HAGERSTOWN MD.  Historic Places.  Coming Events.  Posted to Localism.com, by Margaret Woda. 

The Miss Maryland Pageant began today, with contestants arriving in Hagerstown for a hectic week of rehearsals, appearances and competition (June 24-July 1).  If you've never been to Hagerstown or to a Miss America state pageant preliminary, this is a great opportunity for you to experience both.  And you still have time to get tickets, which are very affordable.

Competition is held Wednesday thru Sunday at the historic Maryland Theater on Potomac Street, one of Maryland's genuine treasures.  Visiting that venue is worth the trip to Hagerstown from anywhere in the state.  Built in 1915, partially destroyed by fire in the 1970's and re-opened in 1978, the ambiance of the theater takes you back to a different time.  There is an historic pipe-organ, wonderful acoustics, box seats overlooking the stage, beautiful lighting, and seating for about 1300 people.  It's really a breath-taking facility!

Twenty "Miss" contestants, representing Anne Arundel County and other areas of the state, will first compete in talent, swimsuit, evening gown and private interview on Wednesday and Thursday.  The finals will be on Saturday night, and the winner will advance to the Miss American Pageant to represent Maryland - as did Brittany Lietz of Edgewater, last year.   On Friday night, fifteen young ladies will compete for Miss Maryland Outstanding Teen.   

For ticket information, contact Richard Kibler - (540) 722-8007 - or purchase them at the Maryland Theater Box Office - )301)790-2000.  All performances take place at 8 p.m.

Remember Margaret in Maryland for real estate in the D.C.-Baltimore-Annapolis triangle.