss America in 1984 after Penthouse magazine published nude, sexually explicit photos that she had made as a model. The scandal caused a crackdown in the Miss America system, while Ms. Williams went on to a successful career as an entertainer.

July 29 is Rain Day in Waynesburg, Pa., because the date has brought rain there on 106 of the past 127 years. Rain fell again in 2002. The community annually selects a Miss Rain Day to reign over the event. Chosen as Miss Rain Day for 2002 was Angela Bertugli of Rices Landing, Pa., who will attend West Virginia University in the fall. The remainder of the Miss Rain Day court were Emily Spade, the first runner-up; Rachel Burack, the second runner-up; Meaghen Bruno, the third runner-up; and Cassie Mooney, the fourth runner-up. Waynesburg is also the home of recently crowded Miss Pennsylvania, Autumn Marisa.

Christopher Sackeyfio, a 28-year-old Lufthansa pilot from Frankfurt who competed as Mister Hessen, was crowned Mister Germany on July 28, 2002. The first runner-up was 26-year-old Carsten Seck of Witten. He is a police officer and competed as Mister Westdeutschland. The second runner-up was 24-year-old Reinhardt Notthoff of Cologne. He works for an insurance company and competed as Mister Nordrhein-Westfalen. Mr. Sackeyfrio, who is believed to owe much of his success to expert choreography at the Mister Hessen Pageant, will compete at Manhunt International and Mister Intercontinental. On the same night, Eva Elsermann of Dortmund was crowned Mrs. Germany. She is a teacher and competed as Mrs. Nordrhein-Westfalen. The first runner-up was 27-year-old Jelena Rose of Wiesbaden. She works for BKA (the German counterpart of the FBI), and she competed as Mrs. Hessen. The second runner-up was 27-year-old hairstylist Katja Tschirschky of Magdeburg. She competed as Mrs. Sachsen-Anhalt. The new Mrs. Germany will compete in Mrs. Globe. Miss Germany Universe, Natascha Börger, was among the judges.

Holly Hardwick's InterContinental Pageants took their maiden voyage on Carnival Cruise Lines "Fascination" ship from July 22 to July 26, 2002, and "fascinating" it was! Fifty-four contestants from around the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands descended on the cruise ship. Most were decked out in red, white and blue, demonstrating their pride in America. After the Top 5 were announced, each of the finalists was asked an onstage question. All previous scores were thrown out and the judges then ranked the contestants in the order that they felt each had qualified to place. The final results produced the following winners to be the first to wear the Limited Edition Princess Diana crowns as they represent the InterContinental Pageant: Miss Teen InterContinental -- MacKenzie Strawn of Tennessee; Teen Finalists -- New Hampshire (Viktoriya Kamara); Puerto Rico (Tiffany Rivera); Missouri (Sierra Stinebrook); Illinois (Chelsea Wilson). Miss InterContinental -- Liane Nanea Kanari Mark of Hawaii; Miss Finalists -- Illinois (Karyn Stoutenburg); Rhode Island (Dara Iantuono); Missouri (Ashlea Litton) and U.S. Virgin Islands (Kaki West). Ms. InterContinental: Pamela Bolter of Florida; Ms. Finalists: Indiana (Jane Yslas); Nevada (Jacqueline Seigel); New Jersey (Jennifer Giordano) and Puerto Rico (Maribel Garcia). Mrs. InterContinental -- Tracy Mitchell of Louisiana; Mrs. Finalists: Illinois (Amy Yount); Maryland (Nancy Walker); North Carolina (Crystal McDaniel); and Virginia (Rhonda Howdyshell). This panel of judges included previous national (and international) titleholders: Miss USA 2001 - Kandace Krueger, Mrs. United Nation U.S. 2001 - Angela Gustafsson, Mrs. Globe 2001 - Stacey Cooper; Mrs. International 2000 - Joanne Beauvoir Brown; Ms. U.S. Continental 2000 -Tamera Waite. The 2002 Mistresses of Ceremonies were Mrs. United States 1993 - Melanie Patterson, and Miss Teen USA 1995 - Keylee Sue Sanders.

Shivani Singh has been crowned Miss India Canada 2002. She's 24 and from Mississauga, Ontario, and is described by renowned pageant authority Jimmy Steele as "stunning." She's a graduate of the Schulich School of Business at York University (just like Neelam Verma, last year's winner), and will be working on obtaining her Bachelor of Education degree beginning in September. The first runner-up was Subeena Ishaq, 21, of Brampton, Ontario, a student at York University who is working on her Honors degree in Computer Programming. She was also named Miss Photogenic. The second runner-up was Anupam "Anu" Singh, 22, also of Mississauga. She is a graduate of the University of Toronto with an Honors degree in Political Science and International Relations. Miss Congeniality was Kiranjit Bedi, 23, of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Ms. Verma, who was Miss India Canada 2001 and Miss Canadian Universe 2002 (as well as a top 10 semi-finalist at Miss Universe) sent her best wishes from Dubai, where she had a prior engagement. The pageant presented its annual Special Achievement Award to famed Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon.

Anna Tatarintseva was crowned Russia's Beauty 2002 on July 25, 2002, in Moscow. She will represent the country in the Miss World Pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, on Nov. 30, 2002. Ms. Tatarintseva was Russia's representative at Miss Asia Pacific 1999, where she finished as first runner-up and was a multiple award winner.

Rebekah Revels stepped down as Miss North Carolina on July 23, 2002, giving up the chance to represent the state at Miss America. In a statement that raised many questions, the 23-year-old former teacher claimed abuse by a former boyfriend and said there had been an effort to smear her reputation since her pageant victory. She was replaced by Misty Clymer, who was first runner-up at Miss North Carolina.

Eva Dedecke of Frankfurt, the reigning Miss Hessen who was a Top 6 finalist at Miss Germany Universe 2002, has been chosen to represent the country at Miss International 2002. Natascha Börger, who won the Miss Germany Universe title and competed at Miss Universe, will represent the country next at Miss Europe.

The much publicized Miss Earth Pakistan 2002, Neelam Noorani, has been replaced by 18-year-old Najjah Gassan. The pageant organization said Ms. Noorani was disqualified for failing to comply with pageant rules and schedules.

Sheena Winsor was crowned Miss Teen Glenwood (Newfoundland) on July 18, 2002. Paula Kinden, Miss Newfoundland & Labrador 1999, organizes the pageant.

Christina Cretaro, 21, of Toronto won the title of Miss Italia nel Mondo Canada on July 19, 2002 in Toronto. She will represent the Land of the Maple Leaf at the 12th Miss Italia nel Mondo (Miss Italy in the World) Pageant in Salsamaggore, Italy, in September, competing with women from 33 other countries. Her mother is from Rome, and her father is Jamaican. Melissa Vitale, 18, also of Toronto, was the first runner-up, and the second runner-up was Rosanna Riverso, 23, from Hamilton. Christina D'Apice, 24, of Toronto was Miss Congeniality.

Shawn Cunningham has been named as Miss Maine Woman of the Year 2003 and Ms. Greater Maine 2003 for the Ms. American States Pageant System. She already holds other titles for the state of Maine, including Miss Maine USA Achievement 2003. She is a TV anchorwoman in northern Maine and is the President of Alpha Delta Omega, a new pageant sorority.

Jimmy Steele, the redoubtable founder of Jimmy's Pageant Page, has published an enlightening interview with Miss Canada Universe, Neelam Verma, who represented her nation with distinction at Miss Universe 2002. Catch it ...

Miss Bay Area, Claudia Nicole O'Brian, 19, of Friendswood was crowned Miss Texas USA 2003 on July 15, 2002, in Lubbock. She was Miss Texas Teen USA 2000 and first runner-up to Miss Teen USA. She is the third woman to win both state titles. Ms. O'Brian is a sophomore at San Jacinto College, majoring in radio, television and film, with hopes of becoming an actress. She will represent the Lone Star State in the 2003 Miss USA Pageant, to be televised live on NBC in February 2003. The first runner-up and winner of the Miss Congeniality award was Miss Brazos County, Heidi Syvrud. The second runner-up and swimsuit winner was Miss Lubbock, Nicole Neal. The third runner-up was Miss Central Texa, Mandy Jaye Jeffries, 25, of Midland. She was Miss Texas Teen USA 1995. The fourth runner-up was Miss Dallas County, Alisa Marie Lenamond, 23, of Plano. Miss Houston, Christie Lee Woods, the previous year's third runner-up to Miss Texas USA -- and who was Miss Teen USA 1996 -- was among the 12 semifinalists.

Cynthia Olavarría was crowned Miss San Juan Universe on July 14, 2002, and she will represent the Commonwealth's capital in the Miss Puerto Rico Universe Pageant in September. However, for the first time, under the motto of "One City ... Three Queens," the pageant chose three winners for the national finals, one for the city itself (Ms. Olavarria) and one each for two of its larger suburbs. They are Anaiza Morales, chosen Miss Santurce Universe, and Alba Johanna López, who won the title of Miss Río Piedras Universe.

Melanie Putria won the crown of Miss Indonesia on July 13, 2002, in Jakarta. The reigning Miss Universe, Oxana Fedorova of Russia, was present to assist in the crowning. Indonesia has not participated in the international finals since 1996, but Miss Universe titleholders have crowned the winners at the Indonesian pageant for several years.

Anna-Viola Cerna, 23, of Riedstadt was crowned Miss Frankfurt Universe 2002 on July 12, 2002. She is studying to become an opera singer. The first runner-up was Olga Haupt, 19, of Frankfurt, and the second runner-up was Conny Glotzbach, 22, of Gross-Gerau. The Top 3 finishers will go on to the state pageant of Miss Hessen (Universe) in November. Among the judges was the reigning Miss Germany (Universe), Natascha Börger.

Carrie Ann Mewha, 23, representing Broward County, was crowned Miss Florida USA 2003 on July 13, 2002, in Hollywood, Fla. She is a recent PNB cover girl ("A saddle, a stethoscope and a crown"). She will represent the Sunshine State at the 2003 Miss USA Pageant in February 2003. The first runner-up was Diane Cabrera. Claudia Sabina Santiano was the second runner-up. The third runner-up was Megan Henry, and the fourth runner-up was Heather Yearwood. The pageant was televised live throughout Florida and in parts of the Caribbean and South America.

Autumn Marisa, 22, competing as Miss Armstrong County, won the Miss Pennsylvania crown on July 13, 2002, in Nazareth. She is from Waynesburg, and her talent is lyrical dance. She will represent Pennsylvania in the Miss America Pageant. The first runner-up was Melissa Wills, 22, Miss Southwestern Pennsylvania. She was also the first runner-up the previous year. The second runner-up was Emily Wills, 19, Miss Penn State, and the third runner-up was Kristin Szarell, 20, Miss Greater Cranberry. The fourth runner-up was Corinne Leach, 23, Miss Susquehanna Valley.

Sheree Wagner was crowned Mrs. Wyoming America on July 13, 2002, in Casper. She was also the winner of the Crest Bright Smile Award. She will represent the state at the Mrs. America Pageant. Mrs. Wagner was the first runner-up to the title the previous year. Special guests at this year's pageant were Karla Farnham, Mrs. Wyoming America 2001, and Monica Dampier, Mrs. Wyoming America 2000.

Miss Golden Corner, Kelly McCorkle, was crowned Miss South Carolina on July 13, 2002, in Spartanburg. She will represent the Palmetto State at Miss America. The first runner-up was Miss Cherokee County, Nicole Southgate. The second runner-up was Nicole Riggs, Miss Spartanburg. The third runner-up was Leigh Hoeben, Miss Liberty, and the fourth runner-up was Lauren Vick, Miss Greater Irmo.

For the third consecutive year, Miss Twin Cities has become Miss Minnesota. At the conclusion of the 57th annual pageant, staged for the first time in Roseville, Allyson Elizabeth Kearns, 21, of Eden Prairie was crowned Miss Minnesota 2002 on July 13, 2002. She competed, of course, as Miss Twin Cities. She succeeds former Miss Twin Cities and Miss Minnesota 2001, Kari Ann Knuttila, 22, of Detroit Lakes. Two years ago, competing as Miss Twin Cities, Katherine Danielle Hall of Wayzata was named Miss Minnesota 2000. Ms. Kearns is a graduate of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a degree in English literature. Recently accepted to the William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, she has an interest in a law career dealing with issues of intellectual property and copyright laws. For the talent competition, the first-time pageant entrant and Dean's List honors graduate sang and danced to "I Hope To Get It" from the musical "A Chorus Line." She will represent the state at the Miss America Pageant in September 2002. The first runner-up, winning the opportunity to represent the "Land of Ten Thousand Lakes" in the 2002 Miss National Sweetheart Pageant in Hoopeston, Ill., during Labor Day weekend, was Miss Southeastern Minnesota, Stacie Renee McBride, 23, of Lino Lakes. She was the second runner-up in the 2000 pageant. This year's second runner-up was Heidi Marie Hammond, 22, of Waseca, Miss Metropolitan. She was the first runner-up in the 2000 pageant and third runner-up in 1999. The third runner-up was classical pianist Miss Winona, Gretchen Ruth Johnson, 20, of Winona. The Miss Minnesota Scholarship Pageant was organized this year by new co-directors (former pageant business manager Kristi Brooks Olson and Megan West Yates, who was Miss Minnesota 1998) and has a new and improved Web site, growing interest and local franchises.

The 2002 Miss World Pageant will be held in Abuja, the Nigerian capital. Nigerian first lady Stella Obasanjo, who is also the tourism minister, made the announcement. The reigning Miss World, Agbani Darego, is from Nigeria.

The DIBBA competition begins in Greece in August 2002, and is still looking for contestants from abroad. Watch for an upcoming PNB feature. Meanwhile, write donayu@hotmail.com and mention PNB.

In the fifth Mrs. Singapore Pageant 2003, held on July 7, 2002, Deborah Emuang was crowned Mrs. United Nation 2003. She will compete next year in the Mrs. United Nation 2003 competition. Marcella Chris was crowned Mrs. Singapore World 2003. She will compete at Mrs. World 2003 in Las Vegas this year. Emily Low was crowned Mrs. Singapore Globe 2003. She will compete at Mrs. Globe next year. The first runner-up was Margaret Ong, and the second runner up was Arnie Krogh. In the Classic Mrs. Singapore 2003, Sally Foo was crowned the winner. The first runner-up was Lim Siew Peng, and the second runner-up was Rosalind Roy. The third runner-up was Rosie Ong, and the fourth runner-up was Susan Wong.

Amanda Beers, 19, of Richland, competing as Miss Tri-Cities, was crowned Miss Washington on July 6, 2002. She will represent the state in the Miss America Pageant. She is partially deaf and will help promote American Sign Language-certified signers in classrooms.

Following are the winners of the 2002 Miss Rising Star Pageant and Baby Contest, held by P & M Rising Stars Productions Inc. in Freeport, Fla.: Miss Rising Star, Lynsey Nowell of Headland, Ala; first runner-up, Kaylen Pridgen of Paxton, Fla.; second runner-up, Tabitha Schipper of Freeport, Fla.; Junior Miss Rising Star, Ashley Nance of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; first runner-up, Natalee Hall of Slocomb, Ala.; Young Miss Rising Star, Jilian Arnold of Glendale, Fla.; first runner-up, Haley Ates of Freeport, Fla.; second runner-up, Jesse Tucker of Liberty, Fla.; Little Miss Rising Star, Anne Marie Graziani of Freeport, Fla.; first runner-up, Krysten Cuchens of Paxton, Fla.; second runner-up, Brittany Brooks of Navarre, Fla.; Tiny Miss Rising Star, Mary Kathryn Myrick of Freeport, Fla.; first runner-up, Ashlei Yates of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; second runner-up, Savannah Nowling of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; Toddler Miss Rising Star, Kylie Smith of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; first runner-up, Alyssa Rogers of Crestview, Fla.; second runner-up, Tierra Mack of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; Baby Miss Rising Star, Tori Manning of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; first runner-up, Paige Brannon of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.; second runner-up, Arianna Morrison of DeFuniak Springs, Fla.

The search for a woman to replace model and beauty queen Syma Chowdhry on "The Dating Story" is over. A beauty queen has been found to fill the bill. Her identity will be released in due time. Ms. Chowdhry, who as Miss Ocean City was third runner-up to Miss New Jersey (America) 2002, dropped out of the program because she is now in a serious relationship.

Ms. Latina Georgia, Juliana Munoz, has been crowned Ms. Latina USA 2002 in San Antonio. She is 20, from the town of Marietta, and will represent the United States in the Ms. Latina World Pageant in September 2002 in Miami Beach. The first runner-up was Belinda Reyes, Ms. Rio Grande. The second runner-up was Hayley Van Cleave, Ms. Idaho, a former Miss Idaho Teen USA. The third runner-up was Karina Ramirez, Ms. Utah, and the fourth runner-up was Krista Garza, Ms. North Texas, who was also Ms Photogenic. Ms. Congeniality was Adelaida Montanez, Ms. Pennsylvania. The Latina with Style award went to Lucia Lopez, Ms. Southern California. The Director of the Year Award went to the Ms. Latina Oregon Pageant.

Lacey Minchew, 18. of Marietta, Ga., competing as Miss Peach State Teen, was crowned Miss Teen America on July 6, 2002, in Nashville. Miss Rocky Mountain Teen, Tori Carter, 16, was the first runner-up and swimsuit and community service winner.

Jennifer Leigh Adcock, 21, competing as Miss West Central Mississippi, was crowned Miss Mississippi 2002 on July 6, 2002, in Vicksburg. The first runner-up was Allison Kellogg, Miss Mid-South Mississippi, who was Mississippi's Junior Miss 1999.

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