James and Christina Hernandez of Shadow Hills are the proud parents of Miss Kiara Leilani Hernandez, age 5, who has been chosen as a State Finalist in the National American Miss California Pageant to be held August 7, 2010 at the beautiful Marriott Hotel in Anaheim. The pageant is held for girls ages 4 through 18.

The winner of the pageant will receive a $1,000 cash award, the official crown and banner, a bouquet of roses, and compete in the national pageant at Disneyland in California.

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

Families interested in learning more about this unique and outstanding youth program may visit www.namiss.com.

The National American Miss pageants are for "Today's Girl" and "Tomorrow's Leaders". The pageant program is based on inner beauty, as well as poise and presentation, and offers an "All-American spirit of fun for family and friends". 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.

Miss Hernandez' activities include: ice skating, cheerleading, T-ball and gymnastics. She recently ran in The Lupus Race for Life Law Enforcement Charity Event and will also participate in The Ride to Arrest Cancer to raise awareness. Miss Hernandez is the youngest of 5 children. At this point in her life her dream is to be a "Mom". She also enjoys baking chocolate chip cookies and BBQ's at home with the family. Miss Hernandez' sponsors include The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 33 and various entities within The Los Angeles Police Department.