Hello Miss Oregon Teen contestants and families!
I had a blast competing and meeting new friends at the National Pageant in California! After an exhausting but fun-filled week, I placed third in the Top Model competition and won the prestigious Golden Achievement in Service Award for my Books for Soldiers drive, for which I mailed 1500 books to soldiers overseas.
None of my accomplishments this year would have been possible without the loving support of my family. Mom and Dad, you are the foundation of my life and I owe so much to you. Brian and Patrick, you two are the most supportive brothers a girl could have; thank you for being troopers at all of these girlie competitions. I love you all and appreciate your influence in making me the woman I’ve become.
To my grandparents, friends, and Ben, thank you for making this year so memorable with your love and support. Matt Leverton and NAM staff, thank you for hosting a pageant that truly influences girls’ lives. To my sister queens Summer, Alex, Madeline, and Gabriella: you girls are the best! I’ve had such a blast on all our adventures with each of you this year and will miss our get-togethers!
To all of the contestants, this weekend will bring so many gifts to you. Embrace each opportunity and challenge yourselves to become your personal best. The skills you will learn over pageant weekend will be useful for the rest of your lives! And to my successor, have fun taking advantage of all the opportunities that this honor presents; your year will fly by and fill your life with memories. Keep shining your light on the world!
I have had the time of my life representing Oregon for the past year.
Your Miss Oregon Teen 2009,
Kelli McBee
