For the optional talent competition, I chose to sing a song special to my heart, "Smile."

I was awarded First Runner-Up in the Talent competition.

That evening, we had a little get together and gift exchange. To my left is my friend and fellow Liberty Miss Kimberley Lode, have just returned the week before from a tour overseas performing for our military.

Susan Lopes, Kimberley and I are all smiles as we're prepared to go in for the interview portion.

We took time for a group shot before our interviews.

Here I am in the introduction portion of the pageant.

Before the announcement of the winners, we take a break for a photo and share a sigh of relief.

I am so happy and surprised as Christina announces my name as the new Miss New England 1996!

Miss New England 1995, Cynthia Mangazini crowns me as the second Miss New England.

Here I am on my first walk. I am so happy and honored.

After the crowning, my friend and Miss Constitution, Merissa Starnes, helps me adjust the crown as my friend and First Runner-Up, Kimberley Lode, looks on.

One of the first exciting things I got to do was to go to Miss America with Christina and Robert. Here I am on the Boardwalk in front of the famous Atlantic City Convention Center that has played host to Miss America for many years.

I also had the chance to meet the wife of Bernie Wayne, songwriter of the famous "Blue Velvet" and "There She Is, Miss America." I also was able to share with her that I was honored to have been judged by Mr. Wayne at the Miss Richmond America pageant a few years ago.

We went to the mall together and met this future Miss New England!

Afterwards, we walked the famous Boardwalk and there I met an old friend and photographer from Richmond, Virginia.

He took these great photos for us. A group photo of our Queens and...

then a solo shot of me enjoying the ocean breeze!

He also sent me this shot of the Southern Queens. It's their annual traditional photo.

Christina, Robert and I head to Planet Hollywood for some food and great fun.