By Staff
Emily Means was awarded first runner-up to Miss Michigan Pre-teen 2005 held by National American Miss on Saturday.
Means was chosen from a statewide field of 130 girls. The pageant was held July 21- 23 at the hotel in Troy. The first runner-up is awarded a trophy, cash award, roses and an invitation to the national pageant in Anaheim, Calif. in November to compete for the National All-American Miss title.
Means is the daughter of Craig Means of Dowagiac. She is a high honors student at Dowagiac Middle School where she will be entering the eighth grade.
Means activities include dancing at Encore Performing Arts, playing guitar and flute. She also enjoys designing and sewing fashion items.
Contestants are scored on poise and presentation in formal wear, personality during interviews, on-stage personal introduction and community involvement.
The National American Miss Pageants are dedicated to celebrating America's greatness and encouraging its future leaders.
Each year the pageant awards thousands of dollars in scholarships and prizes to recognize and assist in the development of young women nation wide.
The National American Miss pageants are for "today's girl" and "tomorrow's leader." Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self-confidence, learning new skills, learning good attitudes about competition, and setting and achieving personal goals. Mean's sponsor is Saylor's Pizza of Niles.
Additional advertising sponsors included D&R Sports, Kirsh Insurance and Saylor's Pizza of Dowagiac, Watervliet and Mishawaka.