Miss Kentucky Earth Comes to Louisville

notes TOP

Miss Kentucky Earth

Comes To Louisville

BY ROCKO JEROME • PHOTOS BY EVA FLIS

I had my choice of taking this anywhere in the state, but it was never a question. Louisville has always been my fi rst choice. I love it here. I see how we’re coming together as a community, in ways big and small. It’s a time for healing and to recognize that we’re all so much more similar than we are different.

– CHRISTINA LEE

Christina Lee takes new initiative with that simple yet profound sentiment, crafting an all-inclusive event designed to create joy and celebrate life. It's the Kentucky contingent of Miss Earth, the international beauty pageant competition that promotes environmental awareness, conservation, and social responsibility. "I had my choice of taking this anywhere in the state, but it was never a question," she refl ects. "Louisville has always been my fi rst choice. I love it here. I see how we're coming together as a community, in ways big and small. It's a time for healing and to recognize that we're all so much more similar than we are different."

Herself a self-described "Pageant Girl," Christina took part in numerous competitions before taking on a role in leadership. "It's an exhilarating experience, and I see how it brings out the best in people," she says. "one of our goals is to make pageantry more accessible to all women who have the desire to share their platforms, compete, and serve their communities. One of the ways we've done that is through partnering with Kentucky businesses and donors to help make this big dream a reality."

One such partner is the Kentucky International Convention Center. "We are thrilled to partner with Miss Kentucky Earth USA to bring this exciting event to Louisville," says Henry Blake, General Manager of that elegant venue. "Our modern, spectacular ballroom is the perfect backdrop to showcase Kentucky's talented young women, and our recent Leed Silver Certifi cation demonstrates our commitment to the environmental focus of the Miss Earth organization."

Louisville style icon Andre Wilson will contribute his time and talent. "I'm excited to partner with Christina. I love her vision of unity and inclusivity," says Andre, who will be outfi tting one of the MCs (Who happens to be Yours, Truly). "In designing an outfi t for someone, the clothes themselves are secondary. That part comes easy. It's all about the interpretation of a person's style. Making what's inside of them already shine out for all to see." Andre will also be creating a special t-shirt for everyone involved in the pageant to receive. "I'm glad to be involved and looking forward to witnessing this vision continuing to grow in coming years." "Miss Kentucky Earth is an outstanding organization that facilitates personal growth in public speaking, interview skills, community involvement, confi dence, and overall interpersonal skills," says Maria Montgomery. She's a past Miss Kentucky USA who continues to coach women through the pageant process. "Plus, each contestant becomes part of a tight-knit sisterhood that's sure to create lifelong friendships. It's not just about who takes home the crown - it's about how greatly the contestants improve to be the best versions of themselves regardless of the outcome! With all there is to gain from competing in this system and the difference the young girls can make during their year of service, I know it's truly going to make a huge impact across the Bluegrass!" "To me and to so many others I've met, Louisville represents statements," Christina says. "Statements of intent, of growth, of passion and compassion. This will be one glamorous night, but if we succeed, it will also be an ongoing call to action for everyone to share. To fi nd that love and hope and make sure it grows and grows."

The Miss Kentucky Earth Pageant will occur on August 21st at the Kentucky International Convention Center. Tickets are available now via Eventbrite.com. You can visit missearthunitedstates.com/kentucky for more information. 