Miss Wantagh nominees to compete for crown

Summer in Wantagh means the annual Miss Wantagh competition is in full gear.

And it means Wantagh graduate Samantha Walsh — Miss Wantagh 2017 — is preparing to pass her title to her successor.

On Friday, June 29, the 6 finalists vying for this year’s coveted crown will tell a panel of judges and the audience at the annual pageant about their achievements and aspirations, and what project they would like to undertake if they are selected Miss Wantagh.

The pageant will take place at the Wantagh H.S. Auditorium at 7:30pm.

One of the sophmores, juniors or seniors - nominated this year - will be crowned Miss Wantagh at the community’s July 4th parade. There will be three runners up and two ambassadors to make up the Court of 2018. All members of the Court will continue the legacy of participating in various community events.

“We are excited to continue this tradition that gets stronger with each passing year,” said Ella Stevens, Miss Wantagh Pageant Director and Fourth of July Association President. “Each year we add new features to the Pageant and activities that the Court pursues during the year. We will be showcasing new elements and surprises in this year’s Miss Wantagh Pageant.”

For one, there will be a surprise visit by American Idol finalist and Wantagh resident Adam Ezegelian.

Stevens stressed that the Miss Wantagh Pageant is not a beauty pageant.

“It is a pageant whereby the academic excellence and community service these finalists bring to the table are highlighted,” she said. “Their talents will however not go unnoticed as they’ve put together a little skit for everyone’s entertainment.”

Walsh and her Court, have been seen throughout the community this past year, engaged in an array of activities benefitting residents of all ages. Together, the young ladies will pass the torch to the 2018 Court.

The new Miss Wantagh will be crowned as the conclusion of the 4th of July ceremonies on the steps of the Wantagh Elementary School on Beech Street.