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2004 Miss CNMI International returns home
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Posted on Oct 18 2004
Miss 2004 CNMI International Kenyelyn Arriola arrived yesterday afternoon, shortly after she represented the CNMI in the 2004 Miss International pageant held Oct. 16 in Beijing, China.
Arriola was amongst the 58 candidates who competed for the title of 2004 Miss International. Arriola brought home with her an experience of a lifetime through her efforts in representing the islands in one of the world’s prestigious pageants.
“I went through a lot of ups and downs. It was fun, and I had a good time,” she said.
According to Northern Marianas Beauty Pageant Association secretary Jennifer White-Aguon, the pageant was not televised. “Unfortunately because the international cultural association was the organizers for the international pageant in Japan they could not air the pageant. It was viewed briefly, though, by a local Chinese television program, but they did not show the whole event,” she said.
During the pre-pageant activities, the delegates participated in the traditional Toyota Green Campaign, visited the ancient city of Kamakura, learned about Japanese religion and culture in the Kenchoji Temple, attended a press conference, and met with Japan’s Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.
The candidates also took part in presenting dolls that represented their country for charity. “The dolls were put out for auction and the funds raised were given to the organization for underprivileged children,” said White-Aguon.
Miss Colombia Yeimy Paola Vargas was crowned Miss International, while Miss USA Amy Lynne Holbrook bagged first runner-up; second runner-up was Miss Greece Olga Kypriotou.
According to the website, Vargas is the first black contestant to win the Miss International title since the inauguration back in 1960.
The delegates voted on the Miss Goodwill award, which went to Miss Russia; the Miss Friendship award was presented to Miss Hong Kong. Miss China was recognized for best national costume, while Miss Mongolia was awarded for Miss Photogenic.
The pre-pageant activities took place in Japan and China. The pageant itself was held in the People’s Great Hall in Beijing, China. (Cassie Dlg Fejeran)
