Congratulations to Thorsby native, and former Miss Peach, Keeley Patterson for winning the Miss Mississippi USA pageant on Nov. 6.

Patterson, who lives in Starkville, Miss., and is studying marketing at Mississippi State University, now will compete in the Miss USA pageant. If Patterson wins that pageant—and we certainly think she’s capable—she would have an opportunity to participate in the Miss Universe pageant.

Patterson represented Chilton County well as a Peach Queen, and she continues to do so even though she’s living a state away. The local native will serve as a role model for many young local girls who compete in pageants, proving they can take their local experiences and turn them into big-time accomplishments.

We’re proud of Patterson and wish her luck as she continues her pageant and professional career.