Janyla McKoy, crowned Queen of the 46th Cinderella Ball, hosted by the Alpha Mu Chapter of Alpha Pi Chi National Sorority, Inc.

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The Alpha Mu Chapter of Alpha Pi Chi National Sorority, Inc., of Rockingham, sponsored its 46th Cinderella Ball on Friday, crowning Janyla McKoy as queen.

“We invite girls, ages 7-12, to join the Sorors of Alpha Mu to participate in a variety of activities geared to promoting positive life experiences early,” said Yvonne Rush-Wright. “Our goal is to assist in the formulation of good character, enhancement of social graces, leadership skills and positive principals of living.”

Wright said the crowning of the queen was the highlight of the night.

“Janyla was introduced to the pageant by her grandparents, Malcom and Carol McBride, and her parents, Antonio McKoy and Krystal Williams,” said Wright.

“My daughter, goddaughter and now my granddaughter have all participated in the Cinderella Ball,” said Carol McBride. “The whole family, and our friends, came together to help Janyla with her fundraisers. It’s a great experience, and all the girls get so much out of it - not just the girl who’s crowned queen.”

McBride said that the girls “learn to walk, talk and eat like ladies - and they have the chance to learn about responsibilities,” because they have to follow through on their service projects.

“The girls, and their escorts, even learned how to waltz,” said McBride. “Everyone waltzed at the ball - it was something to see them doing all the steps.”

According to Wright, the primary goals of the pageant include helping the girls learn proper social etiquette through charm school, and to offer educational financial assistance through savings bonds.

“We provide the opportunity for Cinderellas and their escorts to service the community during projects for Relay for Life, Martin Luther King Walk and the Richmond County Christmas Parade Luncheon,” said Wright. “We have also partnered with American Red Cross, the men’s shelter in Hamlet and Our Daily Bread - among others.”

Brionna Ratliff was Maid of Honor, Alana McRae, Essence Williams and Comasia Blue were Attendants.

Alpha Pi Chi National Sorority, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) service organization for “professional and business women” dedicated to the principles and ideals of a true democracy. It is our purpose to promote ethical concepts in human relations; to study and understand current issues on all levels; to teach civic responsibilities; and to develop members socially, culturally, and intellectually. The organization has more than 40 chapters in the U.S.