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OnTheCover: ReigningWithGrace&GrattitudeBy Sally KalosS ince 1967, young women from the Helotes area have had the opportunity to participate inthe Miss Helotes Scholarship Pageant, competing for a place on the court and the honor of representing the City of Helotes. Over the past year, the 2024 court has embraced this role, serving as role models and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Their reign will officially concludein May.The outgoing 2024 court includes MissHelotes Amelia Sanchez, Princess Emily Bloodworth, Duchess Elize Amador, Miss Citizenship Adyson Casias, Miss Spirit Shelby Smith, and Miss Congeniality Claire Leal. Since their crowning, these six young women have successfully balanced school, work, extracurriculars, and pageant commitments. Along the way, they have gained confidence, independence, and adeeper appreciation for their community. As their time on the court comes to an end, Amelia, Emily, Elize, Adyson, Shelby, and Claire look forward to welcoming the next group of young women who will continue this proud tradition. They are confident that the incoming court will represent Helotes with the same honor and enthusiasm, forming lasting friendshipsand unforgettable memories.Photo By Kim Bourquin Photography.Completing Their Reign With Grace And GratitudeThe Miss Helotes Court Shares Spotlights Of Their ReignAmelia Rose Sanchez ~ Miss Helotes 2024strong role models and aspires to be the same for others.Her advice to future contestants? Be yourself. The pageant is about embracing who you are and sharing that with your community.A hopeful Longhorn, Amelia dreams of attending UT Austin to double major in Communications and Advertising/Public Relations.When asked about her legacy, Emily hopes to be remembered for spreading kindness and making meaningful connections. “So many people have left a lasting impact on me, and I hope I’ve done the same.”Her advice for future pageant participants? “Be confident and soak in every moment—it goes by so quickly!”Emily will be attending Texas Tech University with her fellow Miss Congeniality, Claire, majoring in Mental Health Counseling with a minor in Nutrition.“I will truly miss Helotes and its one- of-a-kind sense of community,” she says, cherishing the memories and friendships she has made.Elize Amador ~ Duchess 2024BAmelia Rose Sanchez, a junior at Sandra Day O’Connor High School, holds the title of Miss Helotes 2024. From the moment she attended the pageant’s informational meeting, she knew it was something she wanted to do. While the glitz and glam were appealing, she was most drawn to the community outreach opportunities. She saw the pageant as a way to connect with her community and develop professional presentation skills.Being part of the Miss Helotes Court has transformed her life. She has gained confidence, improved as a public speaker, and grown as a friend, leader, and person. Most importantly, it has deepened her passion for volunteering, allowing her to give back to the place she proudly calls home.One of her favorite experiences was the Fourth of July Celebration. The event brought the community together in a vibrant display of patriotism. Walking the Cornyval grounds in red, white, and blue, surrounded by smiling faces, was unforgettable. Watching fireworks with her fellow court members remains a cherished memory.Amelia hopes to leave a lasting impact on the younger generation, inspiring them to engage in their community, stay positive, and work as a team. She grew up withy Sally KalosEmily Bloodworth ~ Princess 2024By Sally KalosElize Amador, a senior at John M. Harlan High School, holds the title of Duchess 2024 in the Miss Helotes Scholarship Pageant Court. Feeling called by God to compete, she embraced the experience, gaining friendships, confidence, and cherished memories—all in divine timing.Over the past year, her confidence has flourished, and she now feels deeply connected to her community. One of her most memorable experiences was Cornyval. Before joining the court, she had only attended once, unaware of the dedication behind it. Helping paint fences, meeting people, and supporting local businesses made her feel like she was truly giving back.Elize hopes her legacy reflects her faith. “I pray that my time on court was encouraging and uplifting, showcasing the love of Jesus through me,” she shares. Her advice to future contestants? Be authentic. “This pageant isn’t just about beauty—it’s about intellect and character. Show the judges and contestants who you truly are. Because of that, I haven’t just made friends—I’ve gained sisters.”Looking ahead, Elize plans to attend Colorado Christian University, studyingEBy Sally Kalosmily Bloodworth, a senior at SoniaSotomayor High School, servesas a Princess on the Miss Helotes Scholarship Pageant Court 2024. Inspired to compete after moving to the area, she sought new friendships and experiences. Encouraged by a teacher, she embraced the challenge and stepped out of her comfort zone.Reflecting on her time on the court, Emily shares how much she has grown.6“We often talk about how much we’ve matured,” she says. “I’ve gained interview skills, built lifelong friendships, and met incredible people who have given me new perspectives.”Among the many events she participated in, Emily’s favorite was the Helotes Lighting of the Lights. “Riding on the float with Santa and watching the community come together for the tree lighting was truly magical,” she recalls.Kinesiology, Exercise Science, and Biblical Studies with Languages. She highly recommends competing in Miss Helotes. “There’s no losing. I’ve gained skills that will benefit me academically and professionally. The best advice I can give is to be a light to others and always remember—Jesus loves you.”Helotes Court - Continued on page 8 April 2025www.heloteshighlights.com