Special Feature, Miss Nebraska USA 2014

“Who is Amanda Soltero.. and how do I meet her??”

Ladies and gentlemen, THIS is Amanda Soltero, Miss Nebraska USA 2014

..and NOW you know why my friend asked to meet her.

Jaw. Dropping. GORGEOUS. If ever there was a time for me to write a blog using only photos, this would be it.

STUNNING: adj. To astonish; astound; amaze: Her beauty stunned the audience.

(Photos courtesy of Rachel Imdieke, Fadil Berisha and Georgina Vaughan)

Believe it or not, Amanda seems to be just as beautiful, if not more so, on the INSIDE. The same weekend young women from across the state will compete for the title of Miss Nebraska, Amanda will be competing in Baton Rouge for the title of Miss USA. Today in a special feature, get to know Miss Nebraska USA, and find out why she wants your support representing our state.

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First things first.. what’s the difference between Miss America and Miss USA? I think my fellow KETV anchor and pageant-graduate
Alex Hoffman put it best in saying these two organizations are the most prestigious, well known and respected in the pageant world. They are televised, have history on their side, and have thousands of participants nationwide. While many of the same young women compete for both, they are two different systems.

The Miss America Organization is a not-for-profit organization; The Miss USA/Miss Universe organization is a joint venture partnership between NBC and Donald Trump.

Women who compete for Miss America must be 17-24 years old; women who compete for Miss USA must be between 17-27 years old.

Finally, Miss America contestants compete in swimsuit, evening gown, interview and talent; Miss USA contestants do not compete in talent.

Miss USA Erin Brady and Miss America Nina Davuluri

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Enough with the facts and figures… meet Amanda!

“I am determined to use my year to make a difference in people’s lives, especially children with cancer,” Amanda told me in a recent interview. “You get one year to be Miss Nebraska USA and even though I come from a small town (Columbus, Neb.), I know I can still make a big difference by using my title to do so! I want to show my state that I can make them proud by representing them in the best way and by truly making the most of my time with the crown, not just for all the glitz and glam.”

Just as each of the Miss Nebraska contestants have a personal platform of service, Amanda is focusing her year on spreading awareness of childhood cancer.

“Pediatric cancer research and awareness is very near and dear to my heart,” said Amanda. “6-year old Sammy Nahorny is a family friend of mine and when they started Sammy’s Superheroes, I knew I wanted to get involved.”

Sammy was diagnosed at 4-years old with Neuroblastoma, cancer that commonly affects the abdomen and adrenal glands and is very difficult to treat. Loved ones formed Sammy’s Superheroes to show their support and raise money for research; more than 10,000 people now support the cause, including Olympic Gold Medalist Curt Tomasevicz. Check out Sammy’s Superheroes online or on Facebook to learn more!

“When you see directly the effects childhood cancer can have on someone you care about, it really hits you hard and makes you want to help in any way that you can,” said Amanda. “I knew that if I won Miss Nebraska USA, I would be able to give a larger platform for Sammy’s Superheroes and really get the word out how desperately funds are needed for research to find a cure.”

Amanda recruiting Miss Arkansas USA, Miss Kansas USA and Miss Oklahoma USA to become Sammy’s Superheroes!

Amanda has also offered her support and time to Team Jack, the organization raising money to fight pediatric brain cancer in honor of Jack Hoffman. Jack and his dad, Andy, are good friends to KETV, sharing their story of Jack’s long battle with a brain tumor, his friendship with Nebraska football player Rex Burkhead, and the now legendary Spring Game touchdown run viewed more than 8.4 million times on YouTube.

I, too, have had the privilege of sharing Jack’s story, and the fight he represents. Team Jack has now raised more than 1.1 million dollars for pediatric brain cancer research, and has the support of tens of thousands across the country.

Click here to watch my story following up with the Hoffmans in the middle of Jack’s fight, as two other families lost little boys to brain cancer

Click here to watch my story about the ‘Year of Jack’ following the touchdown that touched America.

Click here to learn more about Team Jack online and on Facebook

Amanda and Jack at the first annual Team Jack Gala

“I know that the more people that hear and see where their money is going, the quicker we can find a cure!” said Amanda.

It is THIS, not the fancy photo shoots or glamorous trips around the country, that Amanda enjoys the most about being Miss Nebraska USA.

“The appearances I have gotten to do WITH Sammy have had the most impact on me and have been the most meaningful,” said Amanda.

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While many state titleholders take a year off from school and full time work to focus on service and appearances, Amanda has not; she remains a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and will graduate this weekend with a degree in Broadcasting.

Amanda reporting at a Nebraska women’s soccer game for the B1G Network

But make no mistake; Amanda says she is ready to represent Nebraska at Miss USA.

“I want to make the people of my home state proud and go out knowing that I did everything I possibly could to prepare and leave no stone unturned,” said Amanda. “I want to be a platform for the organizations that mean the most to me, and get others on board as well. I want to represent myself, my family and my state in the best light possible.”

Amanda and her family

Amanda will fly to Louisiana on May 25th, but she’s hoping to take Nebraska with her. You can watch the Miss USA pageant live on NBC June 8th at 8/7 Central, hopefully cheering loud enough that Amanda will be able to hear you 1,000 miles away.

“My hopes for the pageant are to show the world what Nebraskans are made of and to let people know there is more to Nebraska than cornfields and flat land,” said Amanda.

And there’s more to Amanda than a pretty face. This young woman is reshaping how children, families and Nebraskans think of ‘beauty queens’. Beauty INSIDE and out.

GO. BIG. RED. Represent, Miss Nebraska USA!

Connect with Miss Nebraska USA 2014 Amanda Soltero on

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

on the Miss Nebraska USA website

and on Amanda’s blog

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Alliance Staci Craighead

NEXT POST.. Miss Northwest, Alex O’Connor!

A Bull Dog in a Pair of Pants

May7

DO NOT mess with Miss Alliance.

Studies biochemistry. Likens pageants to football. Emotionally tougher than nails.

Let’s compare; I can’t follow a recipe most of the time. My nickname on the softball field is 1-3 (as in, I hit it back to the pitcher). I get choked up watching Carter’s commercials.

Yeeeaaaaaa… I’m out.

Miss Alliance, Staci Craighead

Staci’s been to North Platte before; the last time winning the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen in 2010. (She’s one of three former Miss Nebraska Outstanding Teens, including Rachel Foehlinger and Lianna Prill).

“I earned the title [at 17] and fell in love with the four points of the Miss America crown: scholarship, success, style and service,” said Staci in a recent interview. “My family’s values are very similar to these four points which allowed me to grow as a person with my family and the Miss America Organization.”

Staci sees strong leadership at home; her mom Joni is running for the Nebraska legislature, and has actively been involved in the state’s Republican party for 20 years.

“Watching my mother progress and succeed as a businesswoman, politician, and volunteer has solidified my tenacity,” said Staci. “Once I set a goal for myself nothing can get in my way, no matter the course.”

Staci has also experienced setbacks, including a tragic loss several years ago.

“I lost my father to cancer at 14 years old and hold on to his many words of wisdom as I grow into a young woman,” said Staci. “Being earnest comes from my father’s value of honesty and sincerity. His kindness and encouragement were the foundation for my love of service and appreciation for life’s gifts.”

“Happy Father’s Day to the turtle dove that greats me at my car every morning, and on my porch every evening. Love you Daddy.”

Staci has also faced disappointment; dismissal from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln shortly after beginning her college career.

“I found myself lost in the transition between ‘assigned’ learning and ‘selected’ learning. I had no idea where I wanted to start my education to further a career and ended up losing interest in my classes,” said Staci. She took a year off to work and ‘grow up’, and was granted another chance at her scholarship at the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

“Most will tell you that you’ll never go back to school if you stop after the first year or two, but I was determined to prove that staple wrong, and I did,” said Staci. “[I am a] Chemistry major with an emphasis on biochemistry and [hold a] 3.75 GPA. I want to do Bio-defense research for the military after earning a PhD in Analytical Chemistry. I am a firm role model for those who have lost the spark for education as my college experience is proof that you can succeed in every aspect of life.”

TENACIOUS, GREGARIOUS, EARNEST

As Miss Alliance, Staci is taking her personal story to schools and students planning, or not planning, for college.

“As a young woman and student, I have observed and experienced a rising problem among other young Americans. Desensitization to debt and lack of appreciation for the opportunity to pursue an education are variables that are causing a decline in graduation rates across the United States,” said Staci. “I am passionate about educating young Americans about the process of earning scholarships, the fundamentals of fiscal responsibility as newly independent individuals, and understanding what an incredible privilege it is to achieve a higher education.”

Staci calls her platform of service ‘Financial Education: The Dollars Make Sense’.

“I witnessed many of my classmates struggle to pay for school and keep up with the cost of living as a college student, which led me to realize that students are not adequately prepared for the financial difficulties that come with an education,” said Staci. “I plan to work with high school juniors and seniors, teaching them how to set up a monthly budget, establish an understanding of student loans, and succeed in applying for scholarships.”

Staci also volunteers at Crossroads Mission Center in Kearney, in addition to her studies and preparing for the Miss Nebraska pageant.

She also sings at local events, like here for an Omaha Beef arena football game, but Interview is her favorite part of competition.

“Sharing experiences, values, and honesty with the judges brings the process of competing in pageants full circle as it reminds me of why I am there, services and action,” said Staci.

She doesn’t need a reminder about WHO she is.

“I am a woman with a thirst for knowledge, a passion for service, and a hope for the future of education,” said Staci.

One more thing.. this beauty queen plans to become a soldier. Staci says she will join the Army Reserve in her junior year of college.

The Army. Competing for Miss Nebraska.

<<speechless>>

Staci: “I think camouflage and crowns go quite well together!”

We’ll find out soon–Miss Nebraska begins ONE MONTH FROM TODAY.

Connect with Miss Alliance, Staci Craighead

via email at srcraighead27@yahoo.com

***

The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Eastern Nebraska, Alyssa Howell

NEXT POST.. ***SPECIAL FEATURE*** Miss Nebraska USA Amanda Soltero!

The Kid Whisperer

May5

The Kid Whisperer… wow, that sounds like an AWESOME reality show.

‘You’ve seen the Dog Whisperer.. You loved SuperNanny… now meet, THE KID WHISPERER! SHHHHHH!!!!’

I’d DVR that.

Here’s the show’s premise: a beautiful young lady who makes miracles happen through her love of working with and being around children. Her name?

Miss Eastern Nebraska, Alyssa Howell

(Thanks to Deyo’s Photography for use of Alyssa’s photo!)

Children are Alyssa’s focus during her year as Miss Eastern Nebraska and they are her future; the Creighton University student plans to become a Child Life Specialist for the Children’s Miracle Network, working in facilities helping patients and families navigate the challenges of childhood illnesses and hospitalization.

“When I made my first onsite visit to a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital at age 15, I knew that was where I could make the largest and most meaningful impact,” said Alyssa in a recent interview. “Ever since, I have been working towards raising awareness, fundraising, but most importantly, interacting with patients to make their days a little brighter.”

“My family and friends call me the Kid Whisperer!” said Alyssa.

CHARISMATIC, PASSIONATE, FUN!

Children’s Miracle Network is Miss America’s community partner, so it made perfect sense to Alyssa to tie in her passion with competing for Miss Nebraska.

“The Miss America Organization is one of the most outstanding programs for young women in the world,” said Alyssa. “It is the place where I feel I can do the most for my community through the emphasis of service, learn and grow as a person, and most of all, have fun while meeting new people and enhancing my interview and performance skills! Young women are valued and rewarded in this organization for excelling as leaders in education, service, the arts and living healthy lives – that’s important to me.”

Alyssa also respects the tradition involved with the Miss America Organization, even the more controversial aspects, like Lifestyle and Fitness. Alyssa notes the entire system started as a swimsuit competition in Atlantic City in 1921.

“The swimsuit competition is such a rich part of Miss America’s history and should be embraced,” said Alyssa. “Aside from that, swimsuit is a great way to encourage proper nutrition, fitness and self-confidence. Truly, the judges are looking for a healthy girl, one that has good muscle tone and body shape, not just a skinny girl.”

Alyssa goes as far to say most contestants have fun strutting their stuff! Still, she says, Interview is her favorite aspect of the competition.

“It allows you to interact with the judges in a one-on-one environment,” said Alyssa. “I love being able to tell my story, express why I am there and most of all, meet some pretty amazing people!”

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No doubt some of her tiniest friends may come up in Alyssa’s interview. She’ll be advocating for them right up until her trip to North Platte, even hosting an online fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network on Friday, May 9th. From 5-8 pm, Alyssa hopes to raise $1000. Find out more by heading to her event website.

Alyssa’s reality TV debut may have to wait. After all, she’s already earned the title of Kid Whisperer.

Now she’s aiming for Miss Nebraska.

Connect with Miss Eastern Nebraska, Alyssa Howell

on her Facebook page devoted to her personal platform, ‘Making Miracles Happen’

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The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Metro, Kimberly Brennan

NEXT POST.. Miss Alliance, Staci Craighead!

Making Noise

May5

Every single one of the young women competing for Miss Nebraska has a voice, a message they want as many people as possible to listen to.

Today’s featured contestant is working extra hard, because the same people she is trying to help CANNOT always hear her.

Miss Metro, Kimberly Brennan

Kimberly is nearly deaf in her left ear. A virus, contracted when she was 14, stole her hearing. A virus that was not diagnosed for several weeks, despite Kimberly’s complaints about ringing in her ear and an inability to hear things clearly.

“It took an ENT five minutes to diagnose a virus in my ear. If I had only known weeks earlier, my hearing could have been saved,” said Kimberly in a recent interview. “I want to share my story and take the message of hearing loss prevention on a state and national level because I don’t want others to risk this same fate.”

Kimberly now travels to schools and other groups sharing her story. She also hands out earplugs and has plans to ‘take on’ companies that produce products like ear buds to make listening devices safer.

“With the ever growing prevalence of noise induced hearing loss, now is the perfect time to take on the issue,” said Kimberly. “The answer lies mainly in providing the knowledge.”

PASSIONATE, COMPASSIONATE, GENUINE

Kimberly’s explanation behind her personal platform is only a glimpse of the passion she has for her roles, not just as Miss Metro, but as ‘Miss Brennan’. Kimberly graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha and has been accepted into the CADRE Masters of Education program, where she plans to obtain her Master’s Degree in education WHILE teaching full-time.

“Student teaching was a high point in my educational career,” said Kimberly. “I loved and was energized by teaching students each day and dedicating myself to helping them learn and grow.”

Kimberly also spends about 21 hours a week teaching baton at Sue’s Stepperettes, where she became a national and world champion despite her hearing loss. She still trains there several hours a week.

“Imagine trying to throw a baton, jump, spin and balance, all while having the balance on one side of your body minimized,” said Kimberly. “It took a lot of hard work and perseverance to regain the balance that I had; winning [those titles] have been some of the proudest moments of my life so far, because I had to work so hard to get there.”

Kimberly will compete for Miss Nebraska side by side with her fellow baton twirlers Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger and Miss State Fair Aleah Peters.

See if you can spot them in KETV’s story on Sue’s Stepperettes when they celebrated 40 years in May of 2013.

No matter where she’s teaching, speaking, or twirling, Kimberly says she tries to show every person and group she cares about them.

“I want them to do well, I want them to accomplish great things and I want them to feel cared for,” said Kimberly. “I try to talk to everyone I meet and I take a genuine interest in them. I am truly fascinated by the things you can learn simply by talking to people you come across.”

That passion fuels Kimberly’s desire to serve others.

“I never feel better than when I am volunteering my time with others,” said Kimberly. “I have had amazing opportunities to help by raising money, plunging in freezing cold water, reading to children at libraries and schools, speaking about hearing loss, passing out ear plugs, dancing, greeting people, running bid boards, doing arts and crafts, modeling, all while taking about a million photos to commemorate the life changing experiences! I’m always looking for more opportunities to serve others, so PLEASE feel free to contact me if you know of any place that could use volunteers!”

Need proof? I spotted Kimberly THREE TIMES in the April issue of Metro Magazine, volunteering or making appearances at events in the Omaha area. In every photo, she is flashing a warm, welcoming smile.

“What you see is what you get. I am proud of who I am and what I have accomplished so far in my life,” said Kimberly. “I am confident in the fact that I am compassionate, passionate, dedicated, loving, caring, hard working, reflective, helpful, confident and intelligent. But I also accept the face that I have lazy days sometimes, that I can procrastinate, that I over-schedule myself, that I have a sweet tooth and that I can be impatient. We all have our negative qualities, but we need to be willing to embrace them and to better ourselves each day by serving others and gaining knowledge about anything and everything that strikes our fancy.”

Kimberly says the Miss America Organization highlights the positive, making the pageant still relevant in 2014.

“Turn to mass media and I bet you can find multiple stories about violence, celebrity happenings, people with eating disorders, and tragedies that happen every day,” said Kimberly. “While there are some positive stories about people who are doing great things and fighting to make a change, they are far fewer than those that are disheartening and discouraging. That is where the Miss America and Miss Nebraska pageants shine. These contestants are women who are actually doing something about these problems. They are women who are willing to put themselves out there and work like crazy to have a positive impact on the world.”

Kimberly’s out there, alright. Trying to make people hear her story, on behalf of those who can’t.

She’s ready to make some noise at Miss Nebraska.

Connect with Miss Metro, Kimberly Brennan

by email at kabrennan@unomaha.edu

***

The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Western Nebraska, Morgan Yost

NEXT POST.. Miss Eastern Nebraska, Alyssa Howell!

One Moment In Time

May4

You know you’re a good singer when…

A) You are performing at New York’s Carnegie Hall

B) You receive a full-ride music scholarship to college

C) You know that under no circumstances should you ever, EVER try to sing Celine Dion, Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston at karaoke. Just don’t do it.

Ok, that last one is one of my own personal rules. But can I get a ‘Heck, yea!!!’ from my fellow singers out there?!?!

I am merely a car-concert performer. My audience is occasionally my two little boys in the backseat, and the poor souls in my neighborhood who can hear me through my sunroof. (My apologies.) Today’s featured Miss Nebraska contestant is the REAL DEAL..

Miss Western Nebraska Morgan Yost

I don’t know how she feels about option C, but Morgan is making A and B reality! She is a busy young woman, participating in show choir and choir at Western Nebraska Community College, majoring in Pre-Dental Hygiene, all while making appearances throughout her year of service as Miss Western Nebraska.

“Not only does the Miss Nebraska/Miss America organization provide many scholarships and other wonderful opportunities, but it provides real-life preparations,” said Morgan in a recent interview. “It allows a person to be themselves while serving their state and community.”

Morgan has been participating in pageants for eight years, encouraged to try her first one at the age of 13.

“To be in a pageant, you don’t have to be pretty or perfect,” said Morgan. “You have to be yourself, the person who God simply created you to be. If you put your faith in God, wonderful things will happen.”

Morgan describes herself as a ‘farm girl’ who raises pigs, loves to sing and likes getting dressed up on occasion.

“Pigs and pageants?? I never would have put those two together,” said Morgan. “Pageants have made me into the person I am today. There’s something that has brought me back each and every year.”

As Miss Western Nebraska, Morgan is promoting her personal platform to prevent distracted driving, which she calls ‘Stop the Texts. Stop the Wrecks.’

“Over a year ago, my community and hometown was hit with many fatalities that occurred because of distracted driving,” said Morgan. “Having to attend funerals of girls who I went to high school with was never part of my plan at such a young age. I wanted to choose a platform that made an impact on the lives of others.”

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Morgan has teamed up with the Nebraska State Patrol to speak at schools and other civic organizations across Nebraska’s panhandle, encouraging others to not only practice safe driving, but to make it a habit.

“There is nothing that can compare to the possibility of saving a life,” said Morgan. “Although good things do not come out of every situation, God will be there in the end to answer and comfort your heart. We must trust in His plans and purposes for life.”

Full ride music scholarship–check. Singing at Carnegie Hall–check. Making a difference as Miss Western Nebraska–check.

Let’s add one final option to the checklist:

You know you’re a good singer when…

D) You’re competing for Miss Nebraska, so you earn the right to sing whatever you want at karaoke!!!

TRUTH 🙂

Connect with Miss Western Nebraska, Morgan Yost

on Facebook

Click here for more information about the Miss Gering/Miss Western Nebraska pageant.

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The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Chadron, Kodi Baumann

NEXT POST.. Miss Metro, Kimberly Brennan!

If Nebraska Had An Ocean..

May1

I’m going to date myself again, but any readers love the Little Mermaid as a kid? Anyone? <crickets>

Hey, Brandi.. 1989 called for you…

Let’s recap. The Little Mermaid is a Disney CLASSIC about a gorgeous mermaid with an even more gorgeous voice who wins the heart of everyone in the ocean and in the end, a handsome prince.

If Disney ever makes a real-life version, today’s featured Miss Nebraska contestant would be PERFECT for the part.

Miss Chadron, Kodi Baumann

(Thank you Judy’s Photo for use of Kodi’s pictures!)

The red hair, the passion for singing–she’s perfect!

When Kodi recently replied to my interview request, she included not only pictures of herself, but images showing what music means to her.

“I love being able to put together a song and perform for an audience,” said Kodi. “The experience is so exhilarating! I love being able to share my passion of music with a crowd. Hopefully it touches someone and they enjoy the music I create.”

Kodi first started competing in the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen program at the age of 13, looking for another place to sing.

“This pageant system has become so much more than another stage for me,” said Kodi. “I have been able to discover who I am and it’s helped me grow into an accomplished woman. I have had so many doors open up to me because of this system! It’s singing that is paying my way through college and without the confidence I gained from the Miss America Organization I’m not sure I would be here.”

Now as a student at Western Nebraska Community College, Kodi is part of Varsity Vocalize, along with two of her fellow Miss Nebraska contestants, Miss Western Nebraska Morgan Yost and Miss Scotts Bluff County Brittli Sell.

“I have also created so many ‘pageant sisters’ that have become fantastic friends of mine,” said Kodi. “I’m so lucky to call them friends!”

Kodi has also connected with a different kind of sister. Her favorite part of the Miss Nebraska pageant is the Little Sisters program.

“This is a mentoring program that pairs young girls with a young woman competing for a title in the Miss America Organization,” described Kodi. “It deals with sharing the importance of the four components of the Miss America crown: style, success, scholarship and service. I know they have made an impact on my life and I will always think of each of them as my little sisters I never had!”

Check out Kodi’s online photo album featuring her Little Sisters!

Kodi’s real-life brother inspired her personal platform of service, ‘Fasten Your Seat Belt! Cross Your Heart Not Your Fingers.’

“When I was a freshman in high school my older brother was involved in a roll-over accident,” said Kodi. “He had a traumatic brain injury, broken eye socket, four broken vertebrae, broken shoulder blades, and a broken femur. He lost a kidney, suffered a lacerate spleen and liver and had to relearn how to walk. I want to spread awareness about wearing seat belts because not only did it affect my brother, it affected my entire family.”

Kodi maintains a Facebook page, devoted to her platform. Check it out here!

FOCUSED, HONEST, ADVENTUROUS

Kodi is honest about her feelings regarding the Lifestyle and Fitness portion of the Miss Nebraska pageant, also known as the swimsuit competition.

“I am someone who will always tell the truth,” said Kodi. “I can’t help but feeling like [swimsuit] is a large hurdle for me to overcome for me and many others I’m sure. I’m sure many can relate!”

(Blog author contribution… PREACH, KODI!! PREACH!!)

“But once you overcome that obstacle you realize that you can do anything!” Kodi added. “Swimsuit is a very important part of competition. It shows the physical fitness of all the competitors and plays a huge role in reflecting the woman’s confidence and pride in themselves.”

Kodi says she is focused to achieve that goal and others.

And adventurous, the kind of girl who loves to travel and experience new things (like here, kissing the Blarney Stone!)

Kodi sent me one final quote, not necessarily about music but everything to do with her..

Pretty sure Ariel had a t-shirt with this quote on it.

Nebraska may not have an ocean or any Little Mermaids, and Kodi doesn’t have time to search for the handsome prince.

She’s getting ready for Miss Nebraska.

Connect with Miss Chadron Kodi Baumann

on Facebook and by email at crossyourheartnotyourfingers@gmail.com

Click here to get more information about Cross Your Heart, Not Your Fingers

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The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Panhandle, Mindy Schreiber

NEXT POST.. Miss Western Nebraska, Morgan Yost!

FIERCE

Apr30

“This is the year I will be stronger, braver, kinder and unstoppable. This year I will be fierce.”

LOVE IT. I may print off that quote and frame it on my desk.

Let me introduce you to the author…

Miss Panhandle, Mindy Schreiber

As you might have seen from my other features on this year’s Miss Nebraska contestants, the year of service as a local titleholder is no easy job. It requires time, dedication and preparation, often in addition to school, work and other commitments. This is Mindy’s FIFTH year of service. She’s been a titleholder in Nebraska since 2010, finishing as 1st runner up TWICE at Miss Nebraska.

“My determination has allowed me to keep persevering for my dream job of Miss Nebraska,” said Mindy in a recent interview. That same drive has also helped Mindy graduate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in three years and complete her graduate degree (in addition to her bachelor’s) within five. Just four months from completion of that degree, she’s also a Family Medical Therapy Intern with the University of Nebraska. Still, she’s managed to make her way around the state speaking about her platform and making appearances, this year as Miss Panhandle.

“My friends and family joke that I live out of my car because I am always on the go to another appearance, school, or whatever may be on my calendar for the day!” said Mindy. “I love being involved in many activities and organizations because it enables me to give back in diverse ways and meet people all across Nebraska while having fun.”

DETERMINED, PASSIONATE, OUTGOING

From the beginning, Mindy has been an ambassador for the TeamMates Mentoring Program, created by Nebraska legend Tom Osborne. Mindy shares those experiences through appearances as Miss Panhandle, advocating for her platform of service she calls ‘Mentoring: The Power of ONE.’

“Growing up the youngest of four children, I always looked up to my siblings in every aspect of life,” said Mindy. “The lessons I learned from them, as well as from other mentors of mine, will guide me for the rest of my life. Mentoring is ONE mentor, giving ONE hour of their time ONE day a week to help ONE young person be successful. Everyone can spare one hour to make a difference in a young person’s life.”

That influence from her older sisters is actually what inspired Mindy to participate in the Miss Nebraska system.

“I saw how they grew as individuals and as I watched them on stage, I told myself, ‘someday, I’m going to do that,'” said Mindy. “Now, in the final year of this journey, I feel so blessed to be part of this wonderful organization. What I have gained from competing cannot be taught anywhere else, nor can this experience be repeated anywhere else.”

That is just one of the positive takeaways from the Miss America Organization, according to Mindy.

“These relationships are invaluable,” said Mindy. “When the pageant is over, I will still have the friends I have met throughout competing and I will forever be grateful for that.”

Mindy says she has also remained debt free throughout her entire post-secondary education, thanks to Miss America.

“The organization is still relevant today because it is the leading scholarship provider for women in the world,” said Mindy. “Any young woman can be a part of this incredible organization; there is no stereotype, making Miss America both relevant and relatable.”

“Passion flows out of me no matter what I may be doing. I genuinely want to invest 110% of my heart into everything I do. It’s how I was raised and it’s a standard I hold myself to.”

The young women who participate in this system are the best of the best; they lead the pack in their communities, schools and churches. In Mindy’s case; she’s leading a marathon of sorts and the finish line is drawing closer in North Platte.

Mindy Schreiber has her fierce game face on. Smiling, of course.

Connect with Miss Panhandle, Mindy Schreiber

contact her by email at mindyschreiber27@hotmail.com

***

The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss State Fair, Aleah Peters!

NEXT POST.. Miss Chadron, Kodi Baumann!

** Watch for an upcoming post featuring all of this year’s Miss Nebraska Outstanding Teen contestants! **

How Do You Like Me Now?

Apr29

This is my 9th feature on this year’s Miss Nebraska contestants, and I feel like with every profile I write and the pictures I post, I think, ‘WOW, this girl is just BEAUTIFUL!’ It’s hard to imagine a time in any of their lives when they were picked on, targeted, or felt sadness because of someone else’s words against them.

Not the case.

In so many of these interviews, these women have revealed moments in their past in which they were bullied for a variety of reasons. Kids can be cruel; even more so in today’s age of social media, when it’s so very easy to tweet or post something mean about someone behind the shield of the internet.

This young lady is taking on the bullies, and showing everyone who feels alone that THIS is who you can become.

Miss State Fair, Aleah Peters

(Thank you Marla Austin Photography for use of Aleah’s photo!)

THAT SMILE. From the moment I met Aleah, that has been something that is always there, in every picture, in every moment she’s on stage, and whenever you are around her in person. THAT SMILE. Little did I know before our interview, it hasn’t always been there.

“When I was in high school I was bullied by a group of girls,” said Aleah in a recent interview. “I feared going to school, attending sporting events or even answering my phone. Since then I have realized that this is a problem that has affected, or will affect, everyone. Whether a person experiences being the victim, the bully, or a bystander, it is important that we stand up for change.”

Aleah is taking her message, dubbed ‘Stand for the Silent, Anti-Bullying’ to kids across the state of Nebraska.

“I have learned so much from each person I have met throughout my year,” said Aleah. “This position allows me to be a role model to kids of all ages and a contributing member in my community. Wearing a crown and sash gives me credibility and the chance to make a difference.”

Aleah is also raising money for the Children’s Miracle Network, Miss America’s community partner. She recently organized the ‘Miss Valentine’ pageant, drawing more than 40 little girls. Each child was treated to hair and makeup pampering, then participated in an opening number dance, modeling and an interview. Every girl was recognized for something she did well in; the event raised more than $2,000 for the charity.

“The girls had a wonderful time!” said Aleah. “The event was a huge success!”

DRIVEN, EXUBERANT, COMPASSIONATE

“I genuinely care for the people around me,” said Aleah. “I always try to make somebody’s day a little bit brighter.”

Those qualities helped Aleah finish as 1st runner-up in the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen competition in 2010. After graduating from Millard South High School, she decided to compete for Miss Nebraska. While she says she enjoys all areas of the competition, Interview is her favorite.

“This part of the competition allows me to show the judges who I really am past all of the glamorous gowns, fit bodies and flashy talent,” said Aleah. “Interview sets each individual apart from each other because we are all so different.”

Aleah also has plenty of practice for the Talent portion of the competition; she works at Sue’s Stepperettes in Omaha, where she has twirled baton for years along with fellow contestants Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger and Miss Metro Kim Brennan. See if you can spot Aleah in KETV’s story on Sue’s Stepperettes when they celebrated 40 years in May of 2013.

As for Lifestyle and Fitness, or swimsuit competition, Aleah believes it should remain part of the Miss America system.

“The goal of the organization is to help women become the best version of themselves in all areas of their life including fitness,” said Aleah. “This area of competition has helped me develop self-confidence and realize the importance of living a healthy life.”

In Aleah’s case.. healthy AND happy. Did I mention her awesome smile?

I can’t help but hope those girls who were mean to her so many years ago see this post, or see Aleah’s picture and achievements, and someday teach their kids to be kinder than they were. If I WERE Aleah, I’d be dancing in my bedroom, singing to Toby Keith’s ‘How Do You Like Me Now?’ at the top of my lungs.

I’m guessing Aleah doesn’t do that. She doesn’t need to, when she can make little girls smile just like her.

Connect with Miss State Fair, Aleah Peters

on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Instagram

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The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger

NEXT POST…. Miss Panhandle, Mindy Schreiber!

River Deep, Mountain High

Apr28

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away….

I competed in the Miss Nebraska pageant. Many moons and many pounds ago.

I loved performing on stage and speaking about issues and causes I believe in. I will also never forget the amazing show of support I had from my family, friends and even strangers throughout the two years I competed.

Before Miss Nebraska 2002, a sweet little girl approached me with a neon green poster she had created just for me–it warmed my heart, especially considering her older sister was competing, too. That little girl’s name was Rachel.

This year, SHE is competing for the title of Miss Nebraska 2014.

Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger

Rachel has been part of the Miss Nebraska family for more than a decade. Both of her older sisters, Tina and Tami Foehlinger, competed in the Miss Nebraska pageant in 2001 and 2002 respectively, and Tina went on to represent Nebraska in the Miss America pageant, named as a Top-20 semi-finalist. Rachel was just 9 at the time.

“There are no words for the impact this had on me,” Rachel told me in a recent interview. “Not only was I in awe of what she had accomplished, along with all of the other contestants, I was in love with the organization and everything it stood for. I looked at those young women on the stage and said to myself I want to be just like them when I get older.”

Rachel went on to become Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen in 2008. Her journey continues now as Miss River City, representing the Omaha metro area along with her ‘pageant sisters’ Miss Omaha Payton Merritt and Miss Douglas County Megan Swanson. Her history with the Miss America organization has made her a passionate advocate for the system and the women who participate in it.

“Never before has there been such a need for genuinely positive role models, which is exactly how I would describe the women I have met through the Miss America Organization,” said Rachel. “I have already grown so much just by competing that I will be forever thankful to have been involved with this organization, whether I walk away with the crown or not.”

PASSIONATE, STRONG, FUN!

Rachel is no stranger to pressure or to the spotlight. She is a world champion baton twirler with Sue’s Stepperettes in Ralston, which is owned by her mother, Sue Foehlinger. Rachel has not only competed and performed since she was old enough to hold a baton, she has watched generations of twirlers train at her family’s studio and around the world. KETV showcased Sue’s Stepperettes when they celebrated 40 years in May of 2013. Two other Miss Nebraska contestants, Miss Metro Kim Brennan and Miss State Fair Aleah Peters, are also Stepperettes.

That legacy has earned the Stepperettes notoriety and respect around the world, even drawing local sports guys in to try and learn the art of the baton. Rachel was on TV again in July of 2011, trying to teach KETV’s Andy Kendeigh how to twirl.. without hurting himself or others 🙂

Rachel made a name for herself several years ago, named as the Featured Twirler for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. She performed every Saturday during football season in front of 80,000 plus football fans, the fourth Foehlinger sibling to twirl for the University of Nebraska. Omaha World Herald columnist Mike Kelly chronicled their run before Rachel’s last home game in November.

“I have spent my entire life dedicating myself to the sport that has given me the drive to succeed individually as well as part of a team,” said Rachel. “I feel blessed beyond belief to be able to share my talent on the Miss Nebraska stage!”

As Miss River City, Rachel is also sharing a personal message, spreading awareness of skin cancer. Both Rachel’s uncle and cousin died from melanoma.

“Melanoma is the fastest growing cancer in the United States. At the current rate, one person dies from melanoma every hour,” said Rachel. “I spend every day thinking of ways to get the word out it CAN happen to anyone.”

Rachel says she’s involved in several efforts to raise awareness, including a recently launched campaign called #TheBedIsDead, encouraging people to avoid tanning beds.

(Check out KETV’s stories about why both cancer survivors and doctors fully support the campaign… and the impact it’s having on students.)

Rachel is also a student liaison for the Nebraska Skin Cancer Prevention Act, recently passed by the Nebraska Legislature requiring anyone under the age of 16 have parental permission before using a tanning bed.

“My part in both of these campaigns is to spread awareness to youth, high school students and colleges,” said Rachel. “So many of us have an ‘it won’t happen to me’ attitude. This is a dangerous attitude, because once you get melanoma, you can never turn back.”

It’s truly amazing how life comes full circle. That 12 years after a sweet little brunette presented me with a poster she made, wishing me luck at Miss Nebraska, I would be BLOGGING about her journey for the same title. That ‘River Deep, Mountain High’ played when Tina Foehlinger competed for and won Miss Nebraska, and Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger will be competing for the same title in June.

Fate? Who knows. A dream? Absolutely. Rachel’s ready to bring the crown back home.. and maybe her own poster made by another sweet, little girl.

Connect with Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger

on Facebook, on Twitter, on Instagram, and on the Miss River City website.

Click here for more information on the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County/Miss River City Pageant on Facebook

Click here to follow the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County/Miss River City Pageant on Twitter.

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The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Douglas County Megan Swanson

NEXT POST…. Miss State Fair Aleah Peters!

There’s No Place Like Home

Apr25

I’m heading to the Rascal Flatts concert at Omaha’s CenturyLink Center Saturday night.

I. HEART. RASCAL FLATTS.

I can be in a horrible mood, but when I crank up my country in my car and star in my own, personal concert… everything is better. One of my favorites: ‘No Reins’.

Like a painted wild Mustang, Flyin’ out across the open range
Finally gets to live her life that way, No fear, no fences, nobody
No reins, no reins

Meet a young lady who IS flying, living life her way, and soon, this Mustang is coming home to compete in the Miss Nebraska pageant.

Miss Douglas County, Megan Swanson

Megan’s a proud Mustang at that, a 2011 graduate of Millard North High School, born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. She’s pursuing a Commercial Voice Music Major at Nashville’s Belmont University, with the goal of further pursuing a career as a Christian Music artist.

I won’t even keep you in suspense–click here to listen to Megan’s music!

Music is not only Megan’s passion, right now, it’s her life.

“In addition to my actual class work, we also have anywhere from 2-4 ‘zero-credit’ mandatory classes per week, have to practice our primary and secondary instruments, prepare for lessons, set up rehearsals, go to concerts, and perform in concerts!” Megan told me in a recent interview. “Not to mention, any of us who are pursuing a full-time career in music are trying to gig as much as we can outside of school!”

Off-stage and out of class, Megan also works two jobs, and devotes what little time she has to service, volunteering in her community and church.

“Miss Nebraska, to me, is someone who is a woman who takes charge of her schedule instead of being overwhelmed by it,” said Megan. “A woman who is strong and courageous, mixed with class and grace.”

DYNAMIC, COMPETITIVE, CHAMELEON

Here’s another side of Miss Douglas County..

Photos courtesy of Fawn Photography

At 6-feet tall, Megan has been modeling since the age of 11. She also plays basketball and dances, activities that all bring out her inner competitor.

“I learned that sometimes in life we aren’t going to be the ‘winner’, but it’s about deciding whether the goal is something you truly want, and choosing to press on toward its fruition,” said Megan. “To me, competition is about trying new things, working hard, and learning that God placed you on this earth to be YOU, so there’s absolutely no reason to compare yourself!”

Helping others find that same confidence has become a mission for Megan, inspiring her personal service platform she calls ‘Total Body Wellness: Mind, Body and Spirit’. Despite pursuing a rigorous diet and exercise routine to feel better about herself, Megan says she still continued on a downward spiral.

“It wasn’t until the end of freshman year [in college] when something went off inside me that I had to change what was on the inside to affect change on the outside,” said Megan. “With the support of my family, leaders of my church, and God within me, I began my research of how to strengthen ourselves from the inside out.”

Megan hopes to spread her message through an upcoming event she organized call ‘Queens of the Kingdom’, described as a one night mini-conference for teenage girls and women to learn more about wellness of spirit, soul and body through the eyes of faith and identity. She’ll donate a portion of proceeds from the event to the Children’s Miracle Network, Miss America’s community partner.

“TBW also focuses heavily on going into schools,” said Megan. “Connecting how one’s environment plays a huge role in wellness, and how we can help our own self-esteem by choosing to stand against bullying, believing that everyone was created for a purpose and that everyone deserves an equal chance to live a happy and healthy life!”

THERE SHE IS..

Megan says her work as Miss Douglas County, and the work of her fellow Miss Nebraska contestants, show why the pageant and the women who are involved are still relevant in 2014.

“She isn’t a pretty face, she’s a businesswoman who markets, books, and sells herself in conjunction with her platform to bring a message that matters,” said Megan. “For some reason, putting a crown on your head and a sash around your waist makes many people listen, and the job of Miss Nebraska is exactly that; an opportunity to say something meaningful and have it impact lives.”

I’m not sure if Megan is a country music fan like me. Maybe when she flies home next month, her I-Pod will be loaded with her own creations, something inspiring to awaken her spirit for the competition ahead. Or maybe, she’ll just be smiling and humming along to Judy Garland. After all, and especially when your sash reads Miss Douglas County, there’s no place like home.

Connect with Miss Douglas County Megan Swanson

on Facebook, on Twitter, on Instagram, on YouTube,

and on the Miss Douglas County website, where you can also sign up for Megan’s Queens of the Kingdom event, taking place Saturday, May 17th in Omaha. Tickets are $15; space is limited.

Megan is also hoping to raise money for her wardrobe and other expenses as Miss Douglas County. Connect to her online fundraising campaign here.

Click here for more information on the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County/Miss River City Pageant on Facebook

Click here to follow the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County/Miss River City Pageant on Twitter.

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The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

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PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Sugar Valley Tosha Skinner

NEXT POST…. Miss River City Rachel Foehlinger!