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Miss Norway of Greater New York 2010

People streamed into Arthur Nilsen Hall with an air of anticipation as 2 p.m. approached. Vibeke Steineger, chair of the event, stepped to the podium to welcome the audience who had come from far and wide to be part of the festivities. She noted that one contestant’s grandmother had flown in from Norway just for the occasion.

Rolf Stang stepped up to the podium assuming his usual role as the Master of Ceremonies added his wit and keen observations to the contest. He introduced ten contestants vying for the 2010 crown: Eryka Eikeseth, Kathryn Hansen, Eliza Hildreth, Katrina Holvik, Stefani Jensen, Annalisa Kristoffersen, Brianna Patane, Kristi Patane, Helene Rell and Freia Titland. 

Each accomplished young woman was escorted to the stage by midshipmen from Kings Point Naval Academy. The contestants were asked about their achievements, about their interest in their Norwegian heritage, and about their future plans.

Helene Rell of Saugerties, N.Y. was crowned Miss Norway of Greater New York 2010 and received a round-trip ticket to Norway as one of her prizes. Eliza Hildreth of Port Jefferson, N.Y. was first runner up. Second runner-up was Eryka Eikeseth, a student at SUNY New Paltz.    

From left to right: Kathryn Hansen,Brooklyn NY- Katrina Holvik,Port Jefferson NY - Annalisa Kristoffersen,Raleigh NC - Eliza Hildreth,Port Jefferson NY - Helene Rell, Saugerties NY- Eryka Eikeseth, New York NY - Freia M. Titland, Nanuet NY - Brianna Patane, Hillsborough NJ - Kristi Patane, Hillsborough NJ

The Heritage Prize is a special feature of this contest. Freia Titland won the title and both she and Miss Norway 2010 will appear at events throughout the year telling of their experiences representing the Norwegian American community.

Miss Norway photos by Berit Hessen

Little Miss Norway

Ten små piker (little girls from 4-10 years of age) took part in the Little Miss Norway Pageant. During intermission they came to the stage, gave their names and said a phrase in Norwegian. Every girl was a winner and received a prize. They met the adult contestants and were invited to attend the 17th of May Parade as part of Miss Norway’s court.