Melissa Ann Russo, 14, has been chosen as a state finalist in the National American Miss Missouri Pageant that will take place Aug. 15 and Aug. 16 at the Hyatt Regency in St. Louis.

The winner of the pageant for girls ages 13 through 15 will receive a $1,000 cash award, the official crown and banner, a bouquet of roses and air transportation to compete in the national pageant at Disneyland in California.

Pageants are conducted for girls ages 4 to 18 in five age groups.

The National American Miss pageants are dedicated to celebrating America’s greatness and encouraging its future leaders. Each year, the pageant awards thousands in scholarships and prizes to recognize and assist in the development of young women nationwide. All activities are age-appropriate and family oriented.

The National American Miss pageants are for “Today’s Girl” and “Tomorrow’s Leaders.”

Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self-confidence, learning new skills, learning good attitudes about competition, and setting and achieving personal goals. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging her to set goals for the future.

Melissa’s activities include select volleyball, the National Junior Honor Society, Honors Band and Marching Band. She also enjoys piano.

She is the daughter of John and Teresa Russo of Oakville.