From
The Tampa Tribune
The
Annual Gasparilla Pageant is right around
the corner and organizers are encouraging early
registration to ensure a spot! The event crowns the Titles of Miss Gasparilla, Miss Teen
Gasparilla and Mrs. Gasparilla in gala fashion February
18
and 19.
This
year’s Gasparilla Pageant features added optional
categories of SuperModel and Talent, for
which separate prizes will be awarded.
“They’re fun extras!” states Stephanie Sims,
Pageant Director and Founder.
The pageant has age divisions for everyone.
“We’re
looking for individuals that will be role models and
represent the Tampa Bay area with pride and dignity during
their reign, through community service, pubic
appearances and other events.”
Winners and participants will enjoy great prizes,
crowns, sashes, jewelry, gifts from local sponsors, being
highlighted in many Gasparilla-themed events, making appearances, television
and print coverage, etc.
And of course, the Parades.
Gasparilla
Pageant 2012 is not your typical pageant, however.
It’s about something more.
The event is an awareness benefit for Locks of Love, a
national charity whose mission is to provide custom-fitted
hair for children who suffer from hair loss due to cancer
treatments and other causes.
“We wanted this pageant to showcase beauty on
the inside.”
Sims adds. Locks of Love was founded to help
children feel better about themselves and have
self-esteem. Retail
value of the hair is approximately $3,500 per child.
While
it’s clear that contestants in this pageant might not be
willing to “part with their ponytails”, (a company
slogan), the pageant offers free participation to any
contestant who either donates hair themselves or brings
someone to the Pageant with them who will.
Stylists from Paul Mitchell will be on hand to help
with hair and make-up.
Celebrity guests and judges, visiting Royalty and
entertainment industry representatives will be in
attendance, as well.
The 2006-2011 winners got to take part in a special photo shoot at
the H.B. Plant Museum to commemorate Gasparilla’s
centennial year, parade participation, and several
television appearances, among other functions.
To
enter the pageant, for sponsor/vendor opportunities or for
tickets, call Pageant Headquarters at
(813) 892-5502.
The event’s web site is www.GasparillaPageant.com.
