NEW BERLIN – A tradition that’s more than half-a-century old, the New Berlin Youth Days took to the stage in style last night with the 51st annual Miss Youth Days Pageant, a celebration of the town’s – and surrounding municipalities – aspiring fashionistas.
Miss Youth Days Pageant organizer Sheila Randall, who’s been involved with the popular event for 15 years now, said this year’s contestants – as always – were in high spirits. A total of 20 young ladies participated in the annual beauty pageant, in three categories: Little Miss Youth Days, Junior Miss Youth Days and Miss Youth Days. The contestants are judged on their presentation, appearance, interview and personality.
“This is a young group, but they’re definitely high-spirited,” said Randall. “It’s something I enjoy doing ... I really enjoy working with the youth.”
Master of Ceremonies Gene Chilion praised Randall’s dedication to the event, which drew approximately 60 family members and friends of contestants to the Unadilla Valley Central School auditorium.
“She [Randall] does an outstanding job,” said Chilion. “It’s all about having fun and all the girls are winners. Sheila does an amazing job.”
Sixteen year old Kristen Montenegro took home top honors, named the 2012 Miss Youth Days, with Jenna Swayze (second runner-up) and Kailyn Guiles (first runner-up) joining her onstage.
Said Guiles of the pageant – her second – shortly before taking the stage, “I’m a little nervous until after we’re done answering questions, but everyone has been so nice.”
Jasmine Montenegro (Kristen’s little sister) was named the 2012 Junior Miss Youth Days, followed by first runner-up Shannon Lloyd and second runner-up Raylynn Kuhn. In the Little Miss Youth Days category, young Helena Banks received the honors, joined by Hayley Canfield (first runner-up) and Isabella Potter (second runner-up). Chilion again praised all the contestants, noting how difficult it can be to take center stage at such a young age. All of Thursday night’s winners received flowers and a 2012 Miss Youth Days sash, while the three top contestants received additional prizes, tiaras and an opportunity to ride in Saturday’s Youth Days parade.
In addition, long-time New Berlin resident Ken Wiggins was named the Youth Days Citizen of the Year, while Brittany Fairchild was presented with the Youth of the Year award at last night’s event. Entertainment throughout the evening was provided by sixteen year old, award-winning vocalist Caryn Rachel Balnis, who will go on to perform for a second straight year at the New York State Fair.
As for the pageant’s young enthusiasts, Chilion said “every one of them is a winner, I think they all should get awards.”
The 2012 Miss Youth Days Pageant was sponsored by Preferred Mutual Insurance, Chobani, Gates-Cole Insurance, NYCM Insurance, Golden Artist Colors, Curtis Lumber and Milford Academy.