Most all of Vicksburg will be tuned in tonight to the Miss America pageant to see our own Anne Elizabeth Buys represent Mississippi.

The pageant begins at 8 p.m. on ABC.

Many family and friends, including Mayor George Flaggs Jr., will be in the audience tonight in Atlantic City, New Jersey, cheering her on in the competition and we will be rooting right along with them.

While we’re at it, here’s a round of applause to her parents, Mark and Judy Buys, for the incredible young lady they have raised.

Being on the stage in Atlantic City has been a life-long dream for Anne Elizabeth, first as Miss Mississippi Magnolia princess and then Miss Mississippi’s Outstanding Teen for 2013. She was first runner-up a year ago in the Miss Mississippi pageant.

It has been a journey she has made a quest and we are overjoyed to see her reach this goal. She has worked tirelessly for this moment, working out, practicing her dance routine, studying and preparing with mock interviews and also staying versed on current events.

She has also been fulfilling her responsibilities as Miss Mississippi while preparing for the Miss America pageant. The Mississippi State University senior has also been making speaking engagements across the state promoting her platform, “Water for Life,” which raises funds for clean drinking water around the world.

Her long-time dream of competing for the title of Miss America is a reality and we are hoping the dream continues tonight and she is honored with the coveted crown of Miss America.

Whichever way it turns out, we are proud of you and the way you have represented not only Vicksburg, but also the Magnolia State.