PHOTO BY BLACKWATER VIDEO PRODUCTIONS

Outgoing winner Lacey Minchew helps Miss Teen America '03 Alysha Castonguay steady her new crown.

Miss Teen America 2003

After a memorable Fourth of July, the fireworks kept crackling another night on-stage.

Just as a fever spikes before it breaks, the heat of competition came to a peak at the Nashville, TN, Gaylord Entertainment Center in July 2003, precisely as five young women tensely awaited the announcement that would confirm their places in the 2003 Miss Teen America Pageant. An entire year of preparation, one week of rehearsals, and several hours of competition came down to one moment when these names were called in reverse order of finish: Fourth Alternate, Christen Wright (GA); Third Alternate, Caressa Cameron (VA); and Second Alternate, Chelsey Fahey (IL). Only two young women remained. As Jessie Gross faced Alysha Castonguay hand-in-hand, the tension grew. The First Alternate position went to... Jessie Gross (FL). With that, Miss Ocean State Alysha Castonguay had the thrill of hearing her name called as Miss Teen America 2003. The fast-paced weeklong competition included fun diversions, including a group autograph-signing appearance at Opry Mills Mall, a welcome party where the only attire that was designated was a crazy hat, line-dance lessons at the world-renowned Wild Horse Saloon, and a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

For the complete story and all the details on this and other exciting competitive events from across America, as well as a wealth of advice to improve your chances of victory, be sure to order Pageantry today.