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"Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens International"

Date confirmed in “Cash Box” magazine (archived) (“Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens International contest… Final competition held July 28-29 at the Cocoanut Grove”)

Sheryl Pillard, contest winner, personal blog (June 26, 2009) (archived)

I was just a 16 year old from Prospect, Connecticut when I had the privilege to meet Michael Jackson... That day [of fulfilling my dream to meet Michael] came and it came in a big and memorable manner. Not only did I meet Michael but as you can see from the photo… Michael Jackson crowned me… me, a small town girl from Prospect, CT, Miss Talented Teen International! What an honor… Michael was so gracious and I will cherish these memories.

Photo description in founder Hal Jackson’s “The House that Jack Built” autobiography (2003) (archived)

Hal and Michael Jackson with Sheryl Pillard, 1978 winner of “Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen International” contest.

Chris Cadman, author, “Michael Jackson the Maestro”

Michael performed ‘Different Kind Of Lady’ and ‘The Greatest Love Of All’ at Hal Jacksons Talented Teens in July, 1978, that was televised on the 23rd August, 1978 in the USA.

Randy and Janet performed ‘Love Song’ the B-side of Randy’s debut single. ‘How Can I Be Sure?’

Sixteen year old gymnast Sheryl Piland took the crown. She had earlier performed a song from the ‘Wiz’ on the show.