Senate Honors Oklahoma Finalist For"America's Next Top Model"

The State Senate honored another outstanding Oklahoman today. Last week, the legislative body honored American Idol finalist Carrie Underwood and today they recognized the accomplishments and talents of America's Next Top Model finalist, Kahlen Rondot. The Broken Arrow resident just competed in Season Four of the nationally televised series on UPN produced and hosted by Super Model Tyra Banks.

"I am simply amazed at how much talent we have in Oklahoma - athletes, singers, actors, models...We have it all," said Sen. Mike Mazzei. "The fact that we've had two young women recognized for their talents on nationally televised hit TV shows this year is incredible and speaks highly of the people of Oklahoma."

Senate Resolution 51, authored by Broken Arrow legislators Sen. Mazzei and Sen. Scott Pruitt, recognizes and praises the 21-year-old for her tremendous effort and determination in fulfilling her dreams.

"This is a tough business and Kahlen showed that she has what it takes. She showed great will and courage even though she went through some times of adversity while competing," commented Sen. Pruitt. "We just want her to know how proud we all are of her and that we wish her the best of luck in all her future endeavors."

Rondot is a 2002 graduate of Broken Arrow High School. She then graduated from the Barbizon Modeling and Acting Center in Dallas, Texas. She is the daughter of Tom and Keven Rondot and the sister of Tara and Tori Rondot.

Kahlen moved to New York City to pursue a modeling career at the age of 19. She was working as a maitre d' at a five-star restaurant when she was spotted by the show's producers and creator Tyra Banks and asked to audition for America's Next Top Model. She competed for twelve weeks against 14 other modeling hopefuls to become one of the top two finalists. During that time, she was challenged through various modeling assignments which included hiking across the South African countryside to pose at a remote waterfall, being lowered into a grave as one of the seven deadly sins and posing with a crocodile while made up as a gazelle.

"I just want to congratulate Kahlen for all of her hard work and dedication. Her success just goes to show that together determination and perseverance really can make a person's dreams come true," continued Mazzei. "She is an inspiration to all of us and has served as a wonderful role model for those who watched the show."

Following the reading of the resolution, Kahlen signed autographs and took photos with Senate guests and excited fans.

"This was my first time to visit the Capitol so it was really special for me and the fact that the Senate gave me this beautiful resolution made it even better," said Rondot. "It's so touching to know that you have the support of your state and that so many people believe in you, even when you sometimes struggle to believe in yourself. I want to thank everyone at the Senate for their warm reception and words of encouragement. It means so much to me!"