Miss America

Hey all!

I just returned from a fabulous week in Vegas for Miss America 2012.  Congratulations to the new Miss America, Laura Kaeppeler from Wisconsin.  I'd also like to say congratulations to our own Miss New Hampshire for her stellar performance.  I had such a great time supporting New Hampshire, reconnecting with old friends, and meeting new people.  I miss it.  In light of the recent pageant, I decided to blog a bit about Miss America.

The emphasis of the Miss America Organization is on Scholarship, Style, Service, and Success.  This is a completely volunteer run, non-profit organization and is the world's largest provider of scholarships for women.  Over $45 million was made available last year at national, state, and local levels!  Contestants must choose a personal platform that is relevant to our society and work in their community through volunteerism, fundraising, media appearances, and public speaking while working with business and civic leaders to create positive change.  Contestants also support the Miss America Organization's own partnership with the Children's Miracle Network, acting as an ambassador for this program while fundraising for Children's Hospitals.  The Children's Miracle Network funds pediatric research, purchases new equipment, and pays for uncompensated care.  The Miss America local, state, and national competitions include a 10-minute interview that covers everything from current events to personal platform, community service, academic activities, hobbies, etc.  This pageant also includes a 90-second talent, an on-stage question, an evening gown portion, and a lifestyle/fitness in swimsuit competition.  Miss America is aired on ABC. 

(here is a lovely video of our new Miss America prior to being crowned)

I'm thrilled to represent the Miss America Organization as Miss Strafford County, and I am very much looking forward to competing in Miss New Hampshire April 26-28th.  Get in touch with me for ticket info.  See you there!

If you or anybody you know is interested in being part of this awesome organization, check out http://www.missnh.com/ to learn more and get involved as a volunteer or contestant. 

~Lauren Carter