I am so excited to be attending the Miss Puerto Rico of Rochester Pageant tomorrow (July 10th at 3:00 pm at the Rochester Museum and Science Center). It will certainly bring back tons of memories of when I participated when I was 16 years old. I can remember being so nervous and excited at the same time. I don’t remember many details, after all this did happen 20 years ago, but I do remember going shopping with my mom for a gown to wear for the pageant. We went to a store in Midtown Plaza which now I can’t even remember the name of. But I loved that ivory wedding gown!
I also don’t remember many of the girls who participated with me except for the winner. Yes, I did not win, I actually came in first runner-up or Princess as they call it. I loved the experience and I will always be glad that I participated. It is true what they say about certain experiences shaping what your life eventually becomes. That certainly did happen for me, I mean I didn’t go off to participate in multitude of pageants, but I do think that it helped give me confidence and the ability to be able to speak in front of large crowds. Experiences like these are so important.
The young ladies participating in tomorrow’s cultural pageant have worked hard for this moment. They have practiced and honed their skills. They have rehearsed their speeches and practiced their talent. And I know that 20 years from now they will also look back and reflect on this time in their lives.
Ladies, I wish you the best of luck!!! Congratulations on making it this far!!!
About the Miss Puerto Rico of Rochester: Sponsored by the Puerto Rican Festival, Inc. this Pageant is designed to build cultural awareness, values and self-esteem in the young women who participate. As a community driven organization, we work to encourage each young lady to be the best that she can be, express her individuality and blossom to her fullest potential. Extreme focus is placed on responsibility, building confidence and developing leadership skills which are all important characteristics for a successful future. As a part of the process, each young lady works for over five months in various workshops, research, rehearsals and community activities.
The Eisenhart Auditorium at the Rochester Museum and Science Center will once again play host to the 2010 Miss Puerto Rico of Rochester Pageant on Saturday, July 10th, 2010 at 3:00 pm. Miss Puerto Rico of Rochester Pageant is open to the public. Tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased at the door.
I hope to see you all there!
