The Grappone Conference Center rocked with laughter during the Mr. Concord Pageant. Adam Sexton, of WMUR Channel 9 served as Master of Ceremonies, introducing each of the eight candidates, as they worked the crowd.
The contestants showed off their talents to the delight of an adoring audience, while a panel of bribed judges and those who were willing to pay to vote, cast their ballots for the People’s Choice Award. Each contestant offered a valuable item to be auctioned off, which brought on exciting bidding wars.
Then the crowd quieted and the topic turned serious, as each contestant answered pageant questions and told personal stories related to the problems of human trafficking and domestic violence. Only the panel of judges voted on those responses.
After the votes were tallied, Peter McNamara, President of N.H. Automobile Dealers Association was named the new Mr. Concord. Jeremy Woodward of Jeremy’s Bootcamp was first runner-up and Brian Harlow an advocate for those in need was named second runner-up. As Mr. Concord, McNamara will work to help increase awareness regarding domestic abuse and human trafficking.
The Concord Contemporary Club hosts this annual event to raise funds for the Crisis Center of Central New Hampshire in their work to curb human trafficking and domestic violence. Some other local charities also benefit from the money raised.
“The contestants’ answers were honest and heartfelt, and the Mr. Concord Pageant was once again a night to remember,” said Tina Smith, president of the club. “The CCC is grateful for the community’s support and look forward to next year!”