[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E589]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING MISS PRESLEY BENNETT MISS ARKANSAS' TEEN 2026

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BRUCE WESTERMAN

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 18, 2026

  Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
congratulate Miss Presley Bennett of White Hall, Arkansas, on being 
crowned Miss Arkansas' Teen 2026. At just 17 years old, Presley has 
distinguished herself through her talent, leadership, service, and 
commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
  Competing as Miss Saline County's Teen, Presley impressed judges with 
a dynamic Michael Jackson-inspired tap dance performance and 
demonstrated exceptional poise and character throughout the 
competition. Equally noteworthy is her dedication to youth mental 
health advocacy through her community service initiative, Peaceful 
Places. Through this important effort, Presley works to promote mental 
health awareness and well-being in schools, encouraging students to 
prioritize emotional wellness and foster supportive environments for 
their peers.
  I recently had the pleasure of meeting Presley during her visit to 
Washington, D.C., when she stopped by my office. It was a privilege to 
learn more about her accomplishments, aspirations, and dedication to 
serving others. Presley exemplifies the talent, character, and 
leadership that have earned her this distinguished title. Her 
accomplishments during the Miss Arkansas' Teen competition were 
extraordinary. She earned a total of $13,750 in scholarships and 
awards, including recognition for Overall On-Stage Conversation, 
Preliminary Health and Fitness, the Sharon Evans Bale We Are More 
Award, and Overall Arrival. Her title as Miss Arkansas' Teen also 
includes a $10,000 scholarship sponsored by Pafford EMS, further 
supporting her educational aspirations and future success.
  As Miss Arkansas' Teen, Presley will spend the coming year serving as 
a statewide ambassador for the Miss Arkansas Scholarship Program, 
making appearances across Arkansas while promoting her platform and 
inspiring young people throughout our state. Her example of service, 
confidence, and leadership reflects the very best of Arkansas's next 
generation.
  In September 2026, Presley will proudly represent the Natural State 
at Miss America's Teen 2027, to be held at the Palm Beach County 
Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. There she will compete 
alongside delegates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, 
Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands for the national title.
  The Miss Arkansas Scholarship Program, an official state preliminary 
to Miss America, has long been dedicated to empowering young women 
through scholarship, service, leadership, and personal achievement. 
Presley Bennett embodies each of these values and serves as an 
outstanding representative of this mission.
  On behalf of the people of Arkansas, I congratulate Presley Bennett 
on this remarkable achievement and commend her for her dedication to 
service, academic excellence, and advocacy. I join her family, friends, 
and community in wishing her continued success as she represents 
Arkansas on the national stage and inspires others through her 
leadership and example.

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