Applications are now being accepted for the title of 2009 Miss Bee County International.

Applicants must be unmarried, have never been married or given birth, and between the ages of 19 and 29.

The final application deadline is Feb. 15.

Miss Bee County International will represent her area at the Miss Texas International Pageant at the Scottish Rite Auditorium in San Antonio, March 20-22.

The young woman selected as Miss Bee County International will become an ambassador from the Bee County area and will receive an official title and sash.

Miss Texas International will receive a prize package valued at more than $15,000 and the opportunity to represent Texas at the 2008 Miss International Pageant in Chicago.

The American Heart Association is the official charity of the Miss Teen Texas International Pageant.

In 2008, the International Pageants joined the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement and each state titleholder will champion heart disease as a national platform in addition to promoting their own platform throughout the year.

Go Red for Women captures the energy, passion and intelligence of women, to work collectively to wipe out heart disease – the No. 1 killer of women.

For more information go to www.GoRedForWomen.org.

The current reigning 2008 Miss Texas is Alyssa Perez of Houston.

As Miss Texas, Perez serves as a spokesperson for the Gynecological Cancer Foundation. Perez dedicated her reign as Miss Texas is to educate young women about the importance of prevention and early detection of gynecological cancers through the “Everyday Pink” program.

Miss contestants will compete in interview, fitness wear, fun fashion wear and evening gown. There is no talent or swimsuit competition and no experience necessary.

Young ladies working, living, or attending school in Bee County interested in applying should write for a biographical form: Miss Texas International Pageant, 14427 Brookhollow, Suite 197, San Antonio, TX 78232, or call, e-mail or visit the website for more information: 210-403-0589; Kristin@TexasInternationalPageants.com; www.misstexasinternational.com.