Application Deadline Nearing for Miss Wantagh Pageant

Organizers of the upcoming annual Miss Wantagh Pageant are accepting nominations from female high school students for the longtime community tradition until this Friday.

Applications are available at , the , the Miss Wantagh Community page on Wantagh.li or via email a misswantagh@optimum.net. Applicants should be high school students who reside in Wantagh.

“A lot of preparations go into creating this pageant,” said Pageant co-coordinator Donna Hartofilis. “Fortunately, we have been very lucky to have former Miss Wantaghs and Miss Wantagh finalists serve on our committee. Each one of them work hard to make it a very exciting event. “It’s an effort of love for these ladies, many of whom have moved away to college, yet are excited to return and work on this project.” .

The pageant is scheduled for June 29 at Wantagh High School with the winner announced at the conclusion of the annual Wantagh Fourth of July Parade. Wantagh Pageant Coordinator Ella Stevens emphasized that the annual tradition, which has been held since 1956, is not a beauty pageant and instead is designed to showcase community involvement. She said last year a new tradition was added to the pageant by actively involving mothers of the finalists and the plan is to continue that for this year.

"If you thought of trying out or know someone who has, then go for it,” Stevens said. “It’s an experience that creates memories that will last for a lifetime.  All it takes is completing the application and sending it in.”  

In last year's pageant, Wantagh High School junior Kara Arena  Miss Wantagh 2011. To see a video that provides an inside look at last year's Miss Wantagh Pageant, click .