"Dreams do come true." This is what my mom has always told the family members at our house.  Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of being a Lakefair Princess.  As I grew up I realized what a privilege it would be to represent our beautiful community.  This year, I was given that amazing opportunity when I was selected as a Princess and then honored to be chosen as Lakefair’s 2007 queen.  Many thanks are owed to all the people who supported me and made this the most incredible experience of my life. 

My first thanks go to my parents.  Thank you, Mom, for always being there for me and pointing me in the right direction.  Thank you, Dad, for inspiring me and providing me with vision, determination, and the support I needed to achieve whatever goals I set for myself.  Thank you also to my brother and sister, Justin and Brenna, who have always kept me afloat by aiding (and abetting) my efforts whatever the attempt or scheme.  The total foresightedness of all my family members was and is astonishing.  And for all our extended family and friends who seemingly are around every corner cheering us all down every avenue and through every arena of our lives, a very special thank you is in order. 

I would like to extend very special recognition and appreciation to an exceptional group of people: the Capitalarians.  Their organizational skills and heart-and-soul dedication to Olympia and the community at large are consistently awe-inspiring.  These folks volunteer countless hours of personal time producing one stellar Lakefair extravaganza after another, year after year after year.  They provide the success and pride we can all feel in community achievements.

I also thank our president, Teri, aka "Mama Bear."  Mama Bear took care of all the princesses as she would tend her own cubs.  She made each of us feel very special indeed.  My court is made up of unique and amazing young women, each of whom taught me different and valuable life lessons.  I will remember each one and each lesson often in my life.  Thank you.

I cannot forget the people of the community who welcomed us and allowed us to share our speeches.  They too dedicate themselves to enhancing our community and providing us with so many fabulous opportunities to succeed in life.

All of these people and their hard work make Olympia the beautiful area it is.  They are the reason I am here today, living my dream.  I will be dedicating myself to serving and following their example by helping my community in any way possible.  My hope is that everyone will reach out and touch the city in which they live in some small way.   The rest of my life will be enriched by this experience and for that I am truly thankful.