Delta Diamond v15.3.4 Delta Diamond v15.3.4 | Page 18

MISS DELTA TEEN The #Power of Pageantry was in full effect on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at the historic Florida Theatre, as 13 beautiful young ladies graced the stage to showcase their poise, talent and communication skills as they competed in the much-anticipated 41st Miss Delta Teen Pageant. The pageant production was the culmination of a five-month personal development program led by Pageant Co-Chairs Michele Bell-Badger and Ingrid Bethel along with their dedicated “Dream Team” Contestant Development Committee. During the program, the close-knit group of contestants attended bi-weekly workshops and master classes, covering topics such as self-esteem, confidence, personal branding, professional responsibility, graciousness, speech and language, and talent refinement. They participated in joint community service projects and bonded even further during surprise holiday parties and post-rehearsal dinners, as well as brunch and lunch gatherings at Glen Kernan Golf and Country Club. Additionally, while they enjoyed the many gifts and personalized tokens they received from the Pageant Committee and corporate sponsors, they most enjoyed forming sisterly bonds as they embraced the challenge of creating the best versions of themselves in preparation for pageantry, future successes and finer womanhood. Program highlights included the girls’ individual and collective personal growth, and the constant support and concern they exhibited for each other. To that end, when “the big day” arrived, they held hands backstage and prayed as the clock ticked down to “showtime!” When the lights, camera and action began, they proudly put on an incredible performance in the Opening Number and were rewarded with a thunderous ovation. The Opening was followed by the Talent, Evening Gown, and Question and Answer competition segments. Personal Interview segments were conducted and scored three days prior. 18