by Shelley Bennett
Chalise Robbins is the 55th young woman to wear the crown as she was awarded the title of Miss Lassen County at the end of the competition on Tuesday, July 19th.
Chalise was also the recipient of the Community Service Award and Most Talented for playing a rousing rendition of “Pirates of the Caribbean” on the piano. She is joined by first runner up, the Ambassadress of Susanville Hayley Trevizu and Princess Sofia Bennett to complete the 2023 court.
Trevizu danced an emotional lyrical tribute to “Unsteady” while Bennett tapped her way through “Popular” from the Broadway musical Wicked.
To round out the awards, Hayley Trevizu was also voted Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants and Hannah Perez earned Most Photogenic. Perez played “Better than Revenge” on the snare drum for her talent.
Each of the nine contestants chose a talent that best showcased their skills. Kahlen Somerville presented a motivational speech on the theme of “Time” and Tammy Justice line-danced to Big and Rich’s “Fake ID”. Katelyn Kirack’s inspirational speech showcased her Uncle Mike’s construction business and his rise to the top.
Renee Delgado’s high energy hip hop dance to “Stir Fry” showcased her grace and athleticism. Mary Weekley performed an acrobatic lyrical dance dedicated to her father in “I Hope You Dance.”
The onstage competition also featured a short introductory speech in the Communication Skills category and an Impromptu Question during the Poise in evening gown portion. Seniors Nash Osborn and Tyler Wood served as escorts and stagehands.
Prior to that evening’s competition, the contestants got to know the judges during a short interview. Their community service hours and scholastic achievements were also taken in to account.
In between areas of competition, the audience enjoyed performances from Joan’s Studio of Dance, Studio 718, and J&J Performing Arts. Each studio demonstrated their own unique style through jazz, lyrical, and partner dances.
A bittersweet goodbye was given to Miss Lassen County 2022 Olivia Ormachea as she relinquished her title. Olivia has been a constant presence in our community with her warm smile and kindness and she will be missed. She will attend Lassen Community College in the fall.
Her court, Ambassadress Saydee Mueller and Princess Rebecca Kirklin, will also continue their education at LCC.
Jeremy Couso emceed the evening of “MLC The Eras Tour”, gamely working his way through numerous Taylor Swift quotes and references. The contestants kicked off the show with a sassy opening number to a mash up of “You Need to Calm Down” and “Are You Ready for It” choreographed by Miss Lassen County 2019 Hailey Gregor.
Manny LePorte followed by playing the “National Anthem” on his saxophone. LePorte is a recent LHS graduate and will be playing in the Cal Band when he starts school at UC Berkeley in August.
While the contestants prepared for talent, Olivia introduced the visiting contestants and court from the Intermountain Fair. Then she and the 2022 court assisted with the crowning of the new Little Miss and Mr court.
Little Miss 2022 Kimber Weire crowned Perri Polan and Little Mr Colton Haynes handed his title down to Colton Weire. 2022 Princess Peyton Anderson crowned Marigold Meadows and Prince Jaxen Stout congratulated new Prince Alexander Harvey.
Later in the show, the 2022 Court presented a Taylor Swift-themed thank you to honor pageant sponsors Diamond Mountain Casino, Banner Lassen, Hat Creek Construction, and Sierra Cascade Nursery.
Chalise and her court hit the ground running on Thursday morning, first appearing on the radio then attending Kiddie’s Day and the sheep show. They were spotted at the rodeo, attending concerts, and supporting fellow contestant Katelyn Kirack during the Master Showman competition. On Saturday, they were highlighted in the parade and met Tyler Rich backstage. It’s just the beginning of a very busy year full of community events, service projects, and making memories.
Jen Wood and Madi Harlan directed and coordinated the Miss Lassen County Scholarship Competition this year with help from Becky Hubbard.
On a personal note, I was a very good audience member. I enjoyed every moment, sat in my seat the whole time, and cheered and clapped when appropriate. I might be able to get used to that!
Watching my daughter shine onstage was one of the highlights of being a mom. I am so proud of what she and her friends accomplished. Can you imagine being that poised at 17? They are Lassen County’s finest and will continue to represent their peers with grace.
Remember when news was ‘newsy’? When you read about weddings, family events and engagement announcements in the newspaper? If you have something that might be newsworthy, please submit it to [email protected] and I’ll do my best to include it here in “The Good Stuff.”
