Congratulations to Alexandra Ornelas, who was crowned as the 51^st Miss Diamond Bar on Mar. 29!

By Randi Hauser

Diamond Bar – On Sat. Mar. 29, Diamond Bar High School was the host location for the 51^st Annual Miss Diamond Bar Scholarship Pageant. 14 beautiful young women, ages 16 and 17, competed for the crown that was being passed down by Miss Diamond Bar 2014, Taylor Kalinowski, in hopes of becoming the new representative of the City.

In attendance were family, friends, community members and Pageant supporters. Some notable attendees included Council members Carol Herrera, Jimmy Lin, Jack Tanaka and his wife Wanda; and Mayor Pro-Tem, Nancy Lyons, SGV Chamber of Commerce President, John Hsu, and WVUSD Board member, Tony Torng. U.S. Congressman, Ed Royce, also made an appearance for this special day.

Mike Shay, Vice President of the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership, was the co-Master of Ceremonies, along with Miss Diamond Bar 2012, Alexandra Miller. Pageant judges were an interesting mix, ranging from a former Miss Diamond Bar winner to an accomplished racecar driver. According to the event program, “The individuals selected for this honor represent community and business leaders who know what it takes to make a successful title holder.”

The contestants opened the show with a group dance to Taylor Swift’s popular, “Shake It Off,” and judging commenced immediately thereafter.

The ladies came out individually and were asked to select a question card for the on-stage interview. Each participant read their card aloud and answered questions such as, “What is your greatest accomplishment in life?” “If you could have three people over for dinner, who would they be?” and, “Who is your most inspirational teacher?”

As part of any pageant, the ladies were given the opportunity to practice answering these questions ahead of time; however, random selection during the event made for a nervous 60 seconds.  A few “ums” and stutters made for some fun entertainment, but the audience was more excited to see contestants who spoke clearly and confidently, as this is what they were actually being judged on.

The swimsuit competition was the next round, and the ladies were judged on their fitness and poise. Contestants wore their most appropriate one-piece, wrap skirts and heels as they paraded across the stage while MCs Shay and Miller read their biographies.  It was at this time that supporters realized it takes more than just good looks to become Miss Diamond Bar. Many of the contestants are taking AP courses at their high school and are involved in many extra curricular activities including tutoring, volunteering at animal shelters, participating in school bands, and working with children.

The last round before the top five finalists were selected was the infamous walk in the evening gown; contestants were judged on quality, style and presence. A handsome gentleman escorted each young lady to center stage, where sequins, sparkles, bows and tulle were perfectly placed and shining in the bright stage lights. Always a crowd favorite, the evening gown competition shows off each participant as a beautiful princess, as well as an accomplished young woman.

After the presentation of a few pageant awards, the time had come to name the top five contestants:  Katherine Hermosillo, Alexandra Ornelas, Cynthia Preciado, Megan Quon, and Rebecca Wang.  The crowd cheered for their favorites, but the event was not over. These final five ladies had one last opportunity to impress the judges for the crown of Miss Diamond Bar 2015.

The contestants were sent off stage and returned one-by-one to answer the final question: “What qualities do women possess that make them great leaders?” Answers included characteristics such as independence, being a good listener, and confidence – all appropriate qualities for Miss Diamond Bar.

Finally, the time had come to select a winner, and contestants were named off as 4^th, 3^rd, 2^nd and 1^st Runner-Up – with the crown going to Alexandra Ornelas.  Each participant received a variety of gifts and scholarships, according to their placement in the pageant.

Miss Diamond Bar 2015 – Alexandra Ornelas – is a 16-year old junior at Diamond Bar High School. She enjoys singing in the school’s Advanced Chamber Choir and being a cheerleader.  She was recently voted “Most Spirited” by her cheer coaches. Ornelas hopes to one day become a veterinarian, as she loves animals and has a strong work ethic.

Congratulations, Alexandra!  Enjoy your reign as the new Miss Diamond Bar for 2015.