This Barbie aspires to be an ice skater for the U.S. Olympic team. Photo courtesy of Mary Therese Friel Modeling Agency
BY DEB AND TIM SMITH
How’s that for a headline you never thought you’d see in the Sentinel? When this story crossed our desk we asked our publisher Chris Carosa if he thought it was worth spinning our take on it; he told us to go for it as it’s not something you’re going to hear every day. Please allow us to connect the dots…
If you’re amongst those thinking, “I didn’t realize that Mendon even had 33 live Barbies,” you’d actually be right. Mendon doesn’t actually have them here, Mendon just has the ability to organize such an event through the auspices of the Mary Therese Friel Modeling Agency located in Mendon.
This past weekend, the Friel Modeling Agency, owned and operated by former Miss USA Mary Therese and her husband Kent, was charged with supplying the models for a new “Barbie: You Can Be Anything!” exhibit which was opening at The Strong National Museum of Play. So that would be your connecting-of-the-dots on the Mendon Barbie barrage.
It was all part of a very uplifting fashion show which sought to answer the age-old question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Guests at The Strong were able to see a wonderful parade of career fashions inspired by The Strong Museum’s extensive collection of America’s Favorite Doll.
“Our show was an inspiring reflection of what you can accomplish,” said Friel. “Dream big, work hard and you can achieve anything you want to be!” It’s a mantra that’s certainly worked for Mary Therese.
