Christmas Tree Lighting on Church Street

Nydelis and I had an appearance for the Christmas Tree Lighting on Church Street in Burlington early this winter. I must say, we had a blast! Even though it was snowing, pouring rain, and extremely cold we still had a good time together. We were able to take pictures with many of our supporters and were interviewed on WPTZ. Nydelis and I were the first people to donate toys to a local holiday drive called " Toys for Kids" and our contribution was recognized on the evening news. It felt great to trek out into Vermont's unpredictable weather to give back to a community that has given me so much support. After the lighting, Nydelis and I decided to have even more fun by going to get some of Church Street's famous kettle corn popcorn, and shop in one of our all-time favorite stores.

I am loving my year and can't wait to see what is to come!

Off to Welcome My Miss Mass Sister Queens

One the things I was most excited about at the beginning of my reign was meeting the girls I would be spending my year with. Attending Miss Massachusetts USA with Nydelis was a great kick off to the year. When I arrived at their rehearsals, I could see the ladies were ready for competition. Some girls were stressing out, and I felt for them. I was in the same seats they were in just a few weeks before and I know what it is like to want something so bad. I took a moment to tell the contestants vying for the title to embrace the experience and take it for what it was. I think it helped some of the ladies to know that it had taken me four years to win the title, and that even if it wasn't their year, persistence would pay off if they kept coming back to compete.

On the opening night of the show, I could feel my heart begin to race as the very song that I had won to began to play. As the girls stormed the stage I think I was just as nervous as I had been when I was competing! I could not wait to meet my new sister queens, so by Sunday night I was so excited to see what the outcome would be. I can honestly say that I could not be happier with my Mass sister queens. Lacey and Brooke are talented women and I am so proud to be in the USA Class of 2010 with them!

BEA Scholarship Fundraising Event

In November, Nydelis and I supported my school's Barre Education Association by going to the Harlem Superstars vs. School Faculty Scholarship Fundraiser basketball game. The gym was packed with little kids waiting to see the stunts and comedy that the basketball team was made famous for. We were introduced at half time and took pictures with fans as well as team members. I was happy to support this event not only because I attend Spaulding High School where the scholarship money goes, but because I am an aspiring teacher. This event was fun, family oriented, and the perfect way to get out into the public eye. What a great way to start off the month!

Barre Here I come!

My first appearance that I did in my town was the Barre Veteran's Day Parade. I was thrilled to have the chance to do something in my home town to show all of my supporters my gratitude. I met some really great people and had a fun time with my Dad. He was a great sport and tagged along with me. My Dad and I don't get to spend a lot of time together where it is just the two of us, so it meant a lot to me that he proudly drove me in the hometown parade. After the parade was finished the people in my community met in the center of down town and Veteran's delivered speeches of their experiences in war and shared memories of the friends they lost. This appearance made me realize that there is so much that I should be thankful for in my life. I am healthy, have the love and support of my family, and everyone is safe. Where I come from has always been important to me, and I know that I will always have a home here in Barre, no matter where life takes me. Regards, Shelby.

My first appearance!

Going to the Castleton football team's last game was my first appearance with Miss Vermont USA, Nydelis Ortiz. We had a great time and were welcomed onto the field at half time. The announcer said a little bit about each of us and afterwards tons of people wanted pictures with us! It felt great to be recognized for my accomplishments, and I have found that there is no better feeling than having a little girl come up to you and ask you to take a picture with her. Nydelis and I had a great time at the game getting to know each other. After the game, we headed to Ben & Jerry's and indulged in a victory sundae. After all of our training for the pageant, we wanted something sweet! We had an exciting day, and I know there are so many more to come. Best Wishes, Shelby.

And the Journey Begins

On November 1st, 2009 I was crowned Miss Vermont Teen USA 2010. To date, being crowned has been one of the most rewarding moments in my life. All of the hard work and determination it took for me to prepare was finally recognized when my name was called as Miss Vermont Teen USA 2010! It took me four long years to win the title, and each year of preparation brought me closer and closer to achieving my goal of becoming Miss Vermont Teen USA. It wasn't an easy road to the crown, but I am ecstatic to finally have this opportunity to represent my state.

Although the crown rests on my head, I never could have done it without the support of my family and friends. My mother and father have always believed that their job is simply to do whatever they can to bring me to the door,

and then it is my job to walk through it. My parents made sacrifices to help me achieve my dreams and supported me every step of the way. I could never repay them for everything they have done, but I feel like winning the title was the best way I could thank them. The support of my brother, aunts, uncles and cousins has also made a huge difference in my life.

Their love and support has always made the trials and tribulations that a pageant girl often faces, much easier to handle. I truly believe that you have to remember the people who got you where you are, because if you forget them you will have nothing to push and guide you forward. I owe so much to my family for my success and I thank them for helping me achieve my dream.

First off, I want everyone to know I am proud of my state and the town that I come from. I am excited to get into the community and do what I can to make any difference. Whether it be big or small, I know that I can do something beneficial for my community as well as the many other towns that make up the beautiful state of Vermont. I will use my title to its fullest by supporting and volunteering for charitable organizations throughout the year.

To all who have believed in me: Thank you for your support throughout this process. I feel blessed and honored to be representing Vermont this year and will strive to make you proud.

Best Wishes, Shelby Gregoire your Miss Vermont Teen USA 2010