STAFF REPORT
Blanco Vista Elementary student Tess Blackwell, 11, of Kyle was selected as a State Finalist in the National American Miss Pageant to be held June 16-17 in Houston.
Tess, a fifth grader, participated in an “open call” event in March and, according to her father Mike Blackwell, was chosen along with others in her age group to attend the state competition. The winner of the June event will receive $1,000, the official crown and banner, and a trip to California to compete at the national pageant later this year.
Blackwell said the pageant awards thousands in scholarships and prizes to recognize and assist in the development of young women nationwide.
Tess’s diverse interests and activities such as volleyball, reading, fashion, acting, cooking, cosmetology and animals, as well as having a first-degree black belt in Taekwondo, may appeal to the judges.
Blackwell said emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self-confidence, learning new skills, learning new attitudes about competition and setting and achieving personal goals.
“I had no hopes of actually getting in, so I’m very shocked and excited they picked me,” Tess said. “Hopefully we’ll be going to California later this year.”
