Borrego Sun - Since 1949

Miss Borrego 2024

 

Last updated 10/14/2024 at 8:20am

Abigail Gonzalez was crowned as the new Miss Borrego Springs on Oct. 12. Ailene Arias was named First Princess and Melanie Valeria Urquidez, Second Princess.

The spotlight shined on stage as the music began to build, with the crowd awaiting the announcement of whom of the five contestants would be named Miss Borrego 2024 – 25 on Oct. 12.

With all the calculation tabulations made by Kathy King, it was time for Master of Ceremonies Fred Jee to make the announcements.

Ailene Arias was named Miss Congeniality, a vote made by each of the contestants. She was also awarded First Princess. Second Princess went to Melanie Valeria Urquidez.

2023 Miss Borrego Angela Fregoso then passed on the reins over to Abigail Gonzalez, the 2024 – 25 winner.

To begin the various categories of the night, it started out with the casual wear portion as the five contestants donned a light brown/pink floral blouse and black pants provided by Borrego Outfitters, while performing a three-minute dance number to the song, "Feel It Still," choreographed by Corie Jaramillo, Committee Member and Stage Manager.

The contestants each made their way back on stage to say one word in which that describes them. Each speech given by the contestants portrayed unique messages of how the word they chosen has built them into who they are today, as well as how their families and community has given them the opportunity to be a better version of themselves.

Nidia Meza, on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce was invited to the stage to say a few words, as well as present a Certificate of Appreciation by San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond. Meza also acknowledged how much Angela Fregoso has done for the community and her commitment to volunteerism. Honorary Mayor Daniel Wright also shared special words to those in attendance.

Judges for the evening were Mary Severe-Pelowitz, Paulette Donnellon and Steve Hunter, who critiqued each contestant carefully, based on personal statements, casual wear, individual speeches, formal wear, and their posture/poise.

After a brief intermission, the contestants were escorted back onto the stage with their respective partners and they wowed the crowd in their stunning evening gowns.

Each contestant was back out on stage to answer individual questions picked from a basket, presented by Miss Borrego 2023 Angela Fregoso, as well as First and Second Princess Jasmile Lopez and Elena Sanchez.

Prior to the announcement of Miss Borrego 2024, Fregoso shared the many things she has learned during her time as Miss Borrego.

"I will always cherish the moment I was crowned Miss Borrego Springs 2023 – 2024. Achieving this title was a dream come true and a significant accomplishment for me. Participating in the Miss Borrego Springs pageant was about much more than just winning a crown. All the amazing young ladies who took part grew more confident and improved their social and public speaking skills. We formed close bonds and created many cherished memories that will last a lifetime. I am incredibly grateful for the experience of participating in the Miss Borrego Springs pageant. It was such a life-changing experience I will carry on forever."

Fregoso concluded, "To the next Miss Borrego Springs, this is the start of an incredible journey that you will cherish. Remember, this role demands dedication and commitment. By wearing the crown, you represent our town. Wear it with pride and joy, make wise decisions, but most importantly, have fun and enjoy every moment because it goes by so quickly."

"Thank you for allowing me to be your Miss Borrego Springs. I am forever grateful and honored to have had the opportunity to represent our small town. The kindness and love this community offers are the greatest lesson I have learned. As I begin the next chapter of my life, I will always hold Borrego Springs in my heart. I, Angela Fregoso, will forever be Miss Borrego Springs 2023 – 2024."

The new Miss Borrego Springs, First and Second Princesses, as well as Miss Congeniality were then announced and crowned by their predecessors.