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Miss Chiquitita
Gabriela Nuñez
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Central Park was filled to capacity Saturday
evening to witness the annual Miss Chiquitita Pageant. This event has
become one of the most anticipated events of the year in which talented
young girls demonstrate their dancing, modeling and speaking skills.
Although last year the pageant was not held because of an over abundance
of social activities throughout the year, organizers were determined to
hold the pageant earlier this year.
Five charming young girls, ages six to eight years of
age vied for the title. The contestants were Ilsa Gabriela Nuñez, Kristy
Marin, Rocio Ruiz, Thalia Pech and Lizette Vasquez. Miss Chiquitita 1998,
Paula Guerrero gave the official welcome address and participated in a
dance selection by past Miss Chiquititas including Jean Surentine and
Jeannine Ruiz. The colorful outfits and festive dance numbers were just
the beginning of what was a night of
fun entertainment.
The contestants made their first appearance in
swimsuit attire and formally introduced themselves. The five girls then
gave the audience a treat as they brought back the 40s style of dance -
The Can Can. Their second appearance, the talent presentation, was the
crowd's favorite as the girls imitated the music of their favorite
artists by dancing to the likes of Gloria Estefan, Noelia, Thalia,
Shakira and Square One. The contestants then illuminated the night as
they waltzed their way across the stage accompanied by their young
chaperons who then presented them with a rose.
The difficult task of selecting Miss
Chiquitita 2000 was in the able hands of a prestigious panel of judges
consisting of Mrs. Betty Longsworth, Mrs. Celi Jeanne Varela, Mrs. Rocio
Azueta, Miss Vanya Vasquez and Mrs. Beverly Coons. Tabulating the scores
were Ms. Dali Guerrero and Ms. Melita Guerrero. Before the winner was
announced, the contestants showed their appreciation to their chaperons
by presenting them with a gift and kiss. The gathering then asked to
choose Miss Popularity by their applause with the outcome being a tie
between Rocio Ruiz and Gabriela Nuñez who shared the sash. Miss Amity,
who is chosen by the contestants, went to Rocio Ruiz and Miss Photogenic
to Kristy Marin. Then it was time to announce the winner who received a
commemorative gold pendant with "Miss Chiquitita 2000" engraved on it.
The title and prize went to six year-old Gabriela Nuñez. Gabriela is the
daughter of Gaby and Sara Nuñez, and will hold the title, sash and
scepter of Miss Chiquitita 2000. The remaining contestants each received
a crown and many great prizes. Congratulations to the winner and all the
participants for putting on a wonderful show.
Special thanks to organizers Martina Tome and Ilna
Nuñez for organizing this marvelous pageant. Many thanks to the San Pedro
Town Council, Island Kids, Cottage Enterprises, El Patio Restaurant and
Moon Dancer for sponsoring the participants. Much appreciation also to
the San Pedro Dance Company and Barbara's Dance Group for their
entertainment during intervals, the judges, San Pedro Pre-School for
providing food and drinks, and all those who made Miss Chiquitita 2000 a
memorable event.
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