New Hope United Methodist pageant winners

New Hope UMC held its first 50th State Pageant in 32 years. The first was held in 1984 with Sheila Forts declared the winner. This year’s winner was Melanie Danise Gray. Sponsored by Women on the Move, an extension of the United Methodist Women, the pageant was held to raise funds for a utility house for the church. Each young lady represented a different state. The winner was determined by the amount of money raised. Miss Melanie Gray was crowned Miss New Hope Unity with a total of $1,020. The pageant was held at Hope Banquet Hall in Riverdale.

Shown above are (L-R) Melanie Gray, overall winner; Mrs. Janie Gates, first runner-up in her age group (21 and up); Rankiel Dixon, first runner-up in her age group (13-20); and Laula Coughman from Rising Star Baptist Church, first runner-up in her age group (0-12). Photo/Special.