Tag Archive | morgan holen

When I See You Smile

There are some people in the world who can literally light up a room with their smile. Take one of my best friends, Melissa.. no matter where we are or what time we are at in our lives, her smile makes everyone around her smile. She is PURE JOY, pure sheer goodness, and that positivity just radiates out of her.

My best friends and I at Omaha Fashion Week. Melissa is the hottie second from the right. Thanks to Herb Thompson for the photo!

I first saw the young lady you’re about to meet when she competed in the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County’s Outstanding Teen pageant last fall, where she finished 1st Runner Up. From that night on, I continued to follow her over social media through the pageant where she would win her own title, and I don’t think this teen HAS EVER STOPPED SMILING.

MISS PLATTE VALLEY’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 EMMA KATE BROWN

(Photo courtesy J Allen Photography)

Now, as I read my interview with Emma Kate and see what’s behind that smile, her attitude not only inspires me.. she’s kinda knocking my socks off. Emma Kate is fighting two chronic illnesses, Type 1 Diabetes and Celiac Disease.

“I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease when I was three years old, so we’ve been doing gluten free at our house before it was trendy,” joked Emma Kate. “I cannot eat wheat, barley, oats, malt or flour.” (For more on what Celiac Disease is, click here to read my interview with Miss Crane Festival 2014 & Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2012 Lianna Prill.)

Emma Kate has also been an ambassador for Diabetes awareness and research long before her pageant days, appearing on KETV First News for an interview with John Oakey several years ago.

“Something else unique about me is my love for public speaking! I had a great time talking with John Oakey and showing him my dance moves,” said Emma Kate. “I wasn’t nervous a bit, but I do think my interview skills have improved.”

She’s getting plenty of practice; Emma Kate is also a youth ambassador for the JDRF (formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).

Emma Kate: ‘Had a great time this morning volunteering for my favorite group, the JDRF. Met this little girl who was diagnosed with diabetes two months ago. She inspires me by how strong she is facing such a life changing disease. Loved getting to talk about my story and hearing hers.’

“My platform is turning Type 1 into Type None and it is about raising awareness and funding for a cure to Type 1 Diabetes,”
said Emma Kate. “[It] allows me to tell my story to businesses in the area. I also volunteer at JDRF events throughout the year.”

(For more about Diabetes and fundraising efforts in the Omaha area, click here to read my interview with former Husker Jay Foreman regarding his work with the Foreman Foundation, as well as Diabetes services through Nebraska Medicine.)

Until I heard about all of this from Emma Kate during our interview, I had NO IDEA she faced challenges like this. The 16-year old junior at Elkhorn South High School is on the go NONSTOP, participating on the dance team, in show choir, concert choir, in speech and in National Honor Society. This year alone, Emma Kate starred in Shrek the Musical as Princess Fiona, and took part in a grueling competition schedule with Elkhorn South Blackout (the varsity show choir), including trips to regionals and then nationals in Chicago.

And off stage, when she’s not volunteering, there’s yet ANOTHER side to this girl.

“Even thought I am super focused and goal-driven, I love to get lost in a great book,” said Emma Kate. “I love the ‘Matched’ series, the ‘Selection’ series and the ‘Red Queen’ series. One of my proudest moments would be when I recently got a group of my friends to start reading as much as I do. Now we talk about books at our lunch table and it’s so much fun.”

One of those friends is Emma Kate’s fellow dance team member and Blackout star, Morgan Holen, the current Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

“Morgan encouraged me to compete in an upcoming pageant. I was hooked after my first pageant experience in November. I was so impressed by the whole organization that I knew I wanted to take part in it,” said Emma Kate. “I enjoy meeting like-minded, successful girls my age and learning about their platforms and experiences. All the girls are so kind and I have made lifelong friends.”

That is Emma Kate’s message to other teens who may read this; she wants to encourage them just as Morgan encouraged her.

“This program is relevant because there are more girls like me and other contestants who can benefit from the scholarships, volunteer opportunities and sisterhood of the pageants.”

I agree with Emma Kate on the positives that come from the Miss America Organization. I DISAGREE with her that there are other girls like her. That smile is simply one of a kind; welcoming, full of life, excited about what every day could bring. She’s got ‘Outstanding’ on that sash for a reason.. and Emma Kate Brown is ready to prove it in North Platte.

(Photo courtesy Deyo’s Photography)

Follow Miss Platte Valley’s Outstanding Teen Emma Kate Brown, and contact Emma Kate for appearances or events via Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter.

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

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Northwest 2015 LaRissa McKean

NEXT.. Miss Gering 2015 Kaylee Carlberg

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.

Special Feature: The Future of Miss Nebraska

Mar30

For 90 years, one young woman in our state has annually been crowned Miss Nebraska.

90 YEARS.

This tradition, recognizing one of the most talented, intelligent, striking women in the state and sending that representative to the Miss America Pageant, has taken place through six wars, through national crises, through times of celebration and times of despair. Behind every state pageant, and behind every Miss Nebraska who joins the sisterhood, there have been state directors, a person or two who help guide that young woman through deadlines, paperwork, wardrobe needs, appearances and more.. all without much, if any, time in the spotlight.

For the past seven years, Jay and Amy Engel, have held that role. They announced this weekend this year’s Miss Nebraska pageant will be their last as Executive Directors.

“We started out as a host family for the pageant {in 1995}. We realized the amazing things this program was doing for young women and wanted to become involved,” said Jay Engel via a press release issued Monday. “Between the two of us we had many jobs over the last 20 years-from writing the script to being Executive Directors.”

On the Engels’ watch, Miss Nebraska winners have taken home tens of thousands of dollars in scholarship money. Donors have stepped forward to support these women during their years of service financially, with vehicles, wardrobes, and services. The Engels’ Miss Nebraska’s have also soared to the top at Miss America; Brittany Jeffers-Hannema was Nebraska’s first Top 10 finalist since 1983. Kayla Batt-Jacox won preliminary talent and Miss Congeniality awards. And of course, the Engels also crowned, and mentored, Nebraska’s first and only Miss America, Teresa Scanlan.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to meet the variety of people across the state & across the nation because of our involvement with the pageant,” said Amy Engel. “We are thankful for the support of our board, volunteers and the community of North Platte.”

Jay and Amy Engel are leaving some VERY big shoes to fill. The two women, named as new Executive Directors, are READY to step up in their Manolos and continue this trajectory making Miss Nebraska and this pageant viable, relevant and successful.

KAYLA JACOX and RACHEL DALY, newly named Miss Nebraska Pageant Executive Directors

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“Having both been former competitors in the Miss Nebraska Pageant, we both hold a certain relationship with the program and only want to see it succeed,” Kayla and Rachel told me recently. “We think we have the potential to bring fresh ideas to the organization. We obviously strive to continue to grow and strengthen the program by implementing and supporting more local pageants, creating relationships with new and potential sponsors, and maintaining connections with our longtime sponsors.”

Currently this ‘dynamic duo’ works together as Co-Executive Directors of the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, a partnership that bloomed from friendship while both women competed in the Miss America system.

2008, Kayla had just been crowned Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen and Rachel finished 1st Runner Up to Miss Nebraska.

“We’ve both been through the ringer,” said Kayla and Rachel. “We have been the ones competing, working our butts off for swimsuit, participating in mock interviews, focusing on platform work and community service. How cool would it be to have directors, who just years ago were in your shoes?”

Now in their third year leading the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen program, Kayla and Rachel say they both bring strengths to their partnership that have helped to build an organization only in it’s 10th year nationally.

“Rachel has been the paperwork, parental and contestant contact, keeper of the budget planning, etc, while I prep things for state pageant on the producer side of things, contacting formers, etc,” said Kayla. “Together we’ve had three teen titleholders go through this process with us and we’ve learned an incredible amount from both the teens and their families and have also developed a well functioning system of running this pageant.”

These two have ALSO had success at the helm; they crowned and coached Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014 Morgan Holen, who finished in the Top 5 at the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, a FIRST for Nebraska. They consider their move to the Miss Nebraska Pageant as a way to continue their work on a larger scale.

The task at hand is not an easy one; as I’ve touched on previously contestant participation across the state seems to be decreasing in recent years. Kayla and Rachel confirm that nationally these numbers have dropped, as well as lower ratings numbers for Miss America. They call these stats motivation.

“We have watched many competitions and competition shows adapt to audience appeal and attraction, and we think that’s important. People need to get excited about the program again, excited about the opportunities it can provide to our members of society and {to be} proud to have women like this in our state,” said Kayla and Rachel. “What makes it challenging is doing so while maintaining the culture and history of the Miss America Organization. Miss America is viewed as an American tradition, and it sometimes feels as though the traditional things aren’t always the exciting things anymore.”

One of the ways these women intend to build that excitement is to embrace social media. They’ve already drawn more than 1,000 likes to the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen organization’s Facebook page and hundreds more followers on Twitter.

“These, among other social media tools, are the stomping ground of our country’s youth,” said Kayla and Rachel. “We plan on continuing to use these tools to reach people, attract interest from a competition standpoint by showing what our contestants are doing and accomplishing, and turn around and promote those who support us.”

But if you don’t know these contestants.. if you didn’t know Kayla and Rachel back when they dazzled the audience with their talent and beauty, WHY should you care about Miss Nebraska?

Here are two reasons why, within the answers from these young women, working and married (Rachel with her second baby on the way!), about why they want to take on this new role.

“Simply put, I love helping people,” said Kayla. “It’s part of my nature to serve as a mentor and give to people. I love the idea that I will be a person for the new Miss Nebraskas to look to for support, opinions and knowledge.”

“My husband and I have always agreed that everyone should do something, other than your income-drive job, to give back and help build your community and/or state,” said Rachel. “Being a volunteer for the Miss Nebraska Organization is my ‘something’. Miss Nebraska is all about spotlighting, nourishing and helping to grow the exact type of people we want more of in our society; successful, driven, educated role models who focus on volunteering and helping those who need it.”

Evidence of the character, and drive for service the young women who compete in this program exhibit, people who are helped along the way by volunteers like Jay and Amy Engel. This couple has given countless hours helping young women with varied backgrounds and interests pay their way through college, improve life and career skills, and blossom into incredible people.

This June, everything will come full circle. After 20 years of devotion to this program, the Engels will pass on the torch to two of the young women they once helped. Kayla and Rachel will take that, hoping to light the way for another generation of Miss Nebraska contestants and winners.

On behalf of former contestants everywhere who have participated in this program, THANK YOU, Jay and Amy, for taking Miss Nebraska to the next level and building this strong foundation for future success. To Kayla and Rachel, CONGRATULATIONS and GOOD LUCK; the sky is the limit.

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

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

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

NEXT.. Miss Scotts Bluff County’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Grace Heggem

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

Just Add Glitter

Mar29

We are only four contestants in to this year’s series profiling the 2015 Miss Nebraska/Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen contestants, and I am already seeing a trend.. ENERGY. Nonstop energy.
School. Activities. Volunteering. Leave when it’s dark, come home when it’s dark. NEVER stop smiling.

Maybe it’s this 34-year old body. Maybe it’s being a momma to two little boys who never stop running (and I thank God everyday for that.) Maybe it’s because my Scooters mug is never quite full enough. But I am exhausted FOR these girls; WHERE do they find their energy?

Case in point, today’s featured titleholder is participating in ten extra-curricular activities. TEN.

MISS WESTERN NEBRASKA’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 ALLISON BAIRD

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“I spend long days and evenings at {Gering High School} making sure every project is finished and every speech is practiced,” Allison told me recently. “I’m lucky if I see my parents some days, and although it’s overwhelming I wouldn’t have it any other way. I never feel like I’m spread too thin because nothing feels like work.”

Fun or not, Allison is involved in A LOT. (Again, TEN different activities in and out of school!) She’s involved at church, in Cheer/Dance, Student Council, Key Club, Girls State (one of two selected to represent western Nebraska), Varsity Show Choir, Drama, Speech, she’s the editor-in-chief of the school paper, and recent national qualifier for DECA.

How could this girl possibly fit one more thing in her schedule? And why?

“The opportunity to be able to represent my favorite state at Miss America, the chance to grow as a person, meet new people and share my ideas is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Allison. “I’m competing for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen because I want to be able to expand what I’ve been able to do with my local title across the entire state.”

When Allison was crowned Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, she didn’t just dream of big things, she immediately kicked off a plan to make big things happen.

“My platform is Digital Citizenship: Learning To Live Responsibly Online. In an increasingly growing technology-using society, it’s naive to think we can get away from it,” said Allison. “Sure, there are negative effects to use of internet, social media in particular, but rather than pretending it doesn’t exist, or fearing it, it’s time we embrace the use of technology by educating youth, teens and adults on how to ‘live’ online respectfully, responsibly and safely.”

“Digital Citizenship isn’t only about recognizing and dealing with online hazards,” said Allison. “{It’s} about building safe spaces and communities, understanding how to manage your personal information and about being internet savvy, using your online presence to grow and shape your world in a safe, creative way and inspiring others to do the same.”

THIS is what Allison wants to talk about, and one of the reasons she says Interview is her favorite part of the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen competition.

“I love how vulnerable this particular part of the competition is,” said Allison. “It’s the one time that the judges get to see the real, raw me. I can share the passions, goals and aspirations I have. No rehearsal, no preparation, just me. I love that.”

So who is Allison Baird at the end of the day? When this high school junior closes her speech notes, puts away her crown, and adds another DECA trophy to her shelf, who is she really?

“All of these activities have made me who I am today, but underneath everything, I’m still just a normal teenage girl,” said Allison. “Netflix and sweatpants are my best friend on a free Saturday night (on the rare occasion there is one).”

I’ll have to disagree with Allison here. Normal? No. Exceptional? For sure. Allison also competed for Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen last year, and finished 1st Runner-Up. Soon after, here’s what she posted on Facebook:

“THIS is why I love pageants. The sisterhood is so strong. Win or lose, even after the crown is gone, these girls are forever.”

Graceful. Positive. EXCEPTIONAL.

“The Miss America Organization and the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen {pageant} specifically are empowering the women of our state and country’s future,” said Allison. “{This is} a program that fosters scholastic achievement, creative accomplishment, healthy living and community involvement in the future leaders, the movers and shakers across the state of Nebraska. Who wouldn’t want to support that?”

So maybe with Allison, and all of these girls, the question isn’t about energy, it’s about MAKEUP. No, not MAC or Sephora… young women like Allison Baird are made of GLITTER; they don’t buckle under pressure, they thrive on it. They don’t crash, they fly. They don’t sweat, they sparkle. And Gering, Nebraska is sending a shining star to North Platte.

Follow Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Allison Baird

on Instagram, and on Twitter.

Click here for a special profile on Allison posted on the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page!

To contact Allison for appearances and events, please visit the Miss Western Nebraska/Miss Gering Pageant on Facebook.

For more information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Kyla Ansley by phone at 308-631-0938 or by email at kyla_ansley@hotmail.com.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Marie Kliewer

NEXT.. **SPECIAL FEATURE** The Future of Miss Nebraska

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.

Kill ‘Em With Kindness

Jul16

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

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

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

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

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

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

Morgan

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

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

Morgan crowned

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

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

high school

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

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

fam

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

Morgan competing in 2012.

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

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

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

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

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

rotary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blown Away

Jun12

Yeah. Blown away. ME.

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

HOLY. CRAP.

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

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

Miss Nebraska 2014 Megan Swanson

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

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

The 2014 Miss Nebraska Top 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Miss Nebraska Award Winners..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Whatevs. Thanks for reading 🙂

THE KERRI STRUG AWARD FOR BEING BOSS

Remember Kerri Strug, and this historic Olympic moment?

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

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

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

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THE CHARLIZE THERON DROP DEAD GORGEOUS AWARD(s)

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

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

chrissy

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

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

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THE JILLIAN MICHAELS AWARD FOR BEING ABLE TO CRUSH THINGS

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

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

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

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

…..

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

HOLY. CRAP.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Judge me. Whatevs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Feature, Nebraska’s Outstanding Teens

May11

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

Yup. I posted that.

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

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

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

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

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

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Alliance, BreaHanna Harlow

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

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

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

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

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

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Chadron, Allie Boggs

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

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

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

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

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

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Crane Watch, Shelbe Stroh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Gering, Caylen Calderon

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

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

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

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

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Northwest, Chelsea Arnold

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Omaha, Morgan Holen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Panhandle, Alexis McGlone

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

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

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

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

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

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Scotts Bluff County, Allison Baird

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

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

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

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Western Nebraska, Grace Heggem

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2013, Samantha Washington

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

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

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

WHO WILL BE NEXT?

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Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014 will be crowned June 7, 2014 in North Platte.

For more information, check out the organization online or on Facebook.

You can also follow the organization on Twitter.

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Omaha! Omaha!

Apr14

DISCLAIMER: Omaha’s my town. Ok, Papillion is actually my hometown, but Omaha is my ADOPTIVE town. (I have dual citizenship.)

I’ve been a volunteer with the Miss Omaha organization for a few years now, so I know Miss Omaha and her fellow titleholders Miss Douglas County and Miss River City a little better than I know some of the others. I’ve been following one of these young women ever since she competed as a teenager back in 2011. The first night I saw her compete, I remember this tiny little girl walking on stage, opening her mouth to sing.. and my jaw DROPPING in awe of her voice.

Miss Omaha, Payton Merritt

This young woman is not only on a mission to win the title of Miss Nebraska in June, but to shatter every stereotype about pageants along the way.

“My job isn’t about outer beauty, but compassion and intellect,” said Payton, who recently received nearly a full-ride scholarship to Creighton University. “I want others to see that and understand that not everyone is simply seeking a place in the spotlight, but that we truly want to make a difference.”

As Miss Omaha, Payton is waging war against eating disorders, something she says she has personal experience with.

“It is not always the easiest thing to talk about, and the fact that it isn’t so is the exact reason I am doing it,” said Payton. “It was difficult for me to choose this as my platform because of the shame I had felt for so long, but ultimately, I came to the conclusion that I needed to set a precedent for others suffering. It is my hope to let people know it is okay to talk about and reach out for help, but also to make friends and family members aware of the severity and warning signs.”

I asked Payton, as I did all of the contestants, if Lifestyle and Fitness, aka the swimsuit competition, should remain part of the Miss Nebraska pageant?

“Many illnesses can be prevented from establishing healthy eating habits and exercise routines,” said Payton. “To me, fitness in swimsuit is about working to become the best you can be inside and out and truly loving and embracing yourself and your body as God created it to be.”

Payton with Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen Morgan Holen at Omaha’s St. Patrick’s Day parade

Payton graduated a semester early from Lincoln East High School in December, and travels to Omaha frequently to take part in events. Most recently, she sang the national anthem for the University of Nebraska-Omaha baseball game versus Kansas State. (Click here to watch.. and listen!)

“I am young and have a lot to learn, and that openness to learning allows me to relate to a broad spectrum of people, tirelessly devote myself to a multitude of causes, and to fully embody the job and mission this title brings,” said Payton.

BELIEVER

“My faith tells me that I am exactly where I need to be,” said Payton. “I believe in the power of one person, but more importantly, I believe in the power of one person and an organization as prestigious and respected as the Miss America Organization.”

The Super Bowl may be over.. but the Super Bowl of pageants is about to begin. THIS Payton is ready for Miss Nebraska.

Connect with Miss Omaha, Payton Merritt

on Facebook, on Twitter, and via the Miss Omaha website

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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