Tag Archive | Aleah Peters

Best Friends Forever

How many people, when they hear the word ‘pageant’, think of this?

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Tears through the confetti. A cat fight over the tiara.

It’s kind of like when people ask me if news is really like this:

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Yes, Rob has many leatherbound books. NO, we did not brawl with the other stations on the streets of Omaha. And despite all of the pageants I have watched over the years, I have yet to see a cage match over a crown and sash. Repeatedly, though, I DO see this:

Competitors who become best friends. Fellow contestants who end up being bridesmaids in each others’ weddings. Women who lift each other up as they prepare to represent their state.. and continue to reach out long after their pageant days are done.

“The purpose of this competition is to become the best version of yourself. That means preparing in a healthy way. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. That includes lifting each other up and supporting one another.”

That was the message Miss Nebraska 2016 Aleah Peters shared with the Class of 2017 Saturday night, with Miss South Dakota 2016 Julia Olson sitting at her side. It’s also one of the reasons a contender for the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen title signed up to compete in the first place.

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Sydny Ridgeway

“Last year, my friend and fellow student was crowned at our local pageant,” Sydny told me. “After seeing someone I actually know compete and win, I got the idea that I wanted to do a pageant. I mentioned this to another one of my friends and we started competing last year.”

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Sydny’s venture into something new also became a test of persistence; she competed five times before winning the title of Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen in October.

“It was the best feeling ever,” said Sydny. “I think that people need to know that doing pageants actually has the ability to bring teens and young adults out of their shells. It improves a girl’s body image and many other things. It’s a great learning opportunity.”

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This, from a young woman who has taken advantage of opportunities presented to her throughout her life. A junior at Gering High School, she’s active on the Poms (dance) team and has danced for Tabor Dance Academy since the age of 3. A German student traveling to Europe in June, who is also working to become a certified Emergency Medical Responder in her community. Sydny is also a member of the Class B State Champion Journalism staff and has written for the Gering Courier. Simply put, Sydny describes herself as ‘committed’.

“I am in a lot of things, and now that I was crowned, my life is even more busy,” said Sydny. “I have been able to find a balance so that I don’t have to stop doing something that I love.”

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In addition, Sydny competes for the speech team, sharing a persuasive oratory on seatbelt laws in Nebraska. Driving safety is a message she’s extremely passionate about, and her personal platform as Miss Alliance’s OT.

“Last year, my cousin was in a horrible car accident, which caused him to have an acute brain injury and he almost did not survive,” said Sydny. “If he were to have been wearing a seatbelt, it was likely he wouldn’t have had to suffer the severe brain injury. I want to put the facts out there that anybody can get in a car accident, but there are also precautions you can take in order to save yourself. Even if you aren’t driving, you should be practicing the right safety.”

Sydny is sharing that message across her community, as well as advocating for Children’s Miracle Network, the community partner to the Miss America Organization and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen.

In the short few months since her crowning, Sydny has taken part in numerous events throughout her community. She’s volunteered to paint faces, collect Christmas gifts, host Halloween celebrations, and collect donations that go directly to patients at local hospitals, like Omaha’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. She is a constant advocate for service, and hopes to share more about that journey when she competes for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen this April.

“My favorite part of the actual competition itself is the interview portion,” said Sydny. “Going into a room with five strangers and just telling them about my life is kind of exciting. I used to be really shy before trying out pageants, and now I am able to talk to anybody. I believe I owe that to all the interview and onstage questions in pageants.”

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And Sydny Ridgeway is ready to show the judges she is a cheerful, independent, outstanding young woman with or without a title.

“Even if I am in a bad mood or anything where I shouldn’t be laughing, I am. I am always smiling or laughing; it makes me really happy,” said Sydny. “My goal for the state pageant is to just perform the best I can and be myself. Even if I don’t even place in the top, I want to make more friends and just have a great time.”

MORE friendships… in addition to this:

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Teenagers from across Nebraska who will meet on stage, side by side with their classmates, contestants, SISTERS, who represent the best, the brightest, the kindest in our state. Young women just like Sydny Ridgeway.

“I’ve made so many great friends that I probably wouldn’t have if I wouldn’t have done pageants,” said Sydny. “That has really made my life better.”

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CLICK HERE to follow Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Sydny Ridgeway!

CLICK HERE for more information about the Miss Alliance/Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, or email Director Melinda Cullan at maot.alliance@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant takes place April 21-22 in Omaha, Nebraska.

CLICK HERE for more details, HERE to follow on Twitter, HERE to follow on Facebook. For more information about becoming a contestant, email Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com

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PREVIOUS.. Special Feature: Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev

NEXT.. Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Katie Harris

To read more about this year’s contestants, or the Miss Nebraska/Miss Nebraska’s OT classes of 2014-2016 click the THERE SHE IS link at the top of the page!

Brilliance

Feb1

BRILLIANCE (n)

1. great brightness; luster
2. excellence or distinction; conspicuous talent, mental ability, etc.
3. splendor, elegance, or magnificence:

EXAMPLES OF BRILLIANCE:

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This week at work, my friend Kim asked me if I watched Miss Universe. With that, she unknowingly invited me to share my original oratory for why I LOVE pageantry, and in particularly, the Miss Nebraska Organization.

1. INSPIRATION. These women are clear evidence of how beautiful our bodies can be when we exercise, eat right and take care of ourselves. Every single time I feel that fire within myself rekindling to JUST DO IT, looking like that IS POSSIBLE with focus and hard work.

2. RADIANCE. I am a proud, strong, confidant woman. I can be all of those things and still LOVE to dress up and feel like a queen. The gowns, the glitz, and regarding Miss America, the beauty and art behind each talent performed on stage.. I LOVE IT. Being a woman is a beautiful thing; focusing on that beauty and allowing each woman is radiate is spectacular.

3. CONFIRMATION. Evidence of the intelligence, articulation and confidence so many of these women possess in their interviews on stage and off. Women at Miss Nebraska last year were asked questions on issues ranging from prison overcrowding, to education funding, to social media challenges. These are real issues we as a society face, and in front of hundreds (and sometimes, millions of people on live TV), these women address each topic and prove time and time again you can look amazing, and FEEL fantastic, AND be BRILLIANT.

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And with that… the time has come for Year 4 of There She Is, my annual series profiling each of the Miss Nebraska and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestants.

This program is RELEVANT, providing countless opportunities for young women in our state to speak, perform and to raise money for their futures beyond pageantry. Miss Nebraska 2014 Megan Swanson went on to perform the National Anthem for tens of thousands at the College World Series and is currently pursuing a recording career. Miss Nebraska 2016 Aleah Peters has visited dozens of schools crisscrossing Nebraska to speak to children about cyberbullying and what they can do both before and after it happens. Both she and Miss Nebraska 2015 Alyssa Howell topped $20,000 in cash scholarships during their time competing for Miss Nebraska and then Miss America, money that helped both pay for their college educations.

One of the other things I have come to cherish about this program is the camaraderie it creates between the women who compete, and the women who work behind the scenes to make it happen. I look forward to Miss Nebraska events all year long not only for the glitz and glamour, but to be surrounded by women who work everyday to ‘have it all’. Our goals are so similar; to give to our families while serving others, to make sure we are hitting the gym and eating right despite nonstop schedules, to reach the top of our career fields the right way, through hard work, respect and kindness.

“Someone else’s strengths are not my weaknesses.”

–Miss Pennsylvania 2014 Amanda Smith

We live in a competitive world, folks; I can’t tell you how many times people seemed surprised when I told them Melissa Fry was one of my dearest friends at KETV and that Julie Cornell was a leader and mentor to all of us. Much like in the pageant world, I think people assume there’s an Anchorman/Miss Congeniality mentality where women are constantly fighting with each other to be the It Girl. Programs like Miss Nebraska reinforce a culture of unity and support between women. Is it competitive? For sure. But one of our constant goals is to teach women to compete with themselves and not others. To focus on defeating procrastination, weakness, distractions, NOT other women. To be the best THEY can be, and allowing others to inspire, not deflate. Those lessons translate far beyond pageantry in teaching young women how to support each other, creating more positive work environments, support networks and friendships. To better handle challenges and disappointments, to better foster team work and productivity. I daresay these are intangible qualities that every employer in America prizes in their staff.

Happy February; the countdown has officially begun. To this weekend’s Crowns and Gowns event in North Platte and to the final weeks and months leading up to the competitions that will determine the next two women to represent Nebraska in this storied organization.

If I can’t convince you to become a Pageant Junkie like me (shout out to the talented Carrie Lakey!), I ask you this.. to please support the women who take part. They are talented. They are beautiful inside and out. They are intelligent and well spoken.

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Photo courtesy Kali Tripp

They are BRILLIANCE defined.

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The Miss Nebraska Pageant takes place June 7-10 in North Platte, Nebraska.

CLICK HERE for more details, HERE to follow on Twitter, HERE to follow on Facebook

The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant takes place April 21-22 in Omaha, Nebraska.

CLICK HERE for more details, HERE to follow on Twitter, HERE to follow on Facebook

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To read more about this year’s contestants, or the Miss Nebraska/Miss Nebraska’s OT classes of 2014-2016 click the THERE SHE IS link at the top of the page!

True Colors

Apr23

This blog comes you to from 36,000 feet up in the air.

Photojournalist Ashley Nodgaard and I left Omaha Wednesday on a bleary-eyed 5:30am flight bound for La Paz, Mexico! Through the months of May and June, we’ll show you the mission that’s been weeks in the making for us and months, if not YEARS in the making for an Omaha team.

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CLICK HERE to see a preview of Operation: Open Hearts on KETV!

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Ashley and me to tell incredible stories. Truly, THAT is why we both got into this business in the first place. I think to some extent there’s an assumption about people in TV News, that we do this because we want to see ourselves on television. I admit, the first time I reported on camera.. the first time I sat in the anchor chair for a broadcast.. those moments were exhilarating. BUT.. that sheen wears off in time, and for MANY years now, my adrenaline rushes have come from knowing we are sharing powerful stories of things going on in our city, state, and in our world, and seeing the difference that can come from that.

I have a feeling my friend Payton Merritt is reading this, thinking ‘Preach!!’ She’s not a journalist, but she is a young woman trying to prove that her mission isn’t about big hair and glitter, it’s about making a difference with a powerful tool she’s been given.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“The world is filled with need—I want to use the gifts that God has blessed me with to positively impact my small window of the world,” Payton told me recently. “It was within the Miss Nebraska Organization that I found this window, and my desire to be a leader and role model for my state brought my greatest dream full circle.”

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Payton will compete for the title of Miss Nebraska this June, currently Miss Nebraska State Fair 2016. Complete disclosure… I kinda love her. I first met Payton when serving as a judge and then volunteer for the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County pageant—Payton was our teen titleholder, then years later, crowned Miss Omaha. She’s this teeny, petite, blonde, but when she sings, her voice is anything BUT petite; it’s soulful, deep.. it makes you utter ‘dang!’ from your seat in the audience. Singing was Payton’s initial tie to the Miss America Organization, an added element to what was already a magnetic draw for a child watching on TV from home.

“For as long as I can remember, I have dreamed of becoming Miss America,” said Payton. “I would stand on the coffee table at our house and pretend to be on stage, waving at the audience, and singing ‘Little Red Wagon’ at the top of my lungs. (My mom says I wasn’t quite as in tune as I am today.) Initially, it was about me and the pursuit of my dream.”

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Payton also focused on her studies, graduating from high school a semester early and earning a nearly full-ride academic scholarship to Creighton University. On the Miss Nebraska stage, Payton showed hundreds intelligence and confidence. That became part of her goal this year.. to show pageant critics the depth of character and abilities so many of these titleholders represent. (It’s worth noting the Miss America Organization has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in cash scholarships to young women focusing on STEM; science, technology, engineering and mathematics.)

“I would tell them to look and listen far beyond the two hours of national television coverage. We are a force of young women devoted and determined to make an impact within our communities,” said Payton. “The phases of competition are representative of things beyond the surface—ultimately our poise, discipline, intellect and depth show that we can walk the walk, talk the talk, and then put it all to music!”

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Payton also notes that she and the rest of the Miss Nebraska Class of 2016 are constantly seeking out ways to be visible, positive role models. Payton and several other local titleholders recently joined Miss Nebraska Alyssa Howell to make Alyssa’s signature Miracle Bags for patients at Omaha’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center; the girls then hand delivered them to those kids.

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Payton, a devoted big sister to several admirers at home, has also connected to children in classrooms during school presentations, talking about her personal platform, ‘The Political Workout: Exercising Your Right To Vote.’

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“I am passionate about empowering people to utilize our most sacred right,” said Payton. “Because of the sacrifices of many, we have been given a life of opportunity and choice. I see other countries, and their battles and oppression, and know countless people would risk life and limb to live in a country in which they have the power to choose. We Americans who do maintain that right, don’t exercise our greatest freedom in choosing who represents us, those who ultimately speak for us.”:

Payton often shares messages and quotes on her Miss Nebraska State Fair Facebook page, encouraging people of the power and importance behind the vote. For Payton, it’s an issue she plans to pursue long after this often divisive 2016 Presidential Election; she’s pursuing Political Science and Economics degrees at Creighton with plans to attend law school.

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“I think in part [voter apathy] can be traced back to a lack of understanding and education about our political process,” said Payton. “I want to do my part to show others how important exercising your right to vote is within a democracy.”

UNDERSTANDING AND EDUCATION. We at KETV have a motto—more complete coverage. It’s not just our catch phrase, it’s something I remind myself of when I’m tired and want to wrap up a story and move on.. is there more I could or SHOULD include? Is there another angle to this? At the end of the newscast, as complimentary (and sometimes not..) as it is to hear about my hair or my dress or the color of my lipstick, I want people to remember MY STORIES.. YOUR stories. I want our viewers and readers to learn something new about a disease or a law or a PERSON. Every time Payton Merritt performs the national anthem for the Creighton basketball or baseball games (click here to listen!), every time she dons her sparkling crown to visit a child or speak to a group, she wants to open new eyes to everything she stands for.

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Photo courtesy Brown Harano Photography

“I see the role of Miss Nebraska as one of service,” Payton said. “Ultimately, I have a cause that I am dedicated to speaking to, one that is not only timely now, but maintains longevity for the democracy of our country. I aim to serve God, my state, and hopefully my nation through my ability to relate to others, and through a commitment to impacting those who I encounter. I am humbled by the opportunities I am blessed with, and though I am seeking a very public role, I am not seeking a personal place in the spotlight, but an opportunity to make an impact.”

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Follow Miss Nebraska State Fair 2016 Payton Merritt

on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Instagram. You can also contact Payton for appearances and events by emailing paytonmerritt@hotmail.com.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PAYTON?

CLICK HERE * 2014 * Omaha! Omaha!

For more information about the Miss Heartland/Miss Nebraska State Fair Pageant, visit their WEBSITE. For information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Chelsey Jungck at 308-382-1710 or by email at cjungck@statefair.org, or contact Director Shelly Penner at 308-520-0416 or by email at sa_penner@hotmail.com.

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The 2016 Miss Nebraska Scholarship Pageant takes place June 8-11 in North Platte, Nebraska. Learn more on THEIR WEBSITE, FACEBOOK PAGE, or follow ON TWITTER and ON INSTAGRAM.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Kearney’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Shelbe Stroh!

NEXT.. Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Ashlynn Haun!

To read more about this year’s contestants, or the Miss Nebraska/Miss Nebraska’s OT classes of 2015 & 2014, click the THERE SHE IS link at the top of the page!

Fighting For Hope

Feb8

Once in awhile here at KETV, we share a story that really strikes a chord with our viewers.. and with us. Earlier this month, Julie Cornell spoke with Ralston Superintendent Dr. Mark Adler about the death of his son, Reid. The 15-year old was described as positive, friendly, a joy to be around both for his friends and his parents and sisters.

January 7th, Reid took his own life. His parents learned later Reid had been bullied and threatened for months.

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This story rattled me. I’m a mother; I cannot even bear the thought of anything happening to my children. Dr. Adler told Julie he and his wife had an indication Reid was unhappy and immediately got him help.. he is the superintendent of a major school district, sees students and knows what to watch for.. and there was no way to see this coming. I strongly encourage ALL parents, or anyone who works with children, to click here and watch Julie’s story on KETV.

I simply cannot imagine what the Adlers are going through, and yet they have found strength to share what happened to their son to try and help other students. They’re fighting for Reid to prevent other kids from bullying and BEING bullied.

So is Miss Omaha 2016 Aleah Peters.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

Aleah grew up in Millard just a few miles away from the Adlers. Just like in Reid’s pictures, her photos show constant smiles while surrounded by friends. Happiness.

Aleah told me a few years ago how much that smile hid when she was a teenager.

“When I was in high school I was bullied by a group of girls,” Aleah told me in 2014. “I feared going to school, attending sporting events or even answering my phone.” (Click here to read my entire interview with Aleah.)

Now, Aleah has made it a personal mission to prevent bullying, specifically cyberbullying. She calls her platform ‘Cyberbullying Prevention: Make Kindness Viral.’

CAMPAIGN

“I have had the opportunity to work with multiple schools in the Omaha metro area and even conduct a critical analysis on the evolution of cyberbullying,” Aleah told me recently. “I understand how it feels to be alone. I can relate to people who have experienced or are experiencing this pain. Victims of cyberbullying usually have some type of psychological vulnerability making it difficult to defend themselves. I want to stand for the silent and change the culture of schools.”

While Aleah knows how harmful words and actions can be, she also knows what a positive impact kindness and leadership can have. Growing up, her role models were her baton teachers and coaches at the world-renowned Stepperette’s Baton and Dance, young women who were also titleholders in the Miss Nebraska Organization.

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“I remember looking up to them and admiring them,” said Aleah. “When I was a junior in high school I competed in the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program and ever since then I have been hooked. I’ve realized the opportunities that have been available through the Miss America Organization and that competing for Miss Nebraska is really my opportunity to have a voice about issues I am passionate about and serve my community.”

It’s also another venue for Aleah to share her talent with a crowd, although performing for big groups is nothing new for this 3-time world champion baton twirler and the former featured twirler for the University of Nebraska.

TWIRL

“I love twirling baton and getting the crowd excited,” Aleah told me. “Almost everyone asks if I will light them on fire in reference to the movie ‘Miss Congeniality’, then follow with a sigh of disappointment when I tell them that unfortunately, it’s a fire hazard, but if I had the option to I would love to!”

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Aleah is completing her senior year at UNL, majoring in Communication Studies with minors in Psychology and Leadership Communication. She’s a member of Mortar Board (a national senior honors society), Sigma Alpha Lambda Honors fraternity, and Alpha Phi, most recently serving as President. She has represented the Huskers on several fronts, including as family representative for Dance Marathon, as a Greek Ambassador for the University and now as an employee at the Office of Admissions.

If she becomes Miss Nebraska 2016, Aleah wants to represent the Miss America Organization, fighting the stereotypes many have about it.

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“Not only have I had the opportunity to push myself to achieve my full potential in every phase of competition but I have also had the chance to serve my community, and grow as an individual,” Aleah said. “I would explain that the women in the Miss America Organization are women that care enough to make a difference. These women believe in something and are the ones willing to work hard enough to create change. I explain why I compete and the opportunities that I have had because of the crown on my head. Most importantly, when I interact with people I am REAL. I want people to get to know me and relate to me.”

And who is Aleah Peters? She is a young woman who wants to share not just her accomplishments, but the challenges and trying times she encountered along the way. She’s competing for Miss Nebraska for the family and friends who she describes as the most important part of her life.

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She’s competing for herself, to show those ‘mean girls’ they FAILED to dampen her spirit.

GIRL

“Beauty is the opposite of perfection. It’s about confidence, charisma, and character.”

And Aleah Peters is competing for kids like Reid Adler. She wants to show anyone who is bullied, kids who are sad, people who feel alone, that they are NOT. That there is MORE. That people CARE. And that whatever they want to do, whether it’s to become Miss Nebraska or just to be HAPPY, there is HOPE.

“I am confident that I can change the culture of schools and relate to the people I am working with,” said Aleah. “I want to meet people and change their idea of what a ‘pageant girl’ is. I know I would be a positive representative for the state of Nebraska. I am passionate about this organization, the Children’s Miracle Network (Miss America’s national platform), and Cyberbullying Prevention. I am determined to make a change.”

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Photo courtesy Marla Austin Photography

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CLICK EACH LINK to follow Miss Omaha 2016 Aleah Peters

on FACEBOOK, on TWITTER, on INSTAGRAM

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ALEAH?

CLICK HERE * 2014 * How Do You Like Me Now?

For more information about the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County Pageant, visit THEIR WEBSITE, FACEBOOK PAGE, or follow ON TWITTER. For information on becoming a contestant, contact Executive Director Marianne Grubaugh at ggrubaugh@cox.net or by phone at 402-330-8033.

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The 2016 Miss Nebraska Scholarship Pageant takes place June 8-11 in North Platte, Nebraska. Learn more on THEIR WEBSITE, FACEBOOK PAGE, or follow ON TWITTER and ON INSTAGRAM.

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PREVIOUS.. A Moment Like This (Introduction to 2016 series)

NEXT.. Miss Tri-Cities Outstanding Teen 2016 Ashly Helfrich!

To read more about this year’s contestants, or the Miss Nebraska/Miss Nebraska’s OT classes of 2015 & 2014, click the THERE SHE IS link at the top of the page!

Cause For Paws

Mar24

March 23, National Puppy Day. Millions changed their profile pictures and posted photos on social media showing off their 4-legged friends. It was a WONDERFUL day to be on Facebook and Twitter.

(Shameless plug.. here’s my ‘puppy’, Mack, forever young at 10 years and counting)

For today’s featured Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestant, there’s cause to pause for pets EVERY day, not just March 23. Helping animals, specifically promoting animal adoption, is her personal mission.

MISS PANHANDLE’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 MARIE KLIEWER

(Photo courtesy Deyo’s Photography)

“I started my platform P.A.A.W.S (Promoting Animal Adoption Within Society) in memory of my paralyzed cat, Lieutenant Dan,” Marie told me recently.

Yes. Lieutenant Dan. Marie says the cat was found at Sarpy County’s Town and Country Humane Society when he was a kitten, brought to her parents’ veterinary office and ultimately, to the Kliewer home. For seven years, Lt. Dan was a treasured member of Marie’s family, even going on vacations with his humans.

“I started my Facebook page P.A.A.W.S. where I posted Lt. Dan’s success story and asked others to do the same,” said Marie. “I also post articles on how to be a responsible pet owner and the benefits of adopting a pet.”

Lt. Dan has since passed away, but Marie has plenty of first-hand experience at home with four other cats and a dog. She also volunteers every week at Town and Country walking dogs, cleaning cages and washing laundry. She showcases pets available for adoption every month at area PetSmart stores, and has created P.A.A.W.S. T-shirts and wristbands to raise money for the shelter.

“It’s all about service and what you do in your community to make a difference,” said Marie. THAT, she says, is why she decided to compete for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

“I have been intrigued by pageantry ever since I was a little girl,” said Marie. “I heard about Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen pageant and all the great opportunities it offers through my cousin, Aleah Peters. I especially love it because you get to choose a platform you are passionate about and love and share it with everyone.”

Marie is also a talented dancer, trained in Lord of the Dance Riverdance and tap.

THERE’S MORE! Marie, just 15 years old, is ALSO an active sophomore at Plattsmouth High School.

To Marie, becoming Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen didn’t add another burden to her already full to-do list, it tied together everything she already loves doing.

“This program is relevant for all young women,” said Marie. “It instills good work ethic, love for your community and community service work. It helps improve your interview skills, confidence on stage, self-esteem and public speaking. All of these skills you learn through this organization will help you in life and to become a well-rounded person.”

Mature advice from a young lady who can’t even drive yet.

Marie Kliewer is DRIVEN. Speaking on behalf of working mommas everywhere, I wish we could bottle her energy and share it! This already busy teenager has taken on her new responsibilities and embraced them, working with former TV News journalist Kali Tripp to fine-tune her speaking skills, and spending even more volunteer hours supporting the Children’s Miracle Network, Miss America’s community partner.

It’s one thing to have goals. It’s another thing to GO AFTER those goals. And it’s pretty darn cool to see someone so young eagerly pursuing what she wants. Definitely, cause to pause.

Follow Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Marie Kliewer

on Instagram, on Facebook,

and on the P.A.A.W.S. – Promoting Animal Adoption Within Society Facebook page!

To contact Marie for appearances and events, please visit the Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen Pageant on Facebook.

For information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Melinda Cullan by phone at 308-710-5593 or by email at maot.alliance@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant will take place June 5, 2015 in North Platte. Click here to visit the organization’s website or the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant on Facebook and on Twitter.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Steffany Lien

NEXT.. Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Allison Baird

To read more about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Class of 2014, click on the ‘There She Is’ link at the top of the page.

Blown Away

Jun12

Yeah. Blown away. ME.

I attended the preliminary rounds of competition of the Miss Nebraska pageant last weekend. After talking to all of the contestants over the last few months to write features for this blog, I felt like I knew some of them! And those that I do know personally are incredible, OUTSTANDING young women. I wanted to see all of their hard work in person!

HOLY. CRAP.

These women are just phenomenal. Talented. Gorgeous. Intelligent. Hard working. DRIVEN. To see all of that wrapped together in one production was kind of mind-boggling. AND ABSOLUTELY INSPIRING.

For those of you who have been following my series on this year’s contestants, THANK YOU, and here is a recap of what happened at Miss Nebraska 2014.. both the real awards, and the Brandi Petersen Unofficial Superfan Awards.

Miss Nebraska 2014 Megan Swanson

Megan Swanson, representing Miss Douglas County, won the crown of Miss Nebraska 2014. (Thanks to Corbey R. Dorsey/Pixel Creation Workshop for the photo!) I LOVE this moment, because it shows jubilation, celebration and unity, and also gives a glimpse into Megan’s personality. Megan worked so hard over the last few months, on her talent, her physical and mental self, and on her platform, Total Body Wellness. One of my favorite things about her is that in the videos she has posted from visits to schools and kids, Megan gets on their level–they are goofy, they have fun, they LAUGH. She’s not an untouchable figure talking to children, she’s AMONG them, talking WITH them. Other photos and videos show abandon, a free spirit, LIFE. You see all of that in this image.. and her connection to family, celebrating this amazing moment if only through their eyes. I can only imagine how very proud her mom, sister and rest of her family must be right now–they were her biggest supporters in the crowd and no doubt in real life.

Megan won a Preliminary Talent Award for her incredible rendition of ‘You Raise Me Up,’ and she tied for 2nd place for the Miss Nebraska Community Service Award, given in honor of an awesome guy, Bobby Foehlinger. Add it all up–Megan Swanson takes home approximately $11,000 in scholarship money. Learn more about Megan by checking out my post about her a few weeks before the pageant took place. You can also read the KETV article about Megan and my interview with her in her first days as Miss Nebraska.

The 2014 Miss Nebraska Top 5

I look at each of these women, and remember thinking while watching prelims ANY of them could win (and a few others!!!) THAT is how strong the competition was this year. (Thanks to Field Director Darrell Drullinger and the Miss Nebraska Scholarship Organization for the picture!)

Starting from the left, Alyssa Howell finished 4th Runner Up. Alyssa’s piano performance was one of my favorite talents–INCREDIBLY strong and commanded attention from start to finish. I don’t think this young woman stopped smiling the entire time she was in North Platte; a lesson to all of us, no matter if you are on stage, in an interview, or talking to someone on the street, a smile and positive attitude will make you memorable. Alyssa certainly is!

Rachel Foehlinger finished 2nd Runner Up. WHAT A WEEKEND for this incredibly talented young woman. Rachel’s talent, twirling a baton(s) at ridiculous speeds to Proud Mary, made me forget to breathe, and apparently everyone else, too; she won both Preliminary and Overall Talent awards. Acrobatics, dance, three batons at once, all while smiling and energizing the crowd–IT WAS AMAZING. Rachel also won the Overall Interview Award, and was a finalist for the Miss Nebraska Community Service Award.

Megan Swanson, Miss Nebraska 2014. I like to sing. I’m not the best.. or even great.. but I think I have a good ear for what IS good (and I’m pretty nit-picky about it!). MEGAN IS GOOD. Scratch that–SHE’S GREAT. From her first notes, Megan captured the audience. Her talent isn’t just well practiced (which as a Christian recording artist and music major, I’m SURE she’s practiced quite a bit!), it’s a gift that’s been fine tuned into an art. Megan told me after Miss Nebraska she wants to win awards for talent at Miss America; I truly think she can do it.

Aleah Peters finished 1st Runner Up. My overall thoughts about Aleah: DAAAAAANG. I don’t know if Aleah left the studio or gym in the months leading up to Miss Nebraska. She is a model of health and fitness and her stage presence was literally, jaw dropping, winning her the Overall Swimsuit Award. Another young woman who never stopped smiling, or shining brightly, on that stage. Just AMAZING.

Allison Tietjen finished 3rd Runner Up. She’s only 18. SHE IS 18 YEARS OLD. And she knocked the socks off of everyone in the crowd at Miss Nebraska. Allison also had an exceptional talent, playing what seemed to be a very difficult piano piece, along with musical accompaniment, which I can only imagine adds substantial difficulty–you lose your place or tempo once, you’re in trouble for the remaining performance. I literally said, ‘WOW’, out loud when she finished during the preliminary competition.

Other Miss Nebraska Award Winners..

(Thanks again to Darrell Drullinger & the Miss Nebraska Organization for the photo!)

Again, starting on the left, Megan Dimmitt received several awards in North Platte, including 2nd place for the Miss Nebraska Community Service Award, the Miss America Community Service Award, the non-finalist Interview Award and the Miracle Maker Award. Over the course of her year as Miss High Plains, Megan has raised more than $10,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network of hospitals. 10-GRAND that will go straight to hospitals and the kids they care for, like Children’s Hospital and Medical Center in Omaha. Absolutely AMAZING.

Next to Megan is Mindy Schreiber, who also received several awards at Miss Nebraska. Mindy won the Miss Nebraska Community Service Award for her work with mentoring and the Teammates Organization over the last several years, as well as the Miss America Scholar Award and Miss Congeniality. Smart, caring and dedicated to service. INCREDIBLE.

(Thanks to Joe Bohac & Colour Artistry for the photo!)

Lianna Prill received the non-finalist Talent Award, and it was truly special. Lianna played piano to music.. then SANG to music.. all in the same performance. Again–I can’t imagine how difficult it is to play piano along with background accompaniment.. adding singing to the mix makes my head spin thinking, let alone performing! And Lianna NAILED it, wowing the crowd with her rendition of ‘All By Myself’. Great job from a terrific young lady!

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NOW, the awards that don’t come with scholarship money or plaques… but the history making honor of being noted on my blog!!!

<<no applause… not even crickets.. tumbleweed rolls past me as I type this…>>

Whatevs. Thanks for reading 🙂

THE KERRI STRUG AWARD FOR BEING BOSS

Remember Kerri Strug, and this historic Olympic moment?

Strug needs a 9.5 on vault to secure gold for the United States Women’s Gymnastics Team at the 1996 Atlanta Games. She falls on her first vault, badly injuring her ankle. She performs her second vault as literally, millions of Americans hold their breath watching, and lands it on ONE FOOT, scoring a 9.7 before crumbling to the ground in pain. GOLD. THAT, folks, is BOSS. (No, seriously, real word… Merriam Webster defines it as ‘great or excellent’.)

Cue Kimberly Brennan, Miss Metro. After a wonderful night of preliminary competition Thursday, Kimberly had arguably one of the worst days of her life Friday. During rehearsal, a baton hit her in the eye. As if that wasn’t bruising enough (literally), Kimberly was overcome by symptoms of gallstones; she spent much of the day in the hospital, sick and in pain. Still, Friday night at 7pm sharp, Kimberly was on the Miss Nebraska stage, smiling and competing, as if she felt PERFECT. If you didn’t have ‘insider information’ as to what happened, you wouldn’t have had any idea. And with that, she became a Top 10 finalist. AMAZING. I gave her a hug after Friday’s night of competition. She had to be exhausted, but she was still smiling.

KIMBERLY BRENNAN IS TOTALLY BOSS. Kim, I BOW DOWN TO YOU. You are MAGNIFICENT!

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THE CHARLIZE THERON DROP DEAD GORGEOUS AWARD(s)

One of my favorite parts about Miss Nebraska (and pageants in general…) the gowns. OH, THE GOWNS! So this award is named for the earth’s most gorgeous human being, Charlize Theron. Yup. This year, I have three favorites (photos copyright of Brown Harano Photography).

Megan Dimmit, Miss High Plains.. STUNNING. Her gown was just so different than what anyone else had and reflected incredible poise and maturity. Knowing Megan and the work she’s done, this is WAS SO fitting for her and absolutely perfect 🙂

chrissy

Chrissy Townsend, Miss Lake McConaughy.. at Miss Nebraska, as is usually the case at Miss America and Miss USA, there are so many gorgeous white and black gowns. Chrissy, with her amazing green gown, totally stood out in a great way. LOVED IT–loved it even more up close. Chrissy was also named a Top 10 finalist–loved her!

Rachel Foehlinger, Miss River City. I DIE. Rachel just FLOATED in this dress.. it just sparkled, and so did she. LOVED!!

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THE JILLIAN MICHAELS AWARD FOR BEING ABLE TO CRUSH THINGS

Jillian Michaels is arguably the most in-shape woman on the planet.

At least, that’s what I thought.. until I saw Aleah Peters, Miss State Fair, at this year’s Miss Nebraska pageant.

(Thanks to Joe Bohac and Colour Artistry for the photo!)

I don’t have words. Just stop what you are doing and stare at this photo for a few minutes.

…..

I am still IN COMPLETE AWE. Aleah literally made people in the audience gasp (in a good way!!) She showed everyone there and everyone watching from afar that this part of the competition isn’t about being the skinniest or starving yourself. It’s about dedication to becoming the best physical form of yourself you can possibly be through nutrition and fitness.

HOLY. CRAP.

Aleah, there is a special prize for winning this award on my blog. You have to follow me around for the next few months and motivate ME to get into this kind of condition. Or come to the Newsplex with me, and every time I head for the Reeses in the vending machine, just say ‘Brandi…’ and pose like this.

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THE AWARD FOR WHO I WANT TO BE WHEN I GROW UP

Pay no attention to the fact I am 15 years older than this young woman. Whatevs.

Miss Omaha Payton Merritt, also a Top 10 finalist, made me smile every time she walked out on stage. She’s STUNNING, she sings with soul, she’s the whole package. Arguably, her shining moment (and a shining moment for the entire program) came during the onstage question portion of competition during Friday night’s preliminaries. You’ve probably heard the horror stories, the ‘world peace’ and ‘the Iraq’ moments, that make all of us who volunteer in these programs CRINGE because it is such a poor representation of a group of truly brilliant, young women. So this moment, answering questions from Miss Nebraska 2013 JaCee Pilkington, was FRIGGIN AWESOME.

(Thanks to the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County/Miss River City pageant for the photo!)

Payton didn’t get any ‘softball’ questions; she was asked how she promotes awareness of eating disorders when part of the Miss Nebraska competition is to walk around in a bikini. She answered, very articulately and without pause, that we all need to find a balance between healthy living and self image. Her second question was whether the NBA was right to fire Donald Sterling over racist comments made in private. Again, without hesitation, Payton competently and confidently answered that Sterling had a history of similar statements and that his behavior was not the representation the NBA wanted or needed, so yes, they were within their rights to dismiss him.

Whether you agree with Payton or not in her responses, she answered each question with confidence, poise, reasoning behind her responses and a display that she was not only aware of current issues, but goes beyond to learn more before forming a basis for her opinions. IT WAS AWESOME. I wish video of THIS would go viral because THIS WOMAN is a true representation of the intelligence and confidence within these young women. WAY TO GO, PAYTON!!!

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This is officially the longest blog post ever.. I leave you with one final award.

THE CAT DEELEY SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE FUTURE CONTESTANT AWARD

I. LOVE. So You Think You Can Dance. I even blogged about my favorite moments.

Judge me. Whatevs.

Another young woman was also crowned in North Platte last weekend..

Morgan Holen is the new Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen! (Thanks to the organization for the photo!)

I didn’t get to see the teen pageant this year, but I am BEYOND THRILLED for this incredible young lady. From the first time I saw her dance and every time since, she is absolutely CAPTIVATING while she performs. She lets the music flow through her, and the emotions and stories she shares and tells through her dancing are truly phenomenal. Morgan is also a hard working, beautiful, kind young woman (and has an INCREDIBLE family behind her every step of the way!!)

Morgan, I am so very proud of you and excited to follow your big year! And yes, I am counting down the days until you try out for So You Think You Can Dance.

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To all of you who have been following this series on Miss Nebraska, THANK YOU. I have thoroughly enjoyed learning and writing about each of these young women, and I flatter myself to hope more people learned about this program and the incredible young ladies who participate. These are all exceptional people who are making our world a better place. TO YOU, LADIES, THANK YOU. You make me want to be a better woman, the best version of myself I can possibly be.

Best of luck to you no matter what path you take. Crown or no crown, you are ALL making our state more beautiful.

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!