What defines a woman's style is more than just her looks and the clothes she wears. It's her personality, the way she reacts to pressure, its her strength. My 89-year-old grandmother, whom we call "Grandma Riley", can be described as a "Southern Bell" with her long wavy hair, love for telling stories and southern accent. But things took a turn for her in 2005. I'll never forget sitting in front my television screen watching the images of raging winds, water and the stranded people crying out for help. Hurricane Katrina had devastated the Gulf Coast. And then more familiar images came across the screen such as a Wal Mart I had visited not too long ago. The storm made its way to Buluxy Mississippi, home of my Grandma Riley.

My heart dropped when I was told my Grandma Riley who suffers form Alzheimer's had been stuck on top of a roof, fell into the floodwaters and eventually taken to a hospital. Her brick house built by her husband, gone, all of her pictures, gone, favorite recipes, clothing, all gone. So why was it that when she arrived here in Portland Oregon, one week after the storm, she had a smile on her face? After days of talking with her, I finally figured it out and one brief conversation summed it all up. When my aunt Sabrina, who is also her caretaker, explained to her that they had lost everything, my Grandma Riley turned to her, smiled and said "but we didn't loose our lives". So while I love Grandma Riley's hair, great stories and southern accent, things aren't the things that captivate me the most about her. Instead, I am greatly moved by her joy despite her situation and her ability to look on the bright side of things.

Just before she left to return to Buluxy Mississippi, Grandma Riley sang me song "Life is Like a ball game". It took her a while to complete it because she kept forgetting the words, but the essence was still there. In life you win some and you loose some. Hard times will come, but in the end it's all about your ability to rise above your situation and shine.

Style is more than just outward appearances; it's about inner strength and inner beauty. Therefore, my Great Grandmother is a prime example of a woman with grand style.

Picture this, a hot sunny July day, and the incoming freshmen, the class of 2006, were piling into the St. Mary's auditorium to soon embark on their adventure on the famous freshman zoo trip. But there was one girl who sat off to the side. She was nervously clutching her clamming hands, she began to feel herself hyperventilate and then she asked herself "What I'm getting myself into?" If you haven't already guessed, that person was yours truly.

I know it's hard to believe, but from the moment I began my freshman year at St. Mary's I was shy, frightened and very apprehensive about what the future had in store for me. All my fears of the unknown were staring me right in the face. Now, I am a young woman of 18, who is confident, composed and determined. My experiences here have allowed me to develop not only my educational skills, but my social skills and growing friendships that I hope will last a life time. I never could have changed anything about myself if it hadn't been for the encouragement and support of this tight nit community. The theme for this year's Rose Festival is "in Grand Style" and what could be more stylish than every one of you? There are over 600 girls sitting right here in this auditorium, and each one of you contributes your own unique talents, diversities, and insights. You each add your own unique pizzazz and style. Because of your inspiration I have been able to come out of my shell and see myself in a different light.

Over my four years here I have been fortunate enough to have worked with an array of gifted and creative people who have inspired me to do better each step of the way. This confidence has not only helped me and others break down barriers, but it also allows us all to work together as a team. For example, when I was a member of the Doernbecher committee, our goal was to get the entire student body and faculty involved and excited to reach our goal of raising enough money for the Children's hospital. Not to mention preventing our rival Central Catholic from beating us. I loved working with all the girls from different classes and backgrounds, because together, we helped make a difference in those children's lives. Another great example is my role on the 2006 ASB. Each one of us offers a different perspective and insight to our everyday contributions. Our goal and commitment as a group is to bring St. Mary's Academy closer together. We also strive for excellence in maintaining the high standards set by our predecessors. We all come from different backgrounds, we all have different beliefs and we all have different ways of accomplishing our goals. This diversity makes us stronger and more committed to attaining the goals we have set forth for our future.

We all use our special gifts and unique talents to strive one step ahead of what's in "style." I believe that being apart of St. Mary's has allowed all of us to remain true to ourselves and authentic in our nature.

Poise, elegance, and confidence, my Nonni is the personification of grand style. My Nonni, is my fiery Italian Grandmother, and also one of the best examples of a woman who lives with pride and passion. Nonni was a trail blazer who paved the way for others as one of the first to leave her small village named Colonia Spiaggia. With only a fifth grade education, she embarked on a journey to the United States as an eighteen year old without any money or any knowledge of the English language. Nonni often recounts her first glimpse of the Statue of Liberty as one of the most meaningful moments in her life; she chose the rode less traveled with a will to succeed in this foreign land. Despite the obstacles she faced, Nonni stepped onto Ellis Island as a fearless woman, proud of her heritage, and anxious for her future. Nonni then raised her four children to the best of her ability. Although she was unable to help my mother and her siblings with their homework, she taught them far more important life lessons. When her children were made fun of for their differences, Nonni told them to keep their head high and take honor in their rich Italian roots. Nonni's unique style was especially visible as a wife and mother who never yearned for assimilation. While the other American moms were busy baking pies in their pleated skirts and matching sweater sets, Nonni baked biscotti in Capris and talk cork wedges. Although I have described my Nonni as a strong and powerful woman, I attempted to take her head on while I was still in diapers. As a creative and stubborn little girl, I was often eager to cause trouble. My somewhat devious toddler ways worked on everyone except for the unconquerable Nonni. She became my force to be reckoned with as she taught me to understand the qualities of modesty, respect, and hard work. Most importantly she taught me that accomplishment, although great, should never interfere with my background or compromise the values she engrained in me. It was through Nonni's impressive example that I learned the true meaning of un granstile. Grand style comes from within; it cannot be found in a bank account, designer outfit, or top notch education. Even at five feet tall, wearing shoulder pads and navy blue tights with black high heels, Nonni walks with an air of sophistication like she is the tallest person in the room. Now as a seventy-five year old woman, when Nonni makes her entrance, heads turn, simply because she embodies grand style.

- Anna Friedhoff

There I was, surrounded by adults! At age 6, I was with my dad at a meeting and I was called upon to speak. I slid off my chair, disappeared under the table and hid. I was one of the majority of American's who's number one fear, is public speaking. As I got older, my public speaking skills improved, but every time I would anticipate having to think on my feet in front of a group, my mind would go blank. We were all excited to be at St. Mary's, eager freshman ready to get involved. When Ms. Stadler asked for any volunteers to be our TA Senator, about 6 hands shot up including my own. She decided we all would tell the TA why we wanted to be the TA senator, and then vote. I quickly started thinking of things to say, but when she called on me, I stumbled over my words and my eyes began to water when I realized I blew it. Needless to say, I didn't get elected TA Senator, and I don't even remember who did. But after that experience, I took advantage of every opportunity I got to practice my public speaking, even if it meant stepping out of my comfort zone. Being a speaker at Women in History Day was jumping out of my comfort zone. Little did I know what a leap it would be.

I stood in front of 500 elementary school students, knees quivering slightly and started to sing. "You're a grand ole flag, You're a high flying flag." I introduced myself as Betsy Ross, the maker of the first American flag.

Women in History day at Laurelhurst Elementary School was quite a scene. Not only was Betsy Ross present, but there were also 15 other famous women, all from different decades, with different stories to share. I continued my summary of Betsy's life, and was gearing up for a show-stopping conclusion. I pulled out a pre folded piece of paper and told the crowd, "I, Betsy Ross will show you how to make a five-sided star with only one cut." I cut and the crowd buzzed with anticipation when I unfolded the paper. Two halves of a five sided star appeared. In grand style, I picked up the defective star, and held it for all to see, "Luckily, it worked on the flag," I said and slowly walked to my seat.

I had practiced that star again, and again. Yet, it had failed me, but more importantly when I pulled that star apart, I was not, as usual, left speechless. Since the star incident, I have been numerous other women for Women in History Day, and I have become aware of their unique positive qualities. The golfer, Annika Sorenstam instilled in me the power of positive thinking. Deborah Sampson taught me how to perform even though you have a musket ball embedded in your leg. Jackie Kennedy demonstrated the importance of courage and poise. And Betsy Ross' five sided star got me here today. Throughout my high school career, I have continued to push myself out of my comfort zone. As Eleanor Roosevelt, a previous Women in History participant once said, "Do one thing everyday that scares you." Well today, I am doing just that, in grand style.

- Audrey Abbott

A beautiful piece of music, regardless of the time period it was written in, will always be in style. For example, Beethoven composed music during the 18th century that we still consider beautiful three centuries later. But what about the music most people are familiar with like the music you jam to while riding in the car amongst friends, the music you sing at celebrations, or the music you play when you're in that particular mood. Then again there's the music you sing in the privacy of your shower while thinking you're Beyonce'. You can even hit those high notes sometimes, too. I know I do. Then I'll hear my mom shout from the other room, "Destinee?" And I'll be like "Yes, mom." and then she'll shout, "SHUT UP…please!!!!!" Or what about the first song you ever played at your second grade music recital? Of course you were nervous and it took several hours to learn, but didn't you feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment once you finally mastered it?

Music has been a great part of my life ever since watching Prince's Purple Rain movie as a five-year-old. Of course I couldn't tell if he was a man or woman at that time. You see, he had a man's voice, but he dressed in mommy's clothing. But when I saw him playing his guitar, I knew that was what I wanted to do. I used to mimic playing the guitar like a rock star until one day my mom finally bought me my first guitar. Holding that beautifully crafted instrument in my hands was like someone giving me a rare jewel and saying "Take it. It's yours to keep forever." From that moment on, I knew that music would be an essential part of my life.

Over the years, music has gotten me through a lot of difficult times. It was the moments when I felt like no one in the world cared for me that I have created some of the most beautiful music. I channeled all the passion and energy I was feeling inside into creating a masterpiece. No, it wasn't Beethoven's 5th symphony or Mozart, the child prodigy's 11th sonata, but it was music that I created, and it was from the heart. I now know that I can turn to music and it will never hurt me because our love is reciprocal. With music, I don't have to lie and put up a front because it is my truth. It is my first love. The more I study its history, the more I will learn about my future. Like any great musician, I hope that my music will transcend time and one day be considered in grand style. Thank you.

- Destinee Dixon

Jessica Black was the defending state champion. She had three college coaches following her that day. She was my best friend, but for that afternoon, she was also my opponent. I love playing golf, especially with my friends. But I hate playing against them! Going into that match, I never thought I would make it past the first twelve holes, but somehow I hung in there and took her to sudden death. Every time I approached the ball my hands shook. My heart beat faster and faster with every step. To make things worse, we were the last match out on the course so everyone came to watch the fun. As I saw a group of boys sauntering over, I frantically tried to remember if I had the energy to put on makeup earlier that morning. Thankfully I did. I'm not sure how many of you follow golf, but I'll let the rest of you in on a little secret… It is extremely difficult to look good, let alone dignified, when you play golf! Not only are you swinging around a metal stick trying to get a ball this big into a hole this big, but you're also doing it while wearing khaki shorts down to your knees (usually adorned with pleats) and a polo in the shape of a paper bag. Looking down at my outfit, I was relieved to see my most normal looking shorts- minus the pleats. After I gave myself the once over, I was back to business. Standing on the first green for the second time that day, I gave myself little pep talks. Jessica had been struggling all day I told myself I could win this hole. She was at least forty feet away from the cup whereas I was only fifteen. When my putt trickled down to a foot away from the cup, I let out a long breath of relief. I thought I was in the clear. But Jessica Black had other plans. She took her stance with confidence. As her ball rolled steadily closer to the hole, I held my breath. As it gently dropped into the cup, I let it out in utter disappointment. But, surprisingly, I felt ok. They say that golf is good for the soul. You get so mad at yourself you forget to hate your enemies. Well, that day my only enemy was my own nerves, and I didn't even have to get mad at myself. I knew I played my heart out, but so had Jess. She came back from what looked like a loss and proved that she was the state champion, and she deserved it. Of course I was sad, I was so close! But I knew that no matter what, friends like Jessica are worth more than a trophy and a title. Losing to her taught me more about myself than winning. Jessica had won and technically I was the loser, but I didn't think of it like that. It was a good loss; it was an amazing loss! To lose like that was more important than winning the whole tournament.

- Rachel Shahbaz