Mackenzie Denner, a junior home school student from ECS, was recently named Miss Fallen Timbers Outstanding Teen 2009.
Though she was chosen the “At Large Winner” in late October, she didn’t receive her crown until November 18th. Mackenzie heard about the pageant through a friend. It is the second pageant in which she has participated. Participants had to be no older than sixteen years of age and also be a junior in high school. She had to submit an essay, be interviewed, present a talent, and then compete. Mackenzie’s platform had to do with local hunger. At present she works each week at God Works Kitchen and helps cook and serve dinner for the homeless at St Luke’s Church in Perrysburg. For a talent, Mackenzie played the piano. She played, “River Flows in You” by Yuruma.
The competition took place at Maumee Valley High School. The crown includes Miss Maumee Valley, Miss All-America City, and Miss Fallen Timbers. Her responsibility is to make her platform know—and to ride in a parade! Though she lives in Michigan, “I’m in Ohio about 75 % of my time. I only sleep in Michigan,” said the enthusiastic winner. When asked what part her faith played in the competition, she replied, “I couldn’t do anything without God. I have a lot of stress, and I couldn’t do it without the Lord.” She wants to share her faith with the public by setting an example.
The crown and sash are hers to keep, and her reign lasts for a year. The experience will last a lifetime. Mackenzie participates in sports at Emmanuel Christian; she runs cross country and track. “I love my friends from Emmanuel. I love to run. It’s what I really enjoy.” Mackenzie will automatically be enrolled in the Miss Ohio Outstanding Teen competition this June in Mansfield. There will be at least 30 other contestants. The winner from that will go to the Miss America Outstanding Teen competition. Mackenzie’s parents are very excited about her win. They support her fully.
