Bakersfield.com

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In front of more than 530 people Saturday, three winners were crowned at the 16th Annual Bakersfield Pageant.
From a field of 35 contestants, Erica George, a junior at Bakersfield Christian was named Teen Miss Bakersfield; BC student, Angelica August, won the Miss Bakersfield title; and Rhenana Grimes, a mother of three and a sign language interpreter at a local elementary school, took home the Mrs. Bakersfield crown.
The theme of the evening was “Salute to Our Veterans.” When Erica George was crowned Teen Miss Bakersfield she got a surprise visit from her brother Zack Julien, who is serving in the Army. Stationed in Texas and going to Iraq in January, Julien took a last-minute weekend leave to fly in to support his sister.
The winners will advance to the California International state pageant next August in Los Angeles.
April Mitchell was the first runner-up in the Teen Court, and Jessica Martinez was second runner-up. In the Miss Court, Heather O’Conner was first runner-up and Kirby Krausgrill was second runner-up.
The Four Points Sheraton hosted the judges’ accommodations, the Elephant Bar hosted the Judges’ Dinner and the California Pizza Kitchen hosted all of contestants
at a dress rehearsal dinner.
Prizes included a cash scholarship from Wells Acoustics & Alta One Credit Union, tiaras from Daniel’s Jewelers, trophies, flowers, a photo package, fitness memberships, personal training, restaurant certificates, jewelry, facials etc.