The one young woman who claims the title will have to take a heart-winning curtsy before the reigning queen, as an artfully executed curtsy is the trademark of the pageant winner. This year?s contestants are Miss Sandhill, Darena Rodriguez, 18; Miss Cayo, Conchita Moreno, 18; Miss Placencia, Jasmine Anderson, 18; Miss San Pedro, Delcia Trejo, 20; Miss Albert, Karen Hyde, 18; Miss Stann Creek, Sherima Usher, 17; Miss Ladyville, Georgetta Edwards, 15; and Miss Corozal, Ashanti Sutherland, 17. Corozal has held the Queen of the Bay title since 2002, when Ebony Lyall won the title, and she was followed by Sajia, her fellow Corozale?o. In 1946, Ms. Rita Lewis had the honor of becoming the first Queen of the Bay. At that time, however, the pageant was limited to Belize City. This year makes the 58thyear since the pageant became a part of the September celebrations tradition. The winner of Saturday?s contest will be crowned next Friday, September 10thon St. George?s Caye Day. Here are some revelations about the contestants: Karen thinks that, ?In the absence of pride, there can be no patriotism.? Ashanti: ?I have a great family that loves me very much, and I appreciate that?? Jasmine: ?I try to embrace life with a lot of optimism.? Delcia: ?Benevolent and unattractive attributes come together in one package?we are not perfect!? Darena: ?I am the second eldest in my family of nine? We live in a very peaceful and wonderful village [Sandhill].? Sherima: ?I always try to do things that are morally right, and encourage others to achieve greatness.? Conchita: ?I love singing. That?s my God-given talent, and that?s why I want to share it with people.? Georgetta: ?Sometimes when I have nothing to do, I would collect the children in my neighborhood.?
