Miss America Contestants Introduced at Kennedy Plaza on AC Boardwalk

Photos, story by Lou Perri

Miss America Competition‘s 95th Anniversary gets its start with a welcoming event.  The 52 contestants’ arrival ceremony kicks off a week of festivities and events around Atlantic City leading into a week of preliminary competitions, culminating in the live telecast on ABC,  Sunday, Sept. 13 at 9 to 11 p.m. (EST).

In attendance to welcome the contestants to Atlantic City included the organization’s partners, sponsors, and government dignitaries, including the  Hon. Kim Guadagno, Lt. Governor of New Jersey; the  Hon. Don Guardian, Mayor of Atlantic City; Jeff Guaracino, Executive Director, Atlantic City Alliance;  Dr. Marilouise Venditti, MD, Chief Me Y the Miss America contestants gathered in front of the historic Boardwalk Hall to celebrate the dical Officer, AtlantiCare;  Jim Wood, President & CEO, MeetAC;  Sam Haskell, III, Executive Chairman & CEO, Miss America Organization;  Lynn Weidner, Chairman of the Board, Miss America Organization; and  Josh Randle, Chief Operating Officer, Miss America Organization.

“On behalf of the State of New Jersey, I am pleased to congratulate and welcome this year’s 52 contestants, who have distinguished themselves through their leadership, advocacy, and talent,” said Lt. Governor Guadagno.  “This anniversary year marks an important step in the shared history between Miss America and Atlantic City, and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones together.”