The seventh Miss Tourism International Pageant 2002 was the last international pageant in the year 2002. (In fact, it outlasted the year.) Twenty-five ladies from around the world competed at the Sunway Lagoon Ballroom in Malaysia. Miss Thailand, Piyanuch Khamboon, was crowned Miss Tourism International 2002 at the stroke of midnight to welcome in 2003. She also bagged the Miss Eyewear Beautiful and Miss Elegance awards. The first runner-up and Queen of the Year 2002 was China's Yin Zi, who also won the Miss Crowning Glory Award. The second runner-up and winner of Miss Intercontinental International 2002 was Turkey's Ebru Gunzel. The third runner-up and winner of Miss Dreamgirl International 2002 was Bosnia & Herzegovina's Aida Osmanovic. She also bagged the Best in Traditional Malaysian Wear Award. The fourth runner-up and winner of Miss Cosmopolitan International 2002 was Lebanon's Maha Hojeaj. Korea's Im Se-Na was Miss Friendship. Miss Philippines, Frances Margaret Arreza, was Best In National Costume. Miss Bolivia, Maria Desiree Duran, won Miss Personality. Miss Greece, Dimitra Kitisoy, was Miss Photogenic.

Christmas came a day early to the Dellinger household in northern Rhode Island. On Dec. 24, 2002, sisters Tricia Dellinger, age 16, and Megan Dellinger, 10, were awarded state titles in The American Queen Pageant. Tricia is Miss Teen Rhode Island American Queen, and Megan is Miss Pre-Teen Rhode Island American Queen. They will represent the state of Rhode Island at the National American Queen Pageant in July 2003 on the Carnival "Triumph."

Luke Cheong, an 18-year-old junior college student representing Bishan, was chosen Mister Teen Singapore 2002 on Dec. 21, 2002. He will represent Singapore at Mister Teen International 2003 to be held in Puerto Rico in November 2003. The first runner-up was Faizal De Silva of Jurong, and the second runner-up was Braden Hon of Sengkang. The third runner-up was Shane Morias of Bedok (who also won The T2 Congeniality Award), and the fourth runner-up was Wenwei Huang of Braddell Heights. The Boom Boom Style Award went to Noah Wahid of Bukit Batok, while Shawn Poh of Changi clinched The Colorba Photogenic Award. The second annual Mister Teen Singapore Pageant was held for the first time at the Braddell Heights Community Club. The guest of honor was Mr. R. Ravindran, member of Parliament of Marine Parade GRCs.

Angeline Chang Xiu Fen, a 19-year-old stewardess, was chosen Miss Singapore Chinatown 2003 on Dec. 22, 2002. She will represent Singapore at the Miss Chinese International Pageant 2003 in Hong Kong in January 2003. Kelly Toh, 21, was chosen Miss Singapore Tourism Intercontinental 2003 at the same pageant. She will represent Singapore at the Miss Tourism Intercontinental 2003 in Kuching, Malaysia, in April 2003. Adele Koh, 21, was elected Miss Queen of the World 2003, and she will represent Singapore at the Queen of the World 2003 in Germany in January 2003. Vivian Tham, 25, was the first runner-up, and Elaine Tan, 20, was the second runner-up.

Michelle Reyes of the Philippines was crowned Miss Tourism World on Dec. 20, 2002, in Ankara, Turkey. The pageant was held concurrently with the Model of the Universe finals, which were won by Marina Tarakhovich of Russia. Several subsidiary titles were awarded: Miss Tourism World Europe -- Romania's Ana Alexandra Stoain; Miss Tourism World Asia -- Thailand's Titaporn Sornplaeng; Miss Tourism World Africa -- Ghana's Beverly Asamoah Jecty; Miss Tourism World South America -- Uruguay's Dieiny González; Miss Tourism World Central America -- Puerto Rico's Elisadel Figueroa; Miss Tourism World Platinum Model -- Kenya's Vivien Maina; Miss Tourism World Best National Costume -- Naidelys Eden of the Cayman Islands.

Ann-Kathrin Gora, 24, of Niesky was crowned Miss Sachsen (Universe) 2002 on Dec. 19, 2002, in Dresden, Germany. Tied for first runner-up were twin sisters, Katja and Sandra Schefter, 18, of Görlitz. The second runner-up was 19-year old Katja Grabenhof of Meerane. Ms. Gora will represent the state of Sachsen in Miss Germany Universe on Jan. 16, 2002.

Vanessa Maria Van Arendonk, 22, a former Miss Curacao International, was crowned Miss Curacao Universe 2003 on Dec. 18, 2002. In 2001, she competed at the Miss International Pageant in Japan. There she received positive remarks for her excellent runway skills. She speaks four languages, loves Italian food and practice Tae-Bo to keep her good shape.

Fortes De Pina Wilza of Cape Verde was crowned Miss CEDEAO in Dakar, Senegal, on Dec. 16, 2002. The first runner-up was Iwuchukwu Nkechi of Nigeria, and the second runner-up was Ankobiah Sandra of Ghana. The Miss CEDEAO Pageant is one of West Africa's most anticipated events. The winner becomes a tourism ambassador for the countries that form the CEDEAO, Communauté Économique des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest (the Economic Community Of West African States, in English).

Morgan Chitty, representing the United States, was crowned Miss Malaika in Harare, Zimbabwe, on Dec. 14, 2002. The Chicago native, a university student of Black History and American History, succeeds Brita Masalethulini of Zimbabwe. Rosindra Manuela Graça of Angola was the first runner-up, and Belinda Mokako of the Democratic Republic of Congo was the second runner-up. Christelle Yamane of Gabon was Miss Personality. The Miss Malaika Pageant, which celebrates the African diaspora, is now in its second year. Twenty-eight contestants from Africa and around the world competed. The Zimbabwean government, which has been under fire from international organizations, including the United Nations, for its land reassessment policies and chronic unemployment rate, invested more than Z$65,000,000 (US$1,200,000) to host the event.

Fabrice Wattez of France was crowned Manhunt International in Shanghai, China, on Dec. 14, 2002. The first runner-up was Bart De Schuymer of Belgium, and the second runner-up was Murat Erbaytan of Turkey. Adrián Medina Scull of Cuba was the third runner-up, and Daniel Navarrete of Venezuela was the fourth runner-up. The Best National Costume winner was Junior Tromp of Aruba. Mr. Talent was Mr. Scull, and he was also Mr. Talent. Mr. Navarrete was Mr. Internet Popularity, and Mr. Physique was Mr. Erbaytan. Mr. Healthy Lifestyle was Singapore's Julian Hee, and Mr. Personality was Karl Haddad of Cyprus. Mr. Friendship was Wang Lin of China.

Antuanet Reaño of Peru was crowned Reina Internacional de la Ecología (International Ecology Queen) in Medellín, Colombia, on Dec. 7, 2002.

Dayna Nicole D'Angelo, 20, of Boynton Beach, Fla., has been awarded the title of Miss Florida American Queen. She will represent the state in the National American Queen Pageant in July 2003.

Ana Sebastiao, 19, was crowned Miss Angola 2003 on Dec. 14, 2002. She will represent Angola at Miss Universe 2003 in Panama. The first runner-up was Celma Antunes, and the second runner-up was Francelina Vicente.

An emergency benefit beauty pageant has been scheduled for Dec. 22, 2002, in Commerce, Ga. It is organized to benefit Barbara Hudson, a Winder, Ga., radio personality who is in need of a kidney and liver transplant. It is described as being for all ages and for males and females. Information is available from Joyce Bicksler at (706) 384-2065.

Corinne Coman was crowned Miss France 2003 on Dec. 14, 2002, in Lyon. She is the third woman of color to win the coveted Miss France crown. She is from Guadeloupe, like Veronique de la Cruz, the first woman of color to win Miss France. Ms. Coman will not be competing at Miss Universe.

Melanie Eder, 21, of Munich was crowned Queen of the World Germany 2002 on Dec. 13, 2002. She will represent Germany in Queen of the World 2003, which takes place in Düsseldorf, Germany, in January 2003.

Two women have been awarded state titles in the 2003 American Queen Pageant. They are Kelly Rivas, Ms. California, and Ummu Bradley Thomas, Mrs. Maryland. These women will represent their states in the national pageant in July 2003. The American Queen Pageant will be awarding state titles through the month of February.

Yolanda Makle, 26, has been chosen for the second consecutive year as Ms. Maryland Belleza Latina. She is a resident of Waldorf, Md. She will compete in the national Ms. Belleza Latina Pageant in August 2003. As Maryland's representative at the 2002 national pageant, she placed in the Top 10 and won the Director's Award.

Jordan Bellar won the Miss Polk County Teen USA Pageant on Dec. 8, 2002. She will go on to compete at Miss Florida Teen USA.

Camela Rolle, Miss Cat Island, has won the Miss Southern Bahamas Contest. She is the assistant manager of Fernandez Bay Village Resorts in Smith's Bay, Cat Island. She will compete in both the Miss Bahamas Universe Pageant in March 2003 and the Miss Bahamas World Pageant in July 2003.

Kristen Berset was crowned Miss Central Florida USA on Dec. 8, 2002, in Clermont, Fla. The first runner-up was Andrea Schell. The second runner-up was Chelsea Zedar, a former PNB cover girl who also won the swimsuit award. The third runner-up was Brandy Merritt, and the fourth runner-up was Lindsey Martin.

Daniela Scholz, 17, of Cologne was crowned Miss RTL Online on Dec. 7, 2002. She will be competing at the Miss Germany Universe 2003 Pageant on Jan. 16, 2003. RTL Online is the main sponsor of the Miss Germany Universe Pageant, and it fields a contestant though it is not a geographic entity.

Star Williams, 22, has been crowned Miss Oklahoma USA 2002. She competed as Miss Tulsa. She also won both the evening gown and Miss Congeniality awards. She was the first runner-up in last year's pageant. The first runner-up to Ms. Williams was Miss Moore, Jennifer Gibson, who was the second runner-up to the 2002 title. The second runner-up was Miss Greater Oklahoma, Synthia Shaw. Miss Oklahoma City, Chelsea Mercer, was the swimsuit and Mentor Award winner. Nikki Carver, 18, of Norman was crowned Miss Oklahoma Teen USA 2003. She also won the evening gown award. She competed as Miss Teen Norman. She was the first runner-up in last year's pageant. The first runner-up to Ms. Carver was Miss Teen Tuttle, Ericka Green, who also won the Interview award. The second runner-up was Miss Teen Southwest Oklahoma, Chelsea Celsor. Miss Teen West Edmond, Caitlin Graham, who made the Top 6, won the swimsuit award.

Fifteen teenage girls from across Pennsylvania competed for a share of $5,000 in college scholarships on Dec. 7, 2002, at the Klump Academic Center Auditorium, Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport. Jessica Snyder of York, who competed as York County's Junior Miss, walked away with the title of Pennsylvania's Junior Miss 2003 and $2,700 in cash scholarships. She was also the overall poise and talent winner. She will compete in the America's Junior Miss national finals in Mobile, Ala., in June 2003, where she will have the opportunity to win a share of more than $200,000 in cash scholarships. The first runner-up was Mallory Keith of Altoona, Altoona's Junior Miss. She received a $1,000 cash scholarship. The second runner-up, Gabrielle Staruch of Freeland, Freeland's Junior Miss, earned a $500 cash scholarship. The overall scholastics winner was Sarah Price of Pittsburgh, Fox Chapel's Junior Miss. She was awarded $300 for her academic achievements. The overall fitness winner was Barbara Powers of Wayne, Wayne's Junior Miss. She was awarded $300 for being physically fit. The overall poise winner was Ms. Snyder, who was awarded a $300 cash scholarship for her poise and composure during the competition. She was also the overall talent winner. She was awarded $300 for her operatic vocal, "O Mio Babbino Caro," by Puccini. Special recognition awards for the program were presented to Mallory Keith, Altoona's Junior Miss. She won the "Be Your Best Self" essay and was also awarded the community service award. $100 cash scholarships were given for each of these awards. Ms. Snyder earned the "Spirit of Junior Miss" honors and an additional $100 cash scholarship. Local sponsors of Pennsylvania s Junior Miss include Lauri Welteroth and the LKW Contemporary Dance Center, the Williamsport Radisson Hotel, Port Elevator, and the Williamsport Civic Ballet.

Devin Allen, 18, of Benton was crowned Louisiana's Southern Teen 2003 on Nov. 30, 2002, in Shreveport. She won the overall interview and evening wear awards, as well as the title. She will compete at the national America's Southern Teen competition in summer 2003. Also competing for the national title will be Cajun State Teen 2003, Nicole Daye of Minden. Ms. Minden won the overall personal expression and physical fitness awards at the dual preliminary, as well as the title. The first runner-up was Dennon Goudeau of Denham Springs, and the second runner-up was a tie between Teen New Orleans, London Rosiere and Teen Caddo Parish, Courtney Herron.

On Nov. 23, 2002, the first ever Mrs. Universe International Pageant was held in South Africa. The newly crowned queen is Pamela Mawson, who represented New Zealand. The first runner-up was Jennifer Krafve Turner, representing the United States. (She was Miss Massachusetts USA 1999.) The second runner-up was Marlize Jacobs, representing South Africa.

Nadia Forte, Miss Fruesta, has won the Miss Barbados Universe title. Miss Palmolive Botanicals, Lia Gajadhar, was the first-runner-up, and Lani Daisley, Miss Jergens Lotion, was the second runner-up.

After months of negative publicity regarding boycotts by contestants, riots in the original host country and an emergency move to an alternate venue, a new Miss World has been chosen. Miss Turkey, Azra Akin, 20, was crowned Miss World 2002 at the annual pageant held Dec. 7, 2002, at Alexandra Palace in London. She was crowned by Miss World 2001, Agbani Darego of Nigeria. Ms. Akin is the first Turkish woman to win the title, and interestingly, she comes from a Muslim country in a year in which disputes about Islam's compatibility with pageants overshadowed the competition. Ms. Akin, who turns 21 on Dec. 12, 2002, was raised in the Netherlands by her Turkish parents. She enjoys ballet and plays the flute. She also won the pageant's Best Gown award. Miss Colombia, Natalia Peralta Castro, 21, was the first runner-up, while Miss Peru, Marina Mora Montero, 22, was the second runner-up. Miss Norway, Katrine Sorland, 21, a pre-pageant favorite among media and public, was the third runner-up, and Miss China, Wu Ying-Na, 17, was the fourth runner-up. The remaining finalists included Miss Australia, Nicole-Rita Gazal, 23; Miss Venezuela, Goizeder Victoria Azua Barrios, 18; Miss Philippines, Katerine Anne Ramos Manalo, 21; Miss Nigeria, Chinenye Ivy Ochuba, 18; and Miss United States, Rebekah Chantay Revels, 24, of St. Pauls, N.C. Ms. Revels won the Talent Award for singing "Stormy Weather." This year's Miss World extravaganza was beset by problems from the outset when it was learned that Nigeria would host the 2002 pageant. Several contestants said they would boycott the pageant to protest a death sentence against a young woman in Nigeria's northern Islamic states for bearing a child out of wedlock. The Nigerian government vowed to intervene and prevent the stoning of Amina Lawal Kurmani, 31, and national officials pleaded for the pageant to stay. Then, as Muslims began to protest the competition for its alleged immorality, the event was shifted from November to Dec. 7 to avoid conflicting with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. But Muslim rioting became more violent after a Nigerian writer defending the pageant made a comment that the Muslim Prophet Muhammad might have wanted to marry one of the contestants. The rioters, claiming their religion had been insulted, went on a deadly rampage, mostly against Nigeria's Christians. Pageant officials hurriedly decided to move the pageant from Abuja, Nigeria, to London, where the competition was born in 1951. In a sign of the controversy that has dogged Miss World in recent years, the pageant was not telecast in Britain. Ms. Revels' appointment as the U.S. representative raised eyebrows in her home country. She was originally crowned Miss North Carolina in the Miss America system in summer 2002, but soon resigned after her ex-boyfriend revealed he had taken topless photos of her. Ms. Revels, who claimed the photos were taken without her consent, reconsidered after giving up the crown and fought a series of court battles for the right to represent her home state at the September 2002 Miss America Pageant. After she lost in court, she was picked for Miss World by the pageant's new U.S. franchisee.

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Dari Maximova of Germany won the title of Supermodel of the World in the Dominican Republic on Dec. 7, 2002. She wins a $250,000 modeling contract with the world-famous Ford Agency. The runners-up were Liliane Ferrarezi of Brazil, Nicole Trunfio of Australia, Pauline M. of France and Anne Klitten of Denmark.

Michelle Wright was crowned Miss DC USA 2003 and Natasha Prakash was crowned Miss DC Teen USA 2003 on Dec. 7, 2002. It was an exciting and eventful day in the nation's capital. The combined pageant was staged at Campton Hall at Howard University. This year's pageant was condensed into one day's worth of competition instead of the usual 2-day event. Daniel Bayu, PNB's Northeastern correspondent, was on the judging panel along with other celebrity judges. Among them were Napiere Groves, Miss DC USA 1997, also star of the popular soap opera "As the World Turns"; Liane Angus, Miss DC USA 2001 and first runner-up to Miss USA 2001; radio personality Olivia Fox; and the Washington correspondent for the Fox News Channel, Colin Spencer. The event was dazzling, with a guest appearance from Shauntay R. Hinton, Miss USA 2002, who represented the District of Columbia in the national pageant.

Leon Ramos, 21, has been designated as Mr. Earth Brazil 2002/2003 and will compete for the Mr. Earth Quest title in March 2003 in Mexico. His hobbies include horse-riding and extreme sports.

Melle Mounia Achlaf was crowned Miss Algeria Universe in Algiers on Dec. 2, 2002. She will be her country's first delegate ever to compete at Miss Universe, taking part in the 2003 pageant in Panama.

Virgínia Rosso, representing the city of Criciúma, was crowned Miss Santa Catarina on Dec. 4, 2002. She will represent her state in next spring's Miss Brazil Pageant.

The Miss Universe Canada Western Ontario Pageant was held in the beautiful City of Roses, Windsor, Ontario, on Dec. 3, 2002. Eight women earned the right to represent the region in the Miss Universe Canada Pageant on Jan. 25, 2003. They are: Tara Newman, Joumana Choucair, Fabiola Mascaro, Katarzyna Dziedzic, Christie Bartram, Leanne Cecile, Claudia Quintino and Marissa Yates. Ms. Yates won both the Miss Congeniality and Miss Photogenic awards. It was described by Canada's most reliable source as a fantastic show.

Here are the official results of the 2003 Miss Latin America Pageant held in Barcelo Playa Tambor and televised live by Channel 13 to all of Costa Rica and neighboring countries. Venezuela took home the crown for the first time in 12 years. Former winners were Mirla Ochoa in 1984 and Vanessa Holler in 1990. The current winner represented the state of Sucre in this year's Miss Venezuela 2002 Pageant held in September: Miss Latin America 2003 -- Maria Carolina Casado of Venezuela; first runner-up -- Alejandra Zapata of Colombia; second runner-up -- Tania Ferreiro of Spain. Semifinalists: Nazhla Abad of Chile, Gleice Machado of Brazil, Karla Calzado of Puerto Rico, Rocío Osuna of Mexico. National Dress Awards went to: Paraguay, in the Fantasy category, worn by Rosana Toillier; Portugal, in the Typical category, worn by Vera Lucia Dolores; Curacao, in the Most Original category, worn by Susell Morales. Recipients of the awards for academic excellence and outstanding personal achievement were: For South America -- Nazhla Abad of Chile; For Central America --Jackelinne Piccinini of Guatemala; For North America, Caribbean and Iberian Peninsula -- Rocío Osuna of Mexico. The first Reinas Global Beauty Awards were given in the categories of: Smile Model -- Florencia Gonzalez, Canada Latina; Face Model -- Karla Calzada, Puerto Rico; Legs Model -- Susell Morales, Curacao Latina; Fitness Model -- Lorena Verdesio, Uruguay; Photogenic Mode -- Jennifer Barrantes, Costa Rica; Runway Model -- Gleice Machado, Brazil; Elegance and Style: Maria Carolina Casado, Venezuela. The Vive Best Figure 2003 was awarded to Florencia Gonzalez, Canada Latina. Finally, the contestants themselves elected Susell Morales of Curacao for the Friendship Award.

So-yoon Kim of Korea was crowned Miss Asia Pacific in Quezon City, Philippines, on Nov. 30, 2002. She also won the Miss Congeniality and Miss Photogenic awards, and succeeds Luciana Farfán of Peru. The first runner-up was Ksenia Volkova of Russia and the second runner-up was Tina Chhatwal of India. The third runner-up was Miriam San Jose Chui of the Philippines, and the fourth runner-up Aishwarya Sukhdeo representing Fiji. Jennifer Fon of Peru won the Best National Costume Prize.

Selsa Castillo, Ms. Minnesota Belleza Latina, has won the latest Miss Latin Doll contest, becoming the January 2003 cover girl for www.latindoll.com.

Jessica Jordan, 18, of Bolivia has been crowned Ms. Latina World at the international pageant held in Miami's fashionable South Beach. She is from the city of Santa Cruz. The first runner-up was Miriam Carrion, Ms. Puerto Rico, and the second runner-up was Maria Villaroel, Ms. Venezuela. The third runner-up was Gailen Marti, Ms. Curacao, and the fourth runner-up was Vivian Rippi, Ms. Brazil. Julianna Munoz, Ms. Latina USA, placed in the Top 11. Telemundo's Luisa Hernandez and Pita Ojeda hosted the pageant, in which delegates competed in the categories of interview, evening gown and the Jantzen swimsuit competition. Famed Latin music artist Tito Puente Jr. serenaded all of the international delegates during the opening production.

Michelle LaFrance of Orange was crowned Miss Connecticut USA 2003 on Dec. 1, 2002, in Danbury. Nina Musumeci of Hartford was crowned Miss Connecticut Teen USA 2003. The pageant made some unsolicited headlines because of the theft of much of its audiovisual equipment the night before the competition.

Lori Mitchell, a student at Western Kentucky University, was crowned Miss Kentucky USA 2003 on Dec. 1, 2002, in Somerset by last year’s winner, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Arnold. The first runner-up was Lynda Mercer (also Miss Photogenic), and the second runner-up was Beth Sweeney. The third runner-up was Caron Troop, and the forth runner-up was Rebecca Arnold (Lizzie’s sister). Miss Congeniality was Molly Mitchell. Due to a tie, there was a Top 11, and the remainder of them were Carly Hobbs, Karmen Cordell, Kelly Crowe, Casey Hagadorn, Laurena Moore and Loren Whalen. The non-finalist awards went to Joy Jones, Molly Mitchell, and Tara Tillotson for Interview; Autumn Edwards, Ashley Thompson and Tina Rigdon in Swimsuit; and Diane Akin, Rhiannon Noe, and Miranda Rich in Evening Gown. After two days of preliminary competition, Amanda Nunneley of Louisville won the crown and title of Miss Kentucky Teen USA 2003 on the night prior to the Miss Kentucky USA competition. Bidding farewell was a runner-up to Miss Teen USA, last year’s Kentucky winner, Tara Conner. Stephanie Deda was the first runner-up, and Olga Hill was the second runner-up. Brittany Hargrove was the third runner-up; and Brandy Fisher was the fourth runner-up. Miss Photogenic was Alyse Kelley. The semifinalists were Erin Blankenship, Shanna Brockman, Megan Chaney, Margaret Correll, Meghan Elder, Krista Ennis, Brannigan Free, Andrea Frey and Chelsey McGlothin. Both events were emceed by Kristie Hicks (a runner-up to Miss Teen USA and a former Miss Kentucky America).

Camille Young, 23, representing Philadelphia, was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA 2003 on Dec. 1, 2002, in Pittsburgh. She was recently featured as a PNB cover girl. Taylor Baker was crowned Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA.

Jessica Lynn White has been named Miss Teen Minnesota Galaxy. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2003 in June in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Lupe Ane Kenape, representing American Samoa, was crowned Miss South Pacific on Nov. 29, 2002, in the Cook Islands. She was crowned by outgoing queen Manamea Marlene Apelu of Samoa. The pageant featured the very first beauty queen from the tiny nation of Tuvalu, population 9,000, the country that is financed by the sale of the ".tv" (for Tuvalu) domain name.

Diana Wu, 17, was crowned Miss Chinese Toronto 2002 on Nov. 29, 2002. The high school student was also named Miss Photogenic in the glittering pageant, and will represent Canada's largest city at the 2003 Miss Chinese International Pageant in Hong Kong on Jan. 25, 2003. The first runner-up was Jessica Tam, 20, and the second runner-up was Ning Ning, 20. Miss Intelligence went to Raylene Wong, 21, who was selected via a head-to-head quiz segment that was extremely well produced. Miss Friendship was awarded to Michelle Liu, 21. The contest was televised live across Canada on the Fairchild television network, and was an enthralling event that continues to set the standard for pageants in Canada.

Victoria Sue Whitlow, 20, of Springfield, Ill., has won the Miss Springfield Pageant, a preliminary to Miss Illinois. She succeeds Alexandra Harold, sister of reigning Miss America Erika Harold. Erika Harold attended the pageant unofficially.

Venus Day, the unusually named Florida beauty queen, has won the "Miss America Worldwide 2003" title. She will compete in autumn 2003 in Southern California at the Worldwide Pageant competition in the areas of interview, evening wear, athletic wear, talent, and education and lifetime achievements. Although her talent will be in ballet and tap, she is a professional mermaid, having worked with the world famous movie special effects artist Thom Shouse of "Splash" fame.

The first ever Miss West Texas Latin Image and Miss West Texas Teen Latin Image queens have been crowned. Lori Zuniga of Del Rio was crowned the 2002 Miss West Texas Latin Image. Laura Ann Lopez of Crystal City was crowned the 2002 Miss West Texas Teen Latin Image. In the Teen division, Ms. Lopez was not only named Miss West Texas Teen Latin Image, but she also won the Interview competition and was awarded the Director’s Award. Also in the Teen division, Pauline Molinar was awarded first runner-up. Lily Sandoval was named second runner-up as well as Miss Congeniality. Jackie Muñiz was named third runner-up as well as the winner of the Sports Wear competition. Jessica Ortiz was named Most Fashionable and was recognized for having Prettiest Hair. Monica Castro was named Miss Photogenic. Veronica Jo Soto won the Evening Gown competition. In the Miss division, Ms. Zuniga was not only named Miss West Texas Latin Image, but she also won the Swimsuit competition and was named Most Photogenic and Most Fashionable. Also in the Miss division, Christi Garza was awarded first runner-up, won the Interview competition and was recognized for having Prettiest Hair. Adriana Perez was named second runner-up as well as Miss Congeniality. Valerie Shaffer was named third runner-up as well as the winner of the Evening Gown competition.

With the Miss World Pageant having abandoned Nigeria due to Muslim rioting, an official in the Muslim part of the country has called for the killing of a journalist who wrote that the Islamic Prophet Muhammad would have been willing to marry one of the contestants. The remark in a newspaper set off the rioting, though most observers described it as more pretext than provocation. The official's threat is similar to the death sentence pronounced by Iran against writer Salman Rushdie in 1989, allegedly because of anti-Islamic "blasphemy." Rushdie, who claimed that the real reason for the sentence was his criticism of Iranian leaders, was not killed, but he had to remain in hiding for some time. The Nigerian reporter is said to be in hiding now.

Miss Canada International, Lynsey Bennett, has decided to re-enter the rescheduled Miss World contest now that it has been moved from Nigeria to London. Meanwhile, Germany also has reconsidered and will be sending a contestant. However, Simone Wolf-Reinfurt, Miss Germany World, will not be able to participate because of work commitments. Indira Selmic, 24, of Marktheidenfeld, who was second runner-up at Miss Germany World, will take part. Ms. Selmic, of Bosnian origin, competed in the German pageant as Miss Bavaria.

Susie Castillo, who was Miss Massachusetts Teen USA 1998, has been crowned Miss Massachusetts USA 2003. Jacquelyn Bruno has been crowned Miss Massachusetts Teen USA 2003. She was first runner-up in the 2002 pageant.

Katie Hill, 16, of Leesburg was crowned Miss Tampa Teen USA on Nov. 24, 2002, in Clearwater Beach, Fla. The first runner-up was Kimberly Duncan, who was also the evening gown winner, and the second runner-up was Tatiana Schoeppler. The third runner-up was Jordan Bellar, and the fourth runner-up was Jennifer Bentson. The Spirit award winner was Chelsea Schlimm, and the swimsuit award went to Candice Vickers. The interview winner was Katie Hill, and the Photogenic winner was Shawn Dillon. Ann Poonkasem of Tampa was crowned Miss Tampa USA. Ms. Poonkasem, who was Miss Amity at the Miss Florida USA Pageant in the summer of 2002, was also the interview winner. The first runner-up was Lori Duncan, who was the evening gown winner, and the second runner-up was Chelsea Zedar, a former PNB cover girl who was also the swimsuit and Photogenic winner. The third runner-up was Danielle Roemer, and the fourth runner-up was Kristen Berset. The Spirit award went to Kristi Hendricks. The People's Choice Award went to Corey Biscoglia.

Karen Mae Hauck of West Lawn, Pa., has been named Mrs. Eastern U.S. Galaxy 2003. She will compete for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2004 in June in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Lynsey Bennett is now back in her hometown of Ottawa, having returned home from Abuja, Nigeria, after dropping out of the Miss World Pageant. Her mother is claiming that Ms. Bennett lost more than 10 pounds during her two weeks in Nigeria due to substandard conditions at the hotel. The Canadian press is locked in a media frenzy surrounding the situation, and Ms. Bennett has been on the front page of all of Canada's major daily papers. Columnists are divided in their support, with virtually all applauding Ms. Bennett's choice to withdraw from Miss World, but some calling her two-faced for hoping to re-enter the contest.

It was a night to be named Ashley on Nov. 23, 2002, as two women with the same name won state pageant titles in Nevada. Ashley Carole Huff, 22, of Henderson, who was Miss Nevada (America) 2001, was crowned Miss Nevada USA 2003. She was crowned by Miss Nevada USA 2002, Jenny Marie Valdez, 23, of Las Vegas. Ms. Huff, a Marietta, Ga., native, has lived in the Silver State for nearly four years and was a Quality of Life finalist at the 2001 Miss America Pageant. The 5-foot-7-inch blue-eyed blonde is a cosmetic dentistry and communications major at University of Nevada-Las Vegas. She is a former PNB cover girl and is known as a favorite subject of legendary pageant photographer Joe Whiteko. She will be one of at least two Georgia natives to compete in the 2003 Miss USA Pageant (the other being Erin Haney, 21, Miss Georgia USA 2003). The first runner-up to Ms. Huff was three-time pageant entrant Elizabeth A. Muto, 22, of Reno, who competed last year and was first runner-up in the 2001 pageant. She is a student at UNLV and won both the Miss Photogenic and Miss Congeniality awards. Ashley Lincoln, 20, of Las Vegas was the second runner-up. The other Ashley to win a pageant title was Ashley Nicole Phelps, 15, of Centennial Hills, a northern suburb of Las Vegas. The 5-foot-6-inch blonde tap dancer was named Miss Nevada Teen USA 2003 and succeeds Miss Nevada Teen USA 2002, Kathryn Jane Bigler, 18, of Las Vegas. Ms. Phelps, a high school sophomore who was born in Palm Springs, Calif., is a varsity cheerleader and a member of the honor roll. She bested 15 other contestants for the title and also won the Star Quality Award. She will represent the Silver State in the 2003 Miss Teen USA pageant in August in hopes of becoming Nevada's first national title winner. The first runner-up and also winner of the Miss Photogenic and Miss Congeniality awards was Ashlee Massaro of Las Vegas. Jeralee Henry, 17, was the second runner-up for the second consecutive year. Dorthea Williams, 16, of Las Vegas was the third runner-up, and the fourth runner-up was Tiffany Yanke, 16, of Las Vegas.

Now that Miss World has moved from Nigeria to London, some European boycotters are clarifying their positions. The Miss Germany World organization may seek to send Simone Wolf-Reinfurt to compete after all. Miss Switzerland, Nadine Vinzens, still will not participate. Miss Austria,Celine Roschek, will not participate in Miss World, and the organization may seek to affiliate in the future with Miss Universe.

Katie Baughman has been crowned Miss Northeast Georgia. She also won the interview award. The first runner-up was Leslie Pruett, and the second runner-up was Malanie Gossett. The third runner-up was Area Walton, and the fourth runner-up was Leslie Culbertson, who won the swimsuit award. Beth Brinson won the talent award. Ms. Baughman will compete at Miss Georgia.

Tiffany Jinez Davis, a 20-year-old junior, has been crowned Miss Georgia State University. She also won the swimsuit and interview awards. Her platform is "Reach Out & Read," and for talent she sang "Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me." She was third runner-up in last year's competition. The first runner-up was Kristen Edmunds, who also won the talent award. She was first runner-up in last year's pageant as well. The second runner-up was Courtney Jones, the third runner-up was Christian Whitehead and the fourth runner-up was Aiyanna Cristal. The event's choreographer was pageant participant and pageant writer Reggie Lewis, and the finale featured him dancing with the crown to the "Mission Impossible" theme song. Leslie R. Wilson, the reigning Ms. Continental US 2002, was the executive director.

Linda Suzanne Kurtz, 20, of Dover, Del., was crowned the first Miss Camden-Wyoming on Nov. 9, 2002. She will compete at Miss Delaware, where she was second runner-up last summer. The first runner-up was Cristina Martinez, and the second runner-up was Joanna Jarrell Hamilton.

Caught between Muslim rioters and an international boycott over women's rights, organizers of the Miss World Pageant announced on Nov. 22, 2002, that the pageant would not be held in Abuja, Nigeria, after all. It will instead be held Dec. 7 in London. The choice of Nigeria, home of the reigning Miss World, was controversial from the start, and lately had led to bloodshed in mostly Muslim northern Nigeria. The country's more radical Muslims object to the pageant itself, while human rights critics said the Muslim region's oppression of women made Nigeria an unacceptable venue. London is where the Miss World Pageant was founded in 1951, and was its only venue for decades.

The American Queen Pageant has announced that the following women have been selected to represent their states at the National American Queen Pageant in July of 2003. Selection of state titleholders for the American Queen Pageant is based upon completed application, photo, and telephone interview: Abornita Das, an honor roll student from Mt. Laurel, NJ, is Miss Teen New Jersey; Michiko McBride, a student and mother of one from Everett, Wash., is Ms. Washington; Sandra Davis of Faber, Va., who holds a B.A. in Political Science from Mary Baldwin College, is Mrs. Virginia; Cori Lynn Ross, winner of the Lone Star Music Association Award and an honor roll student from Fort Worth, Texas, is Miss Pre-Teen Texas; Sheila Scott of Warwick, R.I., a counselor at the State Adult Department of Corrections, is Mrs. Rhode Island; Amy Schafroth, a Registered Nurse and mother of 3 from Carrollton, is Mrs. Texas; Vickie Argueta of Colorado Springs, a Pre-Law Student, and recipient of numerous U.S. Army commendations and awards, is Miss Colorado; Dolores D’Aiello White, an active volunteer for the S.P.C.A. in North Kingstown, R.I., is Ms. Classic Rhode Island. The American Queen Pageant™ will be announcing the names of the women who have been awarded state titles on a bi-weekly basis through the end of the year. Applicants can check out www.crowningachievements.net or www.americanqueenpageant.com. The 2003 American Queen Pageant will take place on July 26, 2003 on board the Carnival Cruise Lines "Triumph".

Tiffany Reed, a 21-year-old student at Tennessee Tech, was crowned Miss Music City on Nov. 16, 2002, in Nashville, while University of Mississippi senior Amy Holmes, 20, was named Miss Davidson County in a joint pageant. They will compete for the Miss Tennessee title in June 2003 in Jackson. Both were crowned by Sarah Blankenship, Miss Music City 2002, who performed her Miss Tennessee Top 10 talent, a baton twirling routine to Jennifer Lopez's "Let's Get Loud." Ms. Blankenship works in the Anderson County school system in East Tennessee, helping special needs students have more fulfilling lives, which was also her platform during her year of service as Miss Music City. Named as first runner-up was Lindsay Harper, a student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Julie Brown, a graduating senior at Belmont University, was named second runner-up. Jackie Patterson, a student at the University of Memphis was named third runner-up. The winner of the Jewell Swain Ellis Interview Award was Tiffany Reed, whose platform is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Amy Holmes' platform concerns Early Childhood Education, her major area of study at Ole Miss. Hayley Lundquist, a sophomore at Belmont University, won the talent competition, singing "O Mio Babbino Caro" from "Gianni Schicchi." Erica Jacobs (a junior at the University of Tennessee at Martin) and Lindsay Harper tied for Miss Congeniality honors and Rachelle Phillips (a sophomore at Jackson State Community College) was named winner of the People's Choice Award. Both Ms. Reed and Ms. Holmes will receive $500 scholarships along with their titles; in addition, Ms. Reed received a $250 interview scholarship named in honor of the late mother of pageant executive director Jeffrey Ellis. Rita Wilson Howard, of Humboldt, Miss Tennessee 1961, was presented the inaugural Crystal Legacy Award, which will be awarded annually in years to come to recognize an individual's continued commitment to the Miss Tennessee program.

Jessica DeeAnn Reed of Granite Bay, Calif., has been selected as Miss Volunteer America 2002 - 2003. Hanh Chau of San Jose, Calif., has been selected as Ms. Volunteer America 2002 - 2003, and Maria Ickes of Waldorf, Md., has been selected as Miss Teen Volunteer America 2002 - 2003. Additionally, Shawn Cunningham of Maine will be serving as Ms. Volunteer Ambassador. The Ambassador's goal is to promote volunteerism and the Miss Volunteer America program. Miss Volunteer America contestants are judged, not on physical appearance, but on achievements in service and leadership in the community. Contestants sent in their application and two short essays along with a portfolio detailing their accomplishments in the area of community service.

Tara Tanner was crowned Miss Cherokee County 2003 in Canton, Ga., on October 19, 2002. She was the Interview and Swimsuit winner in the competition. She is a junior at the Art Institute of Atlanta majoring in Interior Design and she is an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader. The first runner-up was Melanie Gossett, the Talent Winner, and the second runner-up was Stephanie Tyson. The third runner-up was Jessica Snyder. The Spirit of Cherokee County winner was Sarah Timmons.

Ticha Leungpairoj, 21, was named Miss Thailand World on Oct. 17, 2002. She will represent her country at Miss World Pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, on Dec. 7. The first runner-up was Kulaya Duangmanee, 21, and Patchaluk Tawetikula, 20, was the second runner-up.

National Merit scholar Judith Kim Eckerle, 24, of Milwaukee was named Miss Wisconsin USA 2003 on Oct. 13, 2002, in Madison and was crowned by Miss Wisconsin USA 2002, Cortney Kathleen Owen, 23, of Muskego. Ms. Eckerle, who was born in Korea and adopted at six months, is the first Korean-American and third Asian-American to win the state title (Elyzabeth Lee Pham, 1999, was born in Vietnam and Samantha Jo Picha, 2000, is Filipino-American). Ms. Eckerle, a 5'8" brunette who was last year's fourth runner-up, is 1998 graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Ill. with a BA degree in flute performance and biology. She is currently a third-year medical student at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. Upon completion of her studies in May 2004, she plans to become a children's doctor. The first runner-up was Stacy J. Gizas, 22, of Superior, a social studies major at UW-Superior who was last year's second runner-up. Christy Jean Forystek, 22, of Green Bay was the second runner-up, while Desiree D'Acquisto, 21, of Cudahy was the third runner-up. The fourth runner-up was Brigid Mullen, 20, of Green Bay. Melissa Young, 20, of Menasha, who was among the ten semi-finalists, won the Miss Photogenic and Miss Congeniality awards. The last time a Milwaukee woman won the state title was in 1994, when California native Gina Marie Salazar Desmond was named Miss Wisconsin USA 1994. Ms. Eckerle, a native of Bloomington, Minn., will compete in the 2003 Miss USA Pageant, to be held early next year and televised live on NBC-TV. Also winning a title Oct. 13 in Madison was Jenna Christine Tighe, 17, of Madison. She was named Miss Wisconsin Teen USA 2003 and was crowned by last year's winner and current Miss Teen USA 2002, Vanessa Marie Semrow, 17, of Rhinelander. Ms. Semrow made her first visit back to the state since becoming Wisconsin's first Miss Teen USA in August. Ms. Tighe, a ballet dancer and high school senior, will compete in the 2003 Miss Teen USA Pageant next August in hopes of becoming Wisconsin's second consecutive winner. The first runner-up was Shawna Berka, 18, of Dousman, who is the reigning Miss Wisconsin Teen All American. Last year's fourth runner-up, Lydia Vera Erdmann-White, 16, of Waukesha, was the second runner-up, followed by Cali Porath, 17, of Wausau, who was the third runner-up and named Miss Congeniality. Patricia Nepscha, 16, of Muskego was chosen fourth runner-up. Chandra Winzenried, 16, of Madison, a high school track star who was among the 15 semi-finalists, won the pageant's Style Award, while Krystan A. Wilkinson, 16, of Middleton won the People's Choice Award from Internet and audience member votes. Also among the semi-finalists was Stevie Nicole Riddle, 16, of Brooklyn, who was Miss Wisconsin Coed 2001 Junior Teen Model winner. Nicole Rae Kramer, 18, of Wisconsin Rapids won the Spirit of Wisconsin Award. Ms. Tighe is the first Madison contestant to win the state title and the second to win in her hometown.

Sarah Teodoro-Belmonte, a 20-year-old legal assistant from Bonn, was crowned Miss Nordrhein-Westfalen (Universe) 2002 on Oct. 12, 2002. She is the daughter of a Spanish father and a German mother, and the victory made her the first state winner for Miss Germany (Universe) 2003. The first runner-up was Daniela Schwibbe, and the second runner-up was Rebecca Wassenberg.

Brittney Rogers of Shreveport was crowned Miss Louisiana USA on Oct. 12, 2002. She is a junior at Louisiana State University and was the preliminary swimsuit winner. The first runner-up was Melissa McConnell of Baton Rouge, and the second runner-up was Christina Cuenga of Chalmette. The third runner-up was Tamica Lee of New Orleans, and the fourth runner-up was Courtney Tatman of Destrehan. Megan Bologna of Covington was crowned Miss Louisiana Teen USA. The first runner-up was April Dupree of New Orleans, and the second runner-up was Dennon Goudeaux of Watson. The third runner-up was Anna Meyerchick of Franklinton, and the fourth runner-up was Keisha Barras of Delcambre. The pageant was co-produced by Dr. Donald Campbell and Dana Rosengard. Mr. Rosengard, who was also the master of ceremonies, presented this report to PNB, for which we are very grateful. We apologize for its slightly late posting, which is due to our own recent technical problems.

Lauren Whitlock was crowned Miss Alabama Teen USA on Oct. 12, 2002. The first runner-up was Sidney White, and the second runner-up was Jamie Harper. The third runner-up was Lacey Sanderson, and the fourth runner-up was Lauren Sharpe, who was also the Photogenic winner. Terra Moody was Miss Amity. Michelle Arnette was crowned Miss Alabama USA. She was also the Photogenic winner. The first runner-up was Jennifer Junkin, and the second runner-up was Rachel VanNortwick. The third runner-up was Jessica Tinney. The fourth runner-up was JoAnna Strain. Christin Kelly was Miss Photogenic.

Caroline Chamorand from Hauts-de-Seine was crowned Miss World France in Paris on Oct. 11, 2002. She will represent her country at the Miss World Pageant in Nigeria on Dec. 7. When asked about the potential boycott by some of her fellow European Miss World contestants, Chamorand said, "I am delighted and proud to go to Nigeria, and I will defend the cause of Amina Lawal the best that I can." Ms. Lawal is the young women sentenced to death by Nigerian Islamic authorities for having sex outside marriage.

Meredith Boggs of Georgia was named Miss Oktoberfest in the 35th annual pageant in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, on Oct. 10, 2002. She also won the Best in Swimsuit prize. The first runner-up was Cheryl Crowe of Delaware, and the second runner-up was Nicolette Gustafson, representing Delta, British Columbia, who was the lone Canadian finalist. The third runner-up was Caitlin McIntosh of Missouri, who also won Best Talent, and the fourth runner-up was Chelsea Mercer of Oklahoma. Lori O'Keefe, representing Newfoundland & Labrador, was named Miss Gemutlichkeit (Miss Friendship), and was a talent finalist.

Michelle Lane LaGroue, 22, of Naperville officially became Miss Illinois 2002 on Oct. 9, 2002, when former Miss Illinois 2002, Erika Natali Louise Harold, Miss America 2003, crowned her during a ceremony at City Hall in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. Ms. LaGroue, who was Miss Tinley Park and the first runner-up at the June 28 Miss Illinois Pageant, assumed the state title and will now promote her "prevention of youth violence" plaform during the next nine months. Ms. LaGroue, a vocalist, is a graduate of North Central College in Naperville.

Mary Jeffords of Bradenton was crowned Miss Florida Teen USA on Oct. 6, 2002, in Punta Gorda. The first runner-up was Mandy Lea Brus, and the second runner-up was Michaela Stamm. The third runner-up was Tina Berry, and the fourth runner-up was Victoria Ratliff. Jessica Torres was Miss Photogenic, and Brooke Ann Sorenson was Miss Amity.

Jin-ah Lee of Korea won the Best National Costume prize on Oct. 6, 2002, during the lead-up for the Miss Earth Pageant in Manila, Philippines.

Coronation, Inc. has announced that it has launched an online pageant newsletter to augment promotion of the Galaxy International Pageant. The first issue of the newsletter ZENITH went live on Oct. 6, 2002. While primarily focusing on the Galaxy Pageant and its delegates, the 'zine will also contain articles of interest to pageant enthusiasts in general. ZENITH is published monthly in Adobe pdf format.

Christina Icaza was crowned Miss Metro St. Louis on Oct. 5, 2002. She was second runner-up at last year's Miss Missouri Pageant. A vocalist who sang a stirring rendition of "O Mio Babbino Caro," she has a platform that focuses on the volunteer efforts of the American Red Cross. This will be her fourth trip to the Miss Missouri contest. The first runner-up was Jocey Kendrick, a clogger, who placed first runner-up at the 2002 Miss Missouri Pageant. The second runner-up was Melissa Payne, a vocalist. The non-finalist talent award went to Jacquelyn Van Zandt, who delivered a soaring rendition of "At Last." She also won the "Rookie of the Year" award. Non-finalist interview honors went to Amber Etheridge. In a quadruple crowning, the Pre-Teen Miss, Young Miss and Junior Miss Metro St. Louis titles were also awarded. Last year's Pre-Teen Miss, Caroline Couper, crowned Krysta Struthers who also won the photogenic and talent awards in her division. Anissa Williams, last year's Young Miss Metro St. Louis and winner of this year's Missouri's Young Miss Pageant awarded the title to Sarah Dutton (who also won the talent award) and the Sweetheart title to Tyana Browne. Junior Miss Metro St. Louis, Alissa Reitmeier, was on hand to crown the new winner, Erin Elizabeth Bell. Marceal Birchfield was awarded the Sweetheart title, and Catherine Couper (a violinist) was awarded the talent prize. All title holders and Sweetheart winners will go on to compete in the Missouri Misses pageant next summer. Last year's Miss Metro St. Louis and the reigning Miss Missouri 2002, Shandi Finnessey, was on hand to crown her successor. She looked stunning as she delivered her farewell and performed her Miss America talent to the delight of the audience. Also on hand to entertain were "The Missouri Girls," featuring past and present contestants in the Missouri America system. The troupe was comprised of Jennifer Hover (Miss Missouri 2001), Kelley Rohlfing (Miss Metro St. Louis 2000 and fourth runner-up to Miss Missouri 2002), Nikki Shelton, Mary Culp, Kambria Kaden, Leah Reid and Kala Yates. The Executive Director of Miss Metro St. Louis Scholarship is Mary Ann Owens.

Jessica Perea of Omaha was crowned Miss Nebraska USA in Norfolk on Oct. 5, 2002. Leighann Thagard was named Miss Nebraska Teen USA the same evening.

Lynda Duffy, 22, of Galway was crowned Miss Ireland on Oct. 4, 2002, in Limerick. The marine science student will go on to represent Ireland in the Miss World Pageant. Lesley Flood, Miss Limerick Photogenic, will represent Ireland at Miss Universe. Judges included TV presenter Dani Behr and former Miss World Diana Hayden.

Miss Germany, Natascha Börger, was crowned Miss Baltic Sea 2002 in Finland on the first weekend of October 2002. The first runner-up was Tina Christensen of Denmark, and the second runner-up was Daria Dementseva. All countries in the region around the Baltic Sea participated.

On Oct. 4, 2002, Pauliina Tourunen, 19, was crowned Queen of the World Finland in the city of Turku. The first runner-up was Marjukka Miilumäki, and the second runner-up was Sanna Saijonkivi. The third runner-up, and crowned World Miss University Finland, was 20-year-old Jenni Pesonen. Ms. Tourunen will compete Jan. 24, 2003, in the Queen of the World 2003 Pageant in Duesseldorf, Germany. Ms. Pesonen will compete in World Miss University in Beijing on Dec. 8, 2002.

Raquel Hamlet of Mississauga, Ontario, an aspiring lawyer, was crowned Miss Black World Canada in Toronto on Sept. 29, 2002. The first runner-up was Yemi Caxton-Idowu, and the second runner-up was Harriet Eperigin.

Jenna Edwards has won the crown of Miss University of Miami (Florida) which also makes her the University's homecoming queen. As this is a Miss America local, she will advance to the 2003 Miss Florida Pageant. She is a founder of "Queen for a Day," a national nonprofit organization benefiting young women with life-threatening medical conditions. Her organization has been the subject of an article in People magazine, and was recently featured on "The Oprah Winfrey Show," where the organization received a $10,000 gift from Oprah's Angel Network. She has held numerous pageant titles, including Miss Teen All American 1999 and the 2000 Miss Oktoberfest title. She was featured in an article by PNB when she won the Miss Teen All American crown. It was titled "The Magic of being Miss Teen All American."

Ana Sargic, 19, has been crowned Miss Yugoslavia 2002. She will represent the country in the Miss World Pageant .

Jessica Davies Tkatch, Ph.D., of Arizona has been named Mrs. Christian U.S. Galaxy 2003. "This is a wonderful opportunity for me to combine my education, my beliefs and my love of pageantry," says Dr. Tkatch. She will compete for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2004 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, in June 2003.

Marta Matyjasik, 20, has been crowned Miss Poland 2002. She is a student in Magdeburg, Germany, where she studies foreign languages. She will represent Poland at Miss World 2002, and she or one of her runners-up will compete at Miss Universe 2003. The first runner-up was Iwona Makuch, and the second runner-up was Renata Kamoda.

Andre P. Prospere has been selected Mr. Black Georgia Achievement 2003. He is a graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo (with a BS degree in Business Administration), a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Executive Director of the Miss Fulton County Scholarship Pageant. A one time pageant competitor, he is a former Mr. Georgia Male America (third runner-up to Mr. Male America).

Natisha S. Webb has been selected Ms. Black Georgia Achievement 2003. She is a BA graduate of Georgia State University (where she was Homecoming Queen) and was recently crowned Ms. Plus Black Atlanta USA 2003. As Ms. Plus Georgia Woman, she will be competing for the Ms. Plus United American Woman in February 2003.

Reginald D. Lewis has been selected Mr. Black American Achievement 2003. He is a graduate of Mercer University (BS) and Troy State University (MBA). He is a professor of Computer Science, a pageant coach, dancer and choreographer. He is also Mister Georgia America 2002 (third runner-up to Mister America 2002), Mr. Nubian Gentleman America 2002 and was voted Outstanding Young of America 1998. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Gloria Casilda Anglon has been named Miss Maryland Galaxy. Stephanie Dorn has been named Miss Minnesota Galaxy. Both will compete for the international title of Miss Galaxy 2004 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, in June 2003.

The 2002 Miss World Pageant has been postponed from Nov. 30 to Dec. 7 because of protests by Muslims. Some Islamic groups had protested having the pageant held during their holy month of Ramadan, and the Nigerian government yielded to their demands. Muslims form the predominant group in northern Nigeria, and some object to all beauty contests. Meanwhile, the pageant faces a major problem from the other direction. Many Miss World contestants are joining a boycott of the competition because Nigeria allows Muslim regional governments to execute young women for having sex outside marriage.

Randi King of Wadsworth, Ohio, has been named Mrs. Ohio Galaxy 2003. Her daughter, Nina King, has been named Miss Teen Ohio Galaxy 2003. Each will compete for the international title in their respective age divisions at the Galaxy Pageant in June 2003 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Motise Jones has been named Miss Illinois Galaxy 2003. She will compete for the title of Miss Galaxy in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, in June 2003. Ms. Jones is the national director of the Ms. American Elegance Pageant.

Christina Sawaya, Miss Lebanon, was crowned Miss International 2002 in Tokyo on Oct. 1, 2002. She received the crown from the previous year's winner, Malgorzata Rozniecka of Poland. The first runner-up was Emmanuelle Jagodsinski, Miss France. Hana Urushima, Miss Japan, was the second runner-up. Yoon-Joo Gi, Miss Korea, won the Best National Costume prize, and Cathy Wu, Miss Hong Kong, was named Miss Friendship.