Tag Archive | miss nebraska’s outstanding teen

Always Watching

Apr15

You never know who is watching.

Spring of 2014, we received a U-Local post at KETV, a way for viewers to share their own photos and stories of what is happening in their lives. Our web team shared this one with me..

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A little girl from Omaha, Macy, dressed up like me for a ‘when I grow up’ day at school. I think my heart literally exploded at work (it was messy.) I posted the photo on Facebook, hoping to track Macy down. It worked – and that July, I was thrilled when Macy and her family visited me at the station.

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To this day, I have a letter from Macy in my desk at home. For whatever reason, that little girl thought I was cool. I will never forget that.

In the world of tiaras and pageants, Jadyn Wetherington could idolize any number of nationally known queens.. but her role model is one the young women she serves with right here in Nebraska.

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Jadyn is on the far right, this year’s Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen. On the far left is Kodi Baumann, Miss Alliance 2018.

“My female role model is Kodi because she is so outgoing and friendly,” Jadyn told me. “She is a successful young woman who balances college and work and yet still makes time to help others. Plus, we share the same platform!”

 

 

That’s one of the reasons Jadyn decided to try the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program, to have the same experiences as women like Kodi. The 14-year old from Mitchell, Nebraska has been working throughout her community to serve others, focused on her personal platform, SAFE: Seatbelts Are For Everyone.

“I have talked to children in elementary school about the importance of seatbelt safety and will be hosting a fundraiser this summer to donate to the Nebraska National Safety Council,” said Jadyn. “Service is most important because helping other and contributing to the community are large roles of a successful citizen, and set a good example for what a role model should be.”

 

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Jadyn has advocated for Girl Scouts and delivered Easter baskets to Mitchell nursing home residents, all while attending Mitchell Junior/Senior High School and dancing, one of her passions. She says this experience as a local titleholder is helping to teach her balance, the same trait she admires in Kodi.

“I know I want to be an anesthesiologist, which requires a lot of school and hard work,” said Jadyn. “This experience is helping me with that journey by teaching me accountability. Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen empowers young women to help others and gives them the opportunity to develop many skills that will help us in everyday life.”

You never know who is watching you.. or how your actions could impact their life and in turn, their actions. I wish ya’ll could see the huge grin on my face as I see, four years later, ‘little’ Macy was recently one of the stars of Bennington High School’s production of Annie.

This. Is. AWESOME. I can’t wait to watch this beautiful girl continue to shine on stage and off.

I’m guessing Kodi Baumann will say the same when she reads this.. and that she will be one of Jadyn Wetherington’s loudest fans in the audience as she competes for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

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“My goal is to put forth my best effort and to learn from the experience, but also to have fun with the other queens,” said Jadyn. “[This program] grants scholarships for your education and helps further the ability to be confident in who you are. You also get to meet other amazing women and build friendships you may never have had.”

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Photo courtesy Timmy James Photo

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To follow Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen Jadyn Wetherington, click here.

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

PREVIOUS.. Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen Phoenix Stanford

NEXT.. Miss Metro’s Outstanding Teen Kelsie Therkildsen

Edge Of Glory

Apr14

Every time I begin writing an article featuring a Miss Nebraska/Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen titleholder, I scroll through our conversation and their photos. I look not only at their words and pictures, but their faces and body language within those images. Are they engaged? What did they say about their experiences? How often are they serving as their community’s local titleholder?

When it comes to Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen Phoenix Stanford, I simply don’t think WordPress has enough space online to share everything she’s doing.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

She is a patriot. She is a community servant. She is a natural performer. She is a proud Nebraskan. She is wise. SHE IS 13. 

When I was crowned Miss Douglas County in October of 2000, former Miss Omaha and Miss Nebraska Jodi Miller-Holen told me, “you do what you want with this title. You can do nothing, and we won’t be happy but that’s your choice, or you can do everything.”

Here’s what Phoenix told me after being crowned Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen: “Most teens are not interested in giving up their time and energy for a greater cause. I want to change that. We are the future of America. We will inherit the social issues affecting our parents now. I’m only 13 years old, a freshman in high school. I want to lead by example because if we can motivate teenagers now to be the change, just imagine the great things they will accomplish as civically engaged adults.”

Guys. When I was 13, I sat in my brother’s room for hours playing Nintendo and read Babysitter’s Club books walking home from school.

 

This young lady isn’t just talk, either. Phoenix Stanford is proving herself through action, a tireless civil servant advocating for Children’s Miracle Network, school safety and security, sexual assault awareness and women’s rights, world health causes, Autism awareness.. and for several years now, support for military families.

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“I have been a military brat my entire life and to me civilians don’t completely understand the sacrifices made by military families,” said Phoenix. “It’s not easy being a military child. Deployments and relocations not only affect their academic success, but their social and mental well-being are affected. These kids are at risk for depression and anxiety. I get involved with Offutt Air Force Base’s events that are designed to boost family morale. I help raise scholarship money for military dependents, I’ve testified for a military bill, I’ve collected food for veterans, visited sick veterans at the VA Hospital, talked to schools about the hardships of being a military child, collected books for a free, little library at base housing, helped with Gold Star family events, etc.”

 

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Many of Phoenix’s efforts coincide with the work of the current Miss Nebraska Allison Tietjen, who has spent her year of service advocating for our nation’s past and present military heroes. Much like Allie, Phoenix says she’s deeply impacted by the stories she hears from the very people she’s helping.

“Volunteer work is important to me,” said Phoenix. “While being a titleholder, not only have I found out so much about the world around me but I have found out so much about myself. My title has given me the opportunities to meet and connect with amazing people and hear their uplifting stories. Coming across these people has helped me expand my platform to places I didn’t know it would go. I have come across many different non-profit organizations that I didn’t even know existed. These organizations inspire me to do more.”

Being a titleholder has also provided Phoenix with a way to explore two of her passions: education and singing.

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“So far, I have won five scholarships as a local titleholder,” said Phoenix. “My career goal is to become a professional singer. I am working on getting to my dream college, Juilliard. I not only want to break into the music industry but I want to know exactly what I’m doing, and I want something to fall back on in case things don’t go as planned. Nebraska should care about the Miss Nebraska Outstanding Teen Pageant because it helps shape the future leaders of America. Providing scholarships to well-rounded young women is worth investing in.”

“I have dreamed of performing the most amazing shows for the biggest audiences since I was a little girl,” said Phoenix. “All I have wanted to do is sing and perform my heart out and that is what I intend on doing. Performing gives me a sense of freedom and a power I look for in life. This program has been a blessing and a huge stepping stone for me.”

No surprise then that Phoenix’s female role model comes from the world of music: Lady Gaga.

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“We have one life, so live it regardless of what anyone else says. That is what Lady Gaga has taught me,” said Phoenix. “I also look up to her untouchable music career. She writes the majority of her own music and performs at high profile events. Even if you are not a Gaga fan, you will certainly be entertained by one of her cinematic shows. I praise her amazing work ethic; she is a rolling stone showing no sign of stopping any time soon. It is people like her I admire and dream of being.”

I would argue Lady Gaga has shifted her status from sensation to legacy by ensuring there is substance and meaning behind every song and every performance. Phoenix is already emulating that.. certainly thinking of the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen crown she’ll compete for in 2 weeks, but also using her microphone to make sure people hear and understand things happening in our world. Proof… a message the Miss Nebraska Organization received from Phoenix on March 14, just a few short months after we lost a beloved member of our pageant family, Miss Chadron Kaelia Nelson.

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“Just wanted to let you know that Kaelia won’t be forgotten and people are still fighting for her even on this day,” wrote Phoenix. “Attended the Nebraska State Advocacy day held by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.”

At just 13 years old, Phoenix is now also helping Stomp The Stigma against mental illness, the very personal cause that Kaelia fought so passionately for.

“The biggest issue my generation is facing is suicide,” said Phoenix. “It’s an epidemic that is sweeping the nation. More teens have been diagnosed with mental illness in this generation than ever before. We need to pass Nebraska’s LB998, a collaborative school behavioral and mental health program. We also need to eliminate the stigma of mental illness so teens can comfortably seek help and not feel ashamed of what they are going through.”

Lady Gaga once told a journalist she wrote ‘The Edge of Glory” in about 10 minutes, the same night her grandfather passed away. She told Lisa Capretto, “I started playing and I said to my dad, I said, ‘Don’t be sad. He’s on the edge of the most glorious moment in life, when you realize that you won. I said, ‘Look how much he won at life. He won at love with Grandma, and he’s on the edge of a glorious moment.’”

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Look at the women in these articles. Look at Phoenix Stanford. Look at how much they are winning at life. At 24, 17, even 13 years old, they are using every moment they are given, feeling the rush, and pushing themselves to the edge.

Who are you, and in this one, beautiful life you have.. where are you?

“I try to focus on performing at the best of my abilities,” said Phoenix. “If I know I did my best, then I will be content with whatever I leave with. That, to me, is still success.”

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To follow Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen Phoenix Stanford, click here.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SHELBY?

CLICK HERE * 2017 * Just The Way You Are

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

PREVIOUS.. Miss Sandhills’ Outstanding Teen Olivia Terwey

NEXT.. Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen Jadyn Wetherington

Little Girls With Big Dreams

Apr13

You can tell a lot about a person by scrolling through their Facebook feed. Mine is filled with pics of my kids, a shout out for Autism Awareness, a screen grab about baseball, and a #ThrowbackThursday pic to my bff and fellow TV-retiree John Campbell. I’m a woman who loves her babies, promoting causes close to my heart, I am obsessed with baseball and I LOVE looking back at memories that still make me laugh.

Yes, I get that social media can be dangerous and scary.. but it can also be inspiring and encouraging. Like it or not, it’s something our current generation has grown up with and the question is not whether or not they’ll use it, it’s HOW can we ensure they use to wisely and positively.

Example: a teenager in Hastings is already painting a beautiful portrait of herself through snapshots and posts. No questionable images or shake-your-head moments.. but moments showcasing her achievements, service, and friends. She is a young woman who, for years, has been looking up to Nebraska’s best and brightest, who all happened to wear crowns.

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That’s Olivia Terwey on the left. When this photo was taken, she was in the 3rd grade, and Little Sister to Miss Northwest Megan Dimmitt at the 2013 Miss Nebraska Pageant.

“[Megan] is my role model,” Olivia told me recently. “She’s such a ray of sunshine no matter how stormy the weather. She’s genuine and hard working. She’s generous and kind. She’s successful and works so hard for what she wants. I want to be just like her.”

Megan may be the Queen of Olivia’s heart, but she’s got a full court.

Olivia’s Facebook albums are filled with photos of Miss Nebraska titleholders, all of whom have inspired her in different ways over the years, as a little girl who grew up following the program.

“I attended my first pageant at 5 months old and my mom says I was so in awe of Brittany Jeffers. (Still am!)!!” said Olivia. “When I was in 3rd grade, I was Megan’s Little Sister, and she is still the best Big! The year before that, my cousin was a Little Sister. Mariah Cook was my aunt’s ‘host daughter’, and my cousin was her Little Sister and she won! Lianna Prill was also my aunt’s ‘host daughter’. I’ve just been so inspired by such phenomenal women who I’ve wanted to emulate my entire life! I used to say to my mom, ‘when I’m big enough to wear a crown and a sash, I can’t wait to wear it to Applebee’s!'”

Now, it’s Olivia’s turn.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

In February, this first year she was eligible to compete, Olivia was crowned Miss Sandhills Outstanding Teen. (“I’m the baby of MNOT this year!”) No word if there was a trip to Applebee’s after, but there has been plenty of excitement – and service, just like the role models who came before her.

“Service is definitely the most important to me!” said Olivia. “It’s about giving. My mom always shares the quote, ‘for it is in giving we receive,’ and I believe that is so true. Be the change you wish to see in the world. I get so much more out of giving than the ones I’m helping. Serving others puts life in perspective, it keeps you thankful!”

 

 

“[My platform is] Get Up and Dance, providing free dance classes to under-privileged youth,” said Olivia. “My mom teaches at a school that’s 93% poverty. It made me so sad to know some of her kids could barely afford shoes, let alone extras like dance. Dance is my passion! It helps me not only stay in shape, but it’s my outlet. I doesn’t matter what I feel, I can dance it out and leave it all on the floor. I want all kids to have the opportunities I have been so fortunate enough to experience. Whether it’s teaching a class every Friday afternoon at Lincoln Elementary, library, or visiting a preschool, I love watching their faces light up when they begin to dance and the excitement we all feel as they improve. It’s incredible.”

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Olivia hopes to someday have a career in dance, and notes the poise, confidence, and public speaking skills she’s already improving by being a Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen titleholder. She’ll compete for the state title in just two weeks, representing Hastings Middle School in Omaha. She’ll be partnered with a Princess, just like the Little Sister program she was once a part of.

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“The best part is seeing a little girl’s face light up when she sees you,” said Olivia. “I had a little cutie pie at an event hug me goodbye and say ‘have fun in your castle!’ It was so precious.”

Regardless of the outcome, Olivia’s goals are clear… she wants to have the same impact that all of her heroes had on her, creating a new generation of little girls who feel special and empowered to take on the world.

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“I want to be the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen that left a legacy of being warm and friendly,” said Olivia. “I want to inspire others to get involved in community service and spread kindness! These are women who are strong and successful, all working toward the greater good of our state and country.”

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To follow Miss Sandhills’ Outstanding Teen Olivia Terwey on Facebook, click here.

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Twin Rivers’ Outstanding Teen Rachel Young

NEXT.. Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen Phoenix Stanford

Enjoying Life’s Journey

Apr4

I LOVE to travel!!! Every time my family explores a new place, we put a pushpin in that city or country on our big, world map. Every place is unique, with its own defining traits and memories.

 

The Dominican Republic, always on ‘island’ time. South Dakota, the ease and simplicity of good friends and campsites. Hawaii, a place so beautiful I think God himself used it as a personal canvas. Phoenix, home of Spring Training, aka sheer happiness: BASEBALL. My paradise: Cancun, water so blue it captivates you.. you can’t look away, and you never want to.

I want to see it all. I want to walk the same fields in England Queen Elizabeth did in 1560. I want to climb Skellig Michael, the iconic Irish island Rey visits in Star Wars. I want to see South Africa, New Zealand, Denmark, Tahiti… and Harry Potter World in Orlando.

Travel is expensive. I miss my kids every single moment we’re apart if they don’t join us. But the moment I land after an adventure, I’m ready to choose a new destination and do it again. There are 7.6 billion people on our planet. Our globe includes endless oceans, 195 countries, nearly 7,000 different languages. In the United States alone, every city has it’s own sound, feel, people, food and pace. This isn’t the stuff of fairy tales or movies.. this is REAL. This is our world. We each only have one life… I want to fill it with as many experiences as possible.

At just 14 years old.. Rachel Young also has her passport ready.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“I believe a problem facing our youth today is the lack of experiences they get,” Rachel told me. “Most kids don’t get to travel the world or see many interesting places. It’s so important that the youth of today see other cultures and learn about the history of the world.”

Rachel’s had great inspiration, encouraging her mindset through example. She was a Little Sister to Miss Nebraska finalist Steffani Jiroux, who has spent time dancing and modeling in cities across the world including Washington DC, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Rome.

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“When I was a Little Sister for the Miss Nebraska Organization, I got the opportunity to take a deeper look into what being Miss Nebraska really meant,” said Rachel. “I became inspired by all the contestants, including my Big Sister Steffani, to follow in their footprints. I’ve always wanted little girls to look up to me in a positive way, as I did to my Big Sister and the rest of the contestants. They really ignited my passion for performing and competing in these pageants.”

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Rachel was crowned Miss Twin Rivers’ Outstanding Teen 2018 in February. Just as she saw her mentors share their talents at Miss Nebraska, Rachel was provided more opportunities to sing, a passion she’s been fine-tuning for several years.

“When I graduate in 2022, I really want to go to Juilliard in New York City and be on Broadway,” said Rachel, currently  student at Adams Middle School in North Platte. “I get to perform in front of people that will help me ready my goal of getting on Broadway. I can also get scholarship money from these pageants to be able to afford to go to Juilliard.”

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Rachel is also using her title to encourage her peers to find their passions, whatever they may be.

“My platform is ‘Express Yourself, The Benefits of Extracurricular Activities’,” said Rachel. “I talk about joining activities and how you can benefit from them to kids of all ages. I talk to different groups and try to get kids involved in school. With high schoolers, they can get scholarships and go to college through these activities. I post things on my social media and try to talk to as many people as I can about it.”

Ask Rachel and she’ll tell you service is key for any Miss Nebraska titleholder.

 

“You should put others before yourself, especially when you have something to offer others to benefit them,” said Rachel. “Most [titleholders] don’t serve because they are required to. Most girls love to serve their communities and help others, this just gives them more chances to inspire people and help out.”

 

 

Even at this young age, Rachel knows she can lead others. People like her vocal coach, Nikki Schmidt, (“She is one of the most reassuring people in my life; she is busy, but somehow she always has room to help me learn and grow”), and the Miss Nebraska contestants she met as a little girl taught her that someone is always watching.. and it’s up to you what you show them.

“My favorite part has been the reaction of kids and how their faces light up when I come and talk to them and visit them,” said Rachel. “Little kids think it’s the coolest thing in the world when young ladies with crowns and sashes come take an interest in them. You are being an inspiration to these kids and it reminds you why you were chosen to have the title you do.”

Rachel will take that reminder on her next adventure.. to Omaha later this month, where she’ll compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen. Her current cover photo on Facebook perfectly describes her outlook, one that translates to this journey and most others we may all embark on throughout our lives.

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“My goal is to have fun, meet as many people I can that will help me benefit in the future, meet new friends, and do the very best I can,” said Rachel. “I am a very empathetic person and I care about everyone. I love volunteering and meeting new people. If you have fun, that’s a win right there. I can’t wait to see what this year will bring me.”

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To follow Miss Twin Rivers’ Outstanding Teen Rachel Young on Facebook, click here.

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Nebraska State Fair Courtney Pelland

NEXT.. Miss Sandhills Outstanding Teen Olivia Terwey

Heroes With Heart

Apr2

I am WEAK… when it comes to blood, needles, shots.. BARF. When I was 19, I passed out in the doctor’s office while getting my blood drawn. While covering a story in pre-op before a patient’s surgery, I saw the needle and had to kneel on the ground before I dropped (which the doc thought was HILARIOUS.. click here for the story.) Even having my own babies in the hospital, getting IV’s put in made me lose my lunch.

Still, when I learned Westside High School was hosting a blood drive, I decided I was going to suck it up and DO IT. Every blood donation saves up to three lives; I could certainly withstand a little queasiness to do my part.

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I was so proud of myself – ROCK STAR STATUS! I squeezed that little ball and laid back and relaxed… until they took the needle out. WHOOOOOSSSSH!! The tech immediately jumped to my side and called for help…

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… and Gabby Henderson came to my rescue. Gabby is a student at Westside High (featured in this photo on the far left), and she has a special talent for taking care of people. I met Gabby a few months ago, when the Nebraska Medical Center brought the Stop The Bleed program to Westside’s Center for Advanced Professional Studies. Westside High students interested in Nursing and Medicine learned how to triage patients and save lives after an accident or tragedy. Gabby was also one of the student volunteers helping run the blood drive that day at WHS.. she helped fan me off, talk me off my ‘pass out’ ledge, and then sent me on my way with a smile and without any judgement the the Director of Communications for her district almost lost her cookies over a little bit of blood. You can guess how delighted I was to hear last month that Gabby was part of the state championship HOSA team (Health Occupation Students of America) who will now compete at the International Conference in June!

People like Gabby truly have a gift; they see beyond blood or sickness, and only feel compassion and a compulsion to help others. About 4 hours west of Omaha, Jade Vak knows the same calling.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“I have always wanted to go into the medical field,” Jade told me recently. “While volunteering, I have discovered my career ambition of becoming an Emergency Doctor.”

 

 

Jade is well on her way, excelling in her studies at North Platte High School, practicing hard work and dedication as a member of the dance team, and further improving her ‘bedside manner’ and people skills through volunteer work across her community.

That last trait is part of what compelled Jade to try something new this year; she’s competing for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

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“I wanted to further my communication skills and gain more self-confidence,” said Jade. “It is my passion to help as many people as I possibly can within my life. One of the amazing things about the MNOT program is that it gives you such an opportunity to help those in need.”

Crowned Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Outstanding Teen in November, Jade has embraced every service opportunity offered to her.

“My platform is Volun-Teen. It is about promoting teenagers to volunteer so when they get older, it is just a way of life,” said Jade. “I visit patient’s rooms to provide comfort services, I serve food for those in need, and I ring bells for the Salvation Army. You name it, I have done it! I also talk to volunteering organizations about my platform. At elementary schools, I read a story and then we talk about how we can help others, or volunteer, just like the main characters.”

To Jade, volunteering not only makes the world a better place, it is a potential cure for the ills impacting her peers and beyond.

“I believe the greatest issue for my generation would perhaps be technology,” said Jade. “We need to learn how to balance it with the real world. Technology is an amazing tool and has done great things for the world, but we struggle on the line of the technology world and reality. I suggest volunteering! It forces us (in a good way, of course) to look up and get out!”

And as Jade hits the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen stage in Omaha, hoping to win the chance to spread that message statewide, she’ll be cheered on by the woman who’s inspired her to help others throughout her life, crown or not.

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“My female role model is my incredible mom,” said Jade. “She supports me with everything and always tries to make my dreams come true, even if it means sacrifices. I think that is beautiful and I hope I can do that for someone else someday.”

Ironically, Gabby’s biggest cheerleader is also HER mom. Christine Henderson works with me here at Westside, and literally glows with pride every time her hero makes a difference in someone’s life.

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For both Gabby and Jade, that difference may very well be saving lives within a few years. Today, it’s simply making a child smile.. and sending out a smiling adult, grateful for the girl who helped her survive a weak moment.

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To follow Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Outstanding Teen Jade Vak, click here.

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Shelby Blundell

NEXT.. Miss Nebraska State Fair Courtney Pelland

 

Miss NE Loves PS

Mar30

I am a proud Papillion-La Vista Schools graduate, attending Kindergarten through 12th grade in the district.

My children are Gretna Dragons, a place and school district we plan to raise our family.

My husband is in the middle of his 13th season coaching the Millard North Mustangs Varsity Baseball team; he’s a Millard South graduate.

Everyday, I am grateful and excited to work for Westside Community Schools.

My past, present and future are deeply intertwined with Nebraska’s incredible schools, just one of many success stories about how our powerful system of public education teaches, empowers and shapes countless young people every day.

Chris Klein was in Millard West High School’s musical Westside Story before he was cast in American Pie by Academy Award winning director Alexander Payne, also from Omaha. Emmy Award winning actress Marg Helgenberger played in the band at North Bend Central High School. Merle Dandridge was the lead in countless plays at Papillion-La Vista High School, winning a State One Act Championship before scoring roles on shows like Sons of Anarchy, The Night Shift and Greenleaf.

They’re all Nebraska natives, and their talents were all nurtured in their time in Nebraska’s public schools. A terrific group of people with the organization Nebraska Loves Public Schools was created to share their stories and successes. And a Chadron, Nebraska teenager hopes to follow in their footsteps.

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Shelby Blundell is a junior at Chadron High School and a passionate supporter of all things Arts.

“I love helping people achieve their goals and feel happy,” Shelby told me recently. “Performing arts are a way for individuals to learn who they are.” The 16-year old would know, as she’s matured and grown while participating in theater at her school and within her community.

 She’s a girl who’s tried a little bit of everything – Shelby is also a hunter, a softball player, and the current Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

That last role is what spurred Shelby to take action for the world of theater she loves so dearly, to make sure that others will have the same opportunities in the arts as she has.

 

 

“My platform is The Art Of It All: Supporting Performing Arts in Schools,” said Shelby. “Arts programs are struggling because their funding is pulled and further lessened. I am combatting this by doing several fundraisers for our deteriorating situation in our auditorium. We are currently in need of new spotlights and sound systems. I have raffles in motion and a fundraiser event on the calendar!”

Shelby also wants to do more; she’ll compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen in April, and if she wins, she already has a to-do list ready to go.

“My goals include three points. The first would be to increase the amount of funding to schools in Nebraska and hopefully beyond,” said Shelby. “Second is to raise funds for Community Health Charities of Nebraska. And lastly, fund new materials for the Post Playhouse at Fort Robinson.”

An ambitious plan, but one Shelby has confidence in, in part, thanks to the time she’s spent being a titleholder in the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program.

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“This program has been amazingly influential in my life,” said Shelby. “It has opened me up into the happy and outgoing person that I now am. My future has become more and more clear and feasible with each pageant. The experience has given me the edge on my competition in the job world and the rest of my life.”

Shelby hopes to one day be a set designer for musicals, combining her passion for the arts with her love of math. She wants to join the ranks of other proud Nebraska schools graduates, hoping to put Chadron High on the mark as the place where her journey began, and possibly, the school that produced Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

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“As my mother says, ‘if you like your job, you won’t work a day in your life’,” said Shelby. “My favorite part of being a titleholder is the overwhelming feeling of having power to help your community. I’m glad to be able to represent western Nebraska!”

***

To follow Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Shelby Blundell, click here.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SHELBY?

CLICK HERE * 2015 * Big Things Come In Little Packages

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

***

The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Harvest Moon Festival Alexandria Warneke

COMING SOON.. Miss Harvest Moon Festival’s Outstanding Teen Jade Vak

Spirit of Service

Mar23

It’s easy to pass judgment, especially when you encounter someone who seems so unlike yourself. The problem is, you really can’t judge a book by its cover… one glance never provides a person’s whole story, or the big picture in general.

For example.. being homeless.. what do you think of?

‘They’ve done that to themself’

‘They should just get a job’

What do you think of this?

The average age of a homeless person is 9 years old.

1 in 4 homeless children do not know where their next meal is coming from.

In Omaha, there are an average of 200 children eating and sleeping at the Open Door Mission every, single day.

Those are the facts Hillside Elementary teachers and students learned about last November just before Thanksgiving. Kindergarten teachers invited Open Door Mission President Candace Gregory to the school to help children best understand the very real problem of homelessness in our community. She told Hillside, “it only takes one person to make a difference.”

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Even at 5 and 6 years old, these kids got the message. They and their families, along with Hillside teachers, held a diaper drive and delivered a huge load of supplies to the Open Door Mission, just in time for Christmas.

That is exactly what an Elkhorn teenager hopes to see more of, something she’s been promoting for five years and counting.

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“I have made hundreds of blankets for the homeless population,” said Emily Lenser, just 16-years old. “One of my favorite things to do is have blanket drives at schools. This year at one school we collected 106 blankets. I have also donated stuffed animals and books to shelters. It was very exciting taking them a local homeless shelter. I know it makes the residents so happy when they have a comfy blanket and stuffed animal and book for their children.”

 

 

This is one busy girl, folks – in addition to her volunteer work, Emily is also a successful student at Elkhorn South, inspired by a family of educators including her grandparents and her mom.

“My goal has always been to be a doctor,” said Emily. “I really enjoy working with children, and I would like to go into pediatrics.”

She’s also an accomplished dancer, competing with the Nebraska Dance Company and the competitive dance team at Elkhorn South, which just won a state title. A few years ago, Emily found a way to combine all of her passions into one outlet; she was crowned Miss Elkhorn’s Outstanding Teen in 2017, she’s currently Miss Kool-Aid Days Outstanding Teen 2018, and she will compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen this April.

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“I love that Miss America stands for Scholarship, Service, Style and Success,” said Emily. “Most people do not realize that people win scholarship money in this wonderful system. It comforts me knowing that as a junior in high school, I already have nearly $1000 towards college. This has also been a great opportunity to further my skills with public speaking and interviewing.”

It’s also been a vessel allowing Emily more opportunities to give to others. She’s delivered Valentines to nursing home residents, promoted community events, and taken part in fundraiser for important causes across the state.

“I believe service is the most important,” said Emily. “I really enjoy helping others. In my opinion, serving the community is something that every middle school and high school should require. I think it makes a person more compassionate and understanding.”

UNDERSTANDING. At a time when it’s so easy to judge, to criticize, to sit back and condemn rather than dive in and help, it is wonderful to see young people who are actively breaking those patterns. Their actions are not only helping improve the lives of others, but I would argue, enriching their young lives as well.

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Jesse Jackson once said, ‘Never look down at someone unless you are helping them up.’ Today I challenge you (and myself): don’t judge. Follow the lead of our youngest learners at Hillside, or Miss Kool-Aid Days Emily Lenser… and simply be nice.

“I wouldn’t want to represent anything but Nebraska,” said Emily. “My goal is just to enjoy this wonderful experience.”

***

To follow Miss Kool-Aid Days Outstanding Teen Emily Lenser on Facebook, click here.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EMILY?

CLICK HERE * 2017 * Stethoscopes & Tiaras

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

***

The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Old West Balloon Fest’s Outstanding Teen Hope McCoy

NEXT.. Miss Harvest Moon Festival Alexandria Warneke

When I Grow Up

Mar21

January 15, 2011.

Like every year, I cozied up on my living room coach ready to watch that year’s Miss America Pageant on TV.  The previous year had been huge – Miss Nebraska Brittany Jeffers had made the Top 10, something no Miss Nebraska had done in decades.

The 2011 telecast started… and I fell asleep. I was 8 months pregnant. Large and in charge and exhausted. I woke up a few hours later to about 30 text messages: “Miss Nebraska made the Top 15!” “Holy cow, Nebraska’s doing awesome!” “She won – MISS NEBRASKA IS MISS AMERICA!”

LAS VEGAS, NV – JANUARY 15: Miss America 2010 Caressa Cameron (L) prepares to crown Teresa Scanlan, Miss Nebraska, the new Miss America during the 2011 Miss America Pageant at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino January 15, 2011 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Original Filename: GYI0063061136.jpg

All photos courtesy Getty Images

Teresa Scanlan made history that night, becoming the first and only Nebraska representative to date to be crowned Miss America, and the youngest Miss America in more than 80 years. As she began a whirlwind year that would change her life and take her around the world, an 8-year old from Scanlan’s hometown of Gering decided she, too, wanted to be Miss America.

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Photo courtesy Timmy James Photo

Fast forward 7 years.. and Hope McCoy is now Miss Old West Balloon Fest’s Outstanding Teen, crowned last summer at the same pageant Teresa Scanlan competed in. She’ll now compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen this April.

 

 

“My favorite part has been when I do appearances and I get to enjoy all the little kids saying ‘wow! There’s a real princess here!'” Hope told me recently. “It warms my heart every time.”

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Sparked in part by Teresa’s success, western Nebraska titleholders hit the ground running with service the moment they are crowned. They volunteer at festivals, parades, fundraisers, fashion shows, and more, all promoting goodwill in their communities and their personal platforms of service. Hope wants to encourage children to read, and she has big plans for book drives and fundraisers throughout Mitchell and Gering.

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She’s also spreading a message to those children, to her peers, and to others she visits.. to nurture friendships and relationships.

“The biggest issue facing our generation right now is communication, ” said Hope. “We can say one thing over text and the person on the other side of it could really misunderstand. We hardly talk or communicate like we should. What we can to prevent it is to put down our devices and talk face to face.”

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Those connections are often what fuel and inspire us. The same day this photo was taken, when Hope won a crown at the same pageant where Teresa Scanlan started her journey.. she got to meet Teresa herself.

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Photo courtesy Timmy James Photo

“[She is] my female role model,” said Hope. “She has always presented herself super nicely and has always been super kind to me. She was the youngest woman to win the title of Miss America and she still accomplished so many great things that really made me want to do more.”

Hope McCoy wants to be a translator in the Navy. She wants to go to college and learn more languages. She wants to travel the world. She also wants to have fun, make new friends and make memories as she follows in her inspiration’s footsteps.

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Photo courtesy Timmy James Photo

“Success can be defined in many ways, but success to most people cannot be defined by someone else,” said Hope. “It is defined by your own personal goals, and nobody can change that.”

***

To follow Miss Old West Balloon Fest’s Outstanding Teen Hope McCoy on Facebook, click here!

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOPE?

CLICK HERE * 2017 * Nebraska Nice

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

***

The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Douglas County Krista Hinrichs

COMING SOON.. Miss Kool-Aid Days Outstanding Teen Emily Lenser

 

Choosing Hope

Mar17

She had just started school, her junior year at North Platte High School. True to form, she was already juggling activities, academics, and bigger plans, using an open period one day to run home and mail paperwork to compete once again for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

That day, August 23, 2017, something was wrong. She pulled up to the farm where her father had been working in the shop on the property.

Smoke.

Father and daughter tried to get inside, and were engulfed in black smoke at the front door. They called 911.. and watched fire devour the building their family had called home for more than 50 years.

Within 30 minutes, every physical possession Whitney Miller owned was gone.

“The one thing I always think about is that I’m glad it happened when it did, while no one was home,” said Whitney. “My young sister, Felicity, is 5. She was the most confused. We were all just struck with confusion. We had just lost everything, we lost home. Once the fire was out we had the whole family out there to talk about what the heck just happened and how we are going to move forward.”

Whitney Miller and her family chose hope.

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They stayed in hotels, thanks to the help of local churches, who also provided toiletries, clothes, and food. Faith gave the Millers much more: a view of not only the mountain they had to climb, but the oasis beyond.

“There is a bright side to everything and even though it was hard to find this time, we are doing great and are forever grateful to everyone who helped us get back to normal,” said Whitney.

That message of hope and gratitude is what Whitney is now sharing with children from North Platte to Omaha, as Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen.

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“One of my favorite parts of being a titleholder is being able to share my story with others that are trying to overcome adversity in their lives,” said Whitney. “My platform, Choose Hope, is centered around a step-by-step guide to help others overcome life’s struggles.”

 

 

Whitney also works to inspire self confidence in others, something she says she’s gained from her mother, (“She has always set such a good example for me”), from her time as Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen last year and now, a titleholder once again, working to vie for the state title.

“I decided to compete in the Miss Nebraska program because I admired the girls who competed,” said Whitney. “One of my favorite moments [was in Omaha] when I got to meet all the other contestants and learn about them. We as young teens should be uplifting and encouraging to each other rather than tearing one another down. One of my goals is to truly enjoy the time spent with the other contestants, and the experience itself.”

Whitney

From Charles Dickens:

“That was a memorable day to me, for it made great changes in me. But it is the same with any life. Imagine one selected day struck out of it, and think how different its course would have been. Pause you who read this, and think for a moment of the long chain of iron or gold, of thorns or flowers, that would never have bound you, but for the formation of the first link on one memorable day.”

What was your one, memorable day? And how did you respond?

When Whitney Miller looks back at August 23, 2017, she focuses on the positive and the future. She remembers a day she chose hope.

Whitney Miller official

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“It’s something we will never forget,” said Whitney. “It made our family’s bond even stronger.”

***

To follow Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen Whitney Miller on Facebook, click here.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WHITNEY?

CLICK HERE * 2017 * Cheer Rules

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

***

The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen Chloe Blumanthal

NEXT.. Miss Douglas County Krista Hinrichs

 

Young and Beautiful

Mar12

My first internship at KETV, I was 20 years old and thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from such incredible professionals in a field I someday hoped to join. Three days a week, I worked a nine hour shift, following around amazing reporters like Tom Elser and Trisha Meuret. This was an unpaid internship, so I also worked part-time, waitressing at Charlie’s on the Lake, in addition to my service work and appearances as Miss Douglas County. I worked every single shift I was offered at KETV; any task, around the clock. I don’t regret one second of it and didn’t think anything of then, either – I grew up with two parents who started their own successful businesses and taught me from an early age that if you want something, you work hard for it. They, and each of these experiences, helped shape who I am, opening doors for me as a broadcast professional at an early age in comparison to many of my peers.

This is why I get a smidge frustrated when I hear young adults complaining about not getting paid enough.. needing a job that allows them to ‘still do stuff’.. or expecting privileges, opportunities, and more will just HAPPEN to them because they ‘deserve’ it.

AND GET OFF MY LAWN, said Old Lady Brandi.

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On the flip side.. it’s also why I am so excited about, and want to support, young people who show ambition, passion and a strong work ethic. Last Spring, I connected with Omaha’s Beverly Luma, who had started her own company, Lady Beverly Cosmetics. She graciously offered to present all of the 2017 Miss Nebraska contestants and judges with her products, including a special prize package for our new Miss Nebraska. Grand total: Beverly donated more than $2500 in her product to our organization. That is HUGE for a small business! I was already blown away.. and then I met Beverly.

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SHE IS ONLY 25 YEARS OLD.

“I really have sensitive skin and have always used topnotch products. However, being a college student in the US, wasn’t being graceful to my savings,” Beverly explained to me. “My sister, who is vegan, also has that problem. We started with lipsticks and eyelashes. We decided to make it official in 2016 by registering our company and getting the right documents when people would compliment us and ask to buy the lipstick we were wearing. Started small scale then expanded since then.”

With the help of her brother, a business graduate; her father, a retired businessman; and her mother, the sisters’ ‘manager’, Beverly’s hobby has expanded across Nebraska and to several other states, all while she completes a healthcare administration degree at the University of Nebraska at Omaha with her own minor in business. Click here to learn more about Lady Beverly Cosmetics!

Guys. She’s 25. She JUST turned the legal age to rent a car. Let that sink in for a minute.

A 14-year old from Alliance, Nebraska is dreaming big early, too.

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Chloe Blumanthal was crowned Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen last fall, a goal she’s been focused on for at least five years, if not longer.

“I was ‘special entertainment’ at the 2013 Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen pageant. I was 9 years old and I sang ‘Lights’,” Chloe told me recently. “From then on, I was determined to someday compete in that pageant. This system is for the best of the best and I wanted to be part of that.”

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Chloe, a student at Alliance High School, says she’s been singing since the age of 2. (“And before that I would hum everything!”) A love of performing has been a constant as far back as she can remember, and her talent was clear to her family and people throughout western Nebraska.

“I was in a move made by Aperture Films about Western Expansion,” said Chloe. “It will open any day now at the museum under the Arch in St. Louis; we filmed it by Chimney Rock in 2015. I [also] won Little Miss titles when I was 9, 10 and 11 years old.”

Chloe notes those awards were just for fun, but even as an elementary student, she understood she could make good things happen.

 

 

“I raised over $2000 and donated it all,” said Chloe. “I thought up the fundraisers all on my own. As a Girl Scout, service has been a HUGE part of my life since 1st grade. I’ve earned my Girl Scout Bronze and Silver Awards; that’s over 70 hours of volunteer time. I am currently working on my Gold Award.”

Being Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen aligns right along with Chloe’s service goals. Each titleholder selects a cause they are passionate about and want to promote; Chloe calls her platform ‘Secret Kindness Agents’.

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“It’s a movement that shows how a simple act of kindness can change the culture within a school or group and eventually change the world,” said Chloe, inspired by UNO Instructor and award-winning educator Ferial Pearson. “Her positivity, in the darkest of times, has changed my life. I saved up my babysitting money and bought copies of the Secret Kindness Agent book. [When I visit classrooms], I bring a book for each teacher, a small notebook for each child to journal in, and envelopes of Secret Agent assignments. The children brainstorm new assignments, something that costs no money, so everyone has the same impact. Each child also gets assigned a Secret Agent name; they never use their own name or take credit for their assignments. It’s a great feeling to give without reward or recognition.”

But Chloe says she IS rewarded.. through friendships and life skills.

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“My friends see my confidence and pride in my accomplishments and know that much of that comes from my time as a titleholder,” said Chloe. “People should care about this program because of the exceptional work the titleholders do to make this state great. Because of the variety of platforms, our titleholders are helping so many different people and touching so many lives for the better.”

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Just as her own life has been touched by the women who came before her. The Girl Scout alumni and troop leaders who taught Chloe about female leadership, risk-taking and innovation. The pageant mentors who taught her about making goals, and that trying new things often leads to success. And the women in business like Beverly Luma, inspiring Chloe to dream of going to culinary school and someday, opening her own specialty bakery.

Teddy Roosevelt once said, “old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.”

Beverly Luma and Chloe Blumanthal are two young women not waiting for any magical milestone in life to accomplish their goals. Beverly recently shared a quote on social media.. “Sometimes you need to step outside, get some fresh air, and remind yourself of who you are and who you want to be.”

They are women making the world more beautiful by simply dreaming big, and inspiring others through hard work, love for life, and kindness to others. No matter what age, that is something we should all want to be.

Chloe official

Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

“What a great way to work for something!” said Chloe, who will compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen this April. “I want to show all of Nebraska what I can do and how I am changing the world.”

***

To follow Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen Chloe Blumanthal on Facebook, click here.

For more information about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program or to become a contestant, CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Facebook, or CLICK HERE to follow the organization on Twitter. You can also contact Director Heather Edwards at heatheraloseke@gmail.com or Director Kali Tripp at KaliNicoleTV@gmail.com.

***

The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition takes place April 28 in North Omaha, Nebraska.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Lincoln Jessica Shultis

NEXT.. Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen Whitney Miller