Super models in citizenship, faith, academics, and service

Mt. Carmel School’s Freshmen Modeling Club, in cooperation with Hotel Nikko Saipan, would gather 24 young and vibrant student candidates for the 2005 Mr. and Ms. Model of the Year set for Feb. 27, 6pm at the Hotel Nikko Theater.

Yesterday morning, the group made its first stage rehearsal at the hotel under the choreography and direction of Ernie Molina Jr. and adviser Julie D. Cunanan.

Twelve female and male contestants from ninth to 12th grade will vie for the coveted titles this year.

According to Mt. Carmel School vice principal for instruction and curriculum, Crystal Blahnik, the winners of the search are expected not only to be models in citizenship, faith, academics, and service during their term but also “from here on.”

Cunanan said that more than 30 students registered but only 24 lucky contestants were selected.

Male candidates are John Michael Villamor, Edward Sablan, Cyd Tribiana, Vincent Aldan, Carl Sumalpong, Paul Ogumoro, Pomakai Aldan, Michael DL Guererro, Richard Kautz III, Jeffrey Che, Jeremy Sablan, and Manny Borja.

Vying for Ms. Model of the Year are Mayble Ayuyu, Francine Camacho, Nicolette Villagomez, Michelle Villacrusis, Noelle Lingcaso, Lokje Therese Manalo, Letitia Cabrera, Bona Lim, Charmaine Hofschneider, Caisha Vanna Sablan, Patricia Matagolai, and Christina Palacios.

Mt. Carmel School, aside from its academic excellence mission, also encourages a “well-rounded and balanced” approach to education by providing various opportunities for students to develop and expand their interest, talents and services to the school and the entire CNMI community.

The pageant also aims to hone the students’ leadership skills and promote camaraderie among the students, even if they come from different grade levels in school, according to Cunanan.

The candidates will flaunt their talents on Saturday, Feb. 5, for the contest’s talent night. They are also scheduled for a cable TV appearance this week and will continue their rehearsals before the grand coronation night.

The event will also highlight the pageantry of former CNMI beauty queens, as they will walk the runway for a brief fashion show.

Mt. Carmel School Modeling Club hopes to raise funds from the event for the repair of their school gymnasium and cafeteria.

Tickets are still available at the Mt. Carmel School administration office and at the main gate of Hotel Nikko Saipan on the pageant night.