When a new Miss Lassen County is crowned at the pageant this evening we will say goodbye to Miss Lassen 2025 Kaylee Micone, who, along with her court, have served the community well over the last year. Here is her goodbye:
“It’s hard to believe that just one year ago, I stood on this very stage, listening as my name was announced as Miss Lassen County 2025. It truly feels like yesterday. That moment changed my life, and tonight, as I stand here for my final walk, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude.
“This past year has been a dream come true for the little girl who once sat in the audience dreaming that one day she might have the honor of wearing this crown and representing the community she loves so dearly. Never could she have imagined the incredible journey that awaited her.
“Thank you for choosing me not only to represent Lassen County, but to serve it. Serving the people of this amazing community has been the greatest honor and one of the biggest blessings of my life. Every parade, community event, handshake, hug, picture and conversation has left an imprint on my heart. The memories I’ve made this year will stay with me forever.
“This journey introduced me to so many incredible people whom I never would have had the opportunity to meet without this honor. From community leaders and dedicated volunteers to veterans, first responders, and business owners, every person I met shared a piece of what makes Lassen County so special.
One of the greatest privileges of this title has been witnessing the heart of Lassen County. Time and time again, I watched this community rally around neighbors during some of life’s most difficult moments. In times of hardship, loss, and uncertainty, our community showed what it truly means to care for one another. It reminded me that the strength of Lassen County has never been found in its buildings or its traditions alone, but in its people.
“One experience that will always hold a special place in my heart was being part of Holiday with a Hero. Watching this community come together to ensure that every child experienced the joy of the holiday season was nothing short of inspiring. I had the privilege of meeting so many incredible children, and I will never forget seeing their excitement as they shopped, or the moments when those same sweet kids chose to spend their gift money on their siblings or parents before themselves. Those acts of kindness and selflessness taught me just as much as I hope I gave to them. Sometimes, all it took to make a child’s day was taking a picture together, sharing a conversation, or simply making them feel seen.
“Another blessing was spending time visiting our nursing homes. Whether it was sharing a conversation, delivering holiday cards, or simply sitting with someone for a few moments, I was reminded that even the smallest acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day. Those visits touched my heart just as much as I hope they touched theirs.
“As difficult as it is to say goodbye, I know how incredibly fortunate I have been to experience this year. This crown has given me far more than a title—it has given me lifelong memories, meaningful friendships, invaluable lessons, and an even deeper love for the place I will forever call home, no matter where life takes me.
To the Lassen County Fair Board, thank you for believing in young women like me and for providing us with this incredible opportunity to grow as leaders while serving our community.
“To Shelley Bennett and the entire pageant committee, thank you for the countless hours, unwavering dedication, encouragement, and love that you pour into this program each and every year. None of this would be possible without your commitment to helping young women become the best versions of themselves.
“To my court, thank you for standing beside me every step of the way. Thank you for your friendship, your laughter, your encouragement, and for making this journey even more memorable. I could not have asked for better women to share this experience with.
“To my family, there are truly no words that could ever express how grateful I am for each of you. Thank you for standing beside me through every moment of this journey—for celebrating the highs, encouraging me through the challenges, and believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Thank you for every early morning, every late night, every mile traveled, every word of advice, every hug, and every sacrifice you made so that I could fully embrace this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Your unwavering love and support gave me the confidence to grow into the woman I am today. I hope I’ve made you as proud as you’ve made me, and I will forever be grateful for the love, encouragement, and strength you’ve given me every step of the way. I love you more than words can say.
“To the next young woman who will have the incredible honor of hearing her name announced as Miss Lassen County, cherish every single moment. The year will go by far faster than you think. Lead with kindness, serve with humility, and never forget the incredible privilege it is to represent this community. This crown will change you in the most beautiful ways if you allow it to.
“And to all the little girls sitting in the audience tonight, dreaming of one day standing on this stage wearing this crown, never stop dreaming. Believe in yourselves, work hard, and know that your dreams are possible. I was once that little girl looking up at this stage, and tonight I stand here as proof that dreams really do come true.
“Although tonight my reign comes to a close, my love for Lassen County does not waver, and neither does my commitment to continue serving this community in any way that I can. This place has shaped me, inspired me, and given me more than I could ever repay.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for trusting me to represent this extraordinary community. It has been the honor of a lifetime, and I will forever be proud to call Lassen County home.”
With all my love, Kaylee Micone, Miss Lassen County 2025
