DBHS junior wins pageant crown
The winner (center), Alexandra Ornelas, poses with the runner ups (from left to right): Megan Quon, Kathy Hermosillo, Rebecca Wang, and Cynthia Preciado.
April 22, 2015
The city of Diamond Bar welcomed new royalty on March 27, as Diamond Bar High School junior Alexandra Ornelas was crowned with the title of Miss Diamond Bar of 2015 and received $2,400 in scholarship money.
DBHS juniors Rebecca Wang and Cynthia Preciado and senior Megan Quon placed as second, third, and fourth runner-ups respectively.
“I felt extremely excited and tried really hard to hold back my tears,” Ornelas said.
The contestants were judged based on various aspects, including poise, fitness, and overall impression. Each contestant underwent a one-on-one interview with five different judges the morning of the pageant.
The pageant itself consisted of onstage questions, a swimsuit presentation, and an evening gown presentation.
“Training for the Miss Diamond Bar Pageant was a wonderful experience. I really enjoyed every moment of it. I met new friends and had lots of fun,” Ornelas said.
The contestants trained by meeting with other pageant contestants and representatives every week for three hour practices.
During this time, participants had a chance to improve their skills in public speaking, interviewing, and walking onstage. Additionally, the participants took part in a self defense class, a photoshoot, and various other events and mixers.
“I think the most exciting part of being a contestant was meeting so many new people. While a contestant, we went to many mixers in which we met people from Diamond Bar,” Wang said.
Other awards presented at the pageant include Best Smile to Ornelas, Miss Congeniality to junior Shannon Clewley, Miss Photogenic to Wang, and Miss MVP to junior Kaitleen Wong.
As Miss Diamond Bar, Ornelas will serve as a Diamond Bar ambassador, representing the city at many events including functions, mixers, and grand openings. Ornelas plans to also partake in the Miss Teen California pageant.
