By Janine DavisRecord Staff WriterWright City High School freshman Kaylie Lam was crowned 2013 Strassenbash queen Saturday evening at the annual festival held at Diekroeger Park.“It’s such an honor and surprise,” said Lam, as she composed herself after a few tears. “I just tried to do my best.”A Wright City cheerleader since the seventh grade, Lam has been involved in student council and student ambassadors, and has received awards for character, good grades, soccer, piano and cheerleading leadership.Lam was sponsored by Edens Edge Salon & Spa, and plans to attend the University of Missouri -Columbia to study health care. Her hope is to eventually particiapte in mission trips to help people in other countries who are less fortunate.Lam was crowned by 2012 Strassenbash Queen Emily Jaboor, a freshman at St. Louis University studying premed chemistry. Jaboor’s sponsor was Victory Tire and Auto.First runner-up and winner of the evening gown contest was Wright City High School sophomore Kallie Cundiff, sponsored by Wildcat Hair Salon & Tan.Cundiff has been involved in yearbook, newspaper and cheerleading, and has a passion for sports and education. She hopes to travel the world to help others in need.Wright City High School sophomore Lindsey Combs, sponsored by TNT Services, took the honors as Miss Congeniality and second runner-up.Combs shows animals at the county fair, and is involved with 4-H and FFA. She also enjoys swimming, four-wheeling and working out at the gym.She said her dream is to become a veterinarian.She plans to attend college at Kansas University.Combs also was recognized for top festival ticket sales, selling some 700 tickets.“I’m so happy,” she said. “I was in this to be with the girls.”Kay-Lana Mendenhall was recognized for top interview.Six young women competed in the contest this year, which revolved around character and community service.Character was on full display as contestants expressed their joy at Lam’s win and happiness to have been part of the community of young women participating in this year’s competition.Among community service projects tackled by contestants this year were cleaning the outside of the Wil Heiliger activity center at Diekroeger Park and preparations for Strassenbash.Between June and September, the group gave more than 1,000 hours to improve their community, organizers said.Walking down into the crowd, Lam had some advice for next year’s queen. “Just believe in yourself.”

Jana Todd Photo.

Wright City High School freshman Kaylie Lam was crowned 2013 Strassenbash Queen at the annual festival held Saturday.