On Saturday, November 12, the Donaldsonville Tourist Commission hosted its Bicentennial Pageant. "The mission of the Bicentennial Pageant was to identify representatives to become local celebrities to promote Donaldsonville's Bicentennial events," said Greg Phillips, Chair of the Donaldsonville Tourism Commission. "We began planning this event back in late July, when the concept of developing a Bicentennial program became a reality. With no budget and little time, we knew it would be a challenge, but volunteers pulled together to make this event a reality," said Veronique Gipson, Executive Director of the Donaldsonville Tourism Commission.

The competition was highlighted by two commendations being made in honor of Mrs. Janice Julien Schonberg, Miss Sesquibelle 1972. Presenting commendations was State Representative Roy Quezaire on behalf of a proclamation made by Governor Kathleen Blanco. Additionally, Mayor Leroy Sullivan also commended Mrs. Schonberg for her achievements in the community. Finally, Mrs. Schonberg was re-crowned and sashed by event sponsors Susan Phillips of Merle Norman. "This was one of the most beautiful and touching events I have attended in quite some time," commented Phillips. "I couldn't hold back the tears during the presentation to Mrs. Schonberg. Donaldsonville is blessed to have individuals like Mrs. Schonberg. They remind us what our true purpose in life is and why we cherish Donaldsonville so much. Her commitment to the city, to charity, and to God makes her one of the greatest residents this community has ever had," Phillips concluded.

This year's Bicentennial Pageant was emceed by Lee Melancon, a native of Donaldsonville and resident of Prairieville. The pageant included several competition categories including model walk, interview, photogenic, congeniality, and the queen competition. Winners in each division were: Congeniality; Deborah Diggs, Interview; Mindy Miglicco, Photogenic; Kristin Capone, and Model; Ashley Barbier.

Crowns for Little Miss Donaldsonville were awarded to Lindsey Harrell; Miss Teen Donaldsonville; Kacey Elphage, Mrs. Donaldsonville; Deborah Diggs, and Miss Donaldsonville Bicentennial; Mindy Miglicco.

Sponsors for the event included its major sponsor Merle Norman and its contributing sponsors MPower Group, Long and Long, The Grapevine Restaurant, Walmart, Walgreens, Cabahanosee Antiques and Gifts, Ourso's Flower Shop and Gifts, Flowers by Teapot, Alvin Batiste/Rossie's Custom Frames and Things, and Café Lafourche.

In the upcoming days, the queens will be scheduled for historical training, photo-shoots, and promotional appearance scheduling. "There are many future events coming featuring our new pageant winners including feature articles outlining their history and upcoming platform for community service to Donaldsonville," said event coordinator, Kasey Perry. "We know that this is just the beginning of many great things to come," she concluded.