Ms. Marianas Teen crowned tonight

This evening will be a big night for one of the 19 lovely teenagers who are vying for the 2006 Miss Marianas Teen crown when they face off tonight at the Saipan World Resort Amphitheater in Susupe.

Pageant candidates Michelle Borja Avila, Lenore Quitugua Cabrera, Heather S. Calderwood, Vanerrie Y. Deleon Guerrero, Darcie B. Duenas, Hee Ae Lee, Rosree Ann C. Leon Guerrero, Nicollette Lopez, Jomanda Lynn C. Manglona, Dina Marie M. Palacios, Ashley Reiko N. Pangelinan, Vivian D. Reyes, Leangie Lynn DLG. Sablan, Naomi C. Sablan, Kathrene Rose T. Taylor, Myana T. Welch, Angelee Cruz, Mary Ruth Lazaro, and Ritalynn Manglona will each try to win the hearts of the judged to get the coveted title.

Stellar Marianas, a non-profit organization, said the organization is excited about the pageant because this was the first time that a huge number of candidates answered the call to join the contest.

The winner will represent the islands in the upcoming Miss Teen International to be held in Chicago, Illinois, in July. More than 50 teenagers from all over the world will convene for the pageant.

Jenny White-Aguon will be accompanying this year’s winner to Chicago.

Judges for the pageant include award-winning musical scorer and composer Les Wolf, Northern Marianas College Board of Regent chairwoman Kimberly King-Hinds, PC Outlet’s Peter Pareda, Anne Marie Roy, and Deedee Rayphand.

Prizes at stake for the Miss Marianas Teen are uniquely tailored to fit the character of a teenager. Besides cash, trophy, crown, and bouquets, the winner will get a whole range of prizes, from cellular phones, to cosmetic products, and one-year free movie passes to Hollywood Theaters, among many others.

Tonight’s pageant, with a Bohemian motif, will be directed and choreographed by Melia Johnson, the newest addition to the Stellar Marianas family.

The 19 candidates showcased their talents during the pre-pageant Talent’s Night last Saturday at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center. The winner of the Best in Talent award will be announced tonight.

Some of the candidates sang, others did island dances, while a few others chose the unconventional route.

Tickets for the show are available at the venue. Doors are open starting at 6 tonight.