Tag Archive | miss omaha

The “It” Factor

Ever meet a person who you just KNOW is going be something big? They have that IT factor.. how they present themselves, what they give to others, how they make you feel.

I found out about the Miss Nebraska Pageant through a letter I got in the mail. I went to one of the first Miss Omaha rehearsals just to see what it was all about, and Brook Matthews was one of the first people I saw. She was so dang fantastic I just about turned around and walked out–I was NOT going to even try to compete against her! Brook was A STUNNING blonde, perfect body, well spoken, she had the confidence of a CEO and just radiated grace and sophistication. In a crazy turn of events, I become her pageant sister a few weeks later; Brook became Miss Omaha and I became Miss Douglas County.

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Brook was later crowned Miss Nebraska 2004, then went on to earn her Masters degree in Business from Creighton while founding and developing Omaha Fashion Week. The event has become the 5th largest fashion event in the country, and last week, Brook Matthews-Hudson and her husband, Nick, opened the Omaha Design Center, welcoming sold-out crowds of thousands.

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Photo courtesy Kathy Rae Photography

Brook is a REALLY. BIG. DEAL.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the new home for Omaha Fashion Week, from KETV’s Chinh Doan!

A few years ago, I met a young woman who stood out to me in a group of OUTSTANDING young women. I invited all of the 2014 Miss Nebraska contestants to the KETV studios to record a special edition of Chronicle to spread awareness about the program and the incredible things these titleholders were doing in their communities. (Click here to watch the 2014 Miss Nebraska Chronicle special!) Tosha Skinner made the long drive to Omaha to take part when several of the other western titleholders understandably did not; she was articulate, confident, and I went back to my desk that evening thinking, ‘Dang!! Who is that girl?!?’

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

Tosha Skinner is a 3-time local titleholder with the Miss Nebraska Organization and the current Miss Heartland. She’s a UNL graduate and proud Delta Delta Delta alumnae. She’s a Logistics expert, a volunteer, a Christian, and a woman proudly comfortable in her own skin.

“The most important part of my life is that I live out my platform every day,” Tosha told me recently. “Because my platform focuses on self-love and living a healthy lifestyle, I think that it is essential I live my life with the values I teach.”

Tosha calls that personal mission ‘Perfectly, Imperfect: Learning to love the true you.’

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“After years of struggling with low self-confidence, which turned into an eating disorder and depression, I decided to start making changes to my life, which started with the way I viewed myself,” said Tosha. “I became healthier in the way I thought, spoke, ate and lived. I watched how each of these things helped me learn to love myself. I soon realized that if I shared my own story, I could help others come to the same realization I did. I want to live in a world where my little sister doesn’t have to struggle through the same things I did!”

Tosha has embarked on something of a social media crusade to pump positivity into the world, and to remind women everywhere of their beauty. She posts inspirational memes, shares terrific photos to make you smile and think, and frequently updates her blog with op-ed like posts focused on image and self-improvement (CLICK HERE to read more!)

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Tosha on Facebook: ‘Nothing is more rewarding than knowing you helped create that smile ❤ #missheartland‘

Tosha says being a Miss America titleholder has not only given her an opportunity to share this message, but it’s part of the reason she found that message in the first place.

“I learned about eating right, working out, and how to better understand my own body, and I learned all of that because of preparing for Swimsuit (competition)!” said Tosha. “The Miss Nebraska system has been an active part of my life. I learned life skills like public speaking, stage presence, professionalism and living a healthy lifestyle. It helped me find my passion for volunteering and taught me to step out of my comfort zone every day. I am a better person because of the Miss Nebraska system.”

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And despite having a full-time job at Talent Plus in Lincoln, Tosha is an active proponent for that same organization, taking part in philanthropic events across the state on a weekly basis, if not more often.

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Tosha’s raised awareness for Alzheimers, for Team Jack and pediatric cancer research (CLICK HERE to learn more!), for Junior Achievement, for Children’s Miracle Network, and for the American Heart Association. She says her dream is to turn her platform into a non-profit to reach even more people. This is the work of a determined, selfless young woman.. a far cry from the self-described shy, unsure little girl she once was.

“Because of the Miss America Organization, that little girl grew into a woman that learned how to pick herself up every time she fell and how she learned how important hard work was,” said Tosha. “Without the Miss Nebraska system, that little girl may never have finished college or landed her dream job. But because she was involved in an organization that taught her how to be the best version of herself, that little girl can be anything.”

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Tosha Skinner is a Husker, a working woman, a friend, a mentor. She’s a volunteer at People’s City Mission and a superhero at the Lincoln Children’s Museum. She’s Miss Sugar Valley 2014, Miss Chadron 2015, Miss Heartland 2016.. and she’s ready to be Miss Nebraska.

“Being Miss Nebraska is more than just a pretty crown and sash,” said Tosha. “It is about being a role model to both children and adults, presenting the best version of yourself every day, and most importantly, being the best possible representative for Nebraska. It’s waking up every day with a smile, being prepared for anything the day may bring. And it’s about utilizing the moments that you can touch someone’s life, with a smile or conversation. This is the year I am prepared for.”

CHRISTIANSEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo courtesy Christiansen Photography

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CLICK HERE to follow Miss Heartland 2016 Tosha Skinner on Facebook, on Twitter, on Instagram and via her blog: Perfectly, Imperfect.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TOSHA?

CLICK HERE * 2015 * Cap And (Evening) Gown

CLICK HERE * 2014 * A Spoonful Of Sugar

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

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

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Chadron 2016 Tyler Rambali!

NEXT.. Miss Fur Trade Days’ Outstanding Teen 2016 Brooklyn Stack!

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

Fighting For Hope

Feb8

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

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

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

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

So is Miss Omaha 2016 Aleah Peters.

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Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography

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

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

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

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

CAMPAIGN

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

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

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

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

TWIRL

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

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

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

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

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

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

GIRL

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

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

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

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Photo courtesy Marla Austin Photography

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CLICK EACH LINK to follow Miss Omaha 2016 Aleah Peters

on FACEBOOK, on TWITTER, on INSTAGRAM

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ALEAH?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doctor’s Orders

Oct15

It’s human nature. When something’s wrong, you instinctively want to fix it.

Nebraska Football is 2-4 for the first time since Eisenhower was President. (My thanks to hilarious columnist Brad Dickson for that bit of trivia..) Saturday night, I was in the audience at the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County pageant and my friend Grady nudged me, showed me the score and whispered ‘WHY CAN’T WE FINISH A GAME?!?!’

When we lost over the final play against BYU, it was heartbreaking. When we lost in OT against Miami, it was bad dejavu. When we lost in the final moments against Illinois, it was annoying. HOW DID IT HAPPEN AGAIN against Wisconsin?

If I’m frustrated as a fan, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE how guys like Tommy Armstrong and Coach Riley feel. Maybe that’s why at least one former player isn’t judging, isn’t making assumptions.. he’s just giving his full support.

#4 Judd Davies, Nebraska Fullback 1999-2003

“A lot of things go into having a new staff, I’m definitely sympathetic to that,” Davies told KETV in a recent interview. “It’s easy to become frustrated and upset once you start having difficult games, but they’ve played extremely well, they’ve played close games, they’ve only lost by a number of points total between wins and losses.”

A glass half-full statement from a guy who’s been a longtime model of composure and maturity. In the early 2000’s, Judd Davies was the hometown guy who delivered in Lincoln on and off the field. He headed to Nebraska along with several other Millard North Mustangs (including Pat Ricketts and Eric Crouch), and took the Huskers to the 2001 national championship game.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH KETV’S THROWBACK THURSDAY FEATURE ON #4 JUDD DAVIES!

As I wrote about last season (click here to read Brothers in Blue) I first met Davies through my longtime friend Jeff Nathan back when we were in college. (Part of the same group, I should mention, so excited about Judd’s Rose Bowl touchdown they fell on an elderly woman seated in front of them in the stadium.) I also had Davies in a speech class at UNL, where he presented an informative speech on how to run the option, and I found out that even at 245+ pounds of sheer muscle he was terrified of the movie Candyman. (Quoting Judd, “don’t even joke about that.”)

Back in those days, Judd Davies was a studious guy in the classroom, focused on his job as a student and his faith. (Quick story, when KETV photojournalist Tyler White arrived for our interview, Davies still remembered him as a fellow member of Omaha’s Christ Community Church many years ago.) Family and his close circle friends has also been priority for Davies, who married his longtime girlfriend, Tracy, the summer before his senior year at Nebraska. It was a busy time for the Nebraska Team Captain, an Academic All-American who also earned the 2002 Brook Berringer Citizenship Award for the time he spent volunteering in his community and across the state.

Davies taking part in a Special Olympics event, photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics.

12 years out, most of the stats, touchdowns and awards are a blur to Davies

“It’s really the relationships you remember as you get a little further out from it,” said Davies. “You remember the coaches, the guys you played the same position with because you were with those guys every single day.”

And Davies remembers his awareness that someday, his football days would come to an end. He was focused on his next step, medicine.

“I love it. I always wanted to do something with surgery that I thought I would be able to treat conditions, to cure conditions,” said Davies.

After graduating from Nebraska, Davies studied at Vanderbilt before returning to Omaha to open his own private practice and work with Nebraska Medicine. Dr. Judson Davies is now a respected urologist and surgeon across the Omaha area and beyond.

“Sometimes I sit down, people will look at me, look at my name on my jacket, then they’ll look back up and me and say ‘I swear, I remember you from somewhere,” said Davies. But he’s quick to say that football connection doesn’t give him any special insight into today’s team or coaches. When we first talked several weeks ago, hopes for the season were high with a new program, unknown to most Nebraska fans. When we circled back to Davies just last week, his opinions about the team were the same, even with a losing record.

“It’s about the process. Don’t worry about where they’re at now. You want to see improvement and the season is still very early,” said Davies. “There’s a lot of room for them to grow and improve and hopefully they will.”

And Davies is excited about the guy playing his old spot, Andy Janovich, another Nebraska native just like Davies (Janovich is from Gretna.)

Photo courtesy Nebraska Athletics

“I think he’s doing a great job!” said Davies. “If he would’ve played in a different era, in my era, he probably would’ve started ahead of me. So I’m glad he wasn’t there when I was there or I might not have ever played!”

To players EVERYWHERE, Huskers, Mustangs and everyone else, this doctor has some solid advice.

“GO TO CLASS!” said Davies, looking right into the camera before laughing. “But in all honesty, I’d say GO TO CLASS, GET A DEGREE.”

As for the 2015 Huskers, there may not be any universal fix. Dr. Davies suggested treatment and prescription for success.. to learn from the experience itself.

“Those lessons you learn day in and day out, how to handle adversity, how to deal with poor performance and improvement and critical feedback, those are extremely valuable,” said Davies. “You’re going to have lots of ups and downs in your career, business, personal and otherwise, but having the discipline to go through what they’ve gone through, you can’t duplicate that or replicate that anywhere else.”

Click here to read more about #4 Judd Davies via his bio from Nebraska Athletics.

Click here to visit Dr. Judson Davies’ website to learn more about his work with The Urology Center, PC.

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Note from the author:

THANK YOU to Dr. Davies, his staff, and Nebraska Medicine (especially Jenny Nowatzke) for facilitating TWO interviews due to technical difficulties on our end. Your patience and time are MUCH appreciated!

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WEEK SIX.. CLASS OF 1991 OFC. CURTIS COTTON!

NEXT WEEK.. CLASS OF 1990 LT. GREGG BARRIOS!

ROAR

Jun24

Well, HELLO!!!!! Long time no post! As always, THANK YOU for reading the blog!

I have been ‘off the grid’ for most of the month of June. Vacation, time with family, heaven at home.

IT HAS BEEN FABULOUS!

Sometimes you just need to take a deep breath, step back, close your eyes and BE. I feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and reminded of who I am. GO OFF THE GRID! IT’S GREAT! Even if just for a few days.

Before my amazing time at home with the three men in my life (four, if you count our dog, Mack), my hiatus began with a long awaited trip to North Platte, Nebraska.

MISS NEBRASKA 2015.

Photo courtesy of Corbey Dorsey for the North Platte Telegraph ; click here to read the NPT’s wonderful article on Alyssa by reporter Kamie Stephen!

After seven days of rehearsals and events, four days of nerve-wracking competition, a lot of laughs and some tears, too.. Miss Douglas County Alyssa Howell was crowned Miss Nebraska 2015. What an INCREDIBLE moment to cap off a wonderful week for this caring, young woman. Alyssa has dedicated so much of her time to others. She is sweet, kind, hard working and focused. For five years, she also watched her big sister compete at both the Miss Iowa and Miss Nebraska pageant, finishing as a finalist multiple times.

THIS MOMENT WAS ALL ALYSSA. SHE WILL NOW FOREVER BE MISS NEBRASKA.

So many cool moments; the kids who just LOVED Alyssa, including her Little Sisters who took part in all of the Miss Nebraska events at her side, and the little boy who not only wanted one kiss, he circled around for a second. Alyssa’s real boyfriend, Grady, and his excitement and sheer pride every moment leading up to his girl’s crowning moment. Shrieks of joy between Alyssa and the new Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Steffany Lien; the two have been Miss Douglas County sisters for months, now they are going to Miss America together. And the heartwarming friendship and bond between Alyssa and her sister queen Miss Omaha Megan Gould, supporting each other from Omaha to North Platte and still to this day.

But.. I’m going to throw this out there.. was Alyssa ‘the best’?

How do you choose which flower is ‘the best’ in the garden? Which city is ‘the best’ in our state? Which art, whether it be singing or dancing or playing piano, is ‘the best’? Alyssa will be a FANTASTIC Miss Nebraska and I cannot WAIT to see how far she’ll go at Miss America. This is Alyssa’s time; this is the result of her hard work; this recognizes an exceptional young woman, helping her to inspire so many more; and five smart, talented, and critical judges determined Alyssa Howell was the best candidate for this job as Miss Nebraska 2015.

The best of the best, you might say.. because HOLY CRAP, did this event showcase some absolutely incredible women in our state.

4th Runner Up, Miss Northwest LaRissa McKean

JOYFUL. LaRissa McKean radiated happiness, and made everyone in the Miss Nebraska audience feel it. She also shared that positivity with her fellow contestants, voted Miss Congeniality by the majority of the other titleholders. LaRissa CAPTIVATED the audience Thursday night, winning the Preliminary Talent Award with an energetic and dazzling dance (another Kitty Lee Dance graduate!) As I told one of my friends during finals night, she JUST MAKES ME SMILE. What a better role model than that?

3rd Runner Up, Miss Heartland Steffani Jiroux

BREATHTAKING. I love watching dance, but don’t know much about it (and hurt myself trying.) I know even less about ballet, but I LOVE the costumes, the makeup, the SHOW. And boy, oh boy, did Steffani Jiroux deliver.

Just stop and look at this picture for a second.. (and thanks to Kamie Stephen and the North Platte Telegraph for sharing it!)

It was like watching a scene from a movie. Steffani also seemed to enjoy herself every moment; smiling nonstop, walking across that stage like she OWNED it, twirling around her Little Sisters like they were just dancing in the living room and not competing for the title of Miss Nebraska. What’s next for Steffani? Continuing LAW SCHOOL at Creighton University.

2nd Runner Up, Miss Kool-Aid Days Brooke Ludemann

SENSATIONAL. Miss Nebraska and Miss America challenge a woman to become the best version of herself in all areas, and Brooke Ludemann pushed herself to the max in every. single. test. Her gown made me gasp (in a good way!); her answers showed evidence of a woman with a business plan as Miss Nebraska; her physical self was a demonstration of what our bodies can become with hard work and discipline, and her talent.. I have no words. On the final night of competition, with everything on the line, Brooke’s performance singing ‘Bring Him Home’ from Les Miserables game me CHILLS. Brooke won 2nd place for the Miss Nebraska Community Service Award, and she will be Nebraska’s representative at the National Sweetheart Pageant this summer.

1st Runner Up, Miss Kearney Crane Festival Allison Tietjen

JAW DROPPING. Every time Allison Tietjen walked on stage, my eyes were just DRAWN to her. (In a completely uncreepy way, regardless of how that sounds…) She is the model of poise, grace, and beauty. Allison could’ve walked right off the Miss Nebraska stage onto Hollywood’s red carpet and fit right in. BUT, what I love is that Allison knows, and SHOWS, this program’s power and purpose extends long beyond Miss Nebraska week. Allison’s work promoting awareness of our veterans earned her the Miss Nebraska Community Service Award and the Miss America Community Service Award; she also earned the Miracle Maker Award for raising more than $1300 for the Children’s Miracle Network, helping hospitals like Omaha’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. Oh yea, and Allison JUST TURNED 19 in April. Truly exceptional.

I would argue not one of these women is ‘better’ than the other; each is SENSATIONAL. They each prepared, volunteered, practiced.. hoping THIS was their year, and their time. It was only destiny for one–and Alyssa is FABULOUS. But this is why you see so many girls try again for the crown.. and thank the Lord for that, because they are all deserving, INCREDIBLE women, and bringing them together to recognize them and their accomplishments is uplifting and inspiring to everyone who can be part of it. WE ARE WOMEN, HEAR US ROAR!!!!

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Now to the moment I know you all have been waiting for…

The 2nd Annual Brandi Petersen Unofficial Superfan Awards!

( ahem… I’ll wait for your laughter to die down before I proceed..)

The ‘My Life Goal Is To Look Like Carrie Underwood’ Awards…

Again.. the work and service that take place the other 364 days of the year are arguably the most important part of the Miss America Organization.. but I LOVE LOVE LOVE the gowns!! C’mon.. from dreaming of your wedding gown, to picking out prom dresses, to playing dress up as a little girl, who DOESN’T love beautiful dresses?!? 2015 was simply a RAINBOW of color on the Miss Nebraska stage, and THAT alone made it awesome. So much diversity; different colors, styles, fits.. and so much elegance!

Remember how I said Miss Kool-Aid Days Brooke Ludemann’s gown made me gasp? GASP!!! OHHH.. this dress.. this moment.. absolutely INCREDIBLE. (Details: Tarik Ediz gown from the Black Swan Dress Boutique in Lincoln)

Miss Kearney Crane Festival Allison Tietjen.. ANOTHER gown that stole my breath. Just STUNNING. (Details: custom Sherri Hill gown from the Winning Crown Boutique in Omaha)

And boy, those Kearney Crane Festival Directors KNOW THEIR STYLE.. because Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen was possibly MY FAVORITE gown of the weekend! There was just something so very special about Merrilee Prill when she walked on stage in this dress. The color, the style, HOW she wore it. I LOVED IT. ( Details: Jovani Fashions gown from the Black Swan Dress Boutique in Lincoln–thanks to owner Joe Bohac for the photo!)

Miss Northwest’s Outstanding Teen Cherokee Purviance.. what a GORGEOUS choice for her gown! On stage, this color and the sparkle were just RADIANT. (Details: a Mac Duggal gown from Hirschfeld’s Prom Shoppe in North Platte–thanks to them for the photo!)

The ‘Holy Crap, Petersen, Put Down That Blizzard’ Awards..

I’d like to show you my reaction to this year’s Miss contestants competing in swimsuit.

My thanks to Taylor Swift for the assist.

ABSOLUTELY SENSATIONAL. This year EXEMPLIFIED that Lifestyle and Fitness is just that–this competition is intended to encourage women to treat their bodies like temples and reach their full physical potential. AND THESE WOMEN DID. Abs, biceps, quads for days. This wasn’t about starving, or being the skinniest. You could SEE their work; the time they spent in the gym and the time they DIDN’T spend at their local fast food spot.

Miss Omaha Megan Gould was my winner for swimsuit. I know this girl puts in countless hours of dance and practice as a Nebraska Cornhusker cheerleader, and WOW-did that hard work show!! Plus Megan was just SOO confident, not conceited in the least, just wonderfully comfortable in her own skin. You go, Megan!

Miss Heartland Steffani Jiroux. This is her profile picture now on Facebook (taken by Kamie Stephen for the North Platte Telegraph), and to me, that’s using restraint. If I looked like this, I’d make a cardboard cutout of myself to greet people at my front door. THIS is what happens with 20 years of ballet training and several more as a member of the Creighton University dance team!

Miss Kearney Crane Festival Allison Tietjen was the Overall Swimsuit Winner at Miss Nebraska this year, and here’s why! Another absolutely radiant moment in red for the UNL sophomore, and in case you’re wondering, she’s a piano player.. so what you see is the result of sheer hours in the gym and dedication to nutrition!

And Miss Kool-Aid Days Brooke Ludemann. Just.. WOW. MUSCLE ON MUSCLE WITH MUSCLE. When I messaged Brooke about using this photo, she responded ‘I’m darn proud of those photos!’ AS SHE SHOULD BE!! AH-MAZ-ING!!

STRENGTH, POWER, HEALTH. Are you listening, America? I just read this morning there are more clinically obese people in our country than simply overweight Americans. Heart disease remains a leading killer. These women exercised and ate healthy with consistency and self discipline for months, and likely formed a foundation to continue to do so to some extent. Long after that 10 second walk across stage in a swimsuit, their health is improved, their confidence is boosted, and they’ve empowered and inspired many others. (I’M AT THE TOP OF THAT LIST!) Ladies, you should be so very proud of yourselves.

The Nebraska’s Got Talent Awards..

MY WINNERS FOR TALENT: THIS YEAR’S MISS NEBRASKA’S OUTSTANDING TEEN CONTESTANTS.

BLOWN AWAY.

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS to the other young woman who wrapped up this weekend in North Platte with a state title..

Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen Steffany Lien is now Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2015! (A 3-peat for Omaha titleholders!) While Steffany shined all night at the competition, SHE OWNED talent. America, watch out; when this girl competes for the national title in Orlando this July, she will STUN YOU!

CLICK HERE to see a preview, showing Steffany competing at the World Championships in Italy in April, winning her SIXTH world title.

Steffany does things with a baton that challenge the Laws of Gravity and Physics. Not only have I never seen her drop a baton in competition, I’ve never seen the girl even ‘almost’ drop one in rehearsal. She is SENSATIONAL!

Nebraska’s 10th Outstanding Teen was one of several incredibly talented young teenagers who competed in North Platte this year. Piano players, singers, dancers.. these girls are so young they can’t vote, but they knocked the socks off everyone in the audience Friday night.

Among my favorites (along with Steffany, of course!)..

..singer Emma Kate Brown, Miss Platte Valley’s Outstanding Teen. There’s a reason why little girls love her.. because someday she will be the voice of a princess in a Disney movie. That’s how I described her voice to my husband. Emma Kate sang ‘Tonight’ from West Side Story and her innate vocal talent is just BEAUTIFUL. I’m calling it now.. the next animated blockbuster you take your kids to, you will likely hear Emma Kate in the soundtrack! (And a huge CONGRATULATIONS to this beauty as well! Less than two weeks after being named 2nd Runner Up at Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, the Elkhorn South student was also named Nebraska’s Best High School Actress, winning an all-expenses paid trip to New York to compete for the National Award!!)

Grace Heggem, Miss Scotts Bluff County’s Outstanding Teen, was dazzling from start to finish. She played Tarantella on the piano, her fingers dancing across the keys at the speed of light, and she NAILED it. Much like ballet, I know nothing about piano, but I can hear a bad note… and I didn’t hear one off-key when Grace performed. Incredible!

Emma Keifer, Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen, was just a joy to watch. I felt like I was watching an act from So You Think You Can Dance (and you all know what a freak I am about that show!!) Emma tapped.. up and down STAIRS. Her energy was just OFF THE CHARTS. Emma, you would’ve made Nigel proud!

And finally, though she wasn’t competing for a title, this performance was MY FAVORITE TALENT PERFORMANCE OF THE WEEK..

THE WATER CUPS DANCE. Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014 Morgan Holen, performing the same dance her mother Jodi did as Miss Nebraska 1988 at the Miss America pageant that year. Balancing three cups of water on her hands and forehead, Morgan bent backward, forward, down into splits, up from splits… all without spilling a drop. You could’ve heard a PIN drop in the auditorium, as hundreds of us collectively held our breath through this performance. ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE.. just like Morgan. Many of us shed tears as she took her final walk as our state titleholder.. mine started to fall as her proud daddy, Brad, handed her a bouquet of flowers at the bottom of the Miss Nebraska stage. The sky is the limit for this young woman–you WILL see her again.

The Brittany Jeffers Awards for Super Awesomeness

We all have someone we just ADMIRE.. their style, their confidence, just because THEY ARE AWESOME. Some of mine: one of my best friends Jenni Rohacik who always looks so good she could host E!, my neighbor Brittni Madden who can take a picture off Pinterest and make a project look like it cost thousands of dollars.. and my fellow anchor/reporter/forever Miss Omaha Brittany Jeffers-Hannema, who I swear is fabulous, in every way possible, 24/7. (And now that I’ve declared my obsession with these ladies.. they may all be working on protection orders..) THESE GIRLS ARE JUST AWESOME! Brittany gets the award named after her because she had to work rather than attend the Miss Nebraska pageant this year.. she may have been on air in Oklahoma, but her heart was in North Platte!

Two young ladies made a huge impression on me this year.. two teens who I didn’t know prior to this year’s pageant.

Shelby Blundell, Miss Chadron’s Outstanding Teen, was the youngest and tiniest of ALL of this year’s contestants, Miss and Teen. She was also Contestant #1 in the competition, a tough draw; you set the bar for the judges, you are the first contestant both that panel and the audience will see. Shelby rose to the challenge, nailing her song in talent, and impressing the hell out of me during her on stage question. Shelby was asked a very tough question, whether LGBTQ issues should be discussed at school in the classroom or in group/activity settings, or if those topics are best left for family and group discussion outside of school. Without hesitation, tiny Shelby answered confidently and quickly, sharing her opinions without pause. That’s a tough issue for politicians and public leaders to address, and often we see adults avoiding giving a clear answer. This young woman tackled the issue head on, and agree with her or not, it was refreshing to see such a young person stand tall and share her opinion.

I was also SO very impressed with Allison Baird, Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen. For the second year in a row, Allison was named 1st Runner Up in the teen competition. I’ve touched on this before.. as exhilarating as it is to hear your name called as a new titleholder.. it is incredibly disappointing when all of that work does not result in that win. Allison’s now been through that twice.. coming ever so close both times. BUT.. the moment that curtain closed after Steffany was crowned, when the spotlights were off and no one was watching her (except me, the nosy emcee/reporter backstage), Allison was the first one to smile and hug Steffany. She was also the first to hug Morgan last year–and not just the cordial ‘arm around her, pat pat pat’ hug.. but a genuine embrace, wishing a friend well. It’s the moments you think no one is looking when your true character is revealed. Allison Baird is an exceptional young lady. A gorgeous voice. Mature and smart. Beautiful. And in those moments, when I can only imagine how her heart was breaking, she showed class and selflessness, to celebrate Steffany’s moment. That’s something you don’t often see in adults, let alone a young woman just entering her senior year of high school. Again, these competitions are not about choosing ‘who is the best’, but who is right for the position at that exact moment in time. YOU ARE A WINNER, ALLISON.. your future is so very bright.

So did you pick up on that ’emcee/reporter’ note? I had the GREAT honor of co-emceeing this year’s Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen pageant with this beauty, my final Awesomeness Award Winner, Jessica States! A) She can sing REALLY well B) She’s a born leader, holding a respected position with Junior Achievement of Lincoln C) She was THE FIRST Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen in 2005!

AND, she was SUCH A GREAT co-host!!! We had such a terrific time, and I hope the audience did, too! (And thank you to Joe Bohac and the Black Swan Dress Boutique for providing our gorgeous gowns for the evening!)

#MNOT2015. Trending.

***

What a terrific, empowering week of incredible women and the people who support them.

I enjoyed every single moment, and CAN’T WAIT until next year to do it all over again! AND, I NEED to mention what these girls took away from Miss Nebraska (in addition to their own memories..)

MORE THAN $42,800 IN CASH AWARDS

AND MORE THAN $400,455 IN OFFERED COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS.

But hey, it’s just a silly scholarship pageant, right?

***

One final message to wrap up this post, and this year’s 2015 Miss Nebraska series..

I was SO very honored and humbled to receive this year’s Miss Nebraska Volunteer of the Year Award.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to all of you who have read these blogs and offered your congratulations. I’m still mystified and elated that so many people check in to read my work, and to receive such an incredible honor for it is just a thrill. THANK YOU.

To all 24 of the young ladies who competed in North Platte, YOU EMPOWER ME. You are the future of our state, and our country, and that makes me so very proud. CONGRATULATIONS Alyssa, Steffany, and every young woman taking a chance to set an example, be a role model, and to just SPARKLE.

No matter what you do next, crown or not, go out into the world and continue to ROAR.

***

Click here to learn more about the Miss Nebraska Organization, and the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant. You can also visit Miss Nebraska on Facebook, follow the pageant on Twitter, and follow the pageant on Instagram.

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

Home Of The Brave

May18

Our national anthem is arguably, one of the toughest songs for an artist to perform. So much range, pressure to make it your own without offending traditionalists, and most of the time, acapella. Easy to veer off the rails, tough to swerve back on.

Lately, Miss America veterans have been REPRESENTING the stars and stripes.

Both Miss Nebraska 2014 Megan Swanson and Miss South Dakota 2008 Alex Hoffman (now KETV’s morning anchor) were selected as finalists to audition to sing at the College World Series.

CLICK HERE to listen to Megan, who will perform before the 7pm game on June 15.

CLICK HERE to listen to Alex, chosen as an alternate (the same night she’ll be performing the anthem at the Miss South Dakota pageant!)

And if you’re bored (GULP!) CLICK HERE to hear MY rendition before the Nebraska & Creighton baseball game back in April… if there’s an alternate game Saturday June 20th at the CWS, I get to sing, too!

The list continues.. Miss Nebraska 2011 Kayla Batt-Jacox sang in front of thousands at Werner Park this spring before the Nebraska & UNO baseball game. Miss Omaha 2014 Payton Merritt will sing at TD Ameritrade Park this weekend during the Big East baseball tournament. Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev sang before the Washington Nationals & Miami Marlins game on May 7th. We’re everywhere!

And this last weekend, a huge honor for one of this year’s Miss Nebraska contestants, chosen to sing the anthem in front of thousands at her own college graduation from Creighton University.

MISS NEBRASKA STATE FAIR 2015 MARIE ALLISON

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“Blessed to have been fortunate enough to graduate from Creighton with degrees in Philosophy and Music, summa cum laude, and to have sung the national anthem for the graduating classes of 2015,” Marie posted on Facebook. “It is humbling to realize the massive investment of time, the support of my wonderful family and friends, and the connections with faculty and fellow scholars that I have made throughout my Creighton experience. I may not be certain of what I desire to be in my future, but I know I am well primed to realize that truth as a process that will happen. Thank you to the people who always believe in me.”

These thoughts, showing appreciation and reflection, mirror the messages Marie sent me recently regarding the Miss America program.

“I never, EVER thought I would be a girl who competed in pageants,” Marie told me recently. “This decision changed the trajectory of my life dramatically because I learned how pageants challenge you to grow.”

Marie’s first pageant exposure came through her love of horses; she was a rodeo queen. She is also a passionate equestrienne, behind the training of two national caliber show horses, and a volunteer at the Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy. Those roles, however, didn’t always put Marie in the spotlight.

“As I am an introvert, appearances were very challenging to me,” said Marie. “I was pushed outside my comfort zone to become equal to the take of being a good representative of my program.”

Marie herself had what she calls personal stigmas about pageantry, something she confronted directly when she competed for Miss Colorado last summer.

“I became involved in the Miss America program when I realized I could be impacting real change in my community and earning scholarships to fund my education,” said Marie. “This program has made me consider what I value deeply, and the issues I feel need to be adequately addressed by our society as a whole. I have come to profoundly respect my fellow contestants as outstanding individuals and community servants. They are authentic leaders with humble confidence that lights up the world around them, providing examples that empower all youth and particularly young women.”

Marie is a true example of that. She spends time doing crafts with patients at Omaha’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, she’s active with Omaha’s Urban Abbey Methodist Church and Coffee Shop, and she’s a volunteer with the Stephens Center for the homeless. Marie does all of this not because she has to, but driven by her own background.

“I chose my platform (‘Communication: Proactive Prevention’) because I would not have attended college, nor would I be the person I am today if I did not have a strong social network and people believing in me,” said Marie. “Given my personal experience with socioeconomic stress and homelessness, and how difficult these experiences were, I now that I would not have survived or thrived without the help of the communities I was involved in. It is my goal to help build meaningful relationships and communities to help others the same way people have helped me to overcome seemingly impossible circumstances.”

Homeless. To college. To singing at her own graduation from Creighton University.

The words of the Star Spangled Banner are etched into every American’s heart and soul.

What so proudly we hailed..

Through the perilous fight..

O’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.

Courage when things are tough. Standing tall and persevering. Being a beacon for those who may come after you.

May 18, 2015, standing in front of her fellow Creighton University graduates, singing those words. What a special moment for a young woman who has lived her own version of the Star Spangled Banner. And the journey for Marie Allison isn’t over yet; next stop, Miss Nebraska.

Follow Miss Nebraska State Fair Marie Allison and contact her for appearances and events on Facebook.

For information on becoming a future contestant, contact Director Chelsey Jungck at 308-382-1710 or by email at cjungck@statefair.org.

***

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.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Douglas County 2015 Alyssa Howell

NEXT.. Miss Chadron 2015 Tosha Skinner

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

Miracle Worker

May13

You advocate for something because you believe in it. You put your face and name behind a cause to share a compelling argument for why you are so passionate about that effort. It takes courage to speak out (especially from a personal place); it takes time and dedication; it takes a leader who can command attention and compel others to make a difference.

This is one of the reasons I advocate for the Miss America Organization.. because no matter what you think of beauty pageants, or women competing for crowns, when that ONE DAY of competition is over, they are out in their communities and states 364 OTHER days of the year trying to do all of the things I just mentioned, in most cases, serving others.

This young woman will continue to promote her platform after her pageant days are over; she wants her cause to become her career.

MISS DOUGLAS COUNTY 2015 ALYSSA HOWELL

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“I will be a junior at Creighton University, studying Elementary Education, with the career ambition of becoming a child life specialist in a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital,” Alyssa told me recently. “Truly, Children’s Miracle Network is my passion, and my platform, ‘Making Miracles Happen’, stands to improve the lives of children in hospitals all over Nebraska.”

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Several of this year’s Miss Nebraska contestants, including Alyssa and Miss Nebraska 2014 Megan Swanson, delivered gift bags to Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Rainbow House pediatric patients and their families for Miss America Serves day.

Children’s Miracle Network is also Miss America’s community partner, the organization which titleholders all over the country must raise money for in order to compete at the local and state level. Money raised benefits hospitals like Omaha’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. Many of this year’s Miss Nebraska contestants have spent time volunteering at Children’s; Alyssa visits on a consistent basis, inspired by her cousin and former CMN patient, Shayna.

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“Eight years ago my family (after a streak of 12 boy cousins) was finally blessed with a girl! However, Shayna was sick with a frightening virus that left her sick and in the hospital for days after her birth,” said Alyssa. “18 months later, she tested positive for profound hearing loss. My family was devastated, however, with the help of St. Louis Children’s Hospital (a CMN facility), Shayna was able to receive cochlear implants that allow her to hear as a normal child.”

Alyssa witnessed part of that journey in person, staying with Shayna and her family for two months while Shayna attended the Central Institute for the Deaf. Alyssa had already been involved with CMN fundraisers as a young girl, at her sister Devin Howell’s side during her time as Miss River City 2008, Miss Douglas County 2009 and Miss Omaha 2010.

When Alyssa was crowned Miss Eastern Nebraska 2014, (click here to see read my interview with her last Spring!) she wanted to take her passion for CMN hospitals and the children they serve to another level. Alyssa designed and implemented something she calls the Miracle Bags Program.

“I go to sororities [including her own, Pi Beta Phi], business groups, girl scouts and schools and collect donation items. Each bag [I create] contains a blanket, coloring book, crayons, Play-Doh, and a handwritten card,” said Alyssa. “I then deliver these bags to the patients at Omaha Children’s, and let me tell you, nothing makes a sick child light up like a princess with a bag of goodies!”

To Alyssa, the Miss America Organization presented opportunities for both volunteering and for her own personal growth. It’s a stage for this pianist (and piano teacher) to play for a crowd; it’s a path to scholarships for this college student; it’s a platform for her to share Shayna’s story and encourage others to help pediatric hospital patients.

“I truly believe that EVERY woman can gain so many incredible things from this organization, and Miss Nebraska stands to represent every woman in the state regardless of career, beliefs, appearance or education,” said Alyssa. “As the All-American daughter of a former Marine and the 1981 Miss Iowa Dairy Princess, my upbringing led me to big dreams, big accomplishments and making big differences in the lives of everyone I meet.”

Alyssa Howell isn’t just an advocate for Miss America or for Children’s Miracle Network, she shows what strong, smart, talented women can accomplish when inspired by something as powerful as a little girl’s smile. Just a guess, but I’m betting the feeling is mutual, and that Shayna’s grin will light up the entire North Platte High Auditorium in just three weeks.. as her princess, Miss Douglas County, competes to become the next Miss Nebraska.

(Photo courtesy Studio FBJ)

To find out more about Miss Douglas County 2015 Alyssa Howell’s Miracle Bags Program, and to contact her for appearances and events, email alyssahowellva@gmail.com or click here to visit her Facebook page.

For more information on the Miss Omaha/Douglas County Pageant, click here to visit their website, here to visit them on Facebook, and here to follow on Twitter.

For information on becoming a future contestant, contact Executive Director Marianne Grubaugh at 402-330-8033 or by email at missomahapageant@yahoo.com.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Heartland 2015 Steffani Jiroux

NEXT.. Miss State Fair 2015 Marie Allison

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

She Don’t Coast

Apr9

Complete disclosure: I’m a former Miss Omaha. I’m a current volunteer with the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County pageant, hoping to recruit outstanding young ladies to compete every year. As much as I’d like to be at every local pageant across the state, Miss Omaha is often the only one (other than Miss Nebraska) I can attend.

I was front row for this moment..

..when Miss Nebraska newcomer, Megan Gould, was crowned Miss Omaha 2015, along with Miss Douglas County 2015 Alyssa Howell.

MISS OMAHA 2015 MEGAN GOULD

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“Literally, this was a dream come true,” Megan told me recently. “I had watched pageants for as long as I could remember and finally getting to be a local titleholder for the MISS AMERICA system was an absolute blessing. Little did I know at the time just how much of a blessing it would truly be.”

Megan, an Alliance, Nebraska native and University of Nebraska Lincoln student is now spending more time in the eastern part of the state she likely ever has before. She includes Children’s Miracle Network, Leap-For-A-Cure, Pediatric Cancer Action Network and others among the charities she’s worked with since that crowning moment last fall.

“I have booked myself for more appearances I can count and put in a large number of hours in preparation for Miss Omaha,” said Megan. “I have done appearances ranging from hosting events at bowling alleys to reading to children to Children’s Miracle Network fundraisers to platform presentations. Each appearance is as exciting as the next.”

That platform is Megan’s mission to promote constructive use of social media, or as she calls it, ‘T.H.I.N.K. Before You Post.’

“I see posts on social media sites that have no need being broadcast for the world to see,” explained Megan. “The problem is many social media users do not understand the effects their posts can have on their lives. T.H.I.N.K. is a list of five questions I hope all social media users will ask themselves before making a post on social media: T-is it true? H-is it helpful? I-is it intelligent? N-is it necessary? And K-is it kind?”

Megan notes she’s been traveling across the state to talk about her platform, and the ramifications of poorly using social media. In addition, Megan updates a blog with tips about responsible social media use. (Click here to check out Megan’s blog: My Journey As Miss Omaha 2015.)

“During presentations I emphasize how social media users can use social media to their advantage to market themselves,” said Megan, a Business Marketing major at UNL. In addition to her studies, Megan is also active with her sorority, the Kappa chapter of Chi Omega, and she’s a Nebraska Cornhusker Cheerleader.

“I can be seen on the sidelines of Memorial Stadium in front of 92,000 of the greatest fans of college football, or courtside in the Bob Devaney Sports Center or Pinnacle Bank Arena cheering for volleyball and men’s and women’s basketball,” said Megan. “[We] participate in a collective 200+ hours of community service visiting various schools, nursing homes, grand openings and charity events throughout the Lincoln area and all of Husker Nation.”

So why add to that already busy schedule by adding Miss America to the to-do list?

“One reason is the tremendous amount of scholarship opportunities provided as the Miss America Organization is the #1 scholarship provider of young women in the world,” said Megan. “Another reason is that I love performing and being a titleholder with the Miss America Organization provides me with unlimited opportunities to perform and share my love of dance with others. Additionally, I am given the chance to be very involved with various charities and causes dear to my heart.”

Omaha’s motto is ‘We Don’t Coast’. Here’s a young lady who, like thousands of other college students, could be partying every weekend, napping between classes and simply kicking back for four years. Megan Gould is a cheerleader for life, spreading positive energy and inspiring people around her. SHE don’t coast, and she couldn’t be more proud to represent this city.

“I am thrilled to have this opportunity not only to be a representative and ambassador for the Omaha area but also to get to promote the Miss America Organization,” said Megan. “[To] make appearances throughout the state and have the opportunity to compete for my dream job, Miss Nebraska, this coming June.”

(Photo courtesy Steph’s Studio)

Follow Miss Omaha 2015 Megan Gould

on Twitter, on Instagram, and via Megan’s blog: My Journey As Miss Omaha 2015.

To contact Megan about appearances and events, and for more information on the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County Scholarship Pageant, click here to visit the organization on Facebook, visit the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County Pageant website, and follow on Twitter.

For information on becoming a future contestant, contact Executive Director Marianne Grubaugh at 402-330-8033 or by email at missomahapageant@yahoo.com.

***

PREVIOUS.. Miss Panhandle 2015 Jessica Littlejohn

NEXT.. Miss Kearney Crane Festival 2015 Allison Tietjen

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

Amazing Grace

Apr1

As I talk to each of the young women competing to become Miss Nebraska or Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, I consistently hear about how much they appreciate the friendships and sisterhood that develop from these pageants. Over the years, I’ve seen past competitors reconnecting long after Miss Nebraska is over, some even bridesmaids in each other’s weddings. To me, it speaks volumes of this program, and of a young woman’s character when she is someone her fellow contestants want to be around before, during, and after the competition.

Today’s featured contestant seems to be a friend to everyone, on stage and off.

MISS SCOTTS BLUFF COUNTY’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 GRACE HEGGEM

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“My favorite part of competition is probably the Talent portion, however, I love the ‘behind the scenes’ aspect even more!” Grace told me recently. “I love competing because it is a fantastic opportunity to meet and get to know some amazing young women I would have otherwise never met! I always know that no matter what the outcome of the pageant is, many of the friendships will last much longer than a title.”

L-R: Grace with Miss Western Nebraska’s OT Allison Baird, ‘rocking out’ with Miss Douglas County’s OT Steffany Lien and Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s OT Merrilee Prill, and with Miss Omaha Megan Gould

Grace is also proud of the relationships she’s built in her hometown of Scottsbluff through activities both in and out of school. The 15-year old at Scottsbluff High participates in Key Club, Choir, musical Orchestra, dance, and piano (which she’ll be play for her talent), in addition to competing in volleyball and track.

“I love putting on gowns and heels and walking on a stage, however, I feel just as at home in my tennis shoes and sweats on a crowded bus before a volleyball game,” said Grace. “I love that I can do both and still have a little extra time for some ballet shoes.”

Grace credits the small-town atmosphere of Scottsbluff for allowing her to be so easily involved, an environment that’s also inspired her personal platform, mentoring.

“I love being a mentor to kids in my community because of the trusting, loving relationships it builds,” said Grace. “I love picking them up and taking them out for ice cream or to the park where we can run around and play until we can’t run anymore! Seeing the excitement in their eyes really leaves an impact on me as well. If you just donate a couple of hours of your time every week to a child you see is in need, it really is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on their life.”

You certainly don’t need a crown to be a mentor (“Anyone can be a mentor!” said Grace). So why compete in a pageant? Or, in the case of Grace, who also competed for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen last year, why CONTINUE to compete in pageants? Grace says she was first intrigued by scholarships; in 2014, Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestants were awarded $2,900 in scholarships. That number will increase to $3,600 this year.

“I continue to compete not only for the scholarships but also because {pageants} build great life skills in general,” said Grace. “Public speaking, poise and confidence are just a few of the very important traits this wonderful organization brings out in young women. It is an honor to be a part of it and I hope to be for a long time!”‘

And based on pictures like this..

..I think it’s safe to say her pageant sisters hope Grace Heggem is part of their lives for a long time, too. These girls are still competitors for one stressful, non-stop week this June. They NEED a friend like Grace Heggem; relatable, down-to-earth, ‘fun and classic yet very relaxed’, as Grace described herself.

“Miss America represents the highest ideals. She is a real combination of beauty, grace, and intelligence, artistic and refined.” –Miss America Organization

GRACE. Nebraska’s Grace is ready for North Platte.

Follow Miss Scotts Bluff County’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Grace Heggem

on Instagram, and on Facebook.

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

To contact Grace for appearances and events, and for more information about the Miss Scotts Bluff County’s Outstanding Teen Pageant contact Cheryl Engelhaupt by phone at 308-783-2940 or by email at cengelhaupt@fnbnp.com.

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

***

PREVIOUS.. SPECIAL FEATURE: The Future of Miss Nebraska

NEXT.. Miss Panhandle 2015 Jessica Littlejohn

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

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?

***

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

There’s No Place Like Home

Apr25

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

I. HEART. RASCAL FLATTS.

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

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

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

Miss Douglas County, Megan Swanson

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

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

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

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

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

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

DYNAMIC, COMPETITIVE, CHAMELEON

Here’s another side of Miss Douglas County..

Photos courtesy of Fawn Photography

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

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

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

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

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

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

THERE SHE IS..

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

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

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

Connect with Miss Douglas County Megan Swanson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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