Fraser Is Pageant

Runner-Up

“If for any reason the winner is unable to perform her duties, the first runner-up will assume the title.”

This week those words rang true for Avril Fraser of Newtown who was, for the second consecutive year, the first-place runner up in the Miss Connecticut state regional pageant competition as Miss Greater Watertown. Recently the reigning Miss Greater Watertown, Heather Valente of Woodbury, moved out of state and reluctantly but graciously conceded that she would be unable to fulfill her obligation to prepare or host the next Miss Greater Watertown pageant that will be held on February 26. Avril Fraser will take her place.

Ms Fraser, a 1995 graduate of Newtown High School and a 1999 graduate of Western Connecticut State University with a double major in psychology and education is currently teaching in Woodbury at the Creative Arts Studio.

The sponsor of the pageant, the Lions Club of Watertown, is planning a special crowning ceremony at its December meeting. Ms Fraser will be crowned by the 1998 Miss Greater Watertown scholarship recipient, Sarah Hiruo, also of Newtown.

In the past several years of the competition, Ms Fraser has been recognized for her social issues platform and her public speaking ability. She received scholarship assistance in 1998 and 1999.

The regional pageant is open to women ages 17 to 24 who are living, working, or attending school in Newtown, Bethlehem, Lakeside, Litchfield, Thomaston, Torrington, Washington, Oakville, Watertown, Southbury and Woodbury.

Ms Fraser emphasizes that the competition is not a beauty pageant. The entrants are required to develop a social issues platform, a talent platform, as well as compete in the evening gown and swimsuit competition, just as in the national Ms America pageant.

“If you didn’t have intelligence, if you weren’t a well-rounded person, you wouldn’t win this (competition),” she said.

On Sunday, December 19, at 2 pm, there will be a tea for all young women who might be interested in participating in the pageant. It will be held at the Thomaston Savings Bank.  Anyone who is interested in learning more can call 270-1676 or 426-7754, or speak to a high school guidance counselor.

The Miss America Pageant is a national scholarship program for young women. Miss America, according to its promoters, raises more money toward scholarships for young women in the United States than any other organization. Avril and Sarah have received a total of $5,500 in scholarships.