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Robertson to participate in Little Miss Virginia
By GINA HAMILTON • CONTRIBUTING WRITER
 | | Taylor Robertson of Millboro, age 7, is looking forward to participating in the 2008 Miss Virginia Princess Pageant the weekend of July 24-26 in Reston, after being selected as a state finalist. (Recorder photo by Gina Hamilton) |
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MILLBORO - Taylor Dale Nicole Robertson is a little excited, and no wonder - she has been selected as a state finalist for the 2008 Miss Virginia Princess Pageant being held July 24-26 at the Hyatt Regency in Reston.
The 7-year-old, whose nickname is "Baby Dale" after NACSAR racer Dale Earnhardt, is headed into second grade at Millboro Elementary School this fall. She has a shy, easy smile, and a bubbly personality that can't be contained for long. Taylor is the daughter of Shawn and Patti Robertson and the whole family is involved in supporting the little gal, who will be escorted by big brother Ryan, age 10, at the event. Other siblings are Michael Simmons of Millboro, Chelsea Slate of Roanoke, and Tesla Robertson of Hot Springs. The cheering section also includes grandparents Kenneth and Faye Simmons of Millboro.
According to Patti Robertson, the family was surprised to get a letter from the National American Miss state director notifying them Taylor had been selected as a state finalist. "She was referred to the contest by a photographer at the school," Robertson said, noting she didn't know who it was, but that entry into the contest is by referral only.
With a little prompting from Mom, Taylor said at the pageant she'll have to say, "I'm from Bath County," and "I want to be an honor student." With a big grin showing three missing teeth, she added, "I made all A's!" in first grade, and according to her mother, she made a perfect score on the PALS/SOLS test given in first grade.
"The pageant is really (involved) in reading and literacy in Virginia," said Robertson. "There's no (beauty or talent) contest, just an interview with the judges and each girl will be asked three questions, including what she wants do in the future, and one wish she has. They look at poise, community involvement, and show they did in school."
She said besides doing well academically last year, Taylor received the Sportsman Award in physical education. She plays soccer, baseball, and her favorite - T-ball. With her family, she attends Living Stones Ministries in Clifton Forge. "And we donate books to the Reading Readiness program and stuffed animals," Robertson said.
She emphasized the family did not pressure Taylor to participate but left it up to her to decide. She previously participated in a Little Miss Bath County pageant. The upcoming event also offers fun activities for participants, who will get lessons in dancing, share a (one-hour) slumber party, and wear a formal dress for their poise and presentation event. Make-up is not allowed. Each state winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize, airfare to the national pageant in California, a visit to Hollywood and Disneyland. Modeling scholarships are also offered. Each girl will receive some prizes and awards. The contest is a forerunner to the Junior, Pre-Teen, Junior Teen and Teen pageants.
According to Mom, pageant officials work with parents in preparing the child to participate, and in getting sponsors, since parents can't contribute money. Taylor has received $440 in sponsorships from: Pat Hanes of Bacova Properties in Hot Springs; Betty Cauley, an attorney in Warm Springs; Laura's Boutique of Hot Springs; Russell Woodzell's Trash Service in Hot Springs; pediatrician Dr. Boyd's family practice in Clifton Forge; Clifton Forge Antique Mall, and Heirlooms of Clifton Forge. Others who want to offer support can call (540) 862-5323, or (540) 958-0519. Information about the pageant is available online, www. namiss.com.
The Robertsons formerly lived in Clifton Forge. Shawn Robertson is a self-employed contractor and Patti is a homemaker. She said they used to have a store selling antiques in that community.
Last week, Taylor appeared unimpressed with the excitement headed her way. She did admit, though, with a grin, "It'll be great!" And she plans to tell the judges that "I want to be an artist."
Along with the good wishes of her family and friends, we'll add our own, "You go, girl!"
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