Shes
not giving up her title, shes just giving the opportunity to someone
else - farewell to Katelyn Rigdon, Missouri Preteen 2010

Hello Everyone!

I
just can’t believe how time has passed since I have seen you last!
What a wonderful experience I have had this year with National American
Miss. Being crowned your National American Miss Missouri Preteen is a
moment I will remember and cherish forever!

This year I have had
the opportunity to travel across the country and meet amazing people. I
traveled to several different pageants this year and have had a blast! I
have also helped in my community at the local food pantry, the St Louis
Heart Walk, helped raise money for a local schools technology program
and participated in several holiday parades.

Nationals was an
amazing experience from the moment we left St. Louis to arriving in
Anaheim. We had an exciting time at Disney, walking the streets of
Hollywood and the Thanksgiving Banquet. Meeting all the contestants is a
moment I will cherish forever.
It has been an honor to represent
National American Miss this year. I would like to thank all the many
people who make this opportunity possible. To all the National American
Miss staff, there are so many behind the scenes that make this happen,
Thank you from my heart.

To all the state and national directors I
want to thank for your encouragement and for taking the time to support
me. You have given me the self-confidence to learn and to help make a
difference in my life as well as others. National American Miss has
given me a wonderful opportunity to shine, to be myself, to meet new
friends and have fun.

To Mr. and Mrs. Mayes - thank you for your
kindness and making me feel special. To Dawn Lee your wonderful and
make me smile BIG! Lakisha you’re an inspiration to all. And, of course -
Mr and Mrs Maples, Breanne, & Ryan - thank you for believing in me.

To
all the contestants and your families, make the most of your weekend
here at State, it’s a wonderful experience. Contestants, be proud of
yourself for taking the next step in fulfilling your dreams. Take hold
of every opportunity you are given, but remember to make friends for a
lifetime, have fun and most of all be yourself, you are amazing.

To
my successor, Congratulations! Your journey begins here. Make the most
of your accomplishment, you have an exciting road ahead of you to
share with many. As for me your Reigning National American Miss Missouri
Pre-Teen Queen, I don’t believe I‘m giving anything up, I’m just giving
someone else the opportunity of a lifetime.