Oregon Princess Queen Gabriella Torkornoo volunteered at the Oregon state fair as a greeter and handed out programs on Aug. 28, 2009. She enjoyed being the official greeter at the front Gate on opening day of the fair. This State fair marked Oregon’s 150th anniversary! Gabriella handed out programs and got her picture taken for the local newspaper. It was a long day standing in the rain at times, but the happy face never left this 5 year old. That same evening she was invited to hand out winning ribbons at the horse show that was held at the fair. The emcee of the show commented that he was impressed at how comfortable and professional she seemed while getting her pictures taken with the winners and their horses. He said “Not many adults, let alone children I’ve seen are that comfortable standing next to a horse”. Gabriella’s mother told me “I was happily surprised to see Gabriella act so professional and enjoy what she was doing. It seemed like she was an old pro at it. What a great feeling it is to see your child blossom right in front of your eyes! What a joy it is to watch them find something they are really good at and enjoy! Thank you NAM for giving Gabriella this opportunity and allowing me to see her run with it!”
