Large Crowd Attends Miss Bellmawr Pageant
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
More than 200 onlookers crowded the Bellmawr Ballroom on Lewis Avenue on June 14 to watch the annual Miss Bellmawr Pageant.
As several nervous but poised young ladies prepared to compete for the right to represent the Borough at public events and the like during the coming year, the 44th annual contest was turned over to Mistress of Ceremonies, Geralyn “Gerri” Watson.
Watson served as Mrs. New Jersey America for 2003-2004.
Last year’s winner, Miss Bellmawr 2008-2009 Kelli Gallagher, was also on hand, to both view the pageant, as well as to see her new successor crowned.
Miss Gallagher was a major part of the evening’s itinerary, as she bade farewell to her reign, which began last spring.
The 18 contestants first entered in casual attire and, following an opening dance and comments from Bellmawr Council President Steve Sauter, along with VFW Post #7410 Commander John “Jack” Newcomb, they changed into evening gown attire, always a highlight of the yearly competition.
After both the preliminary as well as that evening’s competitions were completed, the three-judged panel met to whittle the finalists down to a handful, and select this year’s winner, along with her court:
Sheena Colville, Miss Bellmawr 2009-2010, Lisa Stubbs, Fourth Runner-Up, Kaylee Mitchell, Third Runner-Up, Danielle Ciano, Second Runner-Up, Morgan Walton, First Runner-Up and Miss Congeniality. Sheena and her court’s first official appearance was in the annual Fourth of July Parade.
Miss Colville received a crown, banner, trophy, a $200 U.S. Savings Bond, $100 Savings Bond from TD Bank of Bellmawr, wristwatch, $50 gift card from Macy’s, camera, two-piece luggage and a jewelry box.
Her runners-up (her court) each received a trophy, one piece of luggage, $50 U.S. Savings Bond, and a $50 Savings Bond from TD Bank of Bellmawr.
Morgan Watson also received an additional $50 U.S. Savings Bond for being selected as Miss Congeniality, in addition to above prizes for finishing First Runner-Up.
The annual pageant is open to girls residing in Bellmawr, and anyone interested in next year’s pageant may contact Bellmawr Borough Hall, at 856-933-1313.
SOURCE GLOUCESTER CITY NEWS