I think all of us could agree that Kentucky was a blast. Last Wednesday we had the opportunity to attend the Miss University of Louisville pageant on campus at the U of L. One of the contestants, Melanie, had contacted our offices before we left for tour asking if the Great Lakes team would like to attend this event while we were in town.
Melanie is a huge supporter of Invisible Children, and has chosen our organization for her philanthropy work. Each contestant has a specific platform or issue they support as a part of the pageant, and Melanie just so happened to have been involved with IC for some time.
This night was definitely fun for everybody, but especially for Boni and Leo, who had never seen something quite like this back in Uganda. The talent portion was so great, as the ladies entertained us with batons, tap dancing, fiddling, and a few ballads. Sort of the pageant stuff you see in the movies. Haaa.
When it came time to announce the winners, Melanie won for Best Evening Gown, as well as Best Community Service [for the work she's done with IC in and around Louisville]. We were thrilled, and would have been so excited if that had been it. But wouldn't you know it - Melanie went and won the whole title. YAY!
As Miss University of Louisville, she'll spend the next year speaking and advocating on behalf of the children in Northern Uganda at different occasions in her community. Not to mention she's going on to compete in the Miss Kentucky pageant this July, and if she wins that, it's on to Miss America. Bahhh!
We were so proud of our girl, and definitely cheered louder than anyone in that room. Our team went up to meet Melanie after they announced her as the winner, and she was so gracious when we introduced ourselves. She began to cry and explain how much she admired what we are doing, and how she wants to 'be like us.' It was so sweet, and definitely an encouragement to continue on with what we've started, to remember how lives can change when challenged to serve and step out in faith.
Overall, we had a wonderful time in the land of the Derby. The landscape was beautiful, with all the tree-lined highways and broad pastures. I loved the hospitality we were met with - not to mention the sweet tea. Mmm...! Visiting Kentucky made me miss living in the South for sure, and I was so grateful that these stops had been placed on the tour. The warm weather and the charming accents will surely be missed, but I am glad to have had a week there. Now it's time to hit Ohio with some TRUTH. Yes, please.
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