 Over the weekend, the Miss Minnesota United States pageants handed out their crowns at Tornstrom Auditorium in Brainerd. Contestants competed in four separate areas, interview, swimsuit, evening gown and onstage question. The pageant not only awarded eight crowns to worthy winners, but provided exposure for local businesses and raised awareness to the causes that the participants support. It feels absolutely incredible. This is my third year competing and I kept coming back because I know what my purpose is and I'm so honored and excited to be out in this journey. My platform is Suicide Awareness. I actually work with several organizations and now with the backing of the United States Organization, I really think we're going to get that message out there. All the winners will compete in the national competition in Orlando, Florida later on this summer. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.