West Cook News

The Cicero Mexican Cultural Committee held its annual Mexican Queen Pageant on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 5:30 PM, celebrating the theme “Time of Women.” The event featured a group of young women competing for the title of Miss Cicero.

Maru Ayala, President of the Cicero Mexican Cultural Committee, expressed her delight with the event’s success. “We are very pleased, we are very happy to have this event. Every year it gets better, honestly harder and harder for the judges,” she shared. Ayala attributed the success of the event to the support of President Larry Dominick, saying, “This is all possible because of President Larry Dominick. He has always supported the Cicero Mexican Cultural Committee.”

As reigning Miss Cicero Emily Apango prepared to pass on her crown, she reflected on her year of service with deep gratitude. “As I close this chapter in my life, I’ll always cherish the wonderful memories, experiences, and lessons I have learned. I was given this great opportunity to serve my community with pride and ability. I was especially honored to be the first teen to represent the Town of Cicero,” Emily said.

The highlight of the evening was Dayanara Parra being crowned as Miss Cicero 2024-2025. Dayanara, a 21-year-old student at the University of Illinois, captivated the audience with her rendition of “Me Gustas Mucho” in Spanish during the talent portion. When asked about her philosophy of life, she responded, “My philosophy in life is since you only live once, I would like to do as much as I can. I don’t want to regret any decision. I just want to enjoy as best as I can. What I most love in my life is my family. Since they’re always here to support me.”

Overwhelmed with joy after being crowned, Dayanara shared her emotions: “I am really happy. I can’t believe it! I would like to thank my family, my sponsors, and the girls. Everyone was really nice. Ever since I was little, I wanted to participate in a pageant and this was just the right moment,” she said.

Blanca Vargas, Town Trustee, offered heartfelt advice to Dayanara: “You will be able to motivate and inspire other women to continue their education, love their families and be herself. The new Queen represents the Town of Cicero. I would love for her to continue to inspire love and peace in Cicero,” Vargas said.

Commissioner Frank Aguilar reflected on how much the pageant has grown since it began as a small event in 2006: “It has become more of a program to empower women and young ladies; to show them how to be more confident. Dayanara will be active all year round doing community service.” Aguilar extended his gratitude to President Larry Dominick and others who made the event possible.

The evening concluded with an emotional moment as Emily Apango crowned Dayanara Parra as Miss Cicero 2024-2025.