Had a great visit yesterday at the Miss America Organization. I see these people every year at the pageant, (I am a rehearsal host), and we exchange pleasantries but never really get a chance to talk...so this was so nice! Had a lot of fun just dishing about Vegas, the pageant, the history of their program, and of course some business.
When I look out my hotel window at the Atlantic City Boardwalk and think back to where it all began in 1921, I try to picture the people's lives back then. It seems like another planet in some ways. How has The Miss America Organization been around for so long through so many changing times? It's amazing.
Those who say pageants are bad for women are the ones who have usually never been in a pageant. More than ever teens and young women need guidance on social skills, charm, personal presentation, cultivation of talent, education, and giving back to the community. American Idol has lasted 11 years so far...when they've made it to 91 yrs, then we'll be impressed!
The one criticism I would have of this organization is that at times it has seemed "out of reach" perhaps to the average girl. I was too intimidated to enter as a young woman. However, for the past 6 years they have had the Outstanding Teen Program which encourages involvement starting at age 15. As a judge for this organization in Nevada, I've seen some very young, nervous, but bright teens grow each year as they compete. You can compete in each pageant more than once. The self discovery these young women experience is fulfilling to see!
Laura Kaeppeler, Miss America 2012.....Check out her Youtube updates...
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| Miss New Jersey Pageant, Ocean City 6/12 |
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