Blodgett Youth Wins International Beauty Title in Tulsa

TULSA, Okla. - Kassie Roland, 12, of Blodgett was crowned the new International Girl Young Miss Beauty on July 23 in Tulsa.

Roland competed for a week in the natural competition against girls ages 10-12 from across the country. She competed in modeling, talent and interview.

She will reign for one year where she will make appearances at parades, performances, social gatherings and community service projects. The Kelly Middle School sixth-grader has chosen to make organ sonation awareness her own personal platform.

She has already made her first appearance at Mid-America Transplant in St. Louis touring the facilities there. She plans to spread awareness beginning at the Benton Neighbor Day Parade where she will throw out Donate Life bracelets and passing out brochures on the subject.

The cause is close to her heart because of her uncle who has received two kidney transplants through St. Louis University. And she like most of those who attend the Kelly School District were deeply moved by the sacrifice of Kaden Robert who had asked to be an organ donor before his death. Roland herself expressed her desire to be an organ donor during her visit to Mid-America Transplant on Aug. 5.

"I was told I could be paired with a little child who is waiting for a transplant and help them and give them gifts," Roland said. "I am really excited about getting to do that."

In addition, to winning Young Miss Beauty, Roland won Popular Miss winning $500 for selling the most ads for the pageant's program book. She also won first place and second place medals in Dramatics for her comedic and dramatic monologues. And a second place medal in vocal pop performance. In addition, she took five2nd place medals in modeling for formal wear, sleep wear, western wear, sportswear and street dress. Other awards she captured included International Portfolio Winner and International Prettiest Eyes.

Roland and her family would like to express their thanks to the entire community for their support through purchasing ads and helping with fundraisers for her to compete.

"So many people helped me get here. Thank you to all the businesses who sponsored me," she said. "I not only got to compete in International Girl, but I made many friends. I even made friends with people from the Cayman Islands. I loved it all."

Roland will be making appearances through International Girl and Mid-America Transplant through the year. For more information about International Girl Youth Development Program, please call 1-501-794-6265 or go to www.internationalgirlpageant.com For information about Organ Donation, go to https://www.midamericatransplant.org/ or call (888) 376-4854.