Miss Prairie Port

It was an evening of glamour, lights and dreams coming true during the 2009 Miss Prairie Port Pageant Thursday evening.

“It’s always a great evening,” said Darrell Whitney, pageant organizer, as the evening got underway.

Following an ice cream social and performance by Red, White & Blues, the 10 contestants took to the stage. First up, they performed a dance routine they had learned.

Then it was time for their individual moments in the spotlight as the girls showed off their casual wear, followed by formal wear and a question for each contestant.

“What you see here on stage really is something that can change lives,” said Michelle Walthers, 2003 Miss Prairie Port and 2006 Miss Kansas.

The pageant also included appearances by several past Miss Prairie Port winners.

Before the winner was announced the Inspiration Award was given to Hevin Killman.

Then all of the contestants took one more walk across the stage before gathering with anticipation to hear this year’s queen.

First to be announced was the second attendant. Killman received this award. She was presented with a crown, sash and $250 scholarship provided by Wichita Eagle Credit Union.

The first attendant went to Destiny Curtis. She received a $500 scholarship, provided by the Soroptimists International.

That only left one crown to be presented. With hands clasped, the winner was announced.

Megan Graber received the crown of Miss Prairie Port 2009 and a $1,000 scholarship from Walmart.

She couldn’t believe it when her name was announced, describing it as a rush of emotions.

“It’s such an honor,” Graber said. “I’m so humbled by it.”

She thanked all of the judges for their votes for her.

“I thank God, too,” she said. “I was scared to death and He pulled me through.”
Curtis also was excited about finishing as first attendant.

“I’m just glad I went through with it,” she said.

She had enjoyed meeting new friends.

“It was a great experience,” she said.

Killman said she too was surprised when her name was called.
“It means a lot to me to be a good role model for the kids,” she said.

She also appreciated the scholarship money.

The winners will be appearing at Prairie Port events throughout the weekend.