The celebration of French Heritage Week, as proclaimed by Gov. Charles W. Turnbull, got under way Saturday night with the crowning of Miss French Heritage 2000, Shelli Brin, and French Heritage Princess Pulani Armstrong.
Brin beat out three other young ladies vying for the Miss French Heritage 2000 title in competition at the Mahogany Run convention center. A senior at All Saints Cathedral School, Brin also won Best Evening Wear.
Brenda Aubain was first runner-up and was selected as Miss Intellect, Miss Popularity and Most Cooperative. Other contestants included Jennifer Greaux and Rita Ledee. Both tied for Miss Congeniality, and Greaux was named Miss Photogenic.
In the princess competition, Armstrong virtually stole the show, walking away with the title and four of six awards. The 9-year-old was named Miss Intellect, Miss Photogenic, Best Evening Wear and Most Cooperative. Shanelle Brin, the first runner-up, was named Miss Popularity and received the award for Best Talent.
On Sunday a day-long arts and crafts fair was held on the grounds of Sib's ballpark. Participants displayed arts, crafts, delicacies, plants and handmade goods. There were pony rides for the younger folks and food and drinks on sale. Health screenings were offered by the Department of Health. Lions Club volunteers offered blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar testing.
On Friday, Bastille Day, the events will continue with a formal program that evening at the Magens Point Hotel. Live music will follow the formal program.
The activities will culminate Sunday with the annual Bastille Day Kingfish Tournament in Hull Bay, according to Sen. Lorraine Berry, the coordinator of many of the French Heritage Week activities.
