When Sharie de Castro’s name was called as Miss BVI, 
she clasped her hands together and then raised them in the air, looking up and murmuring what looked to be a quick prayer.
The Elmore Stoutt High School English teacher had just competed with Lavanta Thompson, Michelle Parsons, Latoya Donovan and Ana John during the Miss BVI Pageant at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex on Aug. 5.
Many of Ms. de Castro’s supporters, who crowded around the stage as she took her first walk, waved fans with her picture on them. Others took photos as she carried a bouquet of flowers and a wand.
The competition had begun with all the contestants dancing together. During the performance, they wore skirts and blouses that resembled the outfits typically worn by the BVI Heritage Dancers.
See the Aug. 16, 2012 edition for full coverage.
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