STAFFORD – Even some raindrops could not stop Stafford Township’s celebration of Founders Day 2021. Three days of indoor and outdoor activities created memories that some will never forget.
The pandemic resulted in cancellation of the popular event last year. The Stafford Township Recreation Department decided Founders Day 2021 would be like no other – three days of fun.
Festivities began on Thursday, June 10 with a special gathering at Mill Creek Pavilion. The Senior Citizen and Former Grand Marshall Picnic began at 11 am.
The crowning of Stafford’s youngest community ambassadors and newest royalty found their competition relocated on June 11th, because of rain. Originally scheduled for the Memorial Courtyard behind Town Hall, officials moved the pageant to the Stafford Township Community Center.
“It’s good to see we’re almost back to normal,” said Stafford Township Council President Tom Steadman. “We have our fingers crossed for next year that we are going to have a parade.”
For nearly six decades, a prelude to Founders Day has included the tradition of selecting a Little Miss Stafford, Little Town Crier, Junior Miss Stafford and Miss Stafford. Those handing over their titles held on to them for an additional year as a result of the pandemic.
Judy Brown performed as the emcee for the contestants – back for the sixth time. The selection of Little Miss Stafford and Little Town Crier came first. The interview portion proved interesting.
Science appeared to be a favorite subject for the youngest participants, although one answer brought chuckles from the audience.
“What is your favorite thing to do in class,” Brown asked Liam Stabile, who competed for the title of Little Town Crier.
“Naptime,” Liam replied.
Liam also revealed that he plans to be a firefighter when he grows up. His answers may well have helped Liam become Little Town Crier 2021.
The judges named Capri Butler as Little Miss Stafford 2021. She plans to be an actress when she grows up and likes sounding out words and learning how to read.
Contestants participating in the Junior Miss Stafford and Miss Stafford competition faced a different set of interview questions. Kealia Grace Smith, ultimately named Junior Miss Stafford 2021, was asked what she would do if she was invisible for a day.
“I love playing much and going to the orchestra,” said Kealia, a cellist, “I would really love to go see a Philadelphia Orchestra concert. Also, I’d like to do anything in my power to help make someone’s day a little bit better.”
Judges named Alyssa Antonelli as Miss Stafford 2021 and Makayla Alessi as first runner up. Both modeled casual outfits and formal wear as part of the competition.
During the interview portion of the contest, Brown asked Alyssa what quality she liked most about herself. Alyssa said that she liked that she was independent and credited someone near to her with instilling the quality.
“It’s due to my mother,” Alyssa explained. “She treats me and teaches me how to do stuff on my own and it’s made me a better woman, today.”
On Saturday June 12 the celebration continued with an early morning start at Lake Manahawkin. Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs 2021 brought adults and children together for lots of fun.
The Impulsives, a Jersey shore favorite band, played an outdoor concert as residents waited for the grand Founders Day finale. Fireworks lit up the sky at the end of the night at the Doc Cramer Sports Complex.
