Pageant News Bureau (PNB)

The first annual America's Ultimate Queen Pageant was held on June 29, 2004, in Indianapolis. Girls ages 9 and up competed in four areas of competition, interview, high fashion, evening gown, and photogenic. America's Ultimate Preteen 2004 is Catie Catanese. The first runner-up was Jackie Elder, who was also the winner of the Overall fashion award. America's Ultimate Teen 2004 is Mary-Kate Wuensch, also the winner of the Overall Gown award. The first runner-up was Tracey Todd, who also won the Overall Interview award, and the second runner-up was Kristina Ellis, winner of the Overall Swimsuit award. America's Ultimate Ms. 2004 is Cori Catanese. The first runner-up was Ashley Tucker, and the second runner-up was Stacey DeLuca, who was also the Overall Photogenic winner. America's Ultimate Woman 2004 is Motise Jones. The first runner-up was Dana Cole. America's Ultimate Supermodel with Style went to Alyson Nicely. The overall winner of the pageant was crowned America's Ultimate Queen 2004 and she is Amy Carter. Mrs. Carter is a 31-year-old student nurse who enjoys volunteering for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Chantal McDonald has won the Miss India Global Jamaica title. She will represent Jamaica in the Miss India Global Pageant in Mumbai in October 2004.

Markie Thomas Cohen, representing Dunwoody, was crowned Mrs Georgia America on June 27, 2004, in Roswell. The first runner-up was Jenay Green of Walton County, and the second runner-up was Charity Whitney of Cumming. Javella Simmons of Paulding County was the third runner-up, and Luanne Byrd of Gwinnett County was the fourth runner-up. Mrs. Cohen will represent Georgia at the nationally televised Mrs America Pageant on Sept. 7, 2004, in Palm Springs, Calif.

Tyler Willis, competing as Miss Central Plains USA, was crowned Miss Texas USA 2005 on June 27, 2004, in Laredo. This was her fourth attempt at the crown. She finished as first runner-up the previous year. She now will go on to compete at Miss USA. The first runner-up to Ms. Willis was Cassandra Meyer, competing as Miss San Antonio, and the second runner-up was Laurel Lanning, Miss Bay Area. The third runner-up was Miss Fort Bend County, Crystle Stewart, and the fourth runner-up was Candace Campfield, Miss North Dallas.

Coronation, Inc. has confirmed that Deborah Weston, Mrs. U.S. Galaxy 2004, will be returning to the Mrs. Galaxy Pageant as Mrs. U.S. Galaxy 2005. Her placement as first runner-up in the Mrs. division earned her the right to represent the United States once again in the competition. Lauren Monahan, who won the Career Achievement Award, will be reprising her role as Mrs. Tennessee Galaxy 2005 in the Mrs. Galaxy competition. Kimberly Ensey has been confirmed as Miss U.S. Galaxy 2005. Having placed as first runner-up to Miss Galaxy in June 2004, she clinched the right to represent the United States once again in the competition. Tammy Souza, Miss West Coast Galaxy 2004, will be returning to the Miss Galaxy 2006 pageant as Miss West Coast Galaxy 2005. She is the only fourth-year returning delegate, having been with the Miss Galaxy Pageant since its debut in 2002.

Amy Davis, 23, was crowned Miss Utah 2004 on June 26, 2004, in Salt Lake City. She will represent the state at the Miss America Pageant. The former Miss Salt Lake Valley promotes brain injury awareness and prevention; she herself survived a traumatic brain injury in a cheerleading accident at Weber State University. Brittany Wiscombe, Miss Deseret, was the first runner-up. Hollie Jones, Miss Springville-Mapleton, was the third runner-up, with Rebecca Merrill, Miss Layton, and Marin Poole, Miss Cache Valley, rounding out the top five.

Three days after finishing behind Nadine Njeim for the crown of Miss Lebanon 2004, first runner-up Lamitta Frangieh renounced her position on June 26, 2004. Ms. Frangieh reportedly had been distraught after failing to win, and the rivalry between the two beauties divided the region's pageant fans into two acrimonious camps. Ms. Frangieh, who won Miss Photogenic honors, was to have competed in the Miss International 2004 Pageant in Shanghai, China, but now will not do so. Ms. Njeim, who was Miss Confidence as well as the winner in the national pageant, will represent Lebanon at Miss World 2004 and Miss Universe 2005. The second runner-up was Cynthia Saade.

Kirstin Elrod, competing as Miss Carolina Foothills, was crowned Miss North Carolina on June 26, 2004, in Raleigh. She will represent the state at Miss America. The first runner-up was Dawn Davenport, Miss Metrolina, and the second runner-up was Erica Gurley, Miss Thomasville. The third runner-up was Grace Wepner, Miss Unifour Counties, and the fourth runner-up was Dana Downing, Miss Hickory.

Victoria Bechtold, 20, competing as Miss Pittsburgh, was crowned Miss Pennsylvania on June 26, 2004, in Nazareth, Pa. Ms. Bechtold, who was a preliminary swimsuit winner, will represent the Keystone State at Miss America. The first runner-up was Melissa Wills, Miss Southwestern Pennsylvania, and the second runner-up was Kristin Szarell, Miss Greater Cranberry. The third runner-up was Alicia Zumpino, Miss Allegheny Valley, and the fourth runner-up was Lauren Kenny, Miss Three Rivers.

Hooters, a fast-growing international restaurant chain known for its casual atmosphere and beautiful waitresses, plans to broadcast the Miss Hooters International Pageant live via closed circuit in Hooters locations on June 30, 2004. Pam Kennedy, a former Miss Georgia who is the company's first corporate image consultant, told PNB that Hooters personnel are "working really, really hard" to make this show spectacular.

Jenna Edwards, 22, competing as Miss Winter Park, was crowned Miss Florida 2004 on June 26, 2004, in St. Petersburg. Ms. Edwards, who was Miss Teen All American 1999 and a PNB cover girl, will go on to represent the Sunshine State at Miss America. The first runner-up was Shannon Schambeau, Miss Pinellas County, and the second runner-up was Kristen O'Rear, Miss St. Petersburg. The third runner-up was Meredith Kovarik, Miss Seminole, and the fourth runner-up was Megan Alonge, Miss Miami. The woman crowned last year as Miss Florida, Ericka Dunlap, went on to win the Miss America title, but the triumph was soon marred when Shauna Pender, the first runner-up who had assumed the title of Miss Florida, was seriously injured in a highway crash. She is still recovering, having had numerous operations, and she received a warm welcome at the pageant.

Shannon Essenpreis of Texas was chosen America's Junior Miss on June 26, 2004, in Mobile, Ala. The pageant will air on a delayed basis on PAX Television in July. It was not broadcast live.

Kim Fisher, a doctoral student and English teacher from Grand Island, Fla., has been chosen Mrs. Florida Galaxy 2005; the new Miss Florida Galaxy 2005 is Kari Shaik, a business owner from Clearwater, according to an announcement by DK Productions. The five areas of competition were interview, photogenic (in "after 5" attire), evening wear, fashion wear, and swimwear. The five areas of competition were equally weighted. The two new Florida queens will be making appearances throughout the year and will participate in the International Mrs. Galaxy 2006 and Miss Galaxy 2006 competition in summer 2005.

Jalin Wood, competing as Miss Metro Jackson, was crowned Miss Mississippi 2004 in Vicksburg on June 26, 2004. She will represent the state at the Miss America Pageant in September. The first runner-up was Kristian Dambrino, Miss Magnolia, and the second runner-up was Taryn Foshee, Miss Dixieland. The third runner-up was Angela Allen, Miss Byram. The fourth runner-up was Miss Vicksburg, Melanie Sanders, a former PNB cover girl.

Christina Ellington was crowned Miss New York on June 26, 2004. Ms. Ellington, who was second runner-up the previous year, will now go on to represent the Empire State at Miss America. The first runner-up was Kandice Pelletier, the reigning National Sweetheart. The second runner-up was Britney Griffin. The third runner-up was her sister Maia Griffin, who was also third runner-up the previous year. The fourth runner-up was Amelia Nelson.

Danica Tisdale, 24, competing as Miss Atlanta, was crowned Miss Georgia on June 26, 2004, in the city of Columbus. She is the first black woman, and indeed the first woman of color, to win the title. She will now go on to represent the state at Miss America. Former PNB cover girl Monica Pang, competing as Miss Conyers Cherry Blossom, was the first runner-up. Erin Lindsay, Miss Capital City, was the second runner-up, and Kristen White, Miss Spirit of Georgia, was the third runner-up. Kelley Bradshaw, Miss Georgia Southern, was the fourth runner-up.

Mandy Best was crowned Miss Teen Georgia 2004 on June 25, 2004, in Columbus. She competed as Miss Teen Warner Robins. Miss Teen Georgia is the "little sister" pageant to Miss Georgia, a preliminary to Miss America.

Tiffany Jenkins, competing as Miss Gaithersburg, was crowned Miss Maryland on June 19, 2004, in Hagerstown. The first runner-up was Jessica Diaz, 23, Miss Caroline Summerfest, and the second runner-up was Rachel Ellsworth, 20, Miss Allegany County. The third runner-up was Kelly George, 22, Miss Burntonsville, and the fourth runner-up was Heather Molnar, 18, Miss Tidewater.

Miss Kansas Latina, Graciela Stanley, 24, was crowned Miss Latina U.S. 2004 on June 18, 2004, in a live satellite broadcast by Telemicro Channel 5 from the Barceló Bávaro Convention Center in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. She is the first woman of Costa Rican descent and the first from Kansas to win the national title. She wins the right to represent the Latin population in the United States at the next Miss Latin America world competition. Jessica Coscia from North Carolina, of Puerto Rican descent, was the first runner-up. The remaining finalists were Denise Rodríguez of Florida, Viviana Álvarez of New York and Franchesca Jiménez of Connecticut. Ms. Rodríguez also received the "Outstanding Achievement" award for academic excellence and special accomplishments. Sponsor awards included "Miss Photogenic," to Gisela Dancourt of Georgia, the "Jolie de Vogue Best Face" award to Ms. Coscia and the "Reddken Best Hair" award to Ms. Stanley. At a preliminary event earlier in the week, the audience chose Ms. Rodríguez and Christina Olivarez of Texas to share first-place honors for performing talent, when they were unable to break the tie between them.

The third annual Galaxy International Pageant was held on June 19, 2004, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. The winners who emerged were Mrs. Galaxy 2005, Maria Torres (Mrs. Puerto Rico); Miss Galaxy 2005, Kristin Howsley (Miss Texas); and Miss Teen Galaxy 2005, Alysha Castonguay (Miss Teen America).

Yolande Dixon, 23, was crowned Miss St. James Festival Queen on June 19, 2004, at Montego Bay, Jamaica. She is a primary school teacher. and won three of the six sectional prizes. The first runner-up was Simone Phillips, another teacher, and the second runner-up was Diana Vanhorne.

The 65th Annual Miss Georgia Forestry State Scholarship Pageant ended June 19, 2004, in Tifton, Ga. The queens will travel the state to promote Georgia's No. 1 industry, forestry. The Georgia Forestry Pageant is the oldest running scholarship pageant in Georgia. Tiny Miss winners: Hospitality third runner-up – Lacie Rider, representing Coweta County; Photogenic winner – Carley Driggers, representing Colquitt County; Prettiest dress winner – Carley Driggers; Prettiest Smile winner – Lauren Etchells, representing Worth County; People's Choice winner – Georgia House, representing Gordon County; fourth runner-up – Shelby Hurst, representing Brantley County; third runner-up – Lauren Etchells; second runner-up – Carley Driggers; first runner-up – Madison Taylor, representing Treutlen County; 2004 Tiny Miss Georgia Forestry Queen – Amber Brook Holland, representing Liberty County. Little Miss Winners: Photogenic winner – Raelynn Buchannon, representing Houston County; Prettiest dress winner – Victoria Becton, representing Jenkins County; Prettiest smile winner – Savannah Morris, representing Bulloch County; People's Choice winner – Tiffany Padgett, representing Wayne County; fourth runner-up – Mackenzie Asbell, representing Berrien County; third runner-up – Amanda Kehren, representing Appling County; second runner-up – Caroline Purvis, representing Wheeler County; first runner-up – Sydney Dean, representing Bacon County; 2004 Little Miss Georgia Forestry Queen – Savannah Morris, representing Bulloch County. Junior Miss winners – Hospitality fourth runner-up – Alexis Vaughn, representing Crisp-Dooly County; Photogenic winner – Shelby Miller, representing Miller-Seminole County; Prettiest dress – Taylor Craft, representing Bulloch County; Prettiest smile – Kaitlyn Cawley, representing Colquitt County; People's Choice – Alexis Vaughn, representing Crisp-Dooly County; Mary Gaskins; Miss Congeniality award – Chelsea Carter, representing Brantley County; fourth runner-up – Taylor Stanfield, representing Bryan County; third runner-up – Chelsea Carter, representing Brantley County, second runner-up – Kaitlyn Cawley, representing Colquitt County; first runner-up – Ashlee O'Steen, representing Wayne County, 2004 Junior Miss Georgia Forestry Queen – Taylor Craft. Teen Miss winners: Lane Wooten, representing Macon County, received a large scholarship to John Robert Powers Modeling School in Atlanta. Kenneth Snow Academic Memorial Scholarship winner – Taylor Hoskins, representing Thomas County. Hospitality second runner-up – Taylor Hoskins; Photogenic Winner – Alexa Turpin, representing Crisp-Dooly County; Prettiest dress winner – Katie Sharpe, representing Pierce County. People's Choice winner – Amanda Hubert, representing Putnam County; Interview winner – Lisa Renshaw, representing Ware County; Meghan Gaskins Miss Congeniality Award – Kimberly Champion, representing Treutlen County; Speech winner – Lisa Renshaw, representing Ware County; Fourth runner-up - Erica Tomlinson, representing Lee County; third runner-up – Beth Crowe, representing Worth County; second runner-up – Kadie Sharpe, representing Pierce County; first runner-up – Megan Deats, representing Appling County; 2004 Teen Miss Georgia Forestry Queen – Lisa Renshaw, representing Ware County; Miss Hospitality Winners – first runner-up – Phyllis Ashley Pierce, representing Madison-Elbert County; 2004 Georgia Forestry Hospitality Queen – Jenna Knight, representing Berrien County. Miss Georgia Forestry winners: Photogenic winner – Lacey Calhoun, representing Decatur County; Prettiest dress winner – Lacey Calhoun, representing Decatur County; Prettiest smile winner – Joanie Padgett, representing Ben Hill-Irwin County; People's Choice winner – Kimberly McMillan, representing Jenkins County; Judy Wester Hicks Miss Congeniality Award – Beth Crowe, representing Thomas County; Director's award – Shae Cowart, representing Bryan County; Kenneth Snow Memorial Academic Award – Rachel Peterson, representing Atkinson County; Interview winner – Jessica Black, representing East Georgia College; Speech winner – Jessica Black; fourth runnerup – Beth Lewis, representing Wayne County; third runner-up – Tiffany Kicklighter, representing Georgia Southern University; second runner-up – Bethany Griffis, representing Appling County; first runner-up – Lauren Ray, representing Houston County; 2004 Miss Georgia Forestry Queen – Jessica Black.

Julia Burton of Petersburg, competing as Miss Southern West Virginia, has become queen of the mountain (the Mountain State), winning the title of Miss West Virginia 2004. She won the title on June 19, 2004, and will go on to compete for the Miss America crown. The first runner-up was Angela Ellsworth, and the second runner-up was Kimberly Goodwin. The third runner-up was Devon Dickson, and the fourth runner-up was Leah DiDomenico. The pageant featured several elaborate production numbers and was televised statewide. Jessica Schueler of Hinton, selected the first Miss Teen West Virginia America some days before, was a special guest at the pageant. PNB was accorded incredible hospitality by Barbara Brunetti, the Miss West Virginia president, and Leah Summers, the Miss West Virginia executive director.

Ashley Eicher, competing as Miss Murfreesboro, was crowned Miss Tennessee on June 19, 2004. She will represent the Volunteer State at the Miss America Pageant. Ashley Brooks, Miss Scenic City, was the first runner-up. It was her second time in two years in that position. The second runner-up was Miss Metropolitan, Lindsey Moffet. The third runner-up was Miss Southeast Tennessee, Natalee Beeler, and the fourth runner-up was Miss Tennessee Valley, Robyn Forbess. Anna Rannells, Miss Tennessee Iris, was Miss Congeniality.

The first ever Miss Black United States Pageant took place on June 19, 2004, in Altanta. Venus Manuel, Miss Black California, won the title of Miss Black United States 2004. She was also the winner of the Swimsuit Award. Deanna Riddle, Miss Black Nevada, was first runner-up and the winner of the Interview Award. Rachell McNeill, Miss Black Louisiana, finished as second runner-up and won the Evening Gown Award. The remaining finalist, as a result of a tie going into "meltdown," was Miss Black South Carolina, Iyonia Simmons. Rochelle Spencer, Miss Black New York, was the winner of the People's Choice and Miss Congeniality. Other contestants were Miss Black Kansas, Brandy Alexander; Miss Black Florida, Perpetua Phillips; Miss Black Illinois, Jennifer Gist and Miss Black Pennsylvania, Turea Hudson. On hand to serve as celebrity judges were Marshawn Evans, Miss District of Columbia 2001 and third runner-up to Miss America 2002; and Local Radio personality Toss Suade. The host and hostess were Reggie Lewis, Mr. United American 2004, and Shay Green, Miss American Renaissance 2004 and Miss Georgia Ethnic World 2004.

Nadine Njeim, 19, was crowned Miss Lebanon 2004 on June 18, 2004. She will represent Lebanon at Miss World 2004 and Miss Universe 2005. She also won Miss Self-Confidence. The first runner-up was Lamitta Frangieh, a famous Lebanese model who also won Miss Photogenic. The second runner-up and Miss Beautiful Eyes was Cynthia Saade, another Lebanese model.

Miss Macedonia, Magala Zarovska, has been crowned Miss Mediterranean 2004 in Abu Dhabi. The first runner-up was Miss Romania, Nita Sorana Georgina, and the second runner-up was Miss Lebanon, Shireen Aoun. The third runner-up was Miss Iraq, Christian Steves, and the fourth runner-up was Miss Tunisia, Mouna Khamas, who also won Miss Internet. Egypt's Amani Mahmoud was Miss Personality, Malta's Danna ben Mousa was Miss Face, and Slovenia's Inga Buja Jestova was Miss Photogenic. France's Emanuella Choussot was Miss Elegance, and Croatia's Vladisilva Sbetina was Miss Beauty Palace. Pakistan's Aram Bukhari was the guest of honor.

The Miss and Mrs. KENTUCKIANA pageants were staged at the Brownstown Central High School Auditorium, Saturday, June 05, 2004. Kaitlyn Christopher was crowned Miss KENTUCKIANA 2004 after she won the swimsuit competition and tied for first place in both the runway and evening gown competitions. Ms. Christopher and the first and second runners-up all advance to the 2004 America's National Miss Pageant competition. The first runner-up was Amber Yoder (the gown winner); the second runner-up was Tiffany Wilson (the runway winner); the third runner-up was Ashley Miller, and the fourth runner-up was Rachel Hernandez. Trina Jackson won the title of Mrs. KENTUCKIANA 2004 and all three areas of competition, including swimsuit, evening gown and onstage interview. Members of her court included first runner-up Mary Ann Conte, second runner-up Amy Jo Wessling and finalists Amy Cater and Rise' Herndon. Maria Tolbert of Kokomo, Ind., won the inaugural KENTUCKIANA Teen Princess pageant. She also won all three phases of competition including casual wear, runway and evening gown. Members of the court included first runner-up Latisha Yates, second runner-up Whitney Noel; third runner-up Sierra Harper and fourth runner-up Lacey Bowers. Co-hosts for the event were Brooke McDaniel, America's National Miss 2003, and former KENTUCKIANA Teen Katie Stam. The event was produced by PageantCrown.com.

Lori Ann Heleva of Whitehall, Pa., has been selected by the Ms United States Pageant as Ms Pennsylvania United States 2004. She will compete for the title of Ms United States 2005 in July 2004 in Orlando. She graduated Magna Cum Laude in May 2004 from Rosemont College, where she earned her bachelor of arts degree in business communications. She is a decorated veteran of the U.S. Navy, and is active in veterans' affairs and numerous civic and charitable causes.

Meredith Candeloro, 28, of the Pike Creek area was crowned Mrs. Delaware America 2004 on June 12, 2004. This was her first attempt at the crown. The first runner-up was Sheniqua Parker-Arendall, Mrs. Wilmington, and the second runner-up was Stacy Hollingsworth, Mrs. Seaford. The third runner-up was Dawn Edgar, Mrs. Newark, and the fourth runner-up was Nichole Graham, Mrs. Bear. The Best Smile winner was Cheryl Ford-Grobel, Mrs. Kent County. The Community Service winner was Dawn Edgar, Mrs. Newark. The Best Evening Gown winner was Nichole Graham, Mrs. Bear. Mrs. Candeloro, Mrs. Pike Creek and the pageant winner, was the Interview, Fitness and Ticket Sales winner. Dawn Edgar, Mrs. Newark, won the Journal Award. There were also two Married Woman of the Year Awards: Kellianne Robinson-Dishmon, Mrs. Hockessin, was diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant, and survived by enduring tough chemotherapy immediately after giving birth to her third child. Dawn Edgar, Mrs. Newark, put in more than 500 hours of community service and lost more than 100 pounds in the past year.

Tammy Caison has been crowned Mrs. Colorado North American and will compete for the Mrs. North American title to represent married women in North America at the Continental World Pageant in October 2005 in Washington.

Natalie Mec, 20, of Toronto was crowned Miss Fest Ukraine at Canada's Wonderland theme park in Maple, Ontario. on June 13, 2004. She advances to Miss World Canada 2004, to be held on Sept. 9 in Toronto. In the coming weeks, Miss World Canada preliminaries will be held in Toronto, Ottawa, Whitehorse and Halifax, and castings will also take place in Montreal and Vancouver.

Deidra Downs, 23, widely rumored to be the favorite, was crowned Miss Alabama 2004 on June 12, 2004. She will represent the state at Miss America. She is a magna cum laude graduate, scheduled to attend the University of Alabama School of Medicine after her reign. The first runner-up was Shannon Camper, and the second runner-up was Mindy Street. The third runner-up was Alexa Jones, and the fourth runner-up was Morgan Smith.

Demetra Pagiatakis has been named Mrs. Massachusetts Galaxy 2005. She will compete for the title of Mrs. Galaxy 2006 in June 2005 in Ohio.

The first national Finalist has been chosen for Miss 'world Canada 2004. Kathryn McMullan won the title of Miss Fraser Valley in Mission, British Columbia, on June 12, 2004. She will represent her region in the 2004 Miss World Canada Contest, which will be held in Toronto on Sept. 9. Ms. McMullan also won the Best Platform Presentation award, and was the runner-up for Best in Interview. The first runner-up was Sheralee Funk, who was also named Miss Congeniality and the runner-up for the Best in Interview award. A very emotional and excited Jenna Rose won the Miss Teen Fraser Valley title the same evening. She also won the Best in Interview prize. The first runner-up was Shylo Sharity, who won the Best Speech and People's Choice prizes. The second runner-up was Chelsea Jonasson, and the third runner-up was Mikayla Bay, who won the Best in Talent prize and was runner-up for Best Speech. The fourth runner-up was Katrina Dorn. Susan Cheo was named Miss Media, Monnie Buttar won Miss Photogenic, and Tamsin Linton was the Best in Talent runner-up. The current Mr. Canada Manhunt, Darren Storsley, who will represent Canada at Manhunt International in China later this year, is the director of the contest, and produced a show that won great acclaim.

Bathrobe Publishing is compiling information for a book on the humorous side of pageants. All sorts of people connected to the business are asked to e-mail Bathrobepublishing@hotmail.com with text and pictures. All contributions will be credited.

The 53rd Miss Iraq Pageant took place on June 7, 2004, in Nairobi, Kenya. Nairobi was the venue for the second year in a row. The pageant was moved from Iraq due to war in 2003 and continuing instability in 2004. The 2005 pageant will take place in Iraq in March 2005. Iraq’s Beauty Queen 2004 (Miss Iraq 2004) is Christian Steves. The winner of this crown was to have represented Iraq at Miss Universe 2004, but delays made that impossible. Iraq's Maiden of Beauty 2004 is Maiya Lotto, 21. She is the first African-Iraqi to hold this title. Iraq’s Queen of Grace is 19-year-old Gayle Alexander. Iraq’s Teen Queen is Nisha Nammarra, and the runner-up was Ayan Abshir, 18, whose sister, Deqa Abshir, won the 2003 Iraq’s Teen Queen Title. The remaining finalist was Maija Stanislawska, 19, who is half-Iraqi and half-Swedish. Eyal Moran was chosen Iraq’s Beauty King 2004. The second-place winner, Iraq's Most Handsome Man, was Ahmed Al Shimmar, 25. Third place, Iraq’s Prince of Beauty, was Marwan Eqabi, 23.

On June 6, 2004, three new Florida beauties were crowned. The new Mrs. Florida United States 2004 is Deanna Rollyson; the new Ms. Florida United States 2004 is Alejandra Gonzalez, and the new Miss Florida Teen United States 2004 is Julianne Pruitt. In the Mrs. Division, the first runner-up was Janet McCulloh, the second runner-up was Jennifer Thompson, the third runner-up was Robin Lowery, and the fourth runner-up was Kim Fisher. The remaining semifinalists were Jeanna Lampart, Janis Oulton, Dena Koval, Sherri Salvador and Stephanie Steele-Rogers. In the Ms. Division, the first runner-up was former PNB cover girl Chelsea Zedar, and the second runner-up was Monica Only. The remaining semifinalists were Shannon Charles, Mary McDonough, Krysten Love, and Genii Reynolds. In the Teen Division, the first runner-up was Garcia Anderson, the second runner-up was Racine Colon, the third runner-up was Veronica Sanabani, and the fourth runner-up was Sienna Osta. The remaining semifinalists were Amanda Mason, Brittany Ponder, Michelle Martinez and Kaydee Skrzypkowiak.

Elizabeth Barchas, 24, competing as Miss Nampa, was crowned Miss Idaho 2004 on June 5, 2004, in Boise. She will represent the state in the Miss America Pageant. The first runner-up was Shalyse Walker, Miss Idaho Falls, and the second runner-up was Katie Bullington, Miss Tri-Counties. The third runner-up was Hannah Bankhead, Miss Meridian, and the fourth runner-up was Kimberly Madsen, Miss Kootenai County. Ms. Barchas (pronounced like Barkus) was Miss Idaho Teen USA 1999 and Miss Idaho USA 2001, making her one of the rare "triple crown" winners in the United States. She also has the academic credentials much prized in the Miss America system. She has a bachelor's degree from Emory University and a master's degree from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

Diana Arbeláez González, Miss Ginebra, 21, was crowned Miss Valle on June 5, 2004. She received her title from the reigning Miss Valle and Miss Colombia, Catherina Daza Manchola, who placed in the top 10 of Miss Universe on June 1. She will compete in the Miss Colombia Pageant in November, with a chance to represent her country at Miss Universe and Miss International.

Kinila Callendar, 23, was crowned Miss Virgin Islands in Charlotte Amalie on May 30, 2004. She will compete in the Miss America Pageant on Sept. 18, 2004, being the first representative of the United States Virgin Islands in the history of the MIss America Pageant. Ms. Callendar, a television anchor, was crowned by the reigning Miss America, Ericka Dunlap of Florida. The Miss America contest this year will gain one contestant and lose one hour, reverting to a two-hour format. The addition of a Virgin Islands representative is popular with contest-watchers, though some are joking that it was the name of the islands that appealed to the people in Atlantic City. Miss America is famous for trying to project a moral image.

Marina Rodrigues, 19, of Madeira was crowned Miss Portugal 2004 on May 30, 2004. She will compete at Miss Universe 2005. The first runner-up was Ines Simoes, and the second runner-up was Filipa Gomes.

Hugrun Hardardottir, 21, was crowned Miss Iceland 2004 on May 29, 2004. The first runner-up was Sigrun Bender, and the second runner-up was Halldora Rut Bjarnadottir. The third runner-up was Anna Birta Tryggvadottir, and the fourth runner-up was Margret Magnusdottir.

New American Queen Pageant State Titles have been awarded: Krista Peters – Miss Illinois American Queen; Jaime Lyn Owens – Mrs. Indiana American Queen; Susan Paris-Gomez – Mrs. Nevada American Queen; Christy Passoth – Ms. Classic California American Queen. These state titleholders will represent their states at the National American Queen Pageant to take place on the Carnival Pride on Aug. 1-8, 2004.

Aqiyla Gomez, 22, who was first runner-up at Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe 2004, was crowned Miss Model of the World in Hangzhou City, China, on May 28, 2004.

April Brilliant has been crowned Mrs. Wicomico County International. She is the director of the system that produces America's Brilliant Miss and USA's Brilliant Beauties. She will compete in the Mrs. Maryland International Pageant.

Paige Bennett of Cordova was crowned Mrs. Tennessee 2004 in Germantown on May 23, 2004. The pageant, which is directed by Delayna Bridges, will send its winner on to the Mrs. America Pageant, which will take place in summer 2004 in Palm Springs, Calif. The first runner-up was Kimberly Reichard of Nashville. The second runner-up was Pamela Hook of Collierville, and the third runner-up was Jennifer Price of Finger. The fourth runner-up was Diane McDaniel of Nashville. Mrs. Reichard was Mrs. Photogenic, and Bridget Jackson was Mrs. Congeniality. Mrs. Tennessee 2004 was Jennifer Loveless.

Magdalena Walczak, 21, of Mannheim was crowned Miss Polonia in Germany 2004 on 22 May 2004. This is a pageant held in Germany for girls of Polish origin or nationality who live in Germany. Ms. Walczak will compete in the Miss Poland Pageant, a preliminary to various international competitions. The first runner-up was Sabina Schuscik, 19, of Königshofen, and the second runner-up was Johanna Michalik, 20, of Duisburg.

Sven Melig, 27, was chosen Mister Switzerland on May 22, 2004. The runners-up, respectively, were Marco Gehrig and Eduardo Kehl.

Candace Sample has been crowned National Miss African American 2004 in the African American Online pageant system. Shawn Cunningham has been crowned National Ms. African American 2004, and Catherine Jackson has been crowned National Mrs. African American 2004. Joy Finerson has been crowned National Ms. African American Ambassador 2004.

Buz Monahan is the newly crowned Mr. Tennessee 2004 for the United American system. Steven Walters is United American's Mr. Louisiana Gentleman 2004-05. Both men will vie for the title of Mr. United American 2005. Reggie Lewis of Georgia is the reigning Mr. United American 2004.

New American Queen state titleholders were crowned at the "Super Regional" American Queen Pageant on May 16, 2004, in Connecticut. The winners were: Shirley Martinez, Miss Teen Massachusetts; Jennifer Vicevich, Miss Connecticut; Robin Garafolo, Ms. Connecticut; Joan Thurstons, Ms. Classic New Jersey; Morgan Tufarolo, Miss Pre-Teen Rhode Island. All of these state titleholders will represent their states at the National American Queen Pageant on the Carnival Pride on Aug. 1-8, 2004.

Following are the winners of the Miss Marietta (Ga.) Pageant held in May 2004: Baby Miss Marietta - Emily Concepcion; Toddler Miss Marietta - Kaitlyn Winters; Teeny Miss Marietta - Hope Hays; Tiny Miss Marietta - Carlie McCormick; Little Miss Marietta - Courtney Hinesley; Junior Miss Marietta - Heather Hinesley; Teen Miss Marietta - Brittany Ruiz; Miss Marietta - Lindsey Laufersweiler; Ms. Marietta - Danielle Milholland. The reigning Miss World United States, Kim Harlan, was the emcee.

On May 2, 2004, the new Miss Teen Nevada International and Mrs. Nevada International were crowned in Las Vegas. Former Miss Teen Clark County Tiffany Yanke walked away with the title of Miss Teen Nevada International. Miss Teen Las Vegas, Sommerly Simser, was the first runner-up. The second runner-up was Miss Teen Las Vegas Valley, Leticia Castro. Robin Covey, a former Mrs. Las Vegas, received the title of Mrs. Nevada International.

Jennifer Fairbank, 24, was crowned Miss Hawaii USA on May 16, 2004. She is a graduate student at Hawaii Pacific University. On the same night, high school student Sonya Balmores, 17, was crowned Miss Hawaii Teen USA.

Maria Alaina Langlois has been awarded the title of Mrs. Puerto Rico Massachusetts. She will be competing against women of Puerto Rican heritage from across the United States and the Island of Puerto Rico on June 8, 2004, for the title and the right to compete at the Mrs. United States Pageant in August in Las Vegas.

The Ms. U.S. States Online Pageant has announced that Yvette Parrish has been crowned Mrs. Latina U.S. States 2004. Jennifer Miloser has been crowned Ms. Michigan U.S. States 2004. Kathryn Lynch has been crowned Ms. Massachusetts U.S. States 2004. Ariagna Perello Lantigua has been crowned Ms. Latina U.S. States 2004.

Jeannette Josue has been named Miss New Jersey Galaxy 2004, and will be vying for the title of Miss Galaxy 2005.

Christina Haggerty was named America's Miss Maryland Teen 2004 on May 1, 2004, in Dundalk, Md. She won the Interview, Eveningwear and Photogenic award. The first runner-up was Miss Crofton, Raelina Howell, and the second runner-up was Miss Baltimore, Jamie Hitt, who also won the optional Talent award in the Teen division. Sara Crist was chosen America's Miss Maryland Junior Teen 2004. She won the Interview and Fitness Wear awards. The first runner-up was Miss Frederick, Erica Alderson, and the second runner-up was Miss Laurel, Sasha Stepney. Lindsay Hepler was crowned America's Miss Maryland PreTeen 2004. She won the Interview and Fitness Wear awards in the PreTeen division. The first runner-up was Miss Pikesville, Liana Hyman, and the second runner-up was Miss Brookeville, Hanna Zeng, who won the optional Talent award in her division. A week after winning the state title, the new titleholders participated in the Westside Preakness Parade on May 8.

Agnesa Vuthaj, 18, of the historic city of Pec in the Serbian province of Kosovo, was crowned Miss Albania on May 9, 2004, in Tirana, Albania. Kosovo is under U.N. control and currently inhabited mostly by Albanians.

Daniela Strigl, 23, a student from Salzburg, was crowned Miss Austria Universe on May 4, 2004, in Vienna. She will represent the country at the Miss Universe Pageant.

Tina Christensen has been crowned Miss Universe Denmark 2004. She was the first runner-up at Miss Baltic Sea 2003, and was a Top 10 finalist at Miss Europe 2002.

Dashanique Poitier, Queen Tige, was crowned Miss Fox Hill Emancipation Queen on April 24, 2004, at the Sheraton Grand Resort on Paradise Island, Bahamas. She also won the best costume award. The first runner-up was YvRose Valcin, Queen Nefertari, and the second runner-up was Leshanda McPhee, Queen Nehanda. The third runner-up was Shekeitra Lightbourne, Queen Nandi, who also won Miss Photogenic. Miss Congeniality was Janiska Davis, Queen Amina. The winner will compete in Miss Bahamas Universe 2005, and the first runner-up will compete at Miss World Bahamas 2004.

The Mrs. Pennsylvania and Miss Teen Pennsylvania International Pageants were held on May 1, 2004, in Altoona. Miss Teen Pennsylvania International 2004 is Melissa Pierce, Miss Teen Meadville. She also received the Interview Award. The first runner-up was Kelly Sivec, Miss Teen Johnstown. The second runner-up was Kira Boland, Miss Teen Newry. The Photogenic Award was presented to Laurin McAndrew, Miss Teen Logan Township. Mrs. Pennsylvania International 2004 is Allison Hirschmann, Mrs. Northwales. She also received the Photogenic Award. The first runner-up was Cheryl Cameron, Mrs. Conneautville. The Interview Award was presented to Dr. Annette Cronauer, Mrs. Hollidaysburg. The new state director is Jodi Cessna, Mrs. Pennsylvania International 2003, and a great pageant presence in the Keystone State.

The 34th annual New Jersey National Teenager Pageant was held in Ocean City. Ashley Sobrinski, 16, of Seaville (Senior Division) and Kristen Pettet, 14, of Wanaque (Junior Division) captured the state crowns. They will ride in the National Teenager Float in the 2004 Miss America Parade and will represent the Garden State at the national competition in summer 2004 in Nashville. At the Senior level, the first runner-up was Brenna Welsh, and the second runner-up was Lipica Shah. The third runner-up was Marjorie Polunas, and the fourth runner-up was Madeline Allegretto. At the Junior level, the first runner-up was Katie Berry, and the second runner-up was Brandi Sanguinetti. The third runner-up was Rachel Sprung, and the fourth runner-up was Linda Chen. The Jr. Volunteer Community Service was Brittany Colon, and the Sr. Volunteer Community Service winner was Ashley Sobrinski. The Jr. Talent Winner was Kristen Pettet (Jazz), and the Senior Talent winner was Amanda Callinan (Vocal). The Essay winner-was Brittany Colon. The Jr. Photogenic winner was Vladyslava Levchenko, and the Sr. Photogenic winner was Brenna Welsh. The Sr. Congeniality winner was Maddie Allegretto, Jr., and the Congeniality winner was Cynthia Portalatin. The Girl Power Award was presented to Nicole O`Neal, and Cara Jacoby was the recipient of the Dream Award. Brenna Welsh was crowned Miss Hospitality 2004 and as first runner-up will travel to Nashville to compete in the "Sweetheart Pageant." a fund-raiser for the National Teenager program. The recipients of the "Spirit Award" were Maddie Allegretto and Casandra Branick. The Overall SuperModel winner was Christine Skorenko, 13, of Eatontown. The first runner-up was Vladsylava Levchenko, the second runner-up was Brenna Welsh, and the third runner-up was Katie Berry.

Marva Weatherborn Serrano, 20, of Puerto Barrios has been crowned Miss Universe Guatemala 2004. She is the first black woman elected for the title.

Anja Büttgen of South Africa was crowned Queen of the World 2004 on April 30, 2004, in Munich. The first runner-up was Danielle Lloyd of England, and the second runner-up was Zorica Pupovac of Croatia. Ms. Büttgen has dual citizenship, South African and German. Last year she participated in the Miss Germany Universe system and was fourth runner-up in the state pageant of Miss Bayern (for Miss Germany Universe 2004.

Aimee Belisle, 23, was crowned Miss Rhode Island 2004 on April 24, 2004. She will represent the state at the Miss America Pageant in September.

Alyssa Spellman, 21, of Derry, competing as Miss Hooksett, has been crowned Miss New Hampshire 2004. The vocalist will represent the Granite State at Miss America. The first runner-up was Natalie Ann Mullen, 23, of Manchester. The second runner-up was Audra Paquette, 23, of Merrimack. The third runner-up was Justine Barker, 19, of
Pembroke, and the fourth runner-up was Emily Ann Hughes, 20, of Gilmanton.

The 2004 *Miss Illinois / Indiana Teen *Ms. Illinois / Indiana *Mrs. Illinois / Indiana U. S. Beauties Pageant was held on April 25. The U. S. Beauties Pageant System is a "choreographed pageant production event." Results were as follows: 2004 Miss Illinois Teen U. S. Beauties – Melissa Marin; 2004 Ms. Illinois U. S. Beauties – Wilma Terry; 2004 Ms. Illinois Woman U. S. Beauties – Toni Galster; 2004 Mrs. Illinois U. S. Beauties – Debbie & Ross Radke; 2004 Mrs. Illinois Woman U. S. Beauties – Melissa & Victor Rigoni; 2004 Ms. Indiana U. S. Beauties – Lauren Benard; 2004 U. S. Beauties *Mother *Daughter National Winners – Susan & Heather.

PageantCrown.com produced its annual KENTUCKIANA TEEN pageant competition on April 24, 2004. The dual-state event is open to contestants in the states of Kentucky and Indiana. The event traditionally crowns the top five finalists with the overall winner named as KENTUCKIANA Teen. Alli Wessel, Teen Jackson County, won the runway and contestants' choice awards, plus the overall title of KENTUCKIANA Teen 2004. The interview winner and the new 2004 Teen Indiana was Brittney Mason. The evening gown winner and 2004 Teen Kentucky was Krista Ennis. The new Hoosier State Teen, Jess Karshner, was voted Miss Congeniality and won the swimsuit competition. Lauren Prater was selected as Miss Photogenic and was crowned Bluegrass State Teen 2004. Runners-up in the event were Tracy Todd and Tori Tomlison. The last time Jackson County won the title of KENTUCKIANA Teen, was in 2002, when Katie Stam went on to win the title of America's Southern Teen 2002. Ms. Stam and Ms. Wessel are from the same hometown and cousins. The new KENTUCKIANA Teens will all compete in the 2004 America's Southern Teen Pageant.

The first ever Virginia Galaxy Pageant was held on April 25, 2004, in Richmond. Charli Hathcox was crowned Miss Teen Virginia Galaxy 2004. The first runner-up was Ashlee Deeben, and the second runner-up was Jordan Heslip. Katy Jones was crowned Miss Virginia Galaxy 2004. The first runner-up was Radiah Hyatte, and the second runner-up was Sharon Brown. Darlene Deeben was crowned Mrs. Virginia Galaxy 2004. The first runner-up was Christy Bell. In addition to the three Virginia queens, first runners-up Ashlee Deeben and Radiah Hyatte will represent their local Virginia titles, Miss Teen Loudoun County Galaxy and Miss Northern Virginia Galaxy, respectively, at the Galaxy International Pageant in June 2004 in Ohio.

Connie Hartley was crowned Mrs. Maine International 2004 and Tara Hadsell was crowned Miss Teen Maine International 2004 on April 25, 2004, in Winthrop. Ms. Hadsell won the Miss Congeniality award.

Kori Hendrix Ralston was crowned Mrs. Florida International on April 24, 2004. The first runner-up was Claire Godfrey, and the second runner-up was Rhonda Fontaine. The third runner-up was Karin Jenkins, and the fourth runner-up was Kirstin Alvarez. Janice Olton was Mrs. Congeniality, and Deanna Rollyson was Mrs. Photogenic.

Celine Nusbaumer, 24, of Geneva was crowned Miss Suisse Romande 2004 (queen of the French-speaking part of Switzerland) on April 24, 2004. As part of her prize package, she will be a contestant in Miss Switzerland 2004/2005 on Sept. 18, 2004. The first runner-up was Snezana Andric, 21, and the second runner-up was Johanna Calame, 22.

Aina Damilola Deborah of Lagos, Nigeria, was selected via a casting call to represent her country as Miss Teen Nigeria Galaxy. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2005 in June 2004 in Ohio.

Shawn Cunningham has been crowned Ms. Royal America 2004. She competed in the national pageant held in Worcester, Mass., among hundreds of other women from throughout the nation and New England. She was also the Overall Winner. A TV News Anchor in Northern Maine, she also won the modeling competition and patriotic wear competition for her division. She will spend her reign making public appearances, doing charity work and working on her platform.

Stacey Ann Kelly has been crowned Miss Cayman Islands 2004. The first runner-up was Jovani Hessing, and the second runner-up was Derecha McLaughlin. Ms. Kelly will represent the Cayman Islands in Miss Universe 2004 and Miss World 2004.

Megan McRaney of Madison was chosen Miss Mississippi National Teenager on April 17, 2004, in Clinton. Courtney Guess of Hattiesburg was chosen Miss Mississippi Junior National Teenager.

The 25th annual Miss Teenage California Scholarship Pageant was held April 16-18, 2004, in Los Angeles. The winner was Miss Teen San Jose, Erin Darling, 17, a senior at Valley Christian High School in San Jose. She wins a $10,000 college scholarship, a $3,000 cash award and a laptop computer, entry to the Miss Teen of the Nation Pageant and other prizes. The first runner-up was Miss Teen Metro Ventura County, Nicole Johnson. The second runner-up was Miss Teen County of San Diego, Lindsey Scarborough. The third runner-up was Miss Teen Vacaville, Jackie Geist. The fourth runner-up was Miss Teen Stanislaus County, Libby Leffler. Over 1,250 people saw the Silver Anniversary state pageant, produced by Danfranc Productions. The Miss Teenage California Scholarship Pageant is the largest state teen pageant in the nation.

The Southern Regional American Queen Pageant took place in Atlanta on April 18, 2004. These are the state titleholders who were crowned at the Southern Regional. They will represent their states at the National American Queen Pageant on the Carnival "Pride" in August 2004: Miss Pre-Teen Georgia 2004, Heather White; Miss Teen Georgia 2004, Christy Holloway; Miss Georgia 2004, Brittney Brown; Miss Teen South Carolina 2004, Ashley Ward; Miss Alabama 2004, Ashley Warren; Ms. Georgia 2004, Valerie Sheppard; Mrs. Georgia 2004, Gloria Washington.

Lindsay Grace Pronk, 21, of Rotterdam was crowned Miss Universe Nederland 2004 on April 17, 2004, in Bunnik. She will represent the Netherlands in the Miss Universe Pageant.

Maria Sandorova, 19, was crowned Miss Slovakia World 2004 on April 17, 2004. The first runner-up was Tatiana Krcmeryova, 19, and the second runner-up was Aneta Kailingova, 18. Ms. Sandorova will represent Slovakia at Miss World 2004, and the two runners-up will go to Miss Europe and Miss International, respectively.

Jana Dolezolova, 22, was crowned Miss Czech Republic 2004 on April 17, 2004. The first runner-up was Michaela Wostlova , 22, and the second runner-up was Edita Hortova, 18. From these three will be chosen the country's representatives at Miss World 2004, Miss International 2004, Miss Europe 2004 and Miss Universe 2005. Specific assignments are to be announced.

The first annual Miss Teen Philippines Galaxy Pageant was held on April 16, 2004, at the Xavier Estates Country Club. Eleven beautiful young women competed for the title. The winner was Schmesani Macapobres and her court. She also won the swimsuit and evening gown competitions. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy in June 2004 in Ohio

Camille Westbrooks was crowned Miss Petite Teen International New Hampshire, Lacey McGreevy was crowned Ms Petite International New Hampshire, and Hillary London was crowned Miss Petite Teen International Maine, all on April 10, 2004, in Manchester, N.H.

Kimberly Brooks has been crowned Ms. Petite International New York. Francesca Perrone was crowned Miss Petite Teen International Massachusetts, and Yaira Ramos was crowned Ms. Petite International Massachusetts, all on April 3, 2004.

University of Wisconsin-Madison journalism and political science freshman Heidi Elaine Hackbarth, 18, of Knapp was named Miss Wisconsin National Teenager 2004 on April 3, 2004. Hackbarth, who was crowned by Meghan Marie Coffey, 18, of New Berlin, is also an ROTC Air Force cadet and will compete in the 2004 Miss National Teenager Pageant this July in Nashville. Chosen as first runner-up was Melissa (Missi) Ann Genz, 18, of Oshkosh; while Annya Robertson of Prairie du Sac was named second runner-up. Third runner-up was Amanda Krohn of Hancock. The Talent award winner was Ms. Genz, who performed a dance routine. Keiryn Elisabeth Weiss, 8, of Green Bay was named the Wisconsin Heather Graham. The first runner-up was Emma Nicole Sadler, 10, of Waukesha and the second runner-up was Taylor Baker of Green Bay. The third runner-up was Kirsten Jalbert Norderhaug, 11, of Brookfield, and the fourth runner-up was Jessica Longley of Menomonee Falls. The fourth runner-up was Danielle Sharlow, 11, River Falls who also was named Miss Hospitality. Taylor Baker won the talent portion. Weiss and Pfister will compete in the national pageant November 27, 2004 in Orlando, Florida. Wisconsin’s winners for the America's National Teen-Ager Scholarship Organization wearing the inaugural crowns were: Miss Wisconsin Junior National Teenager was pianist Melissa Elizabeth Condon, 13, of Wauwatosa. She succeeds Samantha Jankins, 15, of Oshkosh and will compete in the national pageant in July. First runner-up was Sarah Jackson of Phillips; and Stephanie Hobbins of Whitefish Bay was second runner-up. All of the Wisconsin pageants were held at the Weasler Auditorium at Marquette University in Milwaukee.

Bethany Massey, 18, was crowned Miss Marion-Polk County 2004, a preliminary to Miss Oregon, on April 17, 2004. The annual pageant was held at the South Salem High School. She was crowned by Miss Marion-Polk County 2003, Blair Wolfe. The high school senior and tap dancer will now advance to the 2004 Miss Oregon Scholarship pageant in June 2004 in Seaside. A win there will take her to the Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City, N.J. The first runner-up was vocalist Leslie Lee Summers, 22, a senior at Western Oregon University. She was Miss Emerald Valley last year and won the Non-Finalist interview award at the 2003 state pageant. The second runner-up was Lori D. Northcraft, 22, a senior at Willamette University. Ms. Massey plans to use the scholarship money toward a degree in interior architecture and design from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

Nicole (Nikki) Marie Groppi, 23, of Milwaukee was crowned Miss St. Francis (Wisconsin) 2004 on April 17, 2004, in St. Francis. The brunette vocalist was first runner-up last year and third runner-up in 2002. She was crowned by Miss St. Francis 2003, Carrie Ann Cihasky, 24, of Milwaukee, who was a semi-finalist at the 2003 Miss Wisconsin Pageant. Ms. Groppi, a senior at UW-Milwaukee majoring in occupational therapy, will compete in the 2004 Miss Wisconsin Pageant on June 26, 2004, in Oshkosh. The first runner-up was Andrea Catherine Berndt, 21, a dancer who was third runner-up last year and second runner-up in 2002. She is a senior nursing student at UW-Parkside in Kenosha. The second runner-up was Miranda Lee Zynda, 21, a flutist and UW-Milwaukee art student who won the non-finalist talent award last year. The third runner--up was former South Milwaukee Junior Miss 2001 and vocalist Karisa Kopaczewki, 20, of South Milwaukee. The fourth runner-up was Kristin Wojes, 19, of Oak Creek.

Fabiane Niclotti,19, of Gramado, Rio Grande do Sol, was crowned Miss Brazil 2004 in São Paulo on April 15, 2004. She was crowned by Miss Brazil 2003, Gislaine Rodriguez Ferreira, who was a finalist in the 2003 Miss Universe Pageant in Panama. Ms. Niclotti, a tourism promoter and nursing student, will now advance to the 2004 Miss Universe Pageant in Ecuador on June 1, 2004.

Ferehyiwot Abebe, a 19-year-old computer science student from Gonder in the northern part of Ethiopia, was crowned the first ever Miss Universe Ethiopia in Addis Ababa. She will be the first representative of Ethopia in the Miss Universe competition.

Andrea Veronica Fonseka, 19, an assistant producer, was crowned Miss Malaysia 2004 in Kuala Lumpur on April 15, 2004. She succeeds Miss Malaysia 2003, Elaine Daly, and will compete in the Miss Universe Pageant in Ecuador in June.

Katarina Wigander, 21, has been crowned Fröken Sverige 2004 (Miss Sweden Universe 2004). The first runner-up was Rebecca Larzen, and the second runner-up was Ulrika Lindwall. The third runner-up was Lisa Skyman.

Cathriona Duignam, 19, of Dundrum in Dublin has been crowned Miss Ireland Universe. She will represent the country at Miss Universe. The first runner-up was Kim Kearns, and the second runner-up was Christine Byrne.

Amy McKinney, a vivacious blonde, has been crowned Teen Miss Lake County Fair Royalty 2004.

Jennifer Miloser has been crowned Ms. Michigan America Ambassador 2004, Stacy Velarde has been crowned Ms. Texas America Ambassador 2004, Linda Wicker has been crowned Ms. Indiana America Ambassador 2004, Kathryn Lynch has been crowned Ms. Massachusetts America Ambassador 2004, and Janet Bierer has been crowned Ms. Montana America Ambassador 2004. All will spend the year working on their respective platforms and community projects while making appearances.

Sirle Kalma, 22, has been crowned Miss Estonia 2004. She will represent the nation at Miss Universe. The first runner-up was Irina Stinkova, and the second runner-up was Aljona Kordase.

Nicole Carvalho of New Bedford has been named Miss Teen Massachusetts Galaxy 2004. She will compete for the title of Miss Teen Galaxy 2005 in June in Ohio.

Mister Punggol, Andrew Teo, a 25-year-old senior business executive, is the new Mister Singapore. He will now represent Singapore at Mister Tourism International 2004 in Panama City, Panama, in November 2004. The first runner-up was Mister Ang Mo Kio, Aloysius Lim, The second runner-up was Mister Braddell Heights, Adrian Foo, and the third runner-up was Mister Sengkang, Eugene Ang. The fourth runner-up was Mister Tampines, Lim Ming Hui. The rest of the finalists were Mister Bedok, Hafez Hassan; Mister Hougang, Eugene Foo; Mister Jurong, Melky Michael Putra; Mister Marine Parade, Andy Josh Lim; and Mister Yishun, John Lim. Special Award winners were Mister Ang Mo Kio – Aussiebum swimwear and Fitness, and Spy congeniality; Mister Sengkang, Eugene Ang (Havaianas Beach Action); Mister Bedok – Hafeez Hassan (Dermalogica best skin); Mister Punggol, Andrew Teo (Hemispheres Style); Mister Tampines, Lim Ming Hui (Jean Yip Photographic). The fifth annual Mister Singapore Pageant, organized by the Mister Singapore Organization, is part of the events of the Singapore Fashion Festival 2004 sponsored by the Singapore Tourism Board.

Christine Straw, Miss Jamaica World 1998 and semi-finalist at the 1998 Miss World Pageant, has been crowned Miss Jamaica Universe 2004 and will represent the island nation at Miss Universe.

Minaye Donkor, 23 , was crowned Miss Universe Ghana 2004 on April 6, 2004. She will represent the West African nation in the Miss Universe Pageant in Quito, Ecuador.

Sherry Strother, author of "Crowning Success," was crowned Mrs. Louisiana United States in New Orleans on April 4, 2004. She also received the Swimsuit, Evening Gown and Photogenic Awards. She was announced as the Congeniality Award Winner from the Teen, Ms. and Mrs. Louisiana United States Contestants. The first runner-up was Nicky Lingo of Lafayette. Also in the top 5 were Rebecca Robinson, Alicia Wimberly and Mona Solieau. Megan Trask was crowned Miss Teen Louisiana United States and Brandy Baham was crowned Ms. Louisiana United States. They will travel to Orlando in July for Teen and Ms. United States, and Mrs. Strother will be in Las Vegas the first week of August competing for Mrs. United States 2004.

Yvette Parrish has been crowned Ms. Latina America Ambassador 2004. She will be making appearances on behalf of her "Queen for A Day" platform throughout her reign. She is also Mrs. Mexico Ethnic World.

The 2004 Canada Pageants were held in London, Ontario, on April 3, 2004 and crowned titleholders who will compete in the International Pageants system later in the year. Miss Teen Canada Scholarship 2004 is Jade Lee of Markham, Ontario. She will represent Canada at Miss Teen International on July 31 in Chicago. The first runner-up was Eliana Landori, representing West Island Montreal, Quebec, and the second runner-up was Lindsay Moffatt of Delhi, Ontario. Leanna Tallmeister, representing Toronto, was the third runner-up, and the fourth runner-up was Alex Bolton, representing Vancouver, British Columbia. The same evening, Koreann Bland of Strathmore, Alberta, was crowned Mrs. Canada International 2004, and will represent her country at Mrs. International on July 24. The first runner-up was Jessica Patrick of Langley, British Columbia, and the second runner-up was Antoinette Henry of Cambridge, Ontario. Nicole Mackoway of Edmonton, Alberta, was the third runner-up, and Colleen Elson, representing Ontario Mid-West, was the fourth runner-up. Also crowned that evening was Melissa Marks of Caledon, Ontario, who won the title of Ms. National Canada 2004. Barbara Svab, representing Southwestern Ontario, was the first runner-up, and Baharak Azkia of Toronto was the second runner-up. Monica Lee of Oakville, Ontario, was the third runner-up, and Lori O'Keefe of Massey Drive, Newfoundland & Labrador, was the fourth runner-up. A surprise took place at the conclusion of the show: Jayna Amting of Fenelon Falls, Ontario, was chosen as Miss Canada Scholarship and will represent Canada at the inaugural Miss International Pageant (also run by the International Pageants group) in 2005. She was first runner-up to Miss Teen Canada Scholarship 2003, Alyson Lozoff.

Raquel Horton, competing as Miss Jeff St. John, has been crowned Miss Bahamas Universe. She is a former Teen Bahamas, and this was her fourth try at the crown. She competed in 1999, 2002 and 2003 and was first runner-up twice. She was also first runner-up in the Miss Sunburst International Pageant. The first runner-up at Miss Bahamas Universe was Leslia Miller, Miss Robin Hood Enterprises. This was her third try. The second runner-up was Nadia Cash, the third runner-up was Jovanna Toote, and the fourth runner-up was Marcia Farah, of the island of Inugua.

Julie Graybill of Dacula was crowned Mrs. Georgia United States on April 4, 2004, in Duluth. The first runner-up was Stephanie Langston, and the second runner-up was Zanice James, a PNB columnist and former Miss District of Columbia USA. The third runner-up was Kandy Roland, and the fourth runner-up was Rebecca Alexander. On the same afternoon, Sarah Burnside of Snellville was crowned Miss Georgia Teenager. The first runner-up was Kristina Salinas, and the second runner-up was Jessie Lysiak. The third runner-up was Elizabeth Wilson, and the fourth runner-up was Kristina Montanaro.

Sheryl Ellison was crowned Mrs. California United States on April 4, 2004. She also won the Duchess award. The first runner-up was Nicole Gearing, who was the photogenic winner and creative ad page winner. Kimberly Moss was the talent and people's choice winner, and April Mason was the community service award winner.

Sabina Remar was crowned Miss Slovenia Universe on April 3, 2004. The first runner-up was Ina Jager, and the second runner-up was Slavica Stanojevic.

Larissa del Mar Fiallo has been crowned Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2004. She will represent the nation at Miss Universe. She was crowned by the reigning Miss Universe, Amelia Vega, who is also from the Dominican Republic.

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