Get to know The 2016-2017 National American Miss Jr. Pre-Teen Emily Ortiz!

March 31, 2017, 12:33 pm

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NAM: Tell us about yourself:

Emily: My name is Emily Ortiz I am 9 years old and love to dance and travel. I have loving parents that push me and support me in whatever I set out to do. I have an older sister named Elizabeth which is also a state queen in Arizona.

NAM: What activities are you involved in?

Emily: I’m a competitive dancer that loves to act and model on my free time. I have been in a few local commercials and booked some modeling photo shoots.

NAM: What are your plans for the future?

Emily:My first goal is to make it to middle school, and in the future attend college. I would love to one day become a cardiovascular surgeon, but in the meantime pursue an acting and modeling career.

NAM: How would your friends describe you?

Emily: My friends would say that I was funny, sweet, and kind, with a great sense of humor.

NAM: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Emily:My mother has instilled in me to be kind and have the courage to do the right thing always.

NAM: How did you prepare for the NAM National pageant?

Emily:To prepare I practiced my intro everywhere! I practiced in the car, in the shower, and while dancing. I was able to work with my interview coach to improve my interview skills. For my optional competitions I had my mom and my sister help me with routines. My dance director Mrs. Kristin choreographed my beautiful dance routine and I practiced and practiced.

NAM: Where is your favorite place to shop?

Emily:I love Justice! They have the cutest accessories and love all their different leggings.

NAM: How have pageants shaped your life?

Emily: Pageants have helped me in so many ways. I am not as shy as I used to be and it gave me the confidence to speak in public.

NAM: What is your most prized possession?

Emily: My most prized possession is a small turtle night light that my grandpa gave me before he passed away because he knew that I was afraid of the dark and when I turn it on I think of him.

NAM: What is your favorite movie?

Emily: My favorite movie is Mrs. Doubtfire! My favorite actor is Robin Williams. The movie is super funny and it’s a movie that my family and I are able to watch together.

NAM: What is your favorite TV show?

Emily: I like a lot of TV shows but my favorite is Liv & Maddie. The show is about 2 sisters having funny experiences and I can relate because I have a sister.

NAM: What advice do you have for future NAM girls?

Emily: I would tell future NAM girls to not be shy, be themselves, and have fun. I would also tell them not to be afraid to make new friends or to try new things.

NAM: If you could be famous for anything what would it be?

Emily: If I could be famous for something it would be for being an actress or a model. That’s the goal!!

NAM: What is your dream job?

Emily: I love acting and modeling, but my dream job would be to become a cardiovascular surgeon so I can help people.

NAM: How do you plan to use your title?

Emily: I want to inspire other girls and help them believe anything is possible when you set your mind to it. I plan on visiting state pageants and helping any contestant any way I can. I also want to bring more awareness to different organizations I currently volunteer with.

NAM: How do you volunteer in your community?

Emily: I work with different organizations like Feed My Starving Children, UMOM shelter, and St. Vincent DePaul.

NAM: What is your favorite subject in school?

Emily: My favorite subjects are Reading and Science because with reading I can use my imagination and in science I learn about a bunch of different things.

NAM: If you had three wishes what would you wish for?

Emily: If I had 3 wishes I would use my first one to make sure that there was no kid that was hungry or homeless. My second wish would be to travel all over the world. My last wish would be to convince my parents to get me a Yorkie puppy!

NAM: What is your biggest fear?

Emily I’m scared of the dark and scared of things popping out at me.

NAM: Who is your role model?

Emily: My mom is my role model. She is always kind, sweet, and has always pushed me to be the best I can be.

NAM: If you could go back in time to any historical event what would it be?

Emily: If I could go back in time I would go back to the day Martin Luther King delivered his “I have a dream” speech because it was very inspiring and made a big difference in the world.

NAM: If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?

Emily: At the dinner table I would have loved to include Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Robin Williams, and Adele.

NAM: What is your favorite part about National American Miss?

Emily: I love NAM because it has taught me lifelong skills like interviewing and learned to not be afraid to speak in public and gained confidence to be on stage. I have also made friends from all over the country.

NAM: How did you get started with NAM? How long have you been involved?

Emily: Like many girls we received a letter for an open call. When we went we loved it and have been doing NAM ever since. That was 3 years ago.

NAM: What is your definition of a NAM girl?

Emily: A NAM girl is a girl that is sweet, kind, confident, poised, and not afraid to try new things.

NAM: What do you like to do for fun?

Emily: For fun I love to dance, go to the movies, and travel with my family.

NAM: What makes your state unique?

Emily: Arizona has one of the wonders of the world The Grand Canyon! The summers are really really hot which make night swimming super fun!

NAM: What is your favorite food?

Emily: My favorite food is Spaghetti & Meatballs especially the meatballs.

NAM: What makes you laugh?

Emily: My mom and friends make me laugh because they are really funny. When I watch TV the shows Liv & Maddie and Good Luck Charlie crack me up.

NAM: What was your first thought you had when you captured your national title?

Emily: When it came down to me and Grace I remember telling her as I gave her a hug that her hair smelled great! Then when I was announced as a winner I couldn’t believe it and was instantly humbled, honored, and thankful.

NAM: People would be surprised to know what about you?

Emily: That I secretly sing in the shower to Adele and before any competition to relax me.

Watch Emily's Commercial!

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Miss Texas Princess will Crown her Successor This Weekend at The 2017 Miss Texas Princess Pageant!

June 12, 2017, 2:53 pm

≫ Next: It has Been an Awesome Year for Miss Texas Pre-Teen Danielle Heiman!

≪ Previous: Get to know The 2016-2017 National American Miss Jr. Pre-Teen Emily Ortiz!

A smart confident, intelligent, goofy little girl with all A’s and B’s on her report card it’s what you call a scholar who is focued on what lies ahead. But unfortunately my journey as Miss Texas Princess of 2016 has come to an end for me this year. During this time I had a lot of FUN exploring new things such as going to Anaheim California in a 34foot RV on wheels that my Glam’ma and step dad drove us all the way thru the rain, up, down and zig sagging threw the mountains to Disneyland. I got a great chance to finally meet the one the only KeLLy RowLand from the R&B group of Destiny’s Child. I took more and more pictures in front of the Disneyland castle with my sister queens from all over the world. I had my very own 1^st photo shoot @ the amazing Discovery Green located downtown. This little Princess helped out the community by giving backpacks to all kids to start a great year of school, to me of course I think that was the most important part in participating with the Back To School organization Natural Heads, participated in another organization that is called Japhet’s Creek where I helped pick up trash and pull up dead weeds also last but not least The Big Love for Cancer Run, where I did get a fair chance to hear, see, and connect with some of the cancer patience’s, I also met up with some of my sister queens that were already there and we took more pictures. I finally ended up in the Black African American News & Issues newspaper, and my entire family, friends and my school has “ME’’ yes ME my face posted on their walls . In conclusion my mom, glam’ma, stepdad, and little sisters along with my church family {The Triumphant Church} and friends were a big part of my success as their Miss Texas Princess state queen. I want to Thank Mr. & Mrs. Steve and Kathleen for creating the N.A.M because without it I think I would have never came out my shell to experience this great opportunity I had, I plan to keep dreaming on and Big and last but certainly not least a special Thanks to Mrs.LaKishia and Mrs. Tiffany along with the entire state pageant director’s who helped me grow within several months.

Who Am I ...I am and forever will be your 2016 Miss Texas Princess Constance Desmore!

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It has Been an Awesome Year for Miss Texas Pre-Teen Danielle Heiman!

June 16, 2017, 5:00 am

≫ Next: It's been an Amazing Year for Miss Oklahoma Teen!

≪ Previous: Miss Texas Princess will Crown her Successor This Weekend at The 2017 Miss Texas Princess Pageant!

Walking into my very first nam state pageant, going through my first check in and hitting the stage for the first time. I never knew that I would be who I am today. Nor did I know that I would become Miss Texas PreTeen.

Every year leading up to my crowning in 2016 I got closer and closer to my dream. Which really drove me to work harder year after year.

My first year I was a 10 year old jr preteen who had zero confidence on stage. After truly falling in love with pageantry, winning what I had worked so hard for, and then getting to represent Texas at nationals and placing 3rd runner up in the country makes every single bit of practicing I ever did worth it. It's not about the trophies, the banners, or even the crowns It's all about the journey, and the growth.

During my now 5 years with nam i've become so much more aware about the world around me and the things that I never thought I could have an impact on. Volunteering has made me so much more grateful and humble. I absolutely adore working at the food pantry and with BIG love cancer care. I've really grown such an appreciation for how strong people can be even in such tough times.

And I didn't do any of this with out help. I couldn't thank my friends, my whole family because it truly takes a village, the man upstairs, and sisters around the world for supporting me through everything. Especially soy sauce aka sawyer and the rest of my glam squad. Mr and Mrs Mayes I couldn't thank y'all enough for creating an organization that changed my life. Y'all and the rest of the nam staff will forever hold a special place in my heart.

To all of the brave, beautiful girls who will stand on the stage pageant weekend. You should be nothing less than proud of yourself by the end of the weekend. You are all dreamers and difference makers. never forget that. To my successor. Never stop taking pictures, be a role model, make a difference, and make this the best year yet. Constance, Jailey, Mackenzie, Idahlia, and Alex you will all forever be my sisters. I love y'all more than words can describe.

For the last time. I am your Miss Texas PreTeen 2016 Danielle Heiman.

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It's been an Amazing Year for Miss Oklahoma Teen!

June 28, 2017, 11:34 am

≫ Next: It has been a fabulous year for Miss Oklhoma 2016!

≪ Previous: It has Been an Awesome Year for Miss Texas Pre-Teen Danielle Heiman!

I dreamed it and so I did it.

God placed a promise in my heart and seven years later, it finally happened.

A long anticipated journey landed me in California at the national pageant where I was honored to make top 10 in the nation!

My work did not stop there as I volunteered at elementary schools weekly leaving me 50 service hours throughout my reign. My year also consisted of volunteering with the Miss Amazing pageant, parades, and reaching nearly 500 kids speaking at school assemblies.

It truly takes a village that devoted their time to see me succeed.

To my sister queens who have become my real sisters: Each of you hold such a special place in my heart and I have no doubt God led us to be together this year.

To my mom and Mitzi, you two are the backbone to my success and dealt with the high roads, the low roads, and all the adventures in between. What a ride it has been.

Lastly, thank you NAM for providing a dream and passion to a once 12-year-old who needed a light to shine. I never knew I could fall in love with something so much. One girl’s life will change forever but for those who don’t walk away with the shiny hat, I was in your spot many more times than I was ever a queen. Hold your head high and let your invisible crown shine.

For the last time, I am you National American Miss Oklahoma Teen 2016, Lexi Spoon

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It has been a fabulous year for Miss Oklhoma 2016!

June 29, 2017, 8:15 pm

≫ Next: What an Awesome Year for Miss Oklahoma Pre-Teen!

≪ Previous: It's been an Amazing Year for Miss Oklahoma Teen!

Being Miss Oklahoma has been so amazing and a dream come true. I have met my best friends through this organization and I know these friendships will last a lifetime! I have volunteered over 30 hours this year by reading to children at local elementary schools, walking in a charity fashion show for Bit-By-Bit Therapeutic Riding Center, working at the Stillwater Humane Society, raised money for Autism Speaks, and raised money for Cowboython for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. I also created my own organization called The Page Project, to help children grow in their reading skills and teach them to tools needed to grow into a stronger reader!

2007 was my first year to compete in NAM, and it has truly been the most amazing 10 years of my life! For many of you young women, this is your first year to be at NAM, and some of you that are returning for another year. Use this experience to grow as a person, make friends, and make memories that will last a lifetime! Take lots of pictures because you don’t want to forget a second of this weekend! Enjoy this experience and shine on that stage! Wishing you all the best!

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What an Awesome Year for Miss Oklahoma Pre-Teen!

June 29, 2017, 8:20 pm

≫ Next: This adorable Princess has had a blast Representing Oklahoma!

≪ Previous: It has been a fabulous year for Miss Oklhoma 2016!

This title of Miss Oklahoma pre-teen has truly been a blessing. I have meet so many friends through this organization and became even more motivated to get involved and help my community. After donating the books and school supplies given at last year’s pageant to Broken Arrow Neighbors, I joined up with my fellow queens to volunteer at the Children’s Cancer benefit run and at numerous food pantries. This May, I hosted a food drive at my school to stock up a local food pantry for the summer. I am also working to help Oklahoman’s have access to the food they need by founding an organization called The Happy Plate.

2014 was my first year to experience National American Miss. I was so excited!!! For some of you this may be a new experience, while others have been here previously; but you are all here to learn and grow as young, talented, and beautiful young women. You have all worked very hard to get here and all of you have earned your spot. Also, realize the amazing blessing you have, to be able to go up on that stage and be confident and beautiful. Treasure this moment and make as many friends as you can. You will make friendships that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the experience and rock it on that stage! When you’re up there it’s your time to shine! I wish the best of luck to all of you.

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This adorable Princess has had a blast Representing Oklahoma!

June 29, 2017, 8:25 pm

≫ Next: Featuring Miss Indiana Teen!

≪ Previous: What an Awesome Year for Miss Oklahoma Pre-Teen!

It has been one year since I was crowned your 2016 Oklahoma Princess, and even at this moment I can still remember the excitement, nervousness, and overwhelming happiness I felt that day. This was my first NAM experience, and it is one that I will never forget.

As your reigning Miss Oklahoma Princess, I loved giving back to the community who has always been so supportive of me. I worked with Tall Tails and Rescue, rode in the parade with our Mayor, and interviewed our State Officials.

The most memorable moments are the times I spent with my sister queens. Each one was always there to give me advice, share a hug with me, and of course take selfies. NAM really creates a sisterhood like no other.

Thank you to my Nana who was my personal stylist, and to my family who gave me the biggest and loudest cheering section. Thank you to Miss Dani for teaching me how to be my best. Lastly, thank you to NAM for this opportunity. I hope to be able to spend several more years on your stage.

Finally, to my successor, enjoy your time as the new Miss Oklahoma Princess. Make lots of memories, help your community, and spend time with your sister queens because you might just find your new best friend. If I can leave you with anything, it would be to have fun and smile… always. For the last and final time, I am your Oklahoma Princess Amilia Garcia.

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Featuring Miss Indiana Teen!

June 29, 2017, 9:08 pm

≫ Next: It is a Top 5 Finish for Miss Ohio Pre-Teen 2016!

≪ Previous: This adorable Princess has had a blast Representing Oklahoma!

This beauty will crown her successor next weekend! Thank you Bailey Jacqueline Perez for an amazing year of serve as Miss Indiana Teen!

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It is a Top 5 Finish for Miss Ohio Pre-Teen 2016!

June 29, 2017, 9:14 pm

≫ Next: Miss Ohio Pre-Teen Cover Girl has had an Amazing Year!

≪ Previous: Featuring Miss Indiana Teen!

My journey began 4 years ago when I received an open call letter from NAM. I was just a 9 year old girl who was always willing to try new things. So I gave it a shot! Little did I know that one piece of paper would change my life forever. Hearing my name called on stage last year and being crowned was such an amazing feeling. I knew then all my hard work and dedication had paid off. I am truly honored to be your 2016 Miss Ohio Preteen.

Soon after receiving the title I started thinking about nationals! I was so excited to meet my NAMily and represent the great state of Ohio on the big stage. National’s week went by way too fast. My adventure in Hollywood was nothing less than amazing. I made lifelong friendships with so many wonderful girls and memories that I will cherish forever. Walking away as 2^nd runner up was the icing on the cake! I could not have been more proud of myself.

I have spent the last year making a difference in my community through charity events and volunteering. I took part in raising money for Dayton Children’s Hospital, The Alzheimer’s Association, and The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America. I volunteered at the local food bank, soup kitchen, and nursing home. I participated in the St. Bernard Memorial Day Parade/Ceremony in honor of our fallen heroes. I’ve continued Megan’s Manicure for retired seniors, adding a little color in their lives.

My year has been incredible! I am truly blessed to be part of such a wonderful organization that empowers girls to make a difference in the world. I have learned so many life lessons over the last 4 years. I am forever changed. I am PROUD!! I am STRONG!! I am CONFIDENT!! I am Megan Frey your 2016 Miss Ohio Preteen.

Best of luck to all of the girls competing. It’s your time to shine!! Remember, “A smile is the best makeup any girl can wear”.

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Miss Ohio Pre-Teen Cover Girl has had an Amazing Year!

June 30, 2017, 8:38 pm

≫ Next: Miss Michigan Pre-Teen has had an Awesome Year Representing NAM!

≪ Previous: It is a Top 5 Finish for Miss Ohio Pre-Teen 2016!

A little over a year ago my journey to becoming your National American Miss National Cover Model began with me simply going out in to my community to talk about NAM. I wanted to tell others about NAM and how this organization has changed me and helped me to grow and come out of my shell. Who knew it would lead to my being crowned the Ohio Pre-Teen Cover Girl? At my crowning I cried so much, because I was so excited and my good friend Lilly got to crown me, which made it even better!

As I prepared for Nationals I went out to obtain more advertising. During that time I also had the opportunity to meet up with local law enforcement officers to give them goody bags. I also got to meet my state Representative Scott Lipps. Volunteering with Our Daily Bread to serve families a hot meal was so fun and truly rewarding.

I was so excited to head to Nationals and the fact that it was my first time flying made it even more memorable. My time in California was amazing – making new friends and attending all the themed rehearsals, getting to tour Hollywood and Disney with my sister queens was a blast! The week was capped off with Thanksgiving and being crowned National Cover Model! It was an experience I will always treasure!

I want to thank Mr. and Mrs. Mayes for this wonderful organization, you make dreams come true! The entire NAM staff work so hard to carry out that vision. Thank you to mom & dad, nana & papa and everyone else for making this possible! Love you!!

To my successor – work hard and be yourself and more than anything have fun! To all the girls here tonight – you are all winners whether you walk out with a crown or not, after all you made it this far! And who knows where you will go after that!

So now, signing off - I am Lindsey Spofford, your 2016 Ohio Pre-Teen Cover Girl.

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Miss Michigan Pre-Teen has had an Awesome Year Representing NAM!

July 1, 2017, 11:15 am

≫ Next: We are so proud of Miss Illinois Jr. Teen!

≪ Previous: Miss Ohio Pre-Teen Cover Girl has had an Amazing Year!

They say time flies when you're having fun, and fun is exactly what I had! After winning the 2016 Michigan Preteen title I have been blessed to attend many events and volunteer opportunities. Some of my favorite memories were volunteering with my sister queens at the Ronald McDonald house, riding in the Woodward Dream Cruise, attending the International Auto Show, attending the Michigan State Fair and making new friends as visiting royalty at other state pageants.

The most exciting experience was heading to nationals in sunny California to compete for the National Title! At Nationals I competed in Photogenic, Casual Wear, and Volunteer Service. My favorite things were the themed rehearsals where I won a spirit stick for my patriotic wear, the Car drawing, Thanksgiving Dinner and heading to Disney for the day. They truly felt like a queen!

A special thank you to God, for giving me the strength and confidence to always chase my dreams. My State and National directors who were always there to assist when needed. To the entire NAM staff for all that you do to create such a great program for young girls to build confidence. To my sister queens for all the laughs and good times during our reign, you will always hold a special place in my heart. To my family who has always been there for me every step of the way. I love you more than you know.

A note to the contestants competing this weekend. Stay confident, smile, and have fun! This weekend will fly by so remember to take lots of pictures to look back on. Most importantly, even if you don’t walk away with the title, you will walk away with so much more. You will make new friends, memories, and gain confidence just by being here. Always remember to hold your head high and be yourself.

"I can do all this through Christ who strengthens me"- Philippians 4:13

Love Always,

Katelyn Faith Orta

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We are so proud of Miss Illinois Jr. Teen!

July 1, 2017, 11:27 am

≫ Next: Featuring Miss Indiana Jr. Teen!

≪ Previous: Miss Michigan Pre-Teen has had an Awesome Year Representing NAM!

National American Miss has shaped my life. I stepped on the National American Miss stage for the first time in middle school so excited to compete in my first pageant. Had I not attended the open call in my first business casual outfit, I would not be who I am today. The interview skills gained, the friendships that now include facetiming my pageant friends at least once a month and I am consistently snapchatting them I am so grateful for! After competing for three years, having my name called as the new National American Miss Illinois Junior Teen was an amazing blessing. I was able to participate in so many events this past year representing the number one pageant system. I walked in charity fashion shows, went to fundraiser galas, and other community events. Over the summer after being crowned I traveled to Ohio for the NAM pageant with Miss Indiana Junior Teen Taylor! Taylor and I were crowned together so traveling to Ohio and spending time with her was amazing and I loved meeting all the contestants. At the end of summer I also traveled to Wisconsin where my new best friend Lila was crowned.In addition in November I was able to compete for the national title. Nationals in California was a week to remember. I bonded with all my fellow NAM Junior Teens and one of my best friends Makenzie won the national title! Disney day was my favorite to spend with all the girls. Without National American Miss in my life I would be missing out on some of the best memories. I am beyond grateful to forever be apart of this system and the NAMily. To the future NAM Illinois Junior Teen: I can’t wait for you to experience everything so amazing this system brings into your life. I would like to thank my parents for their continuous support in my goals for pageantry. Also, thank you to Marie Fulkerson for making me feel my most confident and beautiful and being a second pageant mom to me. Thank you to all NAM staff for being there to answer questions, supporting me, and always making sure we look fabulous. Finally thank you to Mr. Steve and Mrs. Kathleen Mayes for creating the system shaping so many young women's lives and providing me with a forever family. I have so much love for this system and everyone involved.

Forever with love,

Miss Illinois Junior Teen 2016- Jacey Johnson

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Featuring Miss Indiana Jr. Teen!

July 1, 2017, 12:01 pm

≫ Next: Farewell, But Not Goodbye for Miss Indiana Pre-Teen!

≪ Previous: We are so proud of Miss Illinois Jr. Teen!

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Farewell, But Not Goodbye for Miss Indiana Pre-Teen!

July 1, 2017, 12:32 pm

≫ Next: What an Amazing Year for Miss Michigan Teen Cover Girl!

≪ Previous: Featuring Miss Indiana Jr. Teen!

I cannot believe my year as Miss Indiana Pre-teen is already coming to an end! I think the only thing more shocking than winning my very first pageant, has been how fast this year has gone.

This year has been beyond amazing and truly life changing! I am so grateful that my first pageant was at National American Miss! I could not imagine a more welcoming and encouraging group of people than all the wonderful people that make the National American Miss pageant such a great experience.

A year ago, I showed up to NAM expecting to learn a few things and to hopefully overcome fears of speaking (and yes, singing) in front of others. Boy, did NAM do just that and so much more!

I remember walking out of the hotel the day after the finale with my new crown and sash that I had earned, worked hard for, and so appreciated. I felt as if I could walk up to any stranger and start a conversation.

I felt as if I was part of something greater than a pageant. I was representing girls from around Indiana. It gave me a deeper strength which ultimately bolstered me during a difficult time in my life and helped me turn it into something good for others.

You see, just days after I won my crown, I learned that my cousin had committed suicide. It was then that I decided that I could no longer stand by while people I knew and loved faced struggles so great that they felt the need to end their lives. Encouraged by all that I had seen my sister queens do before me, I decided to start my own charity! I wanted to start a charity that would not only help people, but would prove to other girls that they could make a big difference in their communities, no matter their age.

I learned that my home state of Indiana has the second highest suicide rate in the country. I also learned that kids who choose not to commit suicide are often good readers or had someone encourage them by sharing a positive story of hardship and survival.

I knew how much reading has contributed to my success and happiness in life, so I started a charity called KINDLES FOR KIDS. It is an organization that promotes literacy by distributing Kindles to those kids dealing with difficult times.

By giving Kindles filled with positive and emotionally supportive stories to homeless and domestic violence shelters, Boys and Girls Clubs of America and other facilities that help kids, I hope to reduce the suicide rate, not only in my home state of Indiana, but throughout the country, as well.

I have conducted fundraisers, and made numerous presentations.

My work through Kindles for Kids has allowed me to impact a wide range of people.

Not only have I distributed Kindles to places close to my home, like Sojourner Truth House in Gary, Indiana,

but also to places as far away as the Annie Malone Home in St Louis, MO.

I have even had the opportunity to act in a music video that highlighted the devastating effect of domestic violence

and was asked to perform the Taylor Swift song, “Mean” at a 4-H event to increase awareness of the role of bullying in suicide among adolescents.

My involvement in NAM and my time as Miss Indiana Pre-teen has been such a blessing. Not only did I become more heavily involved in community service than I ever was before,

but I have met SO many wonderful new friends!

Of course, Nationals in Anaheim, CA, was the best!

I had so much fun at all the theme practices,

Parties, and of, course, at Disneyland!

And even though I didn’t bring home the big prize, I did place first runner in up in my first ever Casual Wear competition

and second runner up for Most Promising Model. However, the most amazing thing was that I met and got to know girls from nearly every state!

They were all such talented, creative and accomplished girls. We had a such a blast! I appreciated each and everyone’s different personalities!

And from all their different personalities, I learned that there is not just one kind of NAM Queen.

I know everyone says this, but it’s really true. I have created friends through National American Miss that will last me a lifetime! I feel truly blessed and very fortunate to be able to call each and everyone of them my sister queen!

I cannot begin to express my gratitude to everyone at NAM: to the Mayes for starting the National American Miss pageant, to my sister queens for inspiring me, to my parents and family for allowing me to participate in the first place and to God for blessing me so abundantly. There are simply no words sufficient to describe how I feel. I do know, however, I will carry that gratitude with me always in my heart and it will forever be expressed in the person I have become.

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What an Amazing Year for Miss Michigan Teen Cover Girl!

July 1, 2017, 9:16 pm

≫ Next: Featuring Miss Michigan Jr. Pre-Teen!

≪ Previous: Farewell, But Not Goodbye for Miss Indiana Pre-Teen!

Hello Ladies!

This year has flown by! Being the 2016 Miss Michigan Teen Cover Girl was truly an honor and a blessing. Throughout my year I have done lots of volunteering under my platform of “Raising Awareness for Cystic Fibrosis,” including: Being the honorary race starter for the Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life, Starting the race for the Bronson Children's Hospital walk/run, participating in the Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis walk/run and throughout the month of May I sold CF shirts and for every shirt $5 was donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. I raised over $500 for Cystic Fibrosis awareness! I also volunteered with my sister queens at the Ronald McDonald House and I participated in a cardio drumming session with children to build confidence and promote healthy childhood activity.

In November I traveled to sunny California, to receive my National Teen Cover Girl title and make memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.

To my successor, I know you have worked so hard to get where you are, trust me I was in your shoes, but just remember the best is yet to come and all your hard work will pay off. Please take pictures of everything and cherish every moment, a year flies by faster than you think. Just remember to have fun and be confident in everything you do, that is the best advice anyone could ever give you.

Sincerely, your 2016-2017

National Teen Cover Girl

Mackenzie Pennell

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Featuring Miss Michigan Jr. Pre-Teen!

July 1, 2017, 9:25 pm

≫ Next: What an Awesome Year for Miss Michigan Princess!

≪ Previous: What an Amazing Year for Miss Michigan Teen Cover Girl!

I am so honored to have represented the great state of Michigan as your National American Miss Michigan Jr. Pre-teen this past year and have accomplished so much. In the three year I have competed to earn the state title, I have learned self-confidence, strength and most importantly the power of friendship. Serving NAM and my community has opened many doors. This past year I enjoyed giving my time to a variety of volunteering events and Parades.

Going to Nationals was an incredible experience. I made a ton of new friendships. I also had the opportunity to go on the Hollywood tour and the Disneyland. I even go to meet the cast of Dancing with the Stars at the Grove. I may not have brought home the national title but I did place top 10 in the nation for the Mon Cheri runway modeling competition.

I would like to thank my loving, supportive and wonderful family. I couldn't have done it without you. I would also like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Mayes; Mr. and Mrs. Schneider; the choreographers and the rest of the NAM staff. And I can't forget the awesome Mama Deb! You have always been so helpful and kind.

To my sister queens Makiah, Christina, Sharazad, Makenzie, Katelyn and Amanda, I will always cherish our memories and friendships. I love you girls. We will be Namily to the end.

To the contestants, you are all beautiful on the inside and out. Live for your dreams. To my successor get ready for the best year of your life, it's going to be such an amazing ride.

For the last time I am our 2016 Miss Michigan Jr. Pre-Teen Queen Rebekah Goodman.

Love Always, Rebekah

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What an Awesome Year for Miss Michigan Princess!

July 2, 2017, 6:15 pm

≫ Next: Featuring Miss Michigan Teen!

≪ Previous: Featuring Miss Michigan Jr. Pre-Teen!

Dear Princess State Finalists:

Congratulations! This year has been amazing! NAM has offered me so many wonderful opportunities and I am so lucky to be a part of the NAM family. I have been able to volunteer with my sister making lunch for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House, and help out at the local animal shelter. I appeared at events and participated in parades. I had so much fun at Nationals, I met so many new friends from all over the United States especially the Miss Cover girl Princess, Addy Bires, who will be my friend for life, and it was an honor to represent Michigan as your Miss Michigan Princess. I had a great time with my family touring Hollywood and Disneyland, the rides were awesome! I have memories to last a lifetime!

I would like to thank our State Directors, Steve and Kathleen Mayes and the entire NAM staff for making this a great experience and making my dream come true. To my sister queens, you are awesome, we made great memories together! Makiah, my big sister queen and best friend for life! I also want to thank my Sisters, Amber, Rachel and Rebekah for supporting me through this journey, I also want to give a special Thank you to my parents, Gregory and Bonnie for loving and believing in me.

To my successor, have fun, make friends and take pictures! Be confident, dream big, work hard, believe in yourself, and you will achieve!

Love Always,

Your 2016 Miss Michigan Princess

Amanda Grace McNerney

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Featuring Miss Michigan Teen!

July 2, 2017, 6:33 pm

≫ Next: We are so proud of Miss Ohio Jr. Teen!

≪ Previous: What an Awesome Year for Miss Michigan Princess!

Dear Family and Friends, State Contestants, and NAM Family,

What a wonderful and rewarding year I have had as your 2016 Michigan Teen Queen. I will cherish with pride all the memories and friends I have made this past year. I am honored to have represented our great state of Michigan with this title. It’s another dream NAM has made come true for me!

During the past 10 years, National American Miss has been a part of my life and a blessing for me. Every opportunity that this pageant system has created has been welcomed by me with open arms. I am now the confident woman I had hoped to become, and the next chapter of my life is waiting for me.

My sincere thanks and gratitude go to my family for their support throughout these last ten years, the many ‘sisters’ and friendships I have made, and the wonderful directors of NAM for making all my dreams come true. It has been the most fantastic ride of a lifetime, and the memories will remain with me forever.

Lastly, to each of you out there competing for a state title, I wish you the very best of luck, keep your dreams alive and close to your heart, always smile, and enjoy every minute. The time sure does fly by.

With love and friendship,

Christina Margaret Zitkus

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We are so proud of Miss Ohio Jr. Teen!

July 2, 2017, 6:42 pm

≫ Next: We are so proud of Miss Ohio Jr. Teen Cover Girl!

≪ Previous: Featuring Miss Michigan Teen!

What an amazingly blessed year I have had! I have created unbelievable memories and bonds to last a lifetime. My journey all started last year at the Ohio pageant when I was honored to be crowned, along with my sister queens: Kaylin, Olivia, Megan, Gigi, & Courtney. Of course, I can’t forget the incredible, Sammie, my Cover Girl sister queen! I can’t imagine this year without these talented & beautiful ladies to share it with!

I was able to participate in several appearances and volunteer opportunities. The best part was being able to spread my platform, Buddy Bags, which provides needed items to children taken into foster care!

The highlight of the year had to be my week in Hollywood, California! I was able to meet so many remarkable girls from across the country. Trust me when I say the future of our country is in great hands! I got to tour Los Angeles, take on Disney, & look for my future home in Beverly Hills J The icing on the cake was winning 3^rd Runner Up Actress and being announced in the Top 10 for the Jr Teen Queen title!

I want to start by thanking God for this opportunity and all the blessings in my life. Of course, I also want to thank Steve & Kathleen Mayes, and all of the NAM staff for encouraging me and other girls to reach for our dreams, no matter how far they may seem. Mom, Dad, & Kaleb I could never be where I am without your constant support and love. Papa, you are officially the greatest escort to cross the NAM national stage! To the rest of my friends and family, thank you for always sending uplifting thoughts and comments and believing in me every step of the way.

Finally to the contestants, remember to have fun, keep reaching for your goals, and work to make the lives of others around you better. Always remember, “How you make others feel about themselves, says a lot about you”.

Signing off for the final time, and quoting the great Winnie the Pooh, “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard”! I am your 2016 Miss Ohio Jr Teen...Kylee Long

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We are so proud of Miss Ohio Jr. Teen Cover Girl!

July 2, 2017, 6:50 pm

≫ Next: Miss Illinois Pre-Teen will crown her successor!

≪ Previous: We are so proud of Miss Ohio Jr. Teen!

I can’t believe it's been a year already. The saying is true “time flies when you're having fun!” One year ago I was crowned the National American Miss Ohio Jr. Teen Cover Girl. I started my journey as Cover Girl by meeting with my city council and Mayor. I got to take my title out to an area where pageants are not commonly heard of. I handed out finisher ribbons and medals to the kids and adults that finished the Sylvania Triathlon and Duathlon. This was so exciting because I have competed and placed in this triathlon several times.

What a great year this has been. I became the first ever sophomore section leader in my high school marching band. I was then crowned Jr. Teen Cover Girl and off to California for Nationals. I realized NAM has taught me to have confidence and faith in myself no matter what. This helped when I was diagnosed with Dysautonomia in January. I am now using my crown in my community to help others understand this condition and help others who have it also. It is more than a crown and banner, it gives me a bigger voice.

Having my crown gave me the confidence to be a part of a much bigger entity. I am one of the leaders of our newly formed Core Committed Group for my school district. We were trained by retired Navy Seals to be able to grow a culture of champions in my school. Not just athletes, but for every student in our community, musicians, artists, etc . Making good choices, and being a role model. Team first, Teammates second and yourself last.

I was also the top point scorer for my varsity swim team for the 2nd year in a row and be elected as captain for my varsity water polo team. Yes, I did show up in crown and banner with a black eye and another time with a fat lip. It proves that there is no such thing as a typical pageant girl...

To the contestants, remember it's not about winning but about how much fun you have. It’s making new lifelong friends and having fun with everyone in the process. Remember to take a lot of pictures, you will cherish them forever, Keep in contact with the friends you make, you never know when your paths will cross again. Lastly, remember you are a part of the NAMily so don’t be afraid to be yourself, embrace it and show it off.

Finally, Many thank you’s. To Jeanne and Tiffany at Blue by Atlas Bridal you always make me look fabulous and have the best gowns. Big hugs and many thanks. To all my wonderful sponsors who supported me all the way to Nationals, obviously, I couldn’t have done it without you. To Steve and Kathleen Mayes our fabulous directors, Dawn Lee and the rest of the NAM staff. Thank you for all you do for NAM, Thank you to my sister queens for all the fun throughout this year and at Nationals, I wish the best of luck to you. And to my amazing parents that never give up on me. You have taught me to be the young woman I am today, and have taught me God first, Career second, and Family third.

For the last time, this is your Ohio Jr. Teen Cover Girl, Sammie Young saying farewell.

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