Standing in bright lights, hands sweating with anticipation, I anxiously await the announcement of the new Miss Placentia Outstanding Teen. It felt like eternity until they revealed the winner's name. I didn't have any idea what was going on till my friend Kaitlyn, who was holding by hand, whispered in my ear, "It's you Lauren, you won." I could not believe that I had just won the crown and title of Miss Placentia's Outstanding Teen 2006 and would have such a long and remarkable journey ahead of me.

Over the course of the year, those in the city of Placentia have been wonderful to me. Thank you. I could not ask for a better community to represent. As Miss Placentia's Outstanding Teen 2006, it was wonderful to attend such great events and meet such amazing and loving people. Whether it was the little girls at the Easter Eggcitement and the Heritage festival, or those attending Chamber mixers, grand openings or holiday events, thank you for being so friendly, kind and encouraging.

Along with all of the events I attended, I also had the opportunity to represent our wonderful city at the 2006 Miss California's Outstanding Teen Pageant in Fresno, California. I met so many amazing girls all across the state of California, so thank you to all those who sponsored me. It was an honor to be able to represent Placentia at the California's Outstanding Teen Pageant, along with my platform: Community Service Opportunities through Kids Korps USA.

This year would not have been possible without the help and support of my family, friends and committee. First and foremost, I would like to thank Judy Dickinson and Kathi Baldwin. It isn't every year that a girl can say she had two Executive Directors. But, I was lucky to have the two of you. Thank you for your support and guidance throughout my reign as Miss Placentia's Outstanding Teen 2006. I would also like to thank Mary Bette, Doug and Kathi Hikawa, and my pageant committee: Lee Castner, Kim Keefe, Linda Varga and Monica Pena for their support and encouragement. To Miss Placentia 2006, Jolie La Croix, you are the best, and I know this is just the start of some wonderful things to come for you. I have loved sharing this year with you.

In addition, I would like to thank the city of Placentia, Chamber President Glenn Baldwin and Chamber of Commerce, and my wonderful sponsor and Uncle, Bill Wallace of Wallace Insurance. Without your support, none of this would have ever been possible. Thanks Uncle Bubby!

To my family and friends, thank you for always being there and supporting me. My mom and dad, sister Nicole, and brother Garrett, my aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and all my friends. Many thanks for all your love and support!

As my year comes to an end, I wish the best of lick to the new Miss Placentia's Outstanding Teen. I hope that your experience is as wonderful and memorable as mine was. I hope you keep an open mind about life, be true to yourself, and always remember to have fun.

Sincerely,

Lauren Brady

Miss Placentia's Outstanding Teen 2006