Minnesota Jr. Preteen, Laney Hoag has had an extraordinary experience representing NAM and MN!

Dear Family, Friends, and Contestants,

Being crowned the National American Miss 2009 Miss Minnesota Junior Pre-Teen was a dream come true. This year has been full of fun, new opportunities and memories that will last forever.

I received a warm welcome from my hometown and I was asked to be in the Austin 4^th of July parade. My Dad drove me in a convertible while my mom and brother passed out candy. My first duty was to donate books and bears from pageant weekend. I chose Catherwood Home Child Care, the Parenting Resource Center and Austin Medical Center Pediatrics. I also spent several days working with the children at Catherwood. I raised money and walked in the March of Dimes March for Babies.

In early August my sister queens and I had a photo shoot together in Minneapolis. What great fun we had taking pictures in our formal wear, interview suits and our pj’s. I had a blast getting to know everyone!

In November my mom and I traveled to California for the National Pageant. Going to Disneyland and the Hollywood Tour were amazing. I will never forget getting to do a ballet dance for Tinkerbell! My grandparents flew in from Missouri and my grandpa escorted me to the Thanksgiving ball. I was very fortunate that I got to compete in Talent as well as Casual Wear on the National stage. My favorite part of going to National’s was all the friends I made. I met girls from all over the country as well as reconnected with friends I made right here at the Minnesota pageant.

Throughout this extraordinary experience I came to realize the tremendous love-filled support from my parents. I really want to send out a special thank you to my mom. Don’t get me wrong, I really appreciate my daddy’s support, because when he could not make an event his wallet could – kidding. But my mommy has been with me every step through this wonderful journey. She has been my coach, teacher, fashion consultant, and best friend through it all, and I could never thank her enough. Mommy, thank you for putting up with my moods, fears, and uncertainties and being my rock, keeping me focused, and being my strongest advisor.

I was privileged to have the honor and the opportunity to represent my state and the National American Miss this past year. I want to thank all of those at the NAM organization that guided us through the entire process. I will take this experience with me throughout my life. The National American Miss is an outstanding organization, aside all of the pageantry, it helps teach young ladies confidence and a focus to go out and volunteer your time and try to bring a little sunshine to those who may need it the most. Again, much love and thanks for allowing me to represent you this past year.

Thank you and God bless.

Laney Lee Hoag

Donating Books & Bears to kids was soo much fun! I love making a difference.

I loved getting dressed up and being in the spotlight!

Thank you National American Miss, for giving Today's Girls a chance to make a difference and opening so many doors for me!