Tag Archive | Miss America

Stronger

I can try to explain what it’s like to compete in a pageant, but unless you’ve been there, up on that stage, it’s really hard to perfectly describe it. I imagine it’s comparable to a pitcher stepping onto the mound for a baseball game, or a salesperson taking a deep breath before making that huge pitch for a campaign. You work hard, you focus for weeks or months, and in the end, all of that effort comes down to one moment. You get the win, or you do not.

My first featured contestant of 2015 knows how the pageant process works; she’s watched it, and lived it, her whole life.

MISS KOOL-AID DAYS 2015 BROOKE LUDEMANN

(photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“It’s unreal that I’m actually preparing to be on the stage that I’ve watched every year from the audience,” Brooke told me recently. “I was a Little Sister, served with the Little Sister Alumni, represented Nebraska as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen in 2011, and now, here I am. It’s truly surreal to think that I have become the woman that I so admired as a child in the old high school auditorium or in the line for autographs at NebraskaLand Days.”

Brooke earned MY admiration several years ago. I had only met the then 19-year old once, when on January 27, 2013, she was crowned Miss Star City.

Just four days later, January 31, 2013, Brooke posted the following on her Facebook page:

“Just wanting to say a quick but huge thank you to all those wishing congratulations and support. Because of a few calculating mishaps, I am no longer headed to Miss Nebraska. However, I am very proud to say I placed as the 1st Runner Up in my first Miss pageant ever. I respect the MAO organization for rectifying this situation and am proud of the girls going to Miss NE. God has other plans for me this year, because He REALLY wanted me to take this year off, but I pray His plans place me at Miss Nebraska next year! Again, thank you all so much, your support and love means the world to me.”

My heart dropped into the pit of my stomach when I read this post. I’ve been a titleholder; I’ve felt the elation when your name is called, the excitement of planning to compete in Miss Nebraska. Brooke had all of that.. and then she didn’t. What’s worse, this was the last local pageant of 2013 to qualify for Miss Nebraska; Brooke would have to wait at least a year for another chance.

I simply can’t imagine how difficult it was for this young woman, who had experienced such a high as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, to lose the opportunity she so badly wanted. Brooke confronted disappointment, posted a public message displaying grace, maturity and class… and moved on.

Brooke returned to Doane College, completely committing to her studies in Business Marketing and her involvement in campus activities. Brooke is the Service Chair with her sorority, Omega Psi Theta, involved on the Student Programming Board, a member of the Hansen Leadership Advisory Board, and she’s an ambassador for the college to new students.

“I LOVE service work. Everyone has their ‘thing’ and mine is volunteering,” said Brooke. “In high school, I volunteered over 600 hours in various projects, and I am right on track to match that for my 3-year college career. I’ve made it a goal to bring my love of service to others in ways that they enjoy. Service isn’t a chore, and I want everyone to embrace the love they can spread by lending a hand.”

Brooke’s love of Miss Nebraska didn’t go away. Just five days before her 21st birthday, Brooke competed for and won the title of Miss Kool-Aid Days 2015, and punched her ticket to THIS year’s Miss Nebraska pageant.

In a way, the work began all over again. Since this photo was taken in early August, Brooke has spoken to approximately 1,500 students across the state of Nebraska, focusing on her platform of service: ‘Open Hearts, Open Minds: Education Through Service Learning.’

“I believe that everyone has a passion to change something about the world, but we never know what it is until we have that service learning moment,” said Brooke, describing ‘service learning’ as reflecting and actively learning about the world through service. Brooke’s own moment came in high school, delivering coats to a family in desperate need of help. “It was then I realized I wanted to help those who needed a leg up in life. My goal is to bring others to find their passion.”

“For younger students, I share ways that they can help others, helping them understand that ‘little people live out BIG love,” said Brooke. “For older students, we tackle real service projects. I was able to work with the Millard Central Middle School Student Council Leadership team to make 18 Project Linus blankets that were donated to Children’s Hospital & Medical Center in Omaha. Many students knew friends who had been in the hospital, so they were able to make direct connections to the impact they were making in a stranger’s life.”

A quick glimpse at Brooke’s schedule via an edition of her monthly Miss Kool-Aid Days newsletter

But we can all volunteer without a crown, right? Why compete in pageants? Why Miss America?

“In a world that is so mindful of women’s rights, Miss America is a shining example of breaking the glass ceiling,” said Brooke. “As a partner with STEM, we empower more women to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. We’re showing beautiful women on TV who will be doctors or engineers. The Miss America program highlights some of the nation’s brightest, most well-informed, and well-rounded women, who are pretty to boot. Former contestants are doing everything from sitting in the Senate of their states to performing on Broadway to being national news anchors. Miss America is a driving force for women’s equality: empowering women to be exactly what they want to be and enabling them to pursue their dreams through scholarship and life skills.”

There’s also the talent competition, Brooke’s favorite part.

“Miss America is unique in the fact that a large portion of our scoring is based on talent,” said Brooke. “I’ve been singing for as along as I can remember and actually entered college as a vocal performance major. I love the opportunity to put on a new persona, step on stage, and lay my heart out for the audience.”

Brooke Ludemann has already put her heart into this journey.. and it might have broken her heart once.

They say, ‘what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.’

This girl is TOUGH. My guess is she’s got Kelly Clarkson on repeat, getting stronger everyday as she works hard and focuses again on this one moment to come in June: Miss Nebraska.

“{I’m competing} to represent and serve the state of Nebraska. That is really what the job is all about, service to the people who have created the ‘Good Life’,” said Brooke. “As Miss Nebraska, I hope to spread my platform to every county, eventually turn my platform into a non-profit after school program, and give back to the people who have helped me become the women I am today.”

Follow Miss Kool-Aid Days 2015 Brooke Ludemann

on her Facebok page, on Twitter, on Instagram, via Brooke’s monthly newsletter,

and on the Miss Kool-Aid Days Pageant Facebook page. To contact Brooke for appearances and events, please contact Angie at angie.trausch@gmail.com.

For information on becoming a future contestant, contact Directors Angie Trausch and Angela Keiser at 402-984-2690 or click here to visit the Miss Kool-Aid Days Pageant website.

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The Miss Nebraska Pageant will take place June 3-6, 2015 in North Platte. Click here to visit the organization’s website, to visit the pageant on Facebook, to follow the pageant on Twitter, and to follow the pageant on Instagram.

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PREVIOUS.. Countdown To The Crown

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

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

Countdown To The Crown

Mar11

IT IS TIME.

In less than three months, life will change for two young women in our state, and possibly, the thousands of others they impact.

It’s time to COUNTDOWN TO THE CROWN.. who will be the next Miss Nebraska and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen?

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; I’m sure there are many readers shaking their heads that I’m writing about pageants. Many who believe Miss America and pageants in general are archaic, sexist and irrelevant in today’s world.

The girl in this photo? That’s me. Well, a 21-year old, much thinner version of me. When this picture was taken, I was Miss Omaha 2002, singing the national anthem for the Omaha Royals at Rosenblatt Stadium.

I found out about Miss Omaha and Miss Nebraska through a letter in the mail. I had been active in choir and theater in high school, and was eager for the opportunity to sing on a stage again. I got it.. and more than I ever could have imagined.

I learned how to become a better public speaker: to groups of students at elementary schools, to roomfuls of families at Metro Autism Support Group meetings, to reporters and other local personalities, to hundreds of people filling auditoriums. I realized the value and importance of public service, focusing on Autism Awareness as my personal platform of service, and the impact you can have simply by caring and advocating for something you believe in. I found new and exciting chances to sing and perform, opportunities I probably wouldn’t have ever had without that crown on my head.

My story is just one of COUNTLESS ‘Beauty Queen Tales’ right here in the Omaha metro area. KETV’s Alex Hoffman, Omaha Fashion Week Producer Brook Hudson, Nebraska native broadcaster Brittany Jeffers; ALL competed in the Miss America Organization. (For more, check out my 2014 post ‘There She Is’.)

What’s more, I think people want to be inspired. We want to see the GOOD shining through in our world. The young women competing for Miss Nebraska and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen exemplify that, and when I began profiling them leading up to last year’s Miss Nebraska pageant, thousands of people around the country logged on to read their stories. These women MATTER. (To read more about the Miss Nebraska Class of 2014, click here or click the ‘There She Is’ link in the menu bar at the top of the page.)

In the coming weeks, I’ll again profile each of this year’s Miss Nebraska contestants; who they are, what’s important to them, and why YOU should care about what they are doing in our state. As a new addition this year, I’ll also be profiling EACH Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestant; 11 teenagers from across the state who will also compete to represent Nebraska. Who knows, you may also see a few other surprises along the way.

STYLE. SUCCESS. SCHOLARSHIP. SERVICE.

These are the four points of the Miss America crown. They are a guide, for 24 of Nebraska’s best, trying to become the best versions of themselves and preparing to come together in just three short months for one, exciting week of accomplishments, intelligence, talent, and beauty (inside and out.)

Are you ready?

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The Miss Nebraska & Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageants take place June 3-6 in North Platte. For more information, visit the Miss Nebraska website.

FIRST CONTESTANT PROFILES..

CLICK HERE for Miss Kool-Aid Days Brooke Ludemann

CLICK HERE for Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen Steffany Lien

Behind The Crown

Sep11

It all comes down to this.. Miss America.

Last spring I profiled each of the young women competing for the title of Miss Nebraska. From 19, there is now one.

Multiply those 19 state contestants (in many cases, double or triple that number) times the number of states in America, plus Washington DC and US territories. From thousands of young ladies who competed in preliminary competitions this year, there are now only 53 vying to become Miss America.

She’ll be crowned Sunday night on ABC.

As a little girl, I’d sit eagerly at my TV, waiting to see MY state–who was Miss Nebraska? And who was our neighbor, Miss Iowa?

They are both incredible young women who are well-spoken, talented, beautiful and as you’re about to find out, HARD WORKING.

Getting ready for Miss America is NO easy task.

Photos courtesy of the Miss America Organization

Tuesday night, Miss Nebraska Megan Swanson and Miss Iowa Aly Olson took their first steps onto the Miss America stage in Atlantic City, New Jersey as they began preliminary competition. It was a moment they’ve been preparing for, intensely, for months.

“I’ve pushed myself harder physically than I ever have,” said Megan, moments before boarding her flight out of Omaha. “I’m in the best physical shape of my life, and the best spiritual and emotional shape as well.”

Thanks to Ashley Frantz and Twisted Lens Photography for the photo!

I’ve been in touch with Megan since she was crowned Miss Douglas County last fall (full disclosure: I’m a volunteer with the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County pageant). I talked to her the day after she was crowned Miss Nebraska. I had the honor of hosting her send-off party and fundraiser.

Every time I’ve spoken with Megan, her intent has been clear in both her words and actions; she is DETERMINED to win this thing.

“I’m just so thankful to represent the state of Nebraska, my home,” said Megan. “To go there and win it as Miss America!”

I’ve only known Aly for a few weeks now, first meeting her in a Skype interview for our story, but I don’t think she EVER STOPS SMILING–she just exudes positive energy!

“I’m just trying to BE Miss Iowa,” Aly told me. “Representing the whole state, absorbing as many experiences as I can has been the best preparation.”

Thanks to the Miss Iowa organization for the photo!

Check out KETV’s story on Miss Nebraska & Miss Iowa ‘Behind the Scenes’!

For the last three months, these young women have been putting in 18 hour days to become the best version of themselves. They’ve been in the gym nearly everyday. They’ve spent countless hours rehearsing their talents (both are talented vocalists). They’ve been up at the crack of dawn to travel across their states for appearances, interviews and fundraisers.

WHY?!? For a silly pageant?!?!

“Miss America isn’t just about promoting women to be their best,” said Aly. “It’s really about encouraging every single person to find some lofty goal, whatever that may be, and to tell them to run for it.”

There’s also this ‘little’ matter of scholarships..

“The Miss America Organization is the largest scholarship organization in the world,” said Megan, a student at Belmont University in Tennessee. “It provides 45-million dollars in scholarships each year. That’s part of the reason I’m here.”

Aly, a student at the University of Iowa, will graduate with her bachelor’s degree debt-free thanks to the scholarships she’s taken in through her participation in the Miss Iowa program and it’s associated teen program, serving as Miss Iowa’s Outstanding Teen a few years ago.

“MAO has helped me become a better, stronger, more pulled together young woman,” said Aly.

Nebraska has only had one Miss America. Iowa has NEVER had one. Both Megan and Aly, hoping to make history this year, are already making names for themselves at Miss America.

Megan was named as one of nine finalists for the Quality of Life Award for community service (here, in blue.. yes, she’s very tall.. 6-foot without heels!)

Photo courtesy of the Miss America Organization

Aly received high praise from the Twitterverse during preliminary talent competition this week and was arguably one of the favorites that evening. (Click here to watch Aly’s performance to win Miss Iowa!)

Photo courtesy of the Miss America Organization

Both know there are pageant ‘cliches’ in the world and many who disagree with young women even taking part in this system. But both ALSO want you to know how hard they have worked to represent their states to make little girls and everyone else watching at home PROUD.

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You can help Miss Nebraska Megan Swanson and Miss Iowa Aly Olson make the Top 15 at Miss America through the America’s Choice vote! CLICK THIS LINK to watch videos from all of the contestants and to vote for your favorite. Voting ends at MIDNIGHT EST TIME THURSDAY NIGHT.

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To learn more about Miss Iowa Aly Olson, follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. You can also learn more about the Miss Iowa Pageant via their website.

To learn more about Miss Nebraska Megan Swanson, follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. You can also learn more about the Miss Nebraska Pageant via their website.

Kill ‘Em With Kindness

Jul16

“On Christmas night of 2009, Nebraska was in the middle of a severe snow storm. My grandpa and hero suffered his sixth heart attack.”

Imagine the terror this young woman and her family faced that night. Trapped in their homes, isolated from the help they desperately needed.

“The ambulance used chains to drive through the streets safely. Though my family and I were very anxious and scared, relief came knowing the emergency workers were moving quickly to assess the situation and stabilize him.”

Morgan Holen will never forget that night, or the sacrifice made by those emergency crews, working on Christmas and ultimately, saving her grandfather because of it.

“The following year my family started a Christmas Eve tradition in honor of these wonderful people by buying dozens of donuts and delivering them to fire stations, emergency rooms and pharmacies, thanking them for working and serving others on Christmas.”

To Morgan, this is simply a random act of kindness. Later this month, it’s a mission she will share with the country as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teenager.

Morgan

(Thank you to photographer Jenn Cady for the photo!)

What the heck is Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen?!? Think of a younger Miss America. Teenagers from across the country compete under the same guidelines as the “Miss” contestants do, only these titleholders are 13-17 years old. (Check out my previous blog post about this year’s Miss Nebraska ‘Teen’ contestants and what the program is all about.) Morgan, who was crowned Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen in October, won the state title the same day as Miss Nebraska Megan Swanson.

Morgan crowned

(Photo courtesy of the Miss NE’s Outstanding Teen organization)

“Hearing my name was one of the best feelings ever,” Morgan told me recently. “It showed me that all the hours of preparing talent, checking current events, and maintaining a balanced diet and exercise was completely worth it!”

high school

The Elkhorn South student says she’s happiest when she is busy, already active in honors classes, SADD, Pep club, show choir, dance team and student council (whew!) Morgan certainly added to her workload with this new honor; she’ll head to Orlando in just weeks to compete for the title of Miss America’s Outstanding Teen (the ‘little sister’ to Miss America.)

You could say Morgan has royal blood in her veins; her mom, Jodi Miller-Holen, was Miss Nebraska 1988.

fam

Morgan is following in her mother’s footsteps in more ways than one; she is also an award-winning dancer, trained under the same woman who taught Jodi, ‘Miss Kitty’ Dahlberg. Dahlberg passed away last July after teaching thousands of Omaha dancers in a career spanning 50 years. Morgan dedicated her talent performance at Miss Nebraska’s OT, a lyrical dance to ‘You Raise Me Up’, to Miss Kitty.

Morgan competing in 2012.

Want to see more? Check out this performance by Morgan and her fellow KLD team members at the Spotlight Dance Cup in May–AMAZING!

“I have been dancing for 13 years and I have performed on many stages,” said Morgan. “I have to say I feel the most comfortable on a stage performing. I am excited to show America a talent I have been working on for so long!”

Morgan may have a few celebrity fans rooting for her as well; she’s taken classes from multiple ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ contestants and choreographers, including Stephen ‘Twitch’ Boss.

(Complete disclosure: I FREAKED OUT when Morgan sent me this!! I die!!!)

Morgan hopes to make ALL of her fans proud and says she is focusing her energy on preparation to represent Nebraska on this national stage. When Morgan wakes up August 3, she says she will continue to spread awareness of her personal platform, Random Acts of Kindness, whether it’s just in Nebraska or across the entire country as Miss America’s Outstanding Teen.

rotary

“Throughout my year of service I want to go to schools and other places to promote kindness through my actions and words,” said Morgan. “People do not always remember what you do or say, but they do remember the way you make them feel. Anyone, no matter what age, can perform a random act of kindness. It does not take a certain amount of money or time, it can easily be part of our daily life. It will be my mission to try and spread this message and encourage people to participate.”

If you’re asking WHY, Brandi, WHY are you profiling another pageant girl?!?!? Because this young lady is LEGIT–she is the epitome of who I wish more young people, scratch that, MORE PEOPLE OF ANY AGE, were like. She is smart, hard working, gifted, beautiful inside and out, and KIND. These are the people who deserve the headlines.

Following Morgan on Twitter and Facebook since she was crowned in October, I’ve never seen a mean ‘tweet’ or status update about other kids, or a questionable, immature post about herself. The pictures she shares show a young woman unafraid to try new things or to work hard to achieve what she wants. And as I wrote in this post after Miss Nebraska, Morgan truly has a gift when it comes to dance; just as she hopes to spread kindness as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, she transmits sheer joy every time she steps onto a stage to dance. She is the whole package.

“I want people to know how much I love the state of Nebraska and that I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to represent our state,” said Morgan.

I venture to guess the guy who inspired it all, Morgan’s grandpa, couldn’t be more proud of the young woman his granddaughter has become.

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Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant will take place in Orlando, Florida July 27-August 2.

NEW THIS YEAR: The Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Organization is pleased to announce that the 2014 Competition Finals will be broadcast LIVE for first time! For a $10 donation, you can watch as the field of 53 is narrowed to only one, MAOTeen 2015!

To follow Morgan’s journey and to learn more about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program, follow on Facebook and on Twitter, or check out the program’s website. You can also follow Morgan on Instagram.

To request Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Morgan Holen for appearances and events, contact Director Rachel Daly at racheldaly.rx@gmail.com.

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!!!

***

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.

***

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.

All Hail The Queen

May19

THERE SHE IS…

For the last month and a half, I’ve introduced you to all 19 young women competing for the title of Miss Nebraska in LESS THAN THREE WEEKS.

HUNDREDS of hours of service. THOUSANDS of dollars raised for charity.

Most, if not all of these women, told me how much they’ve grown as people by participating in the Miss America Organization. You can see it in their pictures; the smiles on their faces as little girls proudly wear their crowns. Side by side with children and adults alike, who for a moment, felt extra special. Performing on stage in front of hundreds, cheered on by the people who love them most. THOSE are the moments that make all of this incomparable.

But behind the scenes, THIS IS WORK. These women, especially in these final weeks leading up to Miss Nebraska, ARE WORKING THEIR TAILS OFF to be the absolute BEST they can be for this competition. In the studio. In the gym. They are making sure they are as aware as possible of the world around them and fine tuning their public speaking skills. IT’S GO TIME.

At the end of the day, is it all worth it? The countless hours serving without a paycheck. The scratchy throats, sore muscles and tired fingers with the risk of no crown at the end. The stress of juggling school.. and jobs.. and duties as a local titleholder. Is it all worth it?

This young woman says ABSOLUTELY.

Miss Nebraska 2013 JaCee Pilkington

One year ago, I compiled a slideshow for KETV.com showcasing the Miss Nebraska contestants. I asked each woman to send me her favorite photos and things about herself she wanted our viewers and readers to know. JaCee was among the first to respond to me. Her answers were articulate, her goals clear. She was DETERMINED to become Miss Nebraska.

“Being Miss Nebraska is by far the most challenging yet rewarding experience I’ve ever had in my life,” JaCee told me recently. “Although many have a skewed view of what being Miss Nebraska is really like, it is first and foremost a job. I managed to put 50,000 miles on my car and traveled everywhere from Valentine to McCook, and Scottsbluff to Omaha. I’ve made it my goal to touch as many individuals across this state as I possibly can.”

Did she accomplish that? See for yourself.

JaCee invited me to check out her Facebook page and choose whichever photos I liked best. WHAT YOU SEE DOES NOT EVEN SCRATCH THE SURFACE. There are literally hundreds of pictures, snapshots of countless moments in schools, at events, with one child or 500, smiling, offering hugs, the list goes on and on and on.

“Whether it was through my platform [Operation Remember Me], the Children’s Miracle Network, or the Miss Nebraska Organization as a whole, I wanted to make this year about seeing Miss Nebraska as a real, tangible, down-to-Earth girl,” said JaCee.

JaCee says travel has been the best part of her job, learning what makes the state so special. (“Wilber is Czech, Stromsburg is Swede, and O’Neill is Irish. Just a little Nebraska trivia for you,” said JaCee.) One of her most exciting trips came in September, when JaCee traveled to Atlantic City to represent Nebraska at the Miss America pageant.

Click here to watch JaCee’s ‘Behind the Scenes’ Miss America video!

“Miss America was such a surreal experience,” said JaCee. “I gained 51 other sisters away from the experience and friendships that will last. My favorite moment in particular was singing my talent on the Miss America stage. You hit that last note and look out and think, ‘Dang, this is so freaking cool.’ It was almost two weeks filled with excitement, anxiety, stress, and happiness all at the same time. I’m also elated to know the Miss America Organization is evolving as we’ve now crowned our first Indian American Miss America.”

SO LET’S SUM UP… months preparing for Miss Nebraska, then winning Miss Nebraska. Three short months preparing for Miss America, then competing at Miss America. What next?!?!

EVERYTHING.

“Miss Nebraska is by far the hardest yet most rewarding job I’ve ever held,” said JaCee. “You are driving a majority of the time, by yourself, to an appearance that you just learned the name of last night. You are constantly adapting to the environment around you. Heck, one week I had to [revise] one speech, six different ways, in one week to fit each appearance. Although the job can be difficult at times, it is what you make it. You can be doing an appearance literally every day of the week if you want to be. However, it is your responsibility to put yourself out there, network your butt off, and make it happen. Nobody will do that for you.”

It will truly be the end of an era on June 7, when JaCee crowns the next Miss Nebraska. She’s not only served our state for the last year, she also served as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2009.

“I’m feeling very content at this point,” said JaCee. “It is sad, don’t get me wrong. Who wouldn’t want to say they’re Miss Nebraska? I am excited to be moving on to the next chapter in my life, though. Right after I give up my crown I will be heading to Mexico to serve on a mission trip. Later I will continue to finish my degree at Doane College with hopes to continue in public policy and the business consulting world.”

Could we see Senator Pilkington down the road? (Prior to becoming Miss Nebraska, JaCee worked for Senator Mike Johanns and continues to stay active in local politics.)

“I view Nebraska in a completely different light now,” said JaCee. “To be honest, when I graduated the first place I was headed was DC. Now, I realize the opportunity Nebraska has to offer. You can make an incredible impact within this state and I cannot see myself anywhere else at this point.”

JaCee’s got good reason to stay close to home; her little sister, JaLee, just graduated high school, she’s got a sweet puppy at home to look after, and yes, gentlemen, she’s got a boyfriend.

She’s got one more big trip on her schedule; to hand off her crown to the next Miss Nebraska.

“I mainly want people to know how relevant and impactful the job of Miss Nebraska really is,” said JaCee. “I understand that many already have preconceived notions about ‘beauty pageants’ but I can assure you that she’s more than a pretty face. The women who compete in this organization are extremely driven, hard-working, intelligent, and compassionate individuals who are looking to make a difference in this world. I pray that whoever is blessed with this opportunity this coming month will take full advantage of all it has to offer: the connections, opportunities, and lives that can be changed.”

Connect with Miss Nebraska 2013, JaCee Pilkington

on Twitter, and on Instagram

JaCee hopes you’ll also check out the Miss Nebraska pageant on Facebook and online

The Miss Nebraska pageant takes place June 5-7 in North Platte, Nebraska.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH A SPECIAL KETV CHRONICLE FEATURING 10 OF THE 19 YOUNG WOMEN COMPETING FOR MISS NEBRASKA.

***

PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Scotts Bluff County, Brittli Sell

Great Scott!

May14

What did you do this year?

‘Not much.. qualified for DECA nationals, aced the district music competition, sang in a musical, won state dancing, graduated high school and was crowned a beauty queen. Whatever.’

GREAT SCOTT!!! I made up that quote, but all of the information describes the young lady you’re about to meet.

Miss Scotts Bluff County, Brittli Sell

She’s a little busy.

Brittli is wrapping up a jam-packed high school career at Scottsbluff Senior High School, all while preparing for the Miss Nebraska pageant in North Platte, taking place in just weeks.

Just this school year, Brittli competed in her school’s DECA program, competing in Districts, State, and qualifying for National competition. She also competed in music, earning a ‘1’, the highest ranking possible, for her solo at the District Music competition. She participated in choir and show choir at Scottsbluff High, and took part in Shrek the Musical.

“I am privileged to announce that I have been accepted into the WNCC (Western Nebraska Community College) Show Choir!!! I am SO ecstatic for what next year will bring!” — Brittli via Facebook, March 9, 2014

Brittli is also a proud member of the State Champion Scottsbluff High Drill Team, which traveled to Florida in recent months.

In the performance world, if you can sing, dance and act, you are dubbed a Triple Threats. Using that logic, Brittli could be called a Quad Threat; she also plays piano and she’ll do it for her talent at Miss Nebraska.

“The moment that changed everything–becoming Miss Scotts Bluff County!” — Brittli via Facebook, August 6, 2013

Brittli has been to North Platte before, competing as Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen last year. Now as Miss Scotts Bluff County, she’s promoting her personal platform she calls ‘The Growl Stops Here, Fighting Hunger In Our Community.’

‘Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the things you did.’ — Mark Twain

I don’t know that there are many things Brittli HASN’T done yet; she is CERTAINLY living life. (And saving lives.. did I mention she’s certified in CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguarding?!?)

In less than a month, she’ll be able to add one more thing to her ‘DONE’ list; competing for Miss Nebraska.

Connect with Miss Scotts Bluff County, Brittli Sell

on Facebook and Twitter

***

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

***

PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Lake McConaughy, Chrissy Townsend

NEXT POST.. **SPECIAL FEATURE** Miss Nebraska 2013 JaCee Pilkington

Magic Dance

May13

If you saw the title of this post, and immediately thought of this…

..then YOU. ARE. AWESOME.

Labyrinth. CLASSIC. And yet again, the Miss Nebraska contestants reading this post are probably thinking, ‘what the….’ because it came out in 1986.

Ladies, find it on Netflix. DEFINITELY worth it.

ANYWAY… Magic Dance is one of the songs in the movie. And THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is about all I’ve got for you when it comes to dance. Unless you want to check out my post regarding the 10 best moments of So You Think You Can Dance. I CANNOT dance. I can do many things; dancing is not among them. It truly looks like something is medically wrong with me when I try. So, I am in complete awe of people who CAN dance, like the young lady you are about to meet.

Miss Lake McConaughy, Chrissy Townsend

“I have been dancing since the age of 3 so being able to showcase my love for something I’ve been doing for so long is wonderful,” Chrissy told me recently. “Capturing an audience with just the movement of your body is such a great form of expression.”

Chrissy just completed her final year as a member of the University of Nebraska-Omaha dance team, which finished in the top 5 in the National Dance Alliance championships.

Click here to see video of the UNO Dance Team performing.

Chrissy’s time as a Maverick also introduced her to the Make-A-Wish foundation, inspiring her personal platform of service as Miss Lake McConaughy: ‘Be The Change, Make-A-Wish’.

“I have been involved with Make-A-Wish for four years now and it really has changed my life,” said Chrissy. “It all started out with my sorority when I joined Chi Omega and since then my love for it has continued to grow. I have the opportunity to meet Wish families and get to know them on a personal level which makes volunteering with them so great.”

It’s kids like these that make being a titleholder so special for Chrissy.

“My absolute favorite part is being a role model for the younger generation,” said Chrissy. “Both boys and girls really look up to you and admire the things that you do in your daily lives so being able to be a positive influence on them makes it all worthwhile.”

Not so long ago, Chrissy was looking up to Miss Nebraska contestants, as a participant in the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program.

“It was a really great way to prepare for the transition to the Miss division,” said Chrissy. “I also really value the fact that it provides such great scholarships. College has been so rewarding the past four years and having the money to help pay back my student loans is so nice.”

Chrissy not only thinks Lifestyle and Fitness (aka the swimsuit competition) should be part of the program, she calls it great!

“These incredible women do so many different things throughout their lives and should be commended for being able to stay so busy and still have time to live an active lifestyle,” said Chrissy. “We live in an age that being healthy and active isn’t valued. I think the swimsuit portion of the competition showcases and brings light and hope to those who are trying to better themselves.”

CHARISMATIC, QUIRKY, HAPPY

“Anyone who talks to me will notice that I talk with my hands a lot,” said Chrissy. “This means I’m overly excited about anything and everything that I get to talk about. What I’m getting at is that I am always really excited to be so animated in person.”

Maybe that’s the secret to being such a phenomenal dancer–being so excited about life you just can’t contain it inside your body.

I found this quote about dance:

‘Opportunity dances with those already on the dance floor.’ –H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Fitting, because here’s what Chrissy says about Miss Nebraska:

“It is all about empowering women and providing them with so many opportunities both personally and professionally. I urge people to see the bigger picture. It is way more than pretty girls with sparkles and makeup. These ladies are the future and they do everything and anything they can to make a difference and we need more people in the world today like that.”

Kind of like dancers.. behind the amazing costumes and stage makeup are gifted artists who tell stories through movement and music.

Miss Lake McConaughy is bringing her Magic Dance to Miss Nebraska. And Chrissy, if you need some awesome music to get even MORE excited, the Labyrinth soundtrack is great 🙂

Connect with Miss Lake McConaughy, Chrissy Townsend

On Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and by email at crtownsend88@gmail.com

***

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

***

PREVIOUS POST.. Miss Crane Festival, Lianna Prill

NEXT POST.. Miss Scotts Bluff County, Brittli Sell

Fueling the Journey

May12

Someone once told me, ‘you eat like an 8-year old!’

It’s true. I am a junk food junkie.

It is one of my constant resolutions; to EAT HEALTHIER. After all, this 33-year old metabolism is NOT what is used to be!!

I want to eat smarter to look better, to feel better, and to set an example for my boys. I want to set reasonable goals, still allotting for a little (or a lot) of cheating from time to time.

Today’s featured Miss Nebraska contestant doesn’t have that luxury. For a decade, food led to endless pain and discomfort. Everything she ate contributed to a puzzle that took ten years to piece together. Now, she’s determined to save others from the same struggle.

Miss Crane Festival, Lianna Prill

Lianna has Celiac Disease, a genetic autoimmune disease which causes damage to the lining of the small intestine, preventing absorption of parts of food important for staying healthy.

“Since the first grade, I would lie on the bathroom floor every night with constant migraines, sinus infections, stomach issues, etc,” Lianna told me recently. “After countless tests, MRI’s, CAT scans, chiropractic treatments, you name it, no one had any answers for me.”

Ten years later, Lianna’s father was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. (He suffered similar problems for 25 years.) Lianna discovered she also matched the criteria, like the 1 in every 133 people in America living with the disease. Lianna says on average, it takes 6-10 years to be properly diagnosed. She encourages all to check out the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness online, on Twitter and on Facebook.

“Three years later (and for life), I still adhere to a strict gluten and dairy-free diet and am a new woman,” said Lianna. It likely comes as no surprise, ‘Celiac Disease: Experiencing Gluten Freedom’ is Lianna’s personal platform of service.

“Currently the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness Gluten Free Industry Initiatives Intern for Nebraska, I share life-saving information with Lincoln Public Schools, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the state,” said Lianna. “Last spring, I became a D.J.’s Hero from this platform, and am proud to be a part of NFCA’s GREAT Kitchens and Schools program, training universities, campuses and restaurants across the nation to safely prepare gluten-free meals for customers and students.”

Lianna’s work also contributed to her winning the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen title in 2012. She first sought out the program with a passion for singing and performing.

“Where there’s a stage, there’s Lianna Prill,” she said. “Integrating my 4-H sewing fashion modeling, my work ethic from showing cattle, speaking skills from speech team, fitness from a medically necessary healthy lifestyle, a platform to save lives and a need for scholarships for college, it was a no-brainer.”

Lianna also has a personal connection to Miss America’s community partner, Children’s Miracle Network.

“This hits close to home as my younger twin sisters were born at one and two pounds,” said Lianna. “Years later after their micro-preemie survival, our family was involved in the Children’s Miracle Network Telethon in Omaha. Miss Nebraska was made for me.”

VIVACIOUS, STELLAR, SPITFIRE

Lianna’s personal triumphs have also helped shape the woman she has become. Shortly after her Celiac diagnosis, she survived a car accident near Bertrand, Nebraska.

“A pickup blew a stop sign, hit me (I was driving) and we spun several times landing in a ditch and totaling my car,” said Lianna. “I crawled out of the passenger seat, because I was trapped in the driver’s seat. Struggling with an undiagnosed genetic autoimmune disease for ten years and surviving a possibly fatal car crash both made me fight as an advocate for my health and cherish every moment that’s given to me with steadfast faith and spunk.”

They say life is 10% what happens to you, 90% how you react to it. Here’s a young lady who hasn’t let chronic illness or adversity get her down; she’s used every challenge as fuel to be BETTER. And Lianna is hungry for a new title in North Platte.

“This is a place for women to grow, flourish and bloom into the person they were created to be,” said Lianna. “Miss Nebraska is a chance for young women to push themselves to become the best version of themselves possible, while representing our state with a good head on her shoulders, class and a hint of sparkle.”

Connect with Miss Crane Festival, Lianna Prill

on Facebook, Instagram and by email at lprill@celiaccentral.org

***

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

***

PREVIOUS POST.. ***SPECIAL FEATURE*** The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestants!

NEXT POST.. Miss Lake McConaughy, Chrissy Townsend!

Special Feature, Nebraska’s Outstanding Teens

May11

“I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass.” — Maya Angelou

Yup. I posted that.

I apologize for the language, but I think Ms. Angelou is pretty accurate with her assessment. And if one of America’s most respected authors/poets wants to swear, who I am to change her quote??

Now, meet the young women taking charge and living these words.

The 9 ladies competing for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teenager.

This relatively new honor is the sister-organization of Miss America. Women competing for Miss America must be at least a senior in high school, and may range in age from 17-24 years old. Miss America’s Outstanding Teen allows girls ranging in age from 12-17 (in some cases, 18) to participate as well. Just like their ‘Miss’ counterparts, these young ladies compete in talent, evening gown, interview, and a modified fitness portion (no swimsuits, instead a choreographed routine to display health.)

Today, in a special feature, meet the nine teenagers from across the state hoping to become Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen. Several of these young ladies were eager to share a little more about themselves as they prepare for North Platte!

***

Alliance, BreaHanna Harlow

BreaHanna is 16, from Scottsbluff, attending Leyton High School.

“I’m competing because I love teaching others the struggles underprivileged students go through,” said BreaHanna. “I believe that if you can convince one person, you can convince the world.”

BreaHanna is a cheerleader at Leyton High, works at the Buckle, and says she really enjoys the comfort of her family.

“Pageants have taught me that beauty isn’t everything,” said BreaHanna. “All you need in pageants and in life overall is a great personality and knowledge about the future and past. My motto is always believe there’s a better solution to everything and that all you need is support.”

Click here to learn more about the Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Chadron, Allie Boggs

Allie is 16, from Gering, attending Gering High School.

Her Facebook page is loaded with pictures showing Allie participating in Cheer/Dance at school, including District competitions.

Senior pictures also show off Allie’s love for dance, especially ballet.

Allie also competed last year at the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen pageant.

Click here to learn more about the Miss Chadron’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Crane Watch, Shelbe Stroh

Shelbe is 15, from Elkhorn, a freshman at Elkhorn South High School.

“School has been my number one priority,” Shelbe told me. “I have maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout my first year of high school, I am a member of Elkhorn South student council as well as DECA, FCCLA, and SADD. I play soccer and plan to play volleyball for the school in the fall.”

Shelbe also volunteers in the Omaha metro area, helping the homeless and near homeless.

“I [spend] my time at the Open Door Mission serving dinner and working with the youth in the Lydia House,” said Shelbe. “I also volunteered at the Special Olympics bowling games.”

In what little free time she has, Shelbe says she enjoys poetry, finding new songs for her playlist, hitting the gym, and adding to the ‘tie-dye and hipster fashion’ collages in her bedroom.

“Pageants have allowed me to improve my leadership, communication and thinking skills,” said Shelbe. “I have grown as a person, for I have tested my strength in mind and body. I love the gratification that comes along with success. Each day, I strive to improve myself and feed off failure to obtain success.”

Click here to learn more about the Miss Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Gering, Caylen Calderon

Caylen is from Scottsbluff and attends Scottsbluff High School where she plays volleyball and is a member of the choir

Browse through Caylen’s photos and one thing is clear–she LOVES being a sister.

Family and friends are a definite priority for this young lady. They were by her side as she was crowned Gering’s Outstanding Teen, and no doubt they will be cheering her on in North Platte!

Click here to learn more about the Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Northwest, Chelsea Arnold

Chelsea is 16 from Crete. She attends school at… well, that’s part of Chelsea’s story and her personal platform, ‘The Importance of Individualized Education’.

“My primary goal is to help students reach their full academic potential by exposing them to different models of learning,” Chelsea told me recently. “Whether in a traditional school, home school or as an online student, it’s important to explore differing learning styles and resources. There is no ‘one size fits all’ or standard education. Every individual learns differently and I am passionate about exposing people to new ideas.”

Chelsea has attended private, public and charter schools in Florida, California and Nebraska. She says the traditional classroom didn’t work for her.

“I left traditional school nearly halfway through my sophomore year and took up classes full time through the University of Nebraska High School online,” said Chelsea. “I couldn’t be happier with the education I’m getting right now and I want every student to have that feeling!”

Chelsea said her new schedule allows her more time to pursue other passions including theater, singing and modeling. Chelsea recently appeared on the cover of Oriental Trading Company’s catalog. She also volunteers in her free time.

“When Children’s Hospital would like to have a craft hour or needs someone to man the phones for a telethon, I can be there!” said Chelsea. “I call Bingo twice a week at Tabitha Nursing Center as well.”

Chelsea will stay busy until the day she arrives in North Platte; she is currently on a 3-week cruise to Alaska via Vancouver, Canada!

Click here to learn more about the Miss Northwest’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Omaha, Morgan Holen

Morgan is 16, from Omaha, attending Elkhorn South High School (the Storm will be well represented at Miss Nebraska!)

Morgan is following in some beautiful footsteps; her mom, Jodi, was Miss Nebraska 1988. Just like her mother, Morgan has a passion for dance.

“I have been dancing for 13 years and dance roughly 18-20 hours a week both for my school dance team and for my competitive dance team, Kitty Lee Dance,” Morgan told me a in a recent interview.

Morgan says one of her favorite things about being Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen is volunteering.

“With my title I have been able to volunteer for activities like IHOP National Pancake Day, Race to 50K, and the telethon through Children’s Miracle Network,” said Morgan. “My favorite activity is sponsoring craft hour at Children’s Hospital.”

Morgan is also spreading word about her personal platform of service, ‘Random Acts of Kindness’.

“Many of us have heard about the person who paid for the car behind them at Burger King or Starbucks, but random acts of kindness don’t require money,” said Morgan. “Each one of us has the ability to make a difference in someone’s life every day.”

Morgan also encourages all young ladies to think about participating in Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program.

“I believe whole-heartedly in the Miss America and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen organizations and would strongly recommend any teenage girl to be a part of it,” said Morgan. “This organization not only provides scholarships, but also encourages poise, confidence and service. I have seen contestants gain success on and off stage no matter where they placed in the pageant. The experience gained is valuable for all who participate.”

Click here to learn more about the Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Panhandle, Alexis McGlone

Alexis is 15, from Mitchell, Neb., attending Mitchell High School where she is a member of the show choir, volleyball team and the cheerleading squad.

Her photos on Facebook show a VERY busy young lady, climbing mountains, participating at Maranatha Bible Camp, even taking part in flour fights!

Alexis has also competed in the Miss America system before, and has many photos alongside girls she’s competing with.

With only a few weeks to go before the state pageant, Alexis is getting ready, singing in front of crowds at her school. As one friend commented, ‘great practice for the pageant!’

Click here to learn more about the Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Scotts Bluff County, Allison Baird

Allison is 16, from Gering, Neb., attending Gering High School. (The Bull Dogs will also have two contestants competing for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen!)

Allison, or ‘Allie’ is active in drama at her school, recently starring in the musical Cinderella. She’s also on the dance/cheer team, and part of the state runner-up speech team at Gering.

Allie is also a member of the show choir. If her albums on Facebook are any indication, she is a VERY busy young lady, constantly smiling and surrounded by friends!

***

Western Nebraska, Grace Heggem

Grace is this year’s youngest competitor, just 14 years old. She is from Scottsbluff and attends Community Christian School.

“I’m doing this pageant because I’m excited to improve my speaking skills and I think it greatly helps in improving maturity,” Grace told me recently. “I also, of course, am looking forward to making lots of memories with some amazing girls.”

Grace says she loves to play the piano. She is using her year as Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen to spread awareness of her personal platform of service, mentoring.

Grace has been on the honor roll multiple times at Community Christian School, maintaining an A average throughout her 7th grade year.

She also runs track, finishing as a top competitor in the 200 meter run in her division.

Click here to learn more about the Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program.

***

Each of these young ladies will at some point probably talk, laugh and take photos with THIS young lady..

Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2013, Samantha Washington

One year ago, this teenager was just like all of the girls you just read about; working hard in school, practicing to be a better singer and dancer, and volunteering to make her community a better place. All of those qualities helped Samantha earn the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

She summed up her year of service in a post on the Miss NE OT Facebook page in January.

Hi everybody! I just wanted to share a picture that sums up my whole year. 2013 has been a year to remember. It’s been a year of change. for one, I started out 2013 being 5’3″ tall…I am now 5’7.5″ and of course… I’m 15 years old. But I’ve really changed as a person over the year. When receiving the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, I was a little nervous. 15 years old, still very immature, going into my sophomore year of high school and just awkward. But having this title has been the best thing that’s ever happened to me (as you can see from the picture below) I’ve met so many friends, new family members (the MNOT crew), tried new things. And grew…physically and as a person. Not too long after the pageant I had found out that my friend had committed suicide. Which forced me to mature to the best of my ability. While at nationals, I and the other 51 girls talked for hours where I brought up the passing of my friend. Those 51 girls helped me realize that no matter what you’re going through, you’re never going through it alone. Something I soon said to my friends back home. This organization helped me see that no matter where I go or what I do in life, as time goes on you meet people who change your life, your legs may grow, your feet may grow, your arms may grow, but most importantly, your heart WILL grow to make room for your growing inventory of lessons, family, advice, friends, kind words and everything that you receive over your travels. Thank you so much everybody for helping me grow (: