Local youth is finalist in pageant

Carlee Ann Lynch

Carlee is the daughter of Tara McCullough.

The National American Miss pageants take place for girls ages 4-18, and have five different divisions.

Carlee will participate in the Miss Indiana Junior Preteen age division, along with others across the state.

She enjoys gymnastics and 4-H activities as well as swimming, jewelry making, fashion and sleepovers with friends.

The winner of the pageant will receive a $1,000 cash award, the official crown and banner, a bouquet of roses, and air transportation to compete in the National Pageant in California, where she will receive a complimentary tour of Hollywood and two V.I.P. tickets to Disneyland.

The National American Miss pageants are dedicated to celebrating future leaders and equipping them with lifelong skills. Each year, the pageant nationally awards $1.5 million in cash, scholarships and other prizes, including a Ford Mustang convertible.

The National American Miss pageants are unlike other pageants. All activities and competitions are kept age appropriate. Girls under the age of 12 are not allowed to wear makeup and there is no swimsuit competition.

According to officials with National American Miss, the pageant program is based on "inner beauty," in addition to poise and presentation, while offering an "All-American spirit of fun for family and friends."

An emphasis is put on the importance of developing self-confidence, learning good sportsmanship, as well as setting and achieving personal goals. The pageant recognizes the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging her to set goals for her future.

Families interested in learning more about the program may visit www.namiss.com.