EAST CHICAGO | Contestants are now being sought for the 2009-2010 Fiestas Patrias Scholarship Pageant, a tradition that's been around for nearly six decades.

The U.B.M.-La Union Benefica Mexicana has been the official sponsor of "Las Fiestas Patrias" since the 1950s. The pageant selection leads to the September 16th Mexican Independence Day Celebration and is only one of a series of events to prepare for "Las Fiestas Patrias Mexicanas" (Mexican Patriotic Festivities) held annually in East Chicago.

This is a wonderful opportunity for young Hispanic women who want to pursue a college education to compete in the UBM pageant for a chance to win a scholarship. To qualify for the open call, contestents should be high school and college female students of Mexican descent, between the ages of 17-24 who are single, never been married and who don't have children and preferably speak Spanish.

"It's a great venue for the girls to learn about their rich culture and heritage; build long lasting friendships, and walk away with lifelong skills," said Rosie Malagón Pageant Coordinator.

After months of preparation the qualifying candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to the process, will compete in the pageant. Malagón said that this year the group's musical number will feature a classical piece highlighting the traditional sound of the mariachi.

The U.B.M. is comprised of Mexicans, Americans of Mexican descent, first, second and even third generation Americans from Northwest Indiana, proud of being Americans who have been blessed with the richness of two cultures. Since 1951 the U.B.M. has celebrated "El Grito" at midnight on the 15th of September; followed by the Mexican Independence Day Parade and festivals throughout the community.

"Our very first scholarship pageant took place in 1956" said Tony Barreda, president of the UBM. According to Bareda, before the non-profit organization existed, there were three active Mexican & Mexican American organizations in East Chicago since the 1930s; Benito Juarez, Cuahutemoc, and the Steel Workers Union. These organizations united to form the U.B.M. with the intent of meeting the diverse needs of the Mexican community; promoting cultural awareness, educate, sponsor and celebrate the Mexican culture by keeping its traditions alive in the U.S."

This year's pageant will be held Friday Aug. 21 at Villa Cesare banquet hall located in Schererville. The three young women chosen for the "Royal Court", the Queen, Princess and Lady will be awarded a scholarship, a stunning crown, a sash, and a huge poster picture.

For additional information or to participate in the pageant, please contact Rosie Malagón at: 219 629-6331 or Becky Mendez at (219) 801-0028.