Four ladies will be representing Belize City, and 2 from Toledo District, one from Cayo District and one from Orange Walk District. Due to delay in the submissions, however, Emma said that she has not yet received all the names of the ladies who will be representing.

The only submission of names and pictures, so far, said Boiton, are those of three of the four Belize City contestants, – Keera Laken Ford, 19, titled ?Miss City of Belize;? Leesha Sherrell Pollard, titled ?Miss Albert;? a recent graduate of Wesley College; and Delonie Nicole Flores, 18, titled ?Miss Port Loyola.?

Representing the Stann Creek District, but who hasn?t yet sent in her picture, is Carrie Emerald Wong-K, 20, who currently is pursuing a Bachelor?s degree in tourism management.

Corozal District is scheduled to host their district pageant on Saturday, August 20.

This year?s celebration will commemorate the Queen of the Bay?s 60thpageant. The reigning Queen, 2004-2005, Miss Shemira Usher, 18, Her Graciousness, will crown the next Queen of the Bay 2005-2006.

Thursday, September 1, will mark the opening of the September celebrations, and the contestants will be making their first public appearance at the Court House Wharf.

A full week of activities for the contestants is scheduled to commence on August 28, and ends on September 2, the night of the pageant. Within the week, the contestants will be making courtesy calls on the Mayor of Belize, the Leader of the Opposition, the Governor General in Belmopan, and the Prime Minister.

They are also scheduled to be hosted at Putt Putt Bar at Newtown Barracks, followed by appearances at Belize-R-Us and Old Belize.

The winner will receive a degree scholarship to the University of Belize, courtesy of the Government of Belize; $1,000 dollars, courtesy of the September Celebrations Committee; a gold ring, estimated to cost $375-$400, courtesy Medina?s House of Jewelry; a BTL Digicell package, including a cell phone, SIM card, charger and calling card, among other fabulous gifts, said Emma.

Other categories of judging will include Miss Eloquence, Miss Amity, Ms. Photogenic and Most Talented.

The first queen, said Emma, was the lovely Rita Lewis, who is believed to be in her 80?s today and still alive.

Lewis is the aunt of well-known businessman Walter Craig, a.k.a. ?Mr. Dit?s? of Dit?s Saloon on King Street.

All candidates will be staying at the Caribbean Palms Hotel on Regent Street.

A dance will be held at Honey Beez Club immediately following the pageant.