 Well for the first time ever the Minnesota United States pageant is moving from St. Paul to Brainerd. Pageant directors are excited about the opportunities the pageant will bring to the community. Our Logan Gaye has the story. On February 16 pageant history will be made. State pageant directors Vicki Brandel and Bill Musil are preparing the red carpet for the first Minnesota United States pageant to be held in Brainerd. We've heard absolutely nothing but favorable comments and people are really excited that we've brought it to the Brainerd area. Around 35 contestants will compete on the Tornstrom Auditorium stage. Then the big thing that we're going to add is we're going to have a runway that leads out 16 feet into Tornstrom Auditorium so the girls will actually walk right out amongst you. Having the pageant in Brainerd has the potential to be a big economic boost for the community. We really want to benefit the businesses in the Brainerd area by bringing these people into our community, creating an opportunity for them to shop in our area to visit our local restaurants and to really experience the Brainerd area. In order for the pageant to be HSS they need the help from the community. Everything from dry cleaning to teeth whitening to fitness to maybe some wardrobe accessory items. Anybody who would like to donate to the Queen's Prize packages we'd love to feature them in our state program book. And for one lucky contestant their life will change at the end of the night. The crown gives them the opportunity to get out and make a difference in their community, have a voice. In Brainerd, Logan Gay, Lakeland News. The Minnesota United States pageant is still accepting contestants. The deadline to apply is January 10th and you can find more information on our website on the screen. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.