Pageant Gives $2,000 to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

COURT HOUSE – There were many winners at New Jersey’s second annual Miss Precious Gem Pageant at the Performing Arts Center of Middle Township on Sunday night.
Not only were all 13 girls in the special needs pageant awarded prizes, but a total of $2,000 from the proceeds was awarded to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, an international non-profit organization that raises funds for children’s hospitals, medical research and community awareness of children’s health issues. The sum more than doubled the $800 raised for the network in last year’s inaugural event.
“The growth of this pageant exceeded our expectations,” said executive director Faith Miller who conceived the idea two years ago. “I can’t believe my dream became a reality and gave everyone a chance to see the person and not the disability. My goal is to show these girls they can do anything they want and help them to develop strength, demonstrate courage and experience joy.”
The contestants from six South Jersey counties were judged on talent, interview answers, and gown and casual wear. Each contestant was mentored by a woman affiliated with the Miss America pageant who accompanied the contestant on stage while she performed.
First prize winners of scholarships were Heather Kresser, 19, of Millville, Miss Precious Gem; Leah Donaghy, 15, of Glassboro, Miss Teeanage Precious Gem, and Ella Wilson, nine, of Marlton, Miss Pre-Teen Precious Gem.
Other conestants, all of whom received tiaras, flowers and certificates of commendation, included Gianna Izzo of Pine Hill; Eva Souto of Tuckahoe; Halema Khan of Atlantic City; Kiley Hansen of Galloway; Ashley Masly of Pilesgrove; Ginamarie Ferretti of Deptford Township; Emma Edelmann of Somers Point; Rachel Slaughter of Marmora; Krista Lamando of Buena; and Maeve Sweeney of Egg Harbor City.