Gasparilla Pageant To Benefit Locks Of Love

From The Tampa Tribune

The 4th Annual Gasparilla Pageant is right around the corner and organizers are encouraging early registration to ensure a spot!  The event crowns the Titles of Miss Gasparilla, Miss Teen Gasparilla and Mrs. Gasparilla in gala fashion February 20 and 21at the Tampa Convention Center.

This year’s Gasparilla Pageant features added optional categories of SuperModel and Talent, for which separate prizes will be awarded.  “They’re fun extras!” states Stephanie Sims, Pageant Director and Founder of www.GasparillaPageant.com.  The pageant has age divisions for everyone.

“We’re looking for individuals that will be role models and represent the Tampa Bay area with pride and dignity during their 2010 reign, through community service, pubic appearances and other events.”  Winners and participants will enjoy great prizes, crowns, sashes, jewelry, gifts from local sponsors, being highlighted in many Gasparilla-themed events, making appearances, television and print coverage, etc.  And of course, the Parades.

Gasparilla Pageant 2010 is not your typical pageant, however.  It’s about something more.  The event is an awareness benefit for Locks of Love, a national charity whose mission is to provide custom-fitted hair for children who suffer from hair loss due to cancer treatments and other causes.  “We wanted this pageant to showcase beauty on the inside.”  Sims adds. Locks of Love was founded to help children feel better about themselves and have self-esteem.  Retail value of the hair is approximately $3,500 per child.

While it’s clear that contestants in this pageant might not be willing to “part with their ponytails”, (a company slogan), the pageant offers free participation to any contestant who either donates hair themselves or brings someone to the Pageant with them who will.  Stylists from Paul Mitchell will be on hand to help with hair and make-up.  Celebrity guests and judges, visiting Royalty and entertainment industry representatives will be in attendance, as well.

The 2007 and 2008 winners got to take part in a special photo shoot at the H.B. Plant Museum to commemorate Gasparilla’s centennial year, parade participation, and several television appearances, among other functions.

To enter the pageant, for sponsor/vendor opportunities or for tickets, call Pageant Headquarters at (813) 892-5502.  The event’s web site is www.GasparillaPageant.com.