Tag Archive | crowns and gowns

NamaSLAY

I have a new best friend. I look forward to the time we spend together everyday. My husband knows about this new friend.. and encourages our relationship.

vytas

Meet Vytas. Vytas is really good at yoga. Vytas is helping ME get better at yoga.

Note: I’ve never met Vytas. He lives in my computer. Please halt all potential warnings to Vytus about his creepy ‘friend’ Brandi.

Like so many, I struggle with my weight and nutrition. I lose weight, then I lose interest and lose control. I’m an emotional eater. Pretty sure my body is 99% coffee instead of water. When I was 18, I could get away with eating Chex Mix and Mt. Dew for breakfast. Now, a few trips through the Runza drive-thru and the only thing that fits are my husband’s sweats (and he gets grumpy when I steal them!) But aside from how I look and my confidence, my health has started to suffer because of my less than ideal lifestyle. I feel like I’ve been sick in some form since early November.. and just after Christmas, I contracted strep throat. A trip to the ER, 2 rounds of antibiotics and a week in bed later, I promised myself I was going to start doing a better job taking care of the body God has given me.

I’ve been trying Beachbody on the advice of my friend and stunning beauty, Amanda Soltero. One of her challenges to kick off 2017 included 3-Week Yoga Retreat with Vytus. I tried it.. and became hooked. I LOVE the way yoga makes me feel. I love awakening the muscles I used to stretch in gymnastics as a kid. I love realizing I can touch the floor with my hands, or now keep my legs straight in downward dog. I love when I automatically sit up straighter at my desk because the practice has already improved my posture and carriage. Most of all, I love the RETREAT that yoga has provided me.. a chance to breathe deeply and for 30 minutes a day dissolve all of the stress and burdens that have piled on throughout the other 23 hours.

For a young woman from Omaha, this is a message of health and wellbeing she’s understood for quite some time.. one she’s now taking to children across eastern Nebraska.

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

Miss Omaha 2017 Wellesley Michael

“I am currently a yoga teacher and went through children’s yoga teacher training this summer,” said Wellesley. “Both of those experiences led me to mindfullness. I then continued my training on mindfullness with [my platform] ‘Mindful Schools: Peace Begins With Me’.”

A platform that skyrocketed last fall when Wellesley was crowned Miss Omaha 2017.

wellesley-and-little-sister-kaari-dawson

“I’ve always admired the women that have been in the Miss Nebraska Organization,” Wellesley told me recently. “Then, when I was old enough, I felt as if it was time for me to stand up and be a leader and role model like the women who have been in the system before have been for me.”

A title doesn’t make you a role model. A crown doesn’t make you a leader. But Wellesley used both of those tools to find new audiences in schools across Omaha.

Wellesley sharing yoga and mindfulness with students at Westside’s Oakdale Elementary and at Brownell Talbot, where she attended school!

“Mindfullness is the act of paying attention on purpose without judgement,” said Wellesley. “I’ve spent a large part of my year so far going to schools and working with students on techniques to help them breathe, focus, listen and just feel good! In a world that is so chaotic and go-go-go we have to find a way to slow down. It’s healthy! Mindfulness brings that stillness we are often missing.”

wellesley-yoga

Wellesley is also a frequent visitor to Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, delivering blankets over the winter holiday and bringing in Valentine’s Day crafts for patients this week. She’s also partnered with businesses like Yogurtini in Lincoln to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network, the Miss America Organization’s community partner.

wellesley-childrens-2

“Three words to describe me are driven, organized and focused,” said Wellesley. “Goal setting is one of my favorite things. When I set a goal I dig in right away and figure out what it takes to get me to my dream.”

CLICK HERE to hear more from Wellesley during a guest appearance with Matt Tompkins on News Talk 1290!

These are the character traits Wellesley hopes stand out to both children and adults, attributes she credits in part to her participation in the Miss Nebraska Organization.

“This organization has helped me to clearly articulate my opinions and beliefs without fear,” said Wellesley. “It has given me experience in skills I will always need such as interviewing and networking. I go into a lot of situations with more confidence than ever because of this organization. The fact that I get to even put on the Miss Omaha crown and sash and meet so many amazing people around my city is unreal to me. The whole experience is a dream come true.”

Wellesley is clear: her big goal is to become Miss Nebraska. However, she is also mindful of the big picture. Wellesley is a University of Nebraska-Lincoln student majoring in advertising/public relations and journalism and has authored her own fashion/pop culture blog for several years. CLICK HERE to check it out!

“Beyond the pageant world, I hope to one day combine my loves of journalism and yoga to work for a wellness magazine or website like The Yoga Journal or mindful.org,” said Wellesley. “At the state pageant, my plan is just to do my best and get people thinking about mindfulness and all of its benefits.”

Wellesley and her fellow titleholders will be the first to tell you, just as yoga isn’t just ‘stretching’, competing for Miss Nebraska isn’t just slapping on makeup and waving your hand in parades. They spend hours in the gym every week. They dedicate countless hours to people and causes they care deeply about. They study, they work hard, they plan. But at the end of each day, Wellesley also remembers to breathe deeply and to reflect.

wellesley-yoga-2

“Here’s a mindfulness tip before I go. I do this everyday,” said Wellesley. “Take five minutes, mute your phone and listen to your breath. Maybe you say ‘inhale, exhale’ with each breath or count how many times you breathe. Thoughts will come up and that’s ok! After five minutes sit for a minute and notice how you feel.”

On behalf of this blossoming yoga instructor, Namaste. To you, Miss Omaha Wellesley Michael, NamaSLAY.

Photo courtesy Michael Dar

***

CLICK HERE to follow Miss Omaha 2017 Wellesley Michael’s blog , Wellesley Lauren. You can also CLICK HERE to follow her on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow her on Twitter. To contact Wellesley for appearances and speaking events, email wellesleymich@gmail.com.

For more information about the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County Pageant or to become a contestant CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, and CLICK HERE to follow on Twitter. You can also email missomahapageant@yahoo.com, or contact Director Marianne Grubaugh at ggrubaugh@cox.net.

***

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.

***

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

NEXT.. Miss Sarpy County’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Phoenix Stanford

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!

Intervention

Feb11

The emerging theme for many of my posts lately has been assumptions. The descriptions and details we assume to be fact because of what we’ve heard, societal influence, whatever the case may be. Often, part of the challenge in spreading awareness about a cause or topic is changing the misconceptions people may have about it.

For example: addiction. What do you think of? Someone dirty, desperate, homeless.. or an upper middle class housewife living a seemingly normal, if not perfect life?

For several years now, my former colleague and award-winning friend Julie Cornell has worked tirelessly to shed light on what many view as a prescription drug epidemic in Nebraska. Her reports have led to public questions and changes in state law. That work has also encouraged people to come forward and get help.. people like Claire Winkelbauer. The mother of four and minister’s wife became addicted to hydrocodone after she was prescribed the drug post-surgery.

Photo courtesy Julie Cornell, KETV

“Without God, without my husband, without people that love you, I honestly believe in my heart that I wouldn’t be here today,” she told Julie. CLICK HERE to see Julie’s full story as part of KETV’s year-long State Of Addiction series.

Stories like this are taking place all around us, whether we know it or not. It’s the reason a Bellevue teenager has dedicated her year to what she calls a Message of Hope.

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Katie Harris

“My platform is called ‘A Message of Hope: Raising Awareness to Drug and Substance Abuse.’ I chose this because I have seen what the effects of drug abuse can do to a person and the people around them,” Katie told me recently. “Since this kind of topic has greatly affected my family, I wanted to teach young adolescents the dangers of drugs and alcohol so that they can make the right decisions on their path to their future.”

Katie is a role model to her peers at Bellevue West High School, and now to countless children across the Omaha metro area.

katie-harris

Crowned Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen in October, Katie immediately used her crown and sash as an ‘in’ to speak to classes and groups.

Katie speaking at Westside’s Loveland Elementary

She’s also spreading her message across social media and more, urging her followers to share posts and pictures advocating for drug abuse awareness.

I’ll be selling these Message of Hope shirts to raise money for my Miss Omahas Outstanding Teen platform called “A Message of Hope: Raising Awareness to Drug and Substance Abuse”. All proceeds with go to the Omaha Valley Hope Association. They are a non-profit organization for people who are in the process of recovering from addiction. They are $15!! Please message me if interested!!

When a young woman is crowned a Miss So&So, they are not required to take part in community service. They aren’t forced to give countless hours of their time, their evenings and weekends, to promote a cause. Katie does all of this in addition to her studies at Bellevue West High School, where she is a member of the Varsity Cheer Squad, and competitive baton twirling as a member of the World Champion Stepper-Ettes Baton and Dance.

Katie, and women like her, give their time to others because they are determined to make a difference. It’s why Katie decided to compete in a pageant in the first place.

“I care about others!” said Katie. “I love helping people and being involved in the lives of others, which explains why I want to pursue a career in the medical field! [I am] hard working because you get out the amount of work you put in. I truly believe that working hard now will pay off later in life. And finally, [I am] kind because kindness is key! A simple compliment or ‘hello’ to someone could make their day. Plus, who doesn’t love to see someone smile because of you?”

These are all of the qualities Katie hopes to show a panel of judges when she competes to become Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

“[Pageants] give girls confidence!” said Katie. “Not everyone can go on stage and answer a question in front of lots of people and get judged on it… literally! I think there’s a message behind pageants, also, and it’s that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Never give up!”

katie-girls

To pageant naysayers, Katie notes the three women with her in this photo, and countless others not pictured.

“My favorite part of this competition is meeting new people! I love making friends!” said Katie. “I have met so many people and it has given me opportunities that I never imagined I would’ve had before. It also boosted my self esteem/confidence because I worked so hard for this and I plan on working harder for the next step.”

Which path Katie Harris takes that next step could be determined in April. Her end goal will stay the same, regardless if she’s Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen or Katie Harris, a truly outstanding teenager.

“Other than wanting to win, my goal is to spread the message of hope to more places in Nebraska,” said Katie. “I want to further my platform and impact the lives of young adolescents and teens. Most of all, I want to be the reason someone said no to drugs.”

katie-main

***

CLICK HERE to follow Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen Katie Harris or to get more information about the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen Pageant! You can also email Director Kelsey Ellis at omahadouglascountyot@gmail.com.

***

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

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Sydny Ridgeway

NEXT.. Miss Omaha 2017 Wellesley Michael

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!

Special Feature: Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev

Feb4

FACT: You are more likely to have a son play in the Super Bowl than you are to have a daughter compete for Miss America.

This weekend, as people all over the US watch the biggest game of the year, dozens of women from across Nebraska are gathering in North Platte, hoping this is the first step in their journey to Atlantic City and the iconic crown.

Not so long ago, a New York college student was doing her own preparation.. planning, hard work and drive that ultimately catapulted her into the national spotlight and cemented her place in the storied history of the Miss America Program.

Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev

“I will always be incredibly proud to be associated with the Miss America title,” Kira told me recently. “Only about 90 women can even say that! It has enriched my life more than I can convey, not to mention the personal growth, relationships, and experiences I have had ever since.”

Kira grew up in California and showed early on she was a talented, charismatic leader. She held two state pageant titles by 16 years old, she was Student Body President of her high school, and a member of the Varsity Cheerleading Squad. Kira moved to New York after high school to triple major in political science, global studies and geography. At Hofstra University, Kira maintained a 3.6 GPA, she studied in Barcelona and she held multiple internships in political consultancy in Washington DC. Somewhere, she found time to compete for the title of Miss New York, winning on her second try in 2014.

“The thing about being Miss New York is that it’s unlike any other state, especially if you’ve spent any time living in the city,” said Kira. “You are fighting to maintain relevance in a place that has so much other stuff going on, you can easily slip into the shadows. You are also being exposed to high profile events, people and opportunities constantly which is great preparation for Miss America. In New York our pageant culture is very unique. The girl is very much in charge of her own preparation. I chose every piece of my wardrobe, I worked hard to get sponsors that I wanted, and I took the subway to the Bronx and Brooklyn for appearances that I scheduled myself. We have an incredible board and support team, but Miss New York herself leads the charge. It is tough and requires grit but that’s a recipe for one heck of a Miss America contestant.”

Proof: Kira made history in September of 2014, becoming the 3rd straight Miss New York to be crowned Miss America.

“I remember a blur of screaming and lights and turning around to see all of my Miss America sisters smiling and clapping,” said Kira.”

crowning4

A dream come true for countless little girls and young women across America, one that was quickly tainted by a small group trying to muddy Kira’s reputation. They criticized her talent, a song-and-Solo-cup routine mirroring Anna Kendrick’s viral video. They questioned her character regarding her participation in sorority activities. Here was a woman who speaks three languages, was an honors student with three majors, an elite golfer, and she just did the impossible by becoming the 3rd consecutive contestant from one state to win that national title.. and she was being virtually assaulted by critics within days of her groundbreaking success.

“People focus on the negatives because 1: It makes them feel better about themselves and 2: The higher you rise, the more people will want to tear you down, because that is just the way many people are,” said Kira. “I learned that lesson very early on as Miss America. It taught me who my true friends were and who was really there for me. I don’t focus on the negative. If I did, I would still be sitting and responding to the millions of nasty tweets and comments I’ve gotten over the last few years. Instead, I focus on the positive, the amazing things I’ve been able to accomplish, and the goals I continue to aspire to.”

Kira won me over through her reign as Miss America… starting with this:

kira-with-cup

…a photo shoot with her cup. She stood tall in the face of all the haters and OWNED it. Something about this photo made me smile and think ‘you go, girl!’

‘Miss America isn’t a talent show. Talent is meant to show you can entertain, you can connect with people. That is the job of Miss America.’

It was the first of MANY photos of Kira, taking the world by storm.

kira-kazantsev-50th-academy-country-music-y928upc78ukl

Presenting at the Academy of Country Music Awards

Red Carpet at the Billboard Music Awards

Presenting at the American Music Awards

Kira returned the Miss America brand to the national spotlight, appearing at and/or presenting at numerous awards shows (and often featured in the Best Dressed section after!) She was the first Miss America in 43 years to visit troops overseas with the USO.

Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff USO Spring Troop Visit

And Kira shared her spotlight with her biggest.. yet smallest fans, as the National Goodwill Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

kira-with-cmn kira-cmn-4

‘Remember when you are fundraising, there are tiny human beings on the other end who benefit from that. No matter what challenges we face there are these little people who rely so much on us.’

She also embarked on a personal crusade against domestic violence, a campaign she dubbed ‘Put The Nail In It’. She partnered with Safe Horizon, the nation’s leading victim assistance organization, and started a social media revolution.

kira-nail kira-nail-2

Kira painted her left ring fingernail purple, the color of the anti-domestic violence movement, and encouraged her half-million social media followers to do the same and unite together, as one collective voice, that we will support survivors and stop violence. Music stars, professional athletes, reality TV stars, and countless others across America proudly painted and posted.

“No one can prepare themselves for suddenly being the face of a social media movement!” said Kira. “But it was my greatest honor to be part of the creation of the ‘Put The Nail In It’ campaign. It continues to garner huge impressions on social media while spreading awareness for the cause. I couldn’t be more proud of it!”

By September of 2015, Kira Kazantsev was both sad to pass on her crown to new Miss America Betty Cantrell (click here to read more!) yet ready to begin a new adventure on her own.

Photo courtesy People

“It was really hard for me to let go of a role I loved so much,” Kira told me. “At the same time, I was ecstatic to take everything I’d learned and venture out into the world as just Kira.”

Kira has since expanded upon the connections she made and experiences she had as Miss America. She’s hosted multiple events from the red carpet to the the non-profit world, she has performed and spoken at high profile venues across the country, and she’s played in numerous charity golf tournaments including the BMW Pro Am, and the Tiger Jam for the Tiger Woods Foundation. She is now based in Los Angeles, using her extraordinary social media knowledge and experience as the Director of Community Engagement for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, the same organization she devoted so much of her life to as Miss America.

Named one of the Most Beautiful Women In Golf by People Magazine & Golf.com

Hosting Red Carpet coverage for the American Music Awards

“I’ve definitely taken time to travel and do things for me, but sometimes my schedule these days feels just as busy if not busier than my time as Miss America and I love that!” said Kira. “I find that I’ve grown accustomed to that pace and If I’m not constantly doing something then I just feel a little off. I try to balance as much as I can but there’s nothing better than the thrill of accomplishment.”

And through that balance, Kira continues to be a role model for women of all ages and backgrounds. Through her social media and blog (click here for more!), Kira continues to advocate for health and fitness, chronicling how she faces the same challenges so many working women do regarding fast food and finding time to work out.

kira-workout

“It is always a struggle,” Kira told me. “I just remind myself that people battle disease, hunger, homelessness and far bigger problems than I could ever imagine every day, so I think I can find the will to make healthier eating choices and to get myself to the gym. Now, I’m not always on top of it, but I do my best and that’s all anyone can do. Life is full of choices and if we make the choice to take care of our bodies then somehow, someway, we find the time and we get it done. It is all about perspective.”

Kira is sharing that insight with dozens of Nebraska women this weekend at Crowns and Gowns 2017 in North Platte as a featured guest. She often thinks back on her own pageant journey, both her successes and her regrets.

“A million, but such is life and there is nothing I can do about them now,” said Kira. “I try and work on this, but instinctually after every appearance, speech, and interaction, I turn it over in my head a million times. Self doubt is my constant companion. However, I know that I am being my best possible self and putting my best foot forward, always, and I am proud of everything I have accomplished and continue to pursue.”

That is the self evaluation, the search within one’s self, that Kira hopes young women learn from her story. To speak out on what you believe in. To define this competition anyway you like and share your talents with the world. To set larger than life goals whether you are a local titleholder, or Miss America.

“Miss America is evolving and the ones who can keep up with those changes and be cutting edge in their definition of titleholders will remain at the forefront,” said Kira.

And to all of the young women competing for Miss Nebraska this year, dreaming of the day they could follow in Kira Kazantsev’s footsteps, this advocate, speaker, host and former Miss America has a message.

“Please just be YOU!” she said. “Be genuine, real and off the cuff but always be prepared. Do your research and work ahead of time and READY for a JOB. This is more than a pageant, it’s an opportunity that can change your life forever and bring you incredible experiences. At the same time, if it doesn’t work out, no big deal! We all have a plan and maybe being Miss Blah Blah isn’t part of yours and that’s ok. Miss America is A dream, not THE dream. There should be other things in your life that you are aspiring to like internships, colleges, charity work, and larger than life dreams. You’ve got this, and only YOU can make it happen.”

Photo courtesy Kristy Belcher Photography

‘As a titleholder, you have the power to have a positive impact on somebody’s life. That’s why we do this, it’s not for the crown, it’s for these kids. It’s not about me, it’s about the title and what it makes people feel. Hold on to who you are and be confident in the person you want to be.’

***

Kira Kazantsev is available for public appearances and events. For booking information and more about Kira, CLICK HERE to visit her website. You can also follow Kira on social media: CLICK HERE to follow her on Twitter, HERE to follow on Facebook, HERE to follow on Instagram.

***

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

***

PREVIOUS.. Brilliance (2017 Series Preview)

NEXT.. Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen 2017 Sydny Ridgeway!

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:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

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.

minion

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.

15418510_1893065410925377_7073472062058686362_o

Photo courtesy Kali Tripp

They are BRILLIANCE defined.

***

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

***

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!

Let’s Dance

May26

First off, a HUGE congratulations to Omaha teen Tharein Potuhera, the 14-year old who is one of only 45 students in America to make it to the finals of the 2016 Scripps National Spelling Bee. This guy is AWESOME, not only representing our city and his school, St. Wenceslaus, but drawing smiles and thumbs-up nationwide with his signature ‘dab’ on stage.

Learn more about Tharein and his awesome moves here!

When we saw this last night.. my co-anchor Rob knew what Tharein was doing. So did sports superstar Andy Kendeigh. Our chief meteorologist Bill Randby even had the moves down.

Really.. Rob and Andy are crazy awesome–just watch!

Thanks to KETV viewer Paloma Power for tweeting that… and reminding me I HAVE NO MOVES. NONE. Really.. what happened that in my formative years that led to my body just crumbling in on itself whenever I try to move with grace and style?

I digress.. GREAT JOB, Tharein!!! We are SO very impressed by your intelligence AND personality.. and I personally am once again in awe of anyone with ‘the moves’, teens like Gering’s Sheridan Blanco, who will be showcasing her talent in front of hundreds of people in just a few short weeks.

Sheridan-Blanco

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

Sheridan is a sophomore dance team member at Gering High School, and she’s also Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Outstanding Teen 2016.

crowning

From the Miss Alliance/Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Oustanding Teen Pageant Facebook Page on November 29,2015: We are so proud to introduce our new titleholder-Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Outstanding Teen, Sheridan Blanco!’

Within days, Sheridan was taking part in community events, braving the elements for the Alliance Christmas Parade with her fellow titleholder, Cherokee Purviance, Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen.

12191995_769364826502318_6017838764431892993_n

12745685_800519693386831_2480769168038333633_n

Just weeks later, Sheridan and Cherokee were volunteering again, judging a cupcake contest for an Alliance Girl Scouts group.

Winning a local title almost meant Sheridan was eligible to compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, which includes fitness, interview, evening gown and talent.

12928165_826324620806338_7779172035295370590_n

From the Miss Alliance/Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Oustanding Teen Pageant Facebook Page on April 2, 2016: ‘Great day prepping for #MNOTeen!’

The talent portion is no problem for Sheridan.. in addition to her dance background, she’s also a member of the POMS team, choir and band at Gering High.

12657378_10207097575616198_7139697300755671408_o

The Bulldogs dance squad not only performs; they also volunteer in the community, an effort going hand-in-hand with Sheridan’s new role as Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s OT. No doubt they’ll be cheering her on as she heads to North Platte to compete in June, along with her THREE beautiful sisters!

1958366_828559097195029_7064409966496368801_n

One nicknamed her ‘Baby Sista’ in a Facebook post.. her friends call her ‘Sher-Bear’. Sheridan Blanco hopes you get to know her as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.. and whenever her name is called, she’s got some GREAT moves to celebrate the moment!

13178581_845341082238025_1264844496135316159_n

***

For more information about the Miss Alliance’s OT/Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s OT/Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen pageant, CLICK HERE to visit their Facebook page. For information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Melinda Cullan by phone at 308-710-5593, or by email at maot.alliance@gmail.com.

For more information on becoming a Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestant, contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at kalinicoletv@gmail.com.

***

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.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Old West Balloon Fest’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Brianna Little!

NEXT.. SPECIAL FEATURE: Miss America 2016 Betty Cantrell!

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!

Evolution

May23

They say life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react.

I, like many (I hope I’m not alone!), have periods of my life that I look back at and just SHUDDER. Times where my immaturity and weaknesses shined brighter than the good I hope I project, times I hope others have forgotten even though I simply cannot. And maybe that’s a good thing; how can you climb out of valleys if you DON’T have those low points in the first place? How can you grow if you don’t recognize those mistakes and learn from them?

Life is a journey. There are lots of bumps along the way. It’s not how often you trip, it’s how many times you catch yourself, and even learn how to avoid those trouble spots. Let’s call it personal evolution.

Marie Allison is a Creighton University graduate who has never been afraid to try something, and more importantly, never been afraid to keep going or move on.

12705206_10208442934460566_7277486991230021239_n

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

From communication, to patriotism. From classic to country. From rodeo pageants.. to Miss Nebraska. This young lady is no stranger to experiences or to changes, and her life is a colorful piece of artwork reflecting that.

“I am a music and art aficionada, an accomplished equestrienne, adventuries foodie/student of healthful lifestyle, fitness and outdoors enthusiast, passionate academic, and aspiring salsera (I love all latine dance!),” Marie told me recently. She is also Miss Western Nebraska 2016.

13198_10207824275994491_4180799030053787026_n

“I became involved with the Miss America system three years ago after deciding that rodeo pageants involved horses, sure, but they just were not for me,” said Marie, who went on to compete for Miss Colorado in 2014. “I love how the Miss America Pageant system is a platform for feminine empowerment and service. I became aware of the idea that holding a title is the ultimate responsibility and a job, not just decorative wording. I liked that idea and related to it on paper, but was unsure how to be passionate and employ it in my own life.”

So Marie competed again in a new state while attending Creighton, qualifying to compete for Miss Nebraska 2015. Marie chose a song highlighting her classical training (she now has a Music degree from Creighton), and as she told me last year, she focused on Communciation: Proactive Prevention as her personal message and platform (click here to read more!) This year.. everything is different.

“If asked before why I want this job, I would have had an answer, but I do not think I believed in my own ability to hold the title of Miss Nebraska before this year,” said Marie. “I have discovered more about who I am every time I compete because I am put in a unique position to think about how I relate to the world and why I do what I do (not just in pageants); my ideals, my goals, my aspirations, my values, my morals, and so on.”

Here’s a sample of what Marie’s discovered about herself in the last year alone..

She loves to model, featured here in photos by Anthony Gaines Photography, and walking the runway for designer Sabrina Jones at Omaha Fashion Week.

12063448_10207721008372865_987863164372084535_n

11222052_10207650713735543_5336024097715276916_n

She loves to create art, through something as simple as a selfie, or as complex as a sketch.

12628452_10208265947796010_9188334929727837853_o

12669551_10208367911545040_4402099323897536669_n

She loves to serve, and gets to do it through both volunteering and through her full time jobs.

“I currently work full-time for Omaha Housing Authority as an Executive Assistant and also with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network as a Marketing Specialist,” said Marie. “I am humbled to have secure employment that keeps me engaged in a constant learning experience, but luckily I find time to fit in working on developing the OHA Foundation’s donor base, fundraising events and childhood literacy programs, as well as fundraising for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and other organizations dedicated to pediatric cancer research. I strongly advocate both philanthropy and service in daily life an am always looking for new volunteer opportunities.”

And as she started planning to compete for the Miss Nebraska title, Marie did a 180.. changing her talent genre and her personal platform.

12512312_10208206134700720_2061893797858112272_n

Marie attending President Obama’s speech in Omaha in January.

“My platform is called ‘Justice For All’. We have the power to love each other and stand together; it is time we use that power, ” said Marie. “The greatest challenge I see facing my generation is the rifts being formed by racial and socioeconomic disparity. It is my goal to start an educated dialogue surrounding these issues to invite people to begin making changes in their individual daily lives and their communities, which will translate to our country and our world. Acknowledging bias and prejudice and how each of us is acculturated is a first step twoards lasting change. I aspire to this challenge because of the very real challenges my family faced when I was growing up.”

11401227_10206755573557598_520613250351360567_n

“After much deliberation, I decided to sing ‘Where Were You’ written by Alan Jackson in honor of 9/11,” said Marie. “This song wasn’t exactly in my wheel house, to say the least. It is not traditionally flashy and showy like most pageant pieces, but I knew it was the right song because it was the one that gave me shivers I still have every time I hear it, and a song I am honored to sing. In Talent, it is my goal to connect with my audience in the short 90 seconds allotted. The message that there is nothing greater than love that keeps us interconnected is profound and is at the heart of my platform.”

12654579_10208379845563383_1734143403510797140_n

To those who follow the Miss Nebraska pageant.. Marie Allison is coming back this year as a different contestant, with a changed outlook. To those who think negatively of pageants in general, Marie wants you to know Miss America has also evolved over the years.

“People who dismiss pageantry as an antiquated tradition where women degrade themselves by focusing only on appearance are often doing just that: focusing on what pageantry appears to be, rather than what it means to the individuals involved and seeing them as upstanding women who are future leaders,” said Marie. “Miss America has changed since 1921 to promote women’s interests. The women in the Miss Ameirica program are some of the most intelligent and wonderful people who are ready to take action to make a difference. The actual pageant, what you see on stage, is the tip of the iceberg of what we do and who we are: we have the beauty, the brains, the talent, and the wherewithal to make great things happen. There is a reason this has remained a great sisterhood and tradition for almost 100 years. Miss America showcases the great power of the feminine. I can say for myself, and for each contestant involved, that we mature as people because of the pageant experience, professionally and personally.”

1779175_10206761452184560_7562256122903407806_n

Personal evolution. With the family and friends Marie calls ‘a core component’ of who she is, this young woman is ready to showcase her authentic self on one of our state’s biggest stages.

“This year, I know I have the goals and the wherewithal to make lasting connections that matter and implement a plan of action to promote the Miss Nebraska Organization,” said Marie. “I have a platform I am excited to promote, a plan, and conviction to see it through regardless of the outcome of the pageant in June. I know how I want to shape my year of service and what it will take to treat this title both as a humbling, awesome experience as a representative of this wonderful state and as a job to be done.”

11838620_10207173655169377_6144150902498655353_o

Photo courtesy Anthony Gaines Photography

“I would be honored to have the opportunity of shaping this role with a perspective that comes from hard work, dedication to learning and morals, and a desire to lift others up and include them in the conversations about pageants, scholarship and uniting together to greet the future,” said Marie. “I endeavor to be congruent in what I think and what I pursue in life and simply allow myself to be me when I compete in spite of the pressure to appear and act in a certain way. Knowing I can be myself and rely on who I am what I think in any given situation and that I am loved by people who are important to me is one of the most humbling, gratifying experiences. Winning is always nice, but the most uplifiting experiences for me come from accepting all the good and the bad that come with being who I am.”

***

CLICK HERE to follow Miss Western Nebraska 2016 Marie Allison on Facebook.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MARIE?

2015 * Home Of The Brave

For more information about the Miss Gering/Miss Western Nebraska Pageant, CLICK HERE to visit their Facebook page. For information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Heather Hayes by phone at 307-340-0601, or by email at Heather.Hayes@chartercom.com.

***

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.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Platte River’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Emma Young!

NEXT.. Miss Old West Balloon Fest’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Brianna Little!

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!

Talking To The Walls

Apr26

I had four words listed on the back of my high school letter jacket.

DRAMA CHOIR SPEECH ACADEMICS

I had friends who shook their heads and cried NERD. They were probably right.. I mean, who does that!?! But you know what? I was PROUD.. and I’m still proud today.

I’m a 3-time high school state champion in Nebraska with two individual titles in Persuasive Speaking and a team title for Mock Trial.

882158_10152669962515023_113927376_o

My weekends from October to May were spent like this.. waiting for food with my team at any local Valentino’s or Village Inn we could find after a long day of competition. We worked for weeks prior fine tuning our speeches, our interpretations of plays and poetry, and our research and knowledge of current events. I think those days served us pretty well.. the two people in this picture are still my friends almost 20 years later. Cassie is a respected pharmacist, wife and mom on the east coast, John was my fellow KETV reporter and meteorologist before joining the private sector and raising three boys (one a foster kiddo) with his wife in Texas. We ALL use public speaking in our jobs, and we are all better in our careers and beyond because of those long days and quick years at speech tournaments. To those who didn’t compete with us, we were likely just the weirdos they saw talking to walls. To everyone in our circle, the more you practiced to that audience of brick, the more often you’d see your name on those ‘finals’ lists, and the more trophies you brought home at the end of each weekend.

Times may have changed since my high school years (if you need proof, look at my hair again..) but that unspoken thread connecting speech kids is still strong. Now though, as I’ve learned from Scottsbluff High School’s Ashlynn Haun, we’re called ‘speechletes’.

12771595_1513935862245749_7463674229793587432_o

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“I am a Varsity memeber of the SHS Speech team and love every minute of it!’ Ashlynn told me recently. “It has helped develop my speaking skills and meeting other speechletes is a blast!’

11048694_401143216723843_2837636744531089922_n

Ashlynn was a contender and winner at several high school meets this season, making district finals in two separate events. That alone is impressive, let alone considering Ashlynn was also busy with golf, 4-H, dance and her school’s musical (click here to listen to Ashlynn sing!)

10258957_493542277483936_5495808692212735549_n

10580113_315121211992711_6308089121213101771_n

“My family, friends and the members of my community all play important roles in my life,” said Ashlynn. “My family has always supported me through all of my endeavors. My friends and community members help each other in so many unknown ways, it truly amazes me. These people are important to me because they are uplifting and kind, and I hope they view me in the same light.”

That devotion to her community and those in it led Ashlynn to several service projects, often with 4-H Junior Leaders. She wanted to become more involved and meet more people.. and found the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program. Ashlynn was crowned Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen last fall.

sister after crowning

“By being involved in the program I have been able to improve my leadership and interview skills,” said Ashlynn. “The Miss America Organization is a wonderful scholarship program for young women everywhere. This experience isn’t about winning or losing, it’s about meeting interesting new people and giving back to our communities.”

Ashlynn does that both through philanthropy and emotion. She often gives back through dance, sharing her gift with audiences as both Miss Gering’s OT and as a teaching assistant at Tabor Dance Academy.

11295804_428756533962511_4756996462105919951_n

“I LOVE being on stage!” said Ashlynn. “Performing gives me such a thrill and has always been fairly easy for me. I love being able to entertain others while doing something I’m passionate about.”

Ashlynn is also focused on her personal platform, ‘We Are All Survivors’, advocating for cancer survivors and their families.

13083130_10209053282550719_149331205341417410_n

Ashlynn on Facebook: ‘Had a blast talking about my platform and participating in the Boxer Rebellion 5K today!😊This great event brings awareness to colon cancer and raises money for Festival of Hope.’

“Almost everyone knows someone affected by cancer in some way, whether it be a family member, a friend, or a friend’s family member,” said Ashlynn. “My platform is centered around supporting not only the patient, but also those who care for them. I know personally that seeing someone you love hurt and struggle is terrible. Often people don’t know how they can help, so I want to spread creative ways that will be most beneficial to these families.”

12716117_10206923372677334_3333487234487430216_o

Here’s a young lady who not only has big ideas, she’s using her words and abilities to bring those visions to life. She also admires those same traits; when I asked her who her role model is, she didn’t name a celebrity or high-profile stranger.

13077253_610020649169431_123946004_n

“Someone who is a role model for me is my fellow dancer, speechlete and schoolmate Emily Ostdiek,” said Ashlynn. “She inspires me because she is extremely kind, talented and is always smiling.”

THAT inspires me.

Speech kids RULE. Speech kids who are also pageant girls are AWESOME. These women aren’t just talking to walls or waving manicured hands, they are promoting causes and showing everyone around them the power of grace, intelligence and positivity. Ashlynn Haun wants to represent all of that.. along with her school, her hometown, and speech kids everywhere.

12644844_572983732873123_6635161220774297271_n

“I should be Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen because I have pride in my community, county and state,” said Ashlynn. “I would use my leadership, desire to serve others, and poise to represent them in a very positive light. I would also take the opportunity to support cancer patients and their families in a more public format to bring awareness to my platform. I love being part of and promoting the Miss America Organization and would enjoy becoming a bigger part of it.”

***

CLICK HERE to follow Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Ashlynn Haun on Facebook. You can also contact Ashlynn for appearances and events by emailing ashlynnhaun@gmail.com.

For more information about the Miss Gering/Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, visit THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE. For information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Kyla Ansley at 308-631-0938 or by email at kyla_ansley@hotmail.com. You can also email thirtyone.hayes@yahoo.com.

For more information on becoming a Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestant, contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at kalinicoletv@gmail.com.

***

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.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Nebraska State Fair 2016 Payton Merritt!

NEXT.. Miss Gering 2016 LaRissa McKean!

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!

Choosing The Right Path

Mar7

Think back to when you were a little boy or girl.. who did you look up to? Who was the coolest person in your world you were DETERMINED to become?

Children need guidance. They need a hand to lead them in the right direction. In the absence of that positive influence, they’ll look to whomever is the leader or the dominant adult in their life. Unfortunately, that’s not always a GOOD person.

Last night, KETV’s Davonte McKenith shared a powerful story about the cycle of crime taking place in part of Omaha. A major message in his piece: organizations like 100 Black Men are desperately seeking new mentors to stand up and show children adults who are successful and hard working. Many experts note if you break down the science of crime, the teens and young men responsible are following the same path their fathers took.. that’s all they see, and it’s all they know.

CLICK HERE to watch DaVonte’s eye-opening story on KETV

On the flip side, I’ve heard countless stories of the positive influences Miss Nebraska titleholders have had on young people.. many who have grown up to volunteer and compete themselves. Just one year ago, Ravenna High School student Kara Kriha saw confidence, smiles and kindnes.. and knew this was a world she wanted to be part of.

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“I first decided that I wanted to become involved in pageants when I was at Crowns & Gowns 2015 in North Platte,” Kara told me recently. The annual event brings together Miss Nebraska miss and teen titleholders among others for workshops, photo shoots, a local pageant and the always-anticipated Hirschfeld’s Prom Shoppe fashion show.

10924758_790732517659290_6555664696507768860_n

Kara entered an online Prom Girl contest, allowing voters to select who would model in the fashion show alongside the contestants. Kara received more than 500 votes, and modeled several dresses before a crowd of hundreds.

“Everyone there was so nice to me and I had so much fun!” said Kara. “Miss Nebraska is so much more than just a girl with a crown on her head.”

Kara competed in several local pageants last fall and that persistence was rewarded; she was crowned Miss Harvest Moon Festival 2016.

“This year I have grown so much,” said Kara. “I am better at holding longer, intelligent conversations with people, especially adults.”

The 17-year old has also pursued a number of different interests before determining what she would showcase for her on-stage talent. She’s a member of her high school band, she’s a trap-shooter, she spins rifles, she’s involved with 4-H in Buffalo County and she loves to ice skate.

10309502_10202987782993965_8718913371532606609_n

Ultimately, Kara’s love for flag performance inspired both her competition talent and her platform of service, ‘Save the Arts’.

Photo courtesy Harlie Marie Photography

“I have been involved in art and music for as long as I can remember,” said Kara. “It is extremely important that all kids have art and music available in their schools.”

And just like the titleholders who inspired her to compete for Miss Nebraska, Kara is also making community service a priority. She now wants to be the role model she looked up to one short year ago.. to inspire young people to follow a path of hard work, kindness and ultimately, success.

8378_531800613654749_2912047990641302686_n

1902055_526532530848224_282102711341752139_n

12805679_531800630321414_517072556902524029_n

“The reason I want to be Miss Nebraska is so that I can show people how much work that not only Miss Nebraska does, but all of the contestants for their communities,” said Kara. “Not very many people know that the Miss America Organization’s national platform is Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals or that they even have a national platform. A lot of people see Miss Nebraska as just a pretty girl, but I want to change that so she is also seen as someone who loves and gives back to her community.”

***

CLICK EACH LINK to follow Miss Harvest Moon Festival 2016 Kara Kriha

on FACEBOOK and on INSTAGRAM. To contact Kara for appearances or events email jkriha@yahoo.com.

For more information about the Miss Alliance/Miss Harvest Moon Festival Pageant, visit their FACEBOOK PAGE. For information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Riki Cornish Hunter by email at riki.hunter@farmcoop.com or by phone at 308-430-4355.

***

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.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Hannah Miller!

NEXT.. Miss Sugar Valley’s Outstanding Teen 2016 Courtney Pelland!

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!

Sister, Sister

May28

I am the oldest of three, with two ‘little’ brothers. ‘Little’, because now they could crush me if they wanted to, but in a way, I’ll still always be their big sister.

I’ve never longed for a sister, in part, because I am blessed to have such dear friends who have always filled that role for me beautifully.

But to be a woman and have a sister must be a beautiful thing; sharing secrets, dreams, frustrations, CLOTHES. To have their support when you need them most, and to help you fly even higher when you soar.

The young woman you’re about to meet has shared a bond with her twin sister since the moment they arrived in the world, a journey now inspiring her individually as one of the state’s most outstanding teenagers.

MISS KEARNEY CRANE FESTIVAL’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 MERRILEE PRILL

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“I was born at Children’s Hospital in Omaha as a micro preemie weighing in at 1 pound 7 ounces and I had a 10-percent chance of survival!” Merrilee told me recently. “At 2 years old, [my twin sister and I] were featured on the Children’s Miracle Network telethon. So, I am Children’s Miracle Network!”

Merrilee and her sister, Mariclaire, spent four months in the hospital as newborns. Many deemed them miracle babies since they later only underwent surgery for ear tubes and had no other developmental problems. This personal story inspired Merrilee’s platform of service ‘Believe the Impossible: Miracles Happen.’

“Because I have experienced this miracle in my own life, I want to inspire others to believe that miracles can happen in their own lives no matter what the circumstances,” said Merrilee. “This piece of the Miss Nebraska system holds a very special place in my heart!”

One piece of many for not just Merrilee, but the entire Prill family.

Merrilee’s big sister, Lianna, was Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2012, and just last year, competed for the title of Miss Nebraska (click here to read my profile of Lianna during her time as Miss Crane Festival 2014). Merrilee’s twin, Mariclaire, was Miss Sandhills’ Outstanding Teen 2013.

“I first got involved in the Miss Nebraska program because my sisters were titleholders,” said Merrilee. “I experienced challenges while competing for [local titles]. Consequently, winning did not come as quickly for me as it did for my sisters. Now as I come to the close of my reign as Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen, I have been able to sharpen my public speaking and stage presence skills. These parts of the competition used to terrify me. Now, I comfortably speak to a crowd of insurance professionals as a keynote speaker, address a crowd of community members at an outdoor festival and convey encouragements to patients at Children’s Hospital.”

And those visits to Children’s are among Merrilee’s favorite moments as Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s OT.

“My signature project for this program has been decorating over 400 colorful place mats for patient meal trays,” said Merrilee. “Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces during craft hours just makes my job as a titleholder so gratifying because that makes me feel like I am making an impact by encouraging them that miracles can happen in their lives as it did in mine.”

Among Merrilee’s other top memories this past year include signing nearly 400 autographs for the annual Daddy-Daughter Banquet in Kearney and spending time with her sister queen Miss Kearney Crane Festival 2015 Allison Tietjen (click here to to learn more about Allison!).

“I know the importance of being a positive local role model for young girls,” said Merrilee. “It was a bonus during my year to share this event and many others with Allison!”

Merrilee is also looking forward to connecting with a few other ‘sisters’.. her fellow outstanding teens from across the state. She sent me this picture, taken the last time many of these girls were together, at the Crowns and Gowns weekend in North Platte.

Merrilee striking a pose with Miss Douglas County’s OT 2015 Steffany Lien and Miss Scotts Bluff County’s OT Grace Heggem.

A year’s worth of moments and memories, all leading up to one amazing night. So many ‘sisters’, biological or otherwise, that will no doubt be in Merrilee Prill’s mind and heart during those moments she takes the stage alone in North Platte.

“I have to say that walking in my evening gown is the most fulfilling part of the competition for me, because that’s the point when I feel the most confident and I feel like I’m on top of the world,” said Merilee. “Very few teenagers get to do this on such an awesome stage!”

Only 11, in fact, this year. And of those outstanding girls, one will be crowned Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen. Will it be Merrilee Prill? Just ask the once 1.5 pound miracle who defied all odds at birth; ANYTHING is possible.

Follow Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Merrilee Prill on Instagram.

To contact Merrilee for appearances and events, visit the Miss Kearney/Miss Tri-Cities Pageant on Facebook.

Click here for a special feature on Merrilee on the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page!

For more information about how to become a contestant, email Director Megan Goeke at megan@hellobeautifulbridal.com.

***

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.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Northwest’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Cherokee Purviance

NEXT.. Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014 Morgan Holen

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.

Big Things Come In Little Packages

May25

Earlier, I posted about an upcoming volleyball tournament I’m taking part in this weekend for my family member and friend, Missy and her husband Kyle. Kyle has battled Crohn’s Disease for 15 years, so this weekend, we are hammering Crohn’s for him and hopefully, raising money for the Frans family and their mounting medical bills. (Click here to read more about Kyle’s fight and how you can help in the battle against Crohn’s!)

I am NOT good at volleyball. It’s not for a lack of trying.. I played rec volleyball throughout junior high. I couldn’t spike, or set, or serve overhand… but I was never afraid to dive for a ball! At the end of one season, my coach gave a short speech on each of us when we got our medals, and when it was my turn, he said ‘big things come in little packages.’

THAT, is what comes to mind the more I learn about a promising young lady from Chadron, Nebraska.

MISS CHADRON’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 SHELBY BLUNDELL

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“I am Shelby Blundell. I am the shortest girl in my grade,” Shelby told me, turning 14 just last weekend. That height stat may make Shelby memorable in this year’s Miss Nebraska Outstanding Teen class, but it certainly doesn’t define her.

Shelby, shortly after winning her local title, alongside Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014 Morgan Holen

“I’m competing for the life skills that I am sure to develop through my reign as Miss Chadron and hopefully Miss Nebraska,” said Shelby. “Miss Nebraska is a great way for young women to develop much needed skills that will later become an advantage in the work place.”

Shelby already has an impressive skill set; based on her photos, she’s either ready for next month’s state pageant or to take over Katniss’s role in the Hunger Games. Fear?? What fear!

“I enjoy playing basketball, going fishing, riding my dirt bike, practice shooting and hunting,” said Shelby. This active lifestyle no doubt contributed to Shelby’s personal platform as Miss Chadron’s Outstanding Teen, ‘Commit To Be Fit’.

Shelby sharing her platform with Girl Scouts at the Scouting For The Cure event in Bridgeport in March

“This is committing to eat healthy, and keeping an active heart and mind,” said Shelby. “I really would like to show people that eating smaller portions is better for you.”

Shelby also notes something I’ve heard time and time again from the young women who take part in the Miss America or Miss America’s Outstanding Teen organization, that they love the bonds they’re forming off stage. Shelby’s cover photo on her Facebook page is the group shot taken of all the contestants and the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen directors at this year’s Crowns and Gowns weekend.

“My favorite part of competition is the friendships that I have and will form with my pageant sisters,” said Shelby. “I also like it because it has brought my mother and I closer together.”

I’d bet Shelby’s mom will be among her loudest supporters as her little girl takes the stage as one of the most remarkable teenagers in the state of Nebraska. Tiny she may be, but Shelby Blundell talks of confidence and independence; BIG thoughts and goals for a girl just barely 14-years old.

Someone once said, ‘God only lets things grow until they’re perfect. Some of us didn’t take as long as others!’ Shelby may forever be the shortest girl in the crowd, but remember, big things come in little packages. This girl, could also be Nebraska’s next Outstanding Teen.

(Photo courtesy Tami Fosher Photography)

Follow Miss Chadron’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Shelby Blundell and contact her for appearances and events on the Miss Chadron/Miss Northwest’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page.

Click here for a special feature on Shelby on the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page!

For more information about how to become a contestant, contact Director Riki Hunter at 308-430-4355 or by email at maoteenchadron@gmail.com.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Chelsea Arnold

NEXT.. Miss Northwest’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Cherokee Purviance

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.