On Thursday, Sept. 26, contestants took to the stage at Baldy Mesa Elementary School for the annual Miss Phelan Pageant. The young ladies showcased their confidence and poise in a celebration of beauty, both inside and out, with this year’s competition proving to be a dazzling display of local pride.
The pageant started with a costume section where the contestants, ranging from 3 to 20 years old, dressed up in retro 1920s-themed attire complete with sequins and pearls. As the young ladies modeled their fashionable outfits on stage, short biographies were read for each participant, which included their favorite song, movie, and hobbies.
During the pageant’s second round, the participants showcased their formal attire and answered interview questions. Each contestant elegantly walked on stage in her gown and responded to a brief question, such as “Who’s your favorite person?,” “What’s your favorite type of ice cream?,” or “What does community service mean to you?” Once all the contestants had answered, the judges deliberated and tallied the points to determine each contestant’s overall score.
Each year, there are fun optional awards that are given out, which aren’t determined by the overall scoring but are instead given to the contestant with the best hair, prettiest eyes, and best smile. Winners for those categories included:
•Best Hair: Angelina Genova
•Best Eyes: Kynzee McFann
•Best Smile: Kaylie Clark
•Best Modeling: Irie Marquez
•Best Attire: Kaydence Lam
•Best Costume: Teagan Steele
•Best Interview: Cally Arnold
•Best Personality: Lolita Cardenas-Medel
•Photogenic: Jennessy Espinoza
Finally, the 2024-25 Miss Phelan court was announced and the glamorous crowns were awarded! The new Miss Phelan court includes:
Miss Phelan (18-21 years)
•Miss Phelan: Kynzee McFann
•Princess: Kaylie Clark
Teen Miss Phelan (15-17 years)
•Teen Miss Phelan: Teagan Steele
Junior Miss Phelan (10-12 years)
•Junior Miss Phelan: Irie Marquez
•Princess: Angelina Genova
•Duchess: Jennessy Espinoza
Little Miss Phelan (7-9 years)
• Little Miss Phelan: Cally Arnold
Petite Miss Phelan (3-6 years)
•Petite Miss Phelan: Lolita Cardenas-Medel
Tiny Miss Phelan (1-3 years)
•Tiny Miss Phelan: Kaydence Lam
The Miss Phelan event has become a cherished local tradition, not only highlighting the elegance of its participants but also emphasizing the importance of leadership, service, and girls’ empowerment. The Miss Phelan Queen and her court will participate in various community- and Chamber-sponsored events throughout their yearlong term. They will also preside over this year’s Phelan Phamily Phun Days, scheduled for Oct. 5.
