SHIELDS AGAIN NAMED PAGEANT FINALIST

Kelly Lynn Shields, 18, daughter of George and Pam Shields, has been chosen as a state finalist in the Miss Missouri American Teen Pageant, to be held in August at the St. Louis Hyatt Regency at Union Station. The pageant is held for girls ages 16-18.

The winner of the pageant will receive a $1,000 cash award, the official crown and banner, bouquet of roses, transportation and sponsor fee to compete in the national pageant at Wait Disney World in Florida. Other pageants are held for the state to include girls of other ages.

Thousands of dollars in cash awards, scholarships, trophies, and prizes will be awarded during the state pageant weekend. According to pageant officials, since 1983 the Miss American Coed Pageant System has awarded more than ten million dollars in scholarships and awards to deserving young ladies. AD activities are age-appropriate and family-oriented.

Families interested in receiving information about the pageants may call or write "Pageant Headquarters," 11777 Katy Freeway, Suite 120, Houston, Texas 77079; phone (281) 496-9000.

The pageants are for "Tomorrow's Leaders." They are open to girls with goals and dreams based on inner beauty, as well as poise, presentation, and an "All-American spirit for family, fun, and friends. "Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self confidence, learning new skills, learning good attitudes about competition, and setting and achieving personal goals. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging her to set goals for the future.

Shields' activities include Student Council, National Honor Society, speech team captain, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Just Say No, Peer Tutors, Drama Club treasurer, FBLA reporter, HOBY and Girls State. She also enjoys singing in Girls Choir and playing the alto saxophone in Marching Band and Concert Band. She enjoys public speaking, meeting new people and volunteering.

Last year she was third runner-up in the pageant.