PACIFICPageants Magazine May/June 2012

MAY/JUNE ISSUE 2012

Pacificpageants.com

Winning Wardrobe “What NOT To Wear!”

Ms WA Laura Hunter Opens up about the Ms America Pageant

PACIFIC Spotlight Stories From ALL 3 states!

“Make Me a Cover Model”

Winner

Cheyanne Garcia

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Contents

Magazine 5 The Mission behind the Magazine Editor’s Notes Latasha Raines

7 Contest Spotlight Stories 20 “Make Me a Cover Model” Winner Cheyanne Garcia Cover Story

28 Interview 101 Tom Lamoureux

36 Laura Hunter, Ms America Feature Story

41 Winning Wardrobe 72 BUILDING your body BETTER Health & Fitness Bekah Baker

75 Ask Laura Laura Hunter

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Credits

Magazine Editor In Chief Latasha Raines www.latashamae.com

Interview 101 Editor Tom Lamoureux

Health & Fitness Editor Bekah Baker www.bekahbaker.com

Ask Laura

Laura Hunter www.beyondphotography.net

Magazine & Website Design B7 Designs, LLC www.b7designs.com

Cover & Feature Editorial Photography Winning Wardrobe Photography Monica Berginc m_berginc@yahoo.com

Cover & Feature Editorial Hair & Makeup Winning Wardrobe Hair & Makeup Alisa Clark www.monaalisapro.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/monaalisapro

Model Division models@pacificpageants.com Send us Pageant News & Tips tips@pacificpageants.com General Inquiries & Questions info@pacificpageants.com Career Opportunities editorinchief@pacificpageants.com Advertise ad_sales@pacificpageants.com Ad Production ad_production@pacificpageants.com Get Spotlighted spotlight@pacificpageants.com Subscription Questions info@pacificpageants.com “Ask Laura� info@pacificpageants.com 4 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

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Editor’s Notes

Latasha Raines

The Mission The mission of PACIFICPageants is to make pageantry BIG in the northwest and to put pageantry in our region on the map. Our magazine and website will exclusively highlight everyThe aspect of the pageant industry within the states mission of PACIFICPageants is to ofmake pageantry BIG in the northwest and to put Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

We seek to create a repageantry in our region on the map. Our magazine and website will exclusively highlight every source for those new to pageantry or already immersed in aspect for of the thelatest pageant industry thethat states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. We seek to this industry fashion ideas, tipswithin and news resource for those new towithin pageantry only create reflects apageant-benefitting businesses OUR or already immersed in this industry for the latest own fashion states! Why should youand havenews to winthat a national title ideas, tips only reflects pageant-benefitting businesses within OUR own beforestates! you areWhy recognized or seen in a quality publication? should you have to win a national title before you are recognized or seen in a Why should a young lady competing in Oregon have to look quality publication? Why should a young lady competing in Oregon have to look on the east on the east coast for her perfect gown when we have designcoast for her gown designers and retailers right here?! Our hope is that ers and retailers rightperfect here?! Our hopewhen is thatwe we have begin to begin on to the make thea local and regional level a big deal and boost the pageant makewe pageantry localpageantry and regionalon level big deal and boost the pageant economy at home.PACIFICPageants PACIFICPageconomy right at right home. is YOU. PACIFICPageants is me. eantsPACIFICPageants is YOU. PACIFICPageants is me.

PACIFICPageants is is US. This is not about blonde hair and world peace; we are about US. This is not about blonde hair and world peace; we are with PASSION who have a PURPOSE! aboutPEOPLE, PEOPLE, with PASSION who have a PURPOSE!

The Mission

May/June Issue May/June Issue

I have been so excited to reveal this issue! A LOT of work and creativity was put into the

I have been so excited to reveal this issue! A LOT of work formatting Many things to this issue, kicking off with our “Make Me a and creativity wasand put editing. into the formatting and contributed editing.

Model” Facebook This contest served two purposes: 1) to get the buzz ManyCover things contributed to this issue,voting kicking contest! off with our “Make Me a about Cover Model” Facebook voting going our publication andcontest!

2) to This allow you, our readers and fans to choose who YOU contest served two purposes: 1) to get the buzz going about wanted to see on this issue’s cover! This contest took us from 250 Facebook fans to 1800 and our publication and 2) to allow you, our readers and fans you who chose thetoamazing girl! IThis think we have all heard the phrase “pageants are won to choose YOUquite wanted see on thiscover issue’s cover! in took interview.”

Well how you look when you walk into that interview is half the battle! So we contest us from 250 Facebook fans to 1800 and you chosetook quite a thedifferent amazing cover thinkWinning we have allWardrobe heard spingirl! onI our fashion spread this issue, we decided to do a the phrase are won interview.”

Welltohow you look when Some you walk interview the you battle!

So we but What“pageants TO Wear andinWhat NOT Wear theme! ofinto thethat photos mayis half make laugh, took a different spin on our Winning Wardrobe fashion spread this issue, we decided to do a What TO Wear and What trust me, we have ALL seen these wardrobe mistakes and the last place you want to mess up is NOT to Wear theme! Some of the photos may make you laugh, but trust me, we have ALL seen these wardrobe mistakes in last interview!

We to have spotlight on spotlight some amazing women, teens andteens even a and the place you want messseveral up is in interview!

We stories have several stories on some amazing women, toddler is featured thisissue!! issue!!

I it’s know easy flip to all the pictures, and even a toddler is featured in in this I know easy it’s to just flip totoalljust the pretty pictures, butpretty I strongly encouragebut I you tostrongly actually read our content because it’s powerful and it’s not just my words, it’s YOUR words and words from people encourage you to actually read our content because it’s powerful and it’s not just my you know.

Last note, make sure you subscribe to receive our PRINT version which will be available starting in July 2012! words, it’s YOUR words and words from people you know. Last note, make sure you subscribe

toyou receive our PRINT which be available Thank for helping me makeversion pageantry BIG inwill the northwest!

starting in July 2012!

Thank you for helping me make pageantry BIG in the northwest!

Latasha Raines PACIFICPageants Magazine | 5

6 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

“Make me a Cover Model”

CONTEST!!

VOTING TOOK PLACE ON

APRIL 10-16!

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“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

I was hoping to promote Breast Cancer Awareness by spreading the word, and inviting people to join Queens for a Cure in the fight against Breast Cancer. Komen Puget Sound gives 75% of their proceeds right back here to people in OUR community with Breast Cancer; the other 25% goes to research. I am proud of what Queens for a Cure is doing, and wants to get this program as much publicity as possible.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

I was nine years old and running out of places to perform. My grandmother searched for youth theatre programs but was unsuccessful in finding a good fit for me.

We decided that we would try a pageant in hopes of receiving a talent award, and I received first runner up over all.

As a competitive person, I wanted to get better so that the next time I could go home with a scholarship, and a title.

Working hard over the next year, I made great friendships with two families, and ended up becoming reigning royalty with Deidra Morris and Katelynne Cox, who then convinced me to keep at it. Ten years later, I completely blame them for keeping me involved!

PPM: What is your Platform or cause? Why did you choose it?

My platform is The Naked Truth about Breast Cancer. I believe that everyone deserves a chance at a healthy life.

Since my life was so dependent on a single mom growing up, I took comfort in knowing that she would always be there. I have a family history of breast cancer on my mother’s paternal AND maternal sides of the family. I knew that this impacted several families, but when I saw a close friend lose her mom to breast cancer, I knew I had to fight; I couldn’t bear to go through what she went through. An 11 year old that I mentored in the Pinecone Princess program as Miss Washington’s Outstanding Teen in 2008, Kennedy 8 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

Victoria Knight

also had a family history. She and I started this program, Queens for a Cure to mentor girls & women, and fight to save the 1 in 8 women who will be diagnosed in their lifetime.

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

I LOVE INTERVIEW! Speaking about what I am passionately working for, and preparing for interview are two of my favorite things. I also love talent. Singing in front of an audience is a truly exciting feeling. I would have to say using my voice in any capacity. I believe God gave me a voice to speak, sing, and motivate, and I hope I am using it well!

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants?

I was fifteen years old, and had been winning consistently in the state of Washington, I remember this moment CLEAR AS DAY! I went to nationals for a pageant, and had been successful in the optional categories, and walked on stage with a cocky attitude, knowing I would do well in the overall finals! Unfortunately, or fortunately, God decided to use this experience to humble me. I was not called in the top ten. Now, I have always been taught that it is never okay to cry because I “lose”, and I knew that I had counted my chickens a little early. My family saw my disappointment, but knew that it was EXACTLY what I needed in that moment. I have looked at pageantry SO differently since that day, and have learned more from every time I left without the title, than when I left with a crown. I pray each time I compete to “let the RIGHT person for the job shine, and for God’s will to be done on that stage”, I always hope to do my best, and yes, to win, but I know that the plan involved is much bigger than my plan for myself.

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title(s)?

I would say getting amazing networking opportunities ...continued on next page

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hopes of heading on to become Miss Washington 2013. In addition to pageant prep, I am studying communications, and non-profit management in college at the University of Washington- Tacoma. I hope to someday work for an organization in charitable event coordination, or development (cough cough, Seahawks!!!). I know that wherever I end up, I will speak, help others, and make a difference doing what I love. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me.

is the BIGGEST chance I have been given with the titles I have had. I have met several amazing people who have bettered my life. Whether it was with NAM, Cinderella, American Coed, IJM, Outstanding Teen, MAO, Daffodil, or Queens for a Cure, I have always met at least ONE great resource every title I have had, or system I have been involved with.

PPM: What is next for you?! Future plans?

I will be running in a local program for Miss Washington, and if I win I will continue on to the state pageant next year. If I do not win that local, I will be doing some opens, in

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“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

Maddy Monlux

National American Miss Oregon Preteen

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

I entered this contest because I thought it would be a great way to promote my pageant, my volunteer projects, and of course I thought it would be really fun to be on the cover of a magazine.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

My first pageant was actually National American Miss. I was 6 years old and SO shy. I received a letter in the mail inviting me to participate in the pageant.

My parents weren’t so sure about it, but after 2 weeks of begging, they gave in. I placed first runner up to the princess queen and won casual wear modeling, however, the most important thing I gained was confidenceI came out of my shell. I can honestly say that pageantry has changed my life for the better. Soon after competing, I was signed with a modeling agency. My first job was a national ad campaign! I also discovered how fun it was to do community service. I began volunteering with the Oregon beach clean ups sponsored by S.O.L.V and the Ronald McDonald House. At the age of 7, I was chosen as the youngest student to speak to the Portland Mayor and his committee at a televised City Council meeting about the importance of youth volunteerism. This was a turning point for me, as I discovered my love of public speaking.

PPM: What is your Platform or cause? Why did you choose it?

I have many causes that are important to me, but animal rights is the one most dear to my heart. At the age of 4, I made the choice to become the only vegetarian in my entire family. I have a love of ALL animals; however, gorillas are my favorite. My platform for the last few years has been gorilla conservation. My ambition is to become a pri10 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

matologist and work with gorillas. When I’m old enough, I plan to go on a gorilla trek in Africa! I raised over $1,000 for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund by selling stuffed gorillas that each came with an adoption certificate and its own unique African name. I was invited to the annual luncheon held in New York City in October where I presented my check to the President and CEO of the foundation. I even got to meet one of my idols, actress Sigourney Weaver, who played Dian Fossey in the movie “Gorillas In The Mist” and has volunteered for the foundation for many years. I was also named an honorary board member.

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

I get most excited for interview and on stage personal introduction because this is where you can let the judges get to know you and what things are important to you.

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants? ...continued on next page

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The greatest lesson I have learned is that it’s not all about winning the sparkly crown, banner, and title. It’s about what you chose to do with that title. I have met many incredible girls across the nation through pageantry. The one that taught me this lesson is a girl named Olivia Wright from Tennessee that I met at a national pageant in 2008.

She is the kindest, most giving girl that I have ever met. She spends most of her free time volunteering, and even started her own non-profit organization called H.U.G.S. (help us get shoes) that has now spread all across the United States.

She taught me that you are NEVER too young to make a difference in the world. Besides the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, I also enjoy volunteering for The Oregon Humane Society, The Ronald McDonald House, Oregon S.O.L.V., and many more organizations. A couple months before my reign began, I was also elected President of the Kiwanis Kids, which is a kid’s chapter of Kiwanis and focuses on community service projects. We raised money for Haiti, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, made blankets for kitties at the Oregon Humane Society, cleaned up our school grounds, collected winter coats for kids in need, and much more. I was blessed to place 2nd runner up in the nation for the volunteer service award at my national pageant last November.

there, I was also asked to help out as a dog «jumper» for the K-9 NW Challenge, which fittingly was raising money for canine cancer research. Of course, the highlight of my year was my trip to New York for the Dian Fossey Fund Luncheon. That was a memory I will never forget. Around the same time, me and my sister queen, Deja got to meet all of the American Idol judges when they came to Portland for the televised auditions. We got pictures with each of them and autographs too. J-Lo was so BEAUTIFUL! PPM: What is next for you? Future plans?

Many more pageants! I’m so happy that more pageant systems are finally coming to Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest! Your magazine will help spread the word about all of these pageants and also show the positive side of pageantry. My plan is to come back to compete at National American Miss when I age up to the Jr Teen division in 2014, but in the mean time, I plan to try out some of the other amazing pageants. One day, my dream is to become Miss America!

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title(s)?

I have had so many amazing opportunities this year because of my title. Of course there have been parades and appearances, but there are several that I will never forget.

Shortly after winning my title, I got to meet all of the top 10 American Idol Finalists when they came on tour to Portland. I got photos with, and autographs of all of them, and was then chosen to interview Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina for the KUPL radio station. It was so much fun! I asked them if the rumors were true that they were dating. They said no, but they were sure grinning like a yes! I had a great time at the Washington National American Miss Pageant helping out as visiting royalty and cheering for my friends. I was also asked to judge the kid›s talent show at the Oregon State Fair and had a blast. While PACIFICPageants Magazine | 11

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“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

Abby Pluedeman Miss Oregon American Jr. Teenager

new friends. I love knowing that I have made friendships that could possibly last a lifetime!

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants?

Pageants have opened a world of what it means to be a role model! I have loved learning how to be graceful, but most importantly I have learned self-confidence.

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title?

I have opportunities to raise money for domestic violence, as well as created a raffle to raise money. I travel the state and even the country to various pageants, seeing our country along the way!

PPM: What is next for you?! Future plans?

I will be competing for the title of Miss American Jr. Teenager in November in Maryland. In the future I plan to pursue a career as a professional dance choreographer.

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

I entered it to promote my new title as Miss Oregon American Jr. Teenager, it is a new Pageant for Oregon and I am honored to be the inaugural title holder.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

I was going through my mom’s old high school yearbooks and discovered she was in pageants. I wanted to follow in her footsteps; funny part is now she is following in mine because now she competes again and I love having a hobby we share.

PPM: What is your Platform or cause? Why did you choose it?

I want to speak out against domestic violence and bulling as I feel they go hand-in-hand with what youth can learn from adults. The importance of this issue has become even more front page with social media.

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

It is an amazing gift to meet new people and make PACIFICPageants Magazine | 13

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“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

I entered the contest for two reasons. The first being I have always been told I am too short to be a model. I wanted to show other “vertically challenged” gals that no matter how tall you are you can be a model. Modeling is about being able to capture an audience by a look in your eyes and your ability to convey an emotion on film.

It’s allowing people into your soul through a picture. I think we ALL can do that! That is why I respect PPM, they are an organization that does not put women in a box.

It is a platform for women of all shapes and sizes to express their God given beauty. I want to be a part of that. The second reason is I wanted to share my pageant testimony to encourage others and gain some momentum to promote my platform for the upcoming Mrs. America pageant.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

When I was ten years old, I competed in my first pageant.

I placed well, but was not able to continue on due to our family finances. I then made competing in a national pageant one of my lifetime goals. As a teenager, I fell madly in love with my husband and put all of my time into him!

That worked out well for our marriage but not my pageant career. Then after I had my youngest, I came across The Mrs. Washington America pageant. I had just lost most of my baby weight, and thought I would give it a try. That was in 2007, I was 4th runner up, and became hooked! Not only on the experience of challenging myself and getting to wear beautiful clothing, but I also found a deep connection to Lord through meeting my fellow pageant sisters. This organization was a great fit for me also to encourage others about health and wellness, something I also feel very passionate about.

Jessica Riggs

Mrs. Washington 2012

PPM: What is your Platform or cause? Why did you choose it?

We have a healthcare epidemic in our country right now. We have millions of people without health insurance and medical care. I can help them through prevention and education. By teaching people about a healthy diet, exercise and alternative medicine, a lot of these auto immune illnesses could be prevented. My platform is “Promoting Health and Wellness”. I want to encourage others to seek and find alternative ways to treat illness, injury and keep their bodies healthy. I want to educate people that massage is more than simply a luxury. It is a viable medical modality that has positive and necessary physiological effects on the body. It helps with circulation, lymph drainage, muscle memory and general well being. My Health and Wellness platform has evolved and also become a missionary opportunity. I not only help people feel better, but also support several different charities and organizations by donating chair massage, massage gift certificates for auctions, while educating others about the power of touch in relation to their health.

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

I get excited about challenging myself to reach my personal best. I love the preparation that goes along with competing in a pageant. I get healthy, clean out my system, and get to search for fabulous new clothes. I also get excited about meeting new people and making new friends. I enjoy sharing my testimony and encouraging others to share their story too. I love hearing about where people have come from and what they did to get to their personal best.

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants? ...continued on next page

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The greatest lesson I have learned while competing is you are only competing against yourself. The minute you start worrying about what others are doing is when you lose your edge and the doubt will start to creep in. You have to be excited for others when they succeed, not turning it into a negative as to why you didn’t. You are a success as long as you have tried your hardest. What works for someone else may or may not work for you, so be open to trying new things and open to them not working for you and having to try something else. Having a positive attitude will always provide a positive experience in anything you do in life.

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title(s)?

Most recently, I have been asked to be a recurring Style segment model on King 5’s New Day Northwest. I also had the chance to do some interviewing at the Northwest Women’s Show for the Seattle PI. Both of these amazing opportunities came about due to my title of being Mrs. Washington 2012. I am very grateful to the Lord for providing these memorable events during my reign.

PPM: What is next for you?! Future plans?

What’s next for me is Mrs. America! I cannot wait to compete at a national level and I hope to make Washington proud. I hope I can not only bring exposure to my platform, honor the amazing married women of Washington State and continue to make lifelong friends; but I pray I give glory to God for all of it. I want to be known for my faith and how much it has changed my life for the better. I want to share my testimony and how God kept His promise and brought me through it. He does turn ALL things to good!

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“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

My main reason for entering the “Make Me A Cover Model” contest was to represent Washington Plus America. As a new pageant system in Washington State, any and all opportunities to represent WPA, I would love to participate in.

Jennifer Tindell

Miss Pacific Plus America 2012

www.treasureourtroops.org shortly after. The site allows the public to go on, and see what our soldiers need in care packages, and to also adopt a soldier, or even a full tent to send care packages and letters to. In June 2009, my cousin’s husband was killed in an IED explosion. This put my aunts into overdrive, and even more soldiers were added for adoption. I want to help spread the word that even though we may think our soldiers have someone back home to write to, or receive things from, not all have a “someone”. And they all deserve the simple things that we, here at home in the states, take for granted.

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

For me, the thing that excited and inspired me the most was the bonds that were formed during pageant weekend.

There was so much love and support given from all who were competing. It didn’t matter if we were competing in the same division or not, there was a bond that was formed, that will forever hold true. The laughs, the tears, the smiles, the hairspray, and all the in between things that we all shared together.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants?

I have learned that there is a reason that doors are opened, After my daughter was born, my fiancée and I decided we and doors close. One week before competing in the Washwould find a simple pageant to enter her into, to allow my- ington Plus America pageant, I was ready to throw in the self and her extra bonding. We entered our daughter Jys- towel and call it quits. I was ready to say, “This is NOT tina into the Washington State Cinderella Pageant. While for me, I’ll come back next year, after I’ve watched the othin the pageant, we met Melissa Erler, and instantly became ers go through it.” But why? Because after giving all the friends. A few months after meeting, Melissa had shared others advice, talking with them endless hours, and letting I threw all my adthat she would be entering Washington Plus America. them know it was ok to be scared.....I ������������������ Jokingly, I commented on the Facebook posting “I should vice out the window, and let it eat at me. I stopped feeljoin too! It would be fun and interesting!”.....The director ing secure, and started feeling scared senseless. Through of Washington Plus America, Latasha Raines, commented the love and support of so many in my life, I learned that that I should! So after discussing with my fiancée, I de- I was trying to shut a door that was opened for me. I was cided that I would do something for myself, and would join trying to walk away from something that would bring me so much joy, and so many opportunities. I learned Faith, Washington Plus America.

Hope, and Love are three things that you need to always PPM: What is your Platform or cause? Why did you keep close to your heart, no matter what it is that you are choose it? setting out to do. With Faith, Hope and Love, you can and As the current Miss Pacific Plus America 2012, my plat- will accomplish what you have set out to accomplish. Deform is Treasuring Our Troops, helping to make sure our termination. troops overseas know they are appreciated. In 2009, my cousin and his brother in law (my baby cousin’s husband) ...continued on next page were deployed to Afghanistan. Two of my aunts formed 16 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

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PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title?

April 21, 2012, I was able to attend the Women Encouraging Women Luncheon with Ms. Washington Plus America, Miss Washington Plus America, Mrs. Kent Plus America, and our Director, Latasha Raines. I was asked to stand alongside of Latasha Raines and Ms Washington Plus America and give my testimony of how WPA changed my life. I also have many things in the works to help raise funds and non perishable items to help fill care packages for our troops.

PPM: What is next for you?!

Future plans?

Recently, I took a giant leap, and started really putting myself into starting my own photography business! I am excited for the future opportunities as well as the present ones that are presenting themselves. I am 100% looking forward to the 2013 Washington Plus America as well. I am anxious to get out this year and help at the recruiting opportunities as well! I believe that as a local title holder, I need to show other women in Washington State that they CAN join! That they CAN achieve the unimaginable. That they CAN walk the runway, and show their curves and not be afraid to shine! Washington Plus America is just the first step in a new direction of life I have had opened up to me. Where it leads......I cannot wait to find out!

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“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

Taylor Wall

Miss West Sound Ambassador

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

When I saw the contest, I thought “How fun!” I’ve never been a Cover Model, and I thought it would be a great experience to try something new.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

I’m always a little hesitant when I answer this question, because I started when I was 5. I’m hesitant only because of shows like Toddlers and Tiaras...which I can assure you was NOT the case for my family. My parents thought that pageants would help boost my self confidence, give me stage experience, and be something fun the whole family can do together (my sister and brother competed as well).

PPM: What is your Platform or cause? Why did you choose it?

I would say that I live my life everyday by my “platform” and it’s not just because of pageants that I have a platform. The Power of One is something I promote on a daily basis...and what’s really cool about it is that it’s relevant to EVERYONE! What can you do to brighten someone’s day or make the world a better place? You could start with smiling at a stranger, or buying coffee for the person in line behind you. The way we each can make a difference can be however big or small we want it to me. We all have something to give: time, talents, money, or simply a smile and good attitude. Change is a ripple effect, and it can start with YOU!

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

The most exciting thing is definitely the fact that I can see when the power of one is working (which is all the time!). I can see it in relationships between directors and titleholders, in big sister little sister pairs, in community service, in the inspiration each contestant brings to the table.

Seeing other people living out what they love is incredible to watch.

18 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pag-

eants?

It’s really a journey. It’s not about the “title” or the crown; it’s about the growth that takes place months before you step onto the stage for final competition night. It’s the weeks, months, and years of dedication to not only improve you, but to help others achieve their goals and grow as well.

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title(s)?

I’ve been offered jobs and gained loads of scholarship dollars, but really the best opportunities are the ones that come unexpected. Networking is key in today’s society, and pageants have opened up many doors where I’ve had the privilege of meeting and forming meaningful relationships with members of my community, state, and all across the nation.

PPM: What is next for you?! Future plans?

For the first time in a long time I would say that I haven’t a clue!

So, for now...let’s just say WORLD DOMINATION, in a good way though ;)

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine

“Make Me a Cover Model” Contest

Kristin Wood

Miss Washington Plus America 2012

PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

I entered because I wanted to have my beauty showcased on the cover of a magazine for pageants. As a first time competitor I wanted to show my confidence through my beauty for women who are looking for encouragement in themselves to be more confident or encouragement to try something new and make themselves better inside and out.

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

I got started all because I went shopping on black Friday. I was shopping to sign up. After I signed up, I was in in a lane Bryant and at the checkout full swing and ready to go all in. register there was fliers about the PPM: What is your Platform or pageant. I just grabbed one and threw cause? Why did you choose it?

My platform is Eliminating Child Obesity. I chose this as my platform because I was recently informed by my doctor that I had slightly high cholesterol. I worked really hard at working out and changing my eating habits and lost 54 pounds. So after being informed of the slightly high cholesterol, I started thinking of my younger sister who has history of those types of health issues on her dad’s side and her weight. I would like to help her get healthier so she can lower her risk.

Plus I know when I started working out it made me feel better about myself and I would love to encourage kids it in my bag. In the next couple days, to work out and be healthy so they too I spent some time reading about the can feel the positive affects both physipageant and got really excited be- cally and mentally. cause I have always had a desire to be PPM: What excites you most about in a pageant. I have always wanted competing in a pageant and why? to be royalty and set an example for others and being in a pageant was fi- The evening gown most excites me benally in reach for me. So I talked to my cause I absolutely love the feeling you support team and they all gave the en- get by putting on a beautiful gown and couragement and little push I needed feeling like a million dollars. It’s not every day you can put on a gown and

strut around looking gorgeous!

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants?

I have learned how to be a better me.

I have learned a better way to carry myself and a better understanding of who I am and what I stand for. By learning how to be a better me and gain a better understanding of who I am, I have gained more confidence and want to make sure I present that to the world in the very best way that I can.

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title?

Since I have won my title, I have been presented with opportunities to represent the Washington Plus America system through helping at American Heart Association Events. I have had the opportunity to judge a pageant and also judge the Future Business Leaders of America Washington State Conference. I have had the opportunity to do a two hour online radio interview with my fellow queens. Those are some of the opportunities I have had, but this only scratches the surface of what opportunities are yet to be presented.

PPM: What is next for you?! Future plans?

Next for me is to continue my reign as Miss Washington Plus America and compete at the national competition at the end of June in Memphis, Tennessee. During the duration of my reign I would like to get involved with the Let’s Move Campaign that Michelle Obama has started and plan events at local schools around the area. I will continue serving and making a difference in my community.

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 19

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS Magazine

May/June 2012 Cover Story

“Make Me a Cover Model” Winner Cheyanne Garcia PPM: Why did you enter the “Make Me a Cover Model” Contest?

Well my focus was to get my platform out to the public so they know what epidemics are challenging kids and my peers and what they are facing on a day to day! This was never about me; it is my fight against things that affect my generation. I thought if I made the cover it might just let people know what I am all about! Some people think I am fake, so when I go out of my way to help a person that is just weird! When people hang out with me the very first time, they find out that they really did not know me at all! So, I figured if I made the cover they could read the magazine and find out all about me!

The Real Me! PPM: How did you feel when you found out you won the contest?

At first I didn’t believe it, and then I felt so blessed and honored! You know, when I started this journey of getting votes I never in a millions years thought I would win! I told myself to go do your best and to talk to as many people as you can! I was really excited after I found out because I got to talk about my two platforms that mean so much to me, Autism and bulling! After talking to a LOT of people I came to the realization that people won’t remember what you say or do, they will remember how you make them feel. There hasn’t been a day where I didn’t think about this experience. I really feel like it changed my life.

PPM: What did you do to get 708 likes?

Well first of all I contacted my good friend Arthur Wornum who is with the Biggest Loser and someone who helped me with my Autism Speaks walk. Arthur actually collected the most money last year for the autism walk! He put my picture and my story about my platform on his wall and I started to get votes like crazy! Then I decided to put it on my anti-bullying web site and again I had 150 followers. Eventually I decided to walk my neighborhood asking my neighbors to vote, the funny thing is half did not even have a Facebook account till I helped them create one, LOL! One of my good friends David Randall Ellis went above and beyond. He worked night and day helping me get votes and talking to people.

My Nam Sisters, Mikaela Bautista, Emma Malouff, Kendall Sadler, Maeloni Ogle, Kirstie Schroeder, and Megan Leibold have been a big inspiration in all of this. They all voted but pushed their friends and family to vote as well.

Then I have all my friends that I have made in all of my volunteering projects. YWCA, Crisis Pregnancy Center, Free Vancouver clinic, Southwest Human Society, Abby’s Closet, Autism Speaks, and Link the Pink! You do not realize how many people’s lives you touch till you need help! I could have never made this dream come true without my family, friends, supporters, my peers and GOD. I truly feel so honored that they helped me become the cover of this magazine!

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 21

PPM: What do you think about PACIFICPageants Magazine?

I think it is a great start to a much needed resource. I find I have fresh ideas, and the articles have given me some insight and the magazine has pointed me toward fresh new looks. I think this is such a huge opportunity for women and girls! I think this magazine is going to be a revolution for girls who may have never even thought about pageants, nor even thought about being in a magazine! I think not only will the magazine change lives but this magazine is going to give girls something to look up to and look forward to. I think the PACIFICPageants Magazine is going to change the way people look at pageants!

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior. Scientists aren’t certain about what causes Autism, but it’s likely that both genetics and environment play a role. One child out of 69 births are affected with this disorder. I truly believe that special people are given special children. God grants us to make a difference in this world, and this is one cause I am going to make a difference in!

PPM: How did you get involved in pageantry in the first place?

I was four years old when I started! My mom who inspires me, decided to put me in National American Miss. From there on I was hooked and inspired to be something great! So every year I competed until I won National American Miss Washington Jr. Preteen in 2007 I was eight years old. I continued on with different pageants, gaining more experience and then in 2011 I won National American Miss Washington Preteen. I have been with National American Miss for 10 years now.

PPM: What is your Platform or cause?

I have two Platforms! My first one is Autism. My brother Austin was diagnosed at age two with autism. The doctors told my mom that Austin would never walk, talk and never live a normal life! My family got together and prayed and I am here to tell you not only does he walk but also runs, jumps, and skips! He does talk and understand most what is told to him. Now we have to work with him every day and some days are a challenge, but that is what makes life an adventure. I thank God every day for my brother Austin, because he is our gift from God! 22 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

them feel inferior!

My second platform is bullying. I have been bullied for four years now by a couple of girls. Last year it got the worst it could get. I was told I would have acid thrown in my face, if I came to a choir concert I would be finished off for good, and I even was given brownies laced with laxatives! I kept asking myself, “Why would God allow me to go through this if He really cared about me?” Now, I see that God can use my story to minister to others who are being bullied; and I am using my platform God has given me to help make a difference.

Bullying has become such an epidemic in kids today! I want kids to know that because we are different; have different goals, or just what people call not normal does not give them the right to put up with bullying. I want them to be strong and never let anyone make

PPM: What excites you most about competing in a pageant and why?

I really do not look at it as competing! I look at it what difference can I make in these girls lives while I am here. Now of course I love walking the stage in a gown, as this makes me feel so beautiful. I also love interviews because I can talk to the judges about life experiences, life goals, and to learn a lot about them. I think what excites me most about

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 23

24 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

a pageant is seeing girls who have never done a pageant before, seeing their whole face light up in excitement! I also get excited to see all my pageant friends! People I have known for a long time, or I have not seen in a while. It’s exciting to catch up and find out what’s been going on in their lives!

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you have learned while competing in pageants?

by Linda Mobley - Author of Blessed with Cancer. This book was amazing, I encourage everyone to read it! My Nam Titles have taken me to so many places! I traveled to Miss America last year where I got a picture with the designer Mac Duggal, Teresa Scanlan before she won, and all of the past Miss America queens! I was able to go to New York and stand where the Eiffel Towers once stood and was able to

Never stop being a role model! I have learned even when you think girls are not watching you, they are! Girls love to mirror other girls! They want to be a part of something big! If I can help one girl become something great, then I have made a difference. Life is too short; it is our goal to help those who need help, to be a friend, and to be a role model to those who need it! Be proud of who you are! Win or lose you are something Great! Some girls think you need a crown and banner to represent, NOT TRUE! It takes one person to make a difference.

“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from the game!”

PPM: What do you do to prepare for a pageant?

PPM: What opportunities have been presented to you because of your title(s)?

I just got the title of Miss Clark County Teen USA, but so far I am helping and supporting Link the Pink with the fight of cancer! My best friends dad died eight months ago of lymphoma cancer, he was 43. Unfortunately cancer seems to be a quick spreading disease. The purpose of Link the Pink is to make the quality of life better among people with cancer and disabilities. Link the pink was founded

put me in a pageant at age four I was very scared and had no confidence!

I hated being the center of attention and hated when people looked at me!

My second year of pageants, I began to blossom into a confident girl and loved to make people laugh. I look at my life and now and I am a role model to girls my age, and I have pageants to thank because of it. Pageants have given me a path of where I want to be when I grow up.

Never in a million years would I ever think I would be where I am today!

mourn the victims of September 11th.

PPM: Do you believe Pageantry has enhanced and changed your life?

I believe I would not be where I am if it was not for the pageants! From the time I could talk which was a year old, I was very shy. When my mom

Preparation is the key to doing well! I start preparing eight months before the pageant. First I go through my entire wardrobe and make sure everything fits somewhat well! I look at what needs to be replaced, altered or sold! Then I look at all of the stages of competition; intros, formal wear, and interview. Four months before my pageant is where the work begins! I start practicing interview questions with friends and family and even people at the mall. I go have all my clothing altered down to me and make sure all my outfits fit me like a second skin! LOL! Then right before the pageant I tell myself to just be me! To put my heart in everything I say and do! To be a great role model to all the girls and to help the all the new girls feel welcomed and confident!

PPM: You have won WA State NAM TWICE! What is your secret?

BE YOUR SELF! It is funny when I first started Nam at age four I knew nothing about the system or pageants. I had my dress made, my sportswear PACIFICPageants Magazine | 25

was a rhinestone navy costume, my intro was “hi my name is Cheyanne”, and I did not even do interview. It took me five years to win my first NAM title! I came back every year and tried and kept working at it and in September of 2007 I won Washington Jr. Preteen. I think consistency, dedication, and persistence has played a huge roll in me winning my Washington Jr. Preteen and my Preteen title! If you want something bad enough never let anything stand in your way of your dreams!

PPM: Is there anything we have not asked you that you want us to know?

The one thing I want out of life is purpose. To find my calling and live it! At the end of the day I want to be able to say I made a positive change that had a major effect on a large community!

I want to build enough self-confidence to spread my message to wider audiences and to be a leader to people! God put us in this world for a reason; we just have to find our purpose! I am a determined person. So my first, favorite color is green to best describe my outlook in life because like the green grasses, I will continue to fight and live even how many times I will be cut down by challenges and tribulations in life. I will stand-up no matter what happen by God’s grace. My second favorite color is white.

White represents optimism. I am an optimistic person. I look at things in the positive way, thinking that the glass is half-full and not half-empty. God has taught us how to trust in HIM. And like righteousness, simplicity, contentment, and calmness I feel this is associated with the color white.

PPM: What is next for you?!

Future plans?

I actually I am heading to high school next year, and I am going to be a JV Cheerleader! I will be competing for the title of Washington Teen USA in October in Burien, WA. In three years I will 26 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

be attending Running Start where I will get my AA Degree. Then I will start my adventure of becoming a doctor to help children in 3rd world countries. I want to be able to provide medical services to those who cannot afford it.

Who knows though, God might have a much bigger plan for me! I may became a Special Education Teacher and teach Autistic children just like my brother Austin! Whatever I decide I know as long as I follow Gods plan and keep God in my life, I am going to do something great!

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PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine “ATTITUDE”

Tom Lamoureux

Dear Pageant Friends: Let us begin our interview discussion this issue on ATTITUDE! What is attitude, what does attitudes have to do with being successful? Attitude is the building block for you to examine yourself prior to entering a pageant, during all your preparation activities, and of course at your pageant events. Your attitude governs who you are, how you see yourself, how you act, and how others see you. It will also tells others, both friends/family, and acquaintances a lot about you. Be happy, be excited, be yourself, have fun, learn new things, be interested in others, have compassion, have something to say that will make a difference to others, listen to your friends and family.

Know when they need you there for them, when they are happy, and yes when they are sad. How you see yourself now, show your attitude towards others, and be real with knowing yourself will be with you the rest of your life.

From the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, Attitude is defined as; 1. : the arrangement of the parts of a body or figure : posture. 2. : a position assumed for a specific purpose <a threatening attitude>. 3.: a ballet position similar to the arabesque in which the raised leg is bent at the knee. 4. a : a mental position with regard to a fact or state <a helpful attitude>. b. : a feeling or emotion toward a fact or state. 5. The position of an aircraft or spacecraft determined by the relationship between its axes and a reference datum (as the horizon or a particular star). 6. : an outstanding state of readiness to respond in a characteristic way to a stimulus (as an object, concept, or situation). 7. : a negative or hostile state of mind. 8. : a cool cocky, defiant, or arrogant manner. Examples: “He has a positive attitude about the changes. She’s friendly 28 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

Interview 101

and has a great attitude. You need to change your bad attitude.” And to conclude, synonyms are : posture, carriage, poise, stance, station.

Oprah Winfrey, once said, “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude”.

Use good posture, have a positive natural attitude about your walk and your speaking abilities, think about how you are sitting in that chair or standing in front of the table.

That positive attitude is exciting and lights up the room! Maintain that positive attitude throughout all your pageant activities.

Dwell on your positive qualities and experiences. Since every experience has a positive angle, find it and share that quality. Feel free to interject humor when appropriate and do not be afraid to laugh. By maintaining a positive approach to the interview, your charisma and charm will shine through. Tell yourself over and over that you are about to walk into a room filled with really friendly, interesting people your excited about meeting. This will help you relax and allow you to create that image. Be authentic, and drop the act don’t put on airs. Don’t pretend to be or say something you are not. Don’t lie. You will find common ground by listening to the judges and sticking with the questions they are asking. Don’t wander.

Don’t get off track. Be enthusiastic in discussing your platform showing passion about those issues and feelings. Demonstrate action, use statements similar to “it was so exciting for me being able to organize a speakers group where we discussed _ _ _ _ _”, as opposed to “I would like to, or I want to”. Don’t be over the top though. You want to be happy, involved, and excited about what you

are doing. Not depressed, judgmental, or just plain mad. I’ll often tell girls, to leave the attitude at home.

Begin focusing on pageant activities, and competitions, clear your mind, think about fun and positive things, and let the nervousness, concerns, cares, complaints, disappointments stay at home with the old attitude.

This is a new time, and a new beginning for you.

Brian Cournoyer, State Director, National American Miss WA says, “The key to a good interview is finding the balance between a comfortable conversation with a friend and making a presentation for a job. When you interview you need to do all the little things that tell your judges that you respect them and their time, and that you take this interview seriously. Be professional! And at the same time, the interviews which stand out are with those people that are capable of having a good conversation with personality. It shouldn’t feel rushed, stressful or awkward for the interviewer or the interviewee. Be concise, speak well, use good diction, give good information, and don’t forget to just be yourself.”

So, as you can see attitude is a big deal, not only in preparing for interviews, but with your entire overall mindset for the pageant itself. Approach your pageant, interviews and all activities for that matter with the best attitude you can find deep down inside yourself to display. It’s there, it’s you, bring it out, for everyone to see. Say to yourself, I’m going to have fun, meet new people, make new friends, learn new things, push myself to try new things, do my very best in whatever competitions I enter, and be happy for others. This attitude will shine through in your personality, your ability to try new things, and of course repeat itself as you are successful.

Good luck, and have fun!-

-Tom

Tom Lamoureux has lived in the Northwest since 1970 and was introduced to the world of pageantry in 1982 when working with the Everett Chamber of Commerce. A local pageant, part of a national system came to Everett and requested local judge recommendations from the Chamber.

Tom recruited some friends and they agreed to judge if he would.

So the rest is history. He loved the judging aspect and seeing the difference a weekend would make with the girls. “It is just amazing, and I see that to this day, their entire personas can change in a day, or weekend.” At the time

he was also teaching JA “Junior Achievement” in a local middle school, and most of the things the kids were learning about setting goals, planning, being your best, staying positive, working hard, making friends, smiling, walking, caring, dressing for success, etc. all seemed to blend together, and he realized that there really was something to this strange pageant world. He then began travelling to other states to judge, judging a number of different systems, and becoming a judge’s coordinator.

Later he became a pageant state director, and still helps other directors whenever he can.

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 29

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PACIFICSpotlight

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine

Abigail Akins

International Junior Miss Pacific Northwest

PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant?

June 2011 PPM: How did you get into pageantry?

My mommy was a pageant queen.

PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing in International Junior Miss Pacific Northwest Pageant!

Practicing my talent and being able to sing in front of everyone.

PPM: What would you tell someone who is considering competing in a pageant?

Just be yourself & have fun!

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 31

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine

PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant?

At the age of 15, I competed in and WON my divisional title and Overall Talent at a local preliminary for Universal Miss! This was my very first introduction to pageantry and I have been HOOKED ever since!! 

PPM: How did you get into pageantry?

I got my start about 15 years ago with a local preliminary for Universal Miss. My father passed just a few months prior to this and pageantry became a positive outlet for me as I was going through the process of emotional healing. As a teenager dealing with such a life changing event, I needed something in my life that was positive, character and confidence building, and would channel my attention and emotions into a constructive experience. Pageantry covered all this and offered so much more! I discovered so many character traits and talents I probably would have never known I had were it not for doing pageants.

PPM: What is your Platform? Why did you choose it?

My platform is “Happy Wife, Happy Life- Strengthening Marriages from the inside out”. As a happily married woman, of almost four years, I am truly passionate about what is takes to BUILD, HAVE and KEEP a marriage strong…A marriage that goes the distance. I believe marriage is an eternal covenant and that the joy and success found in that relationship are dependent on BOTH parties seeking and applying practical and biblical principles to their marriage and truly choosing to LOVE “an-other” selflessly.

As a dynamic marital team, my husband and I serve premarital couples through the organization “Engaged Encounter”, equipping engaged and pre-engaged couples 32 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

PACIFICSpotlight Alisa Clark

Mrs. Auburn PlusAmerica 2012

with the necessary tools for SUCCESSFUL and rewarding marriage relationships. An international organization, with a local chapter here in Washington, Engaged Encounter is designed to give couples planning marriage the opportunity to dialogue honestly and intensively about their prospective lives together-- their strengths and weaknesses, desires, ambitions, goals, their attitudes about money, intimacy, children, family, etc. This “platform” not only speaks into the lives of other marriages, but also continually keeps my marriage accountable and offers personal growth, as an example to those I get the chance to serve, married or not.

PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing in the WA Plus America Pageant!

This experience has been life changing for me! The most exciting part of this journey has been the opportunity I have had to compete “AS ME”, to be celebrated as the woman I have become at THIS stage in my life, without a second thought about the winkles on my face, the grey in my hair or the (proudly earned) stretch marks on my belly. As a 31 year old, wife and mother, I thought my pageant glory days were over…That was until Latasha Raines (Director) and WPA entered my life. Wanting to “revamp” and “reaffirm” myself as the woman I am today, I entered the Washington Plus America Pageant.

I wanted provide the example of my own life, that as a “Plus Sized” woman I AM more than just the “sum or size of my parts”, and would make a GREAT leader and represen...continued on next page

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine ...continued from previous page

tative of ALL women. Though I did not walk away with the “crowning” title I did place 2nd runner up AND was honored with five other prestigious awards- Miss Congeniality, Executive Directors Award, People’s Choice Award, Charity Fundraiser Award and OVERALL Most Photogenic. I believe these honors speak to my character…the woman I am every day of my life, crown or no crown…for this I am so grateful and feel like I came away with what I went there to accomplish.

PPM: What would you tell someone who is considering competing in WA Plus America?

GO FOR IT…and get ready for a journey that will CHANGE YOUR LIFE! I believe that Pageantry, as a whole, is a fantastic platform for women of achievement and beauty to be seen and honored for who they are and how

T Trrii--SSttaattee & &N Naattiioonnaall PPaaggeeaanntt

July 20-22, 2012 Everett, WA

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they contribute to the world around them. This pageant system, specifically, is about the totality of a woman and what she has to offer the world as a whole-mind, spirit, and body, while offering a “Level playing field” for PLUS women in pageantry. Being a part of the Washington Plus America Pageant will give you the opportunity to show that you are more than just “the sum or SIZE of your parts”.

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Washington Plus America: director@waplusamerica.com

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PACIFICPageants Magazine | 33

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine

PACIFICSpotlight

Alexandria Henderson Miss Pierce County

PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant?

My first time competing in a pageant was Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens of Washington in 2002. It ran like a debutante’s ball. I loved how it helped me gain poise, display my talent, and practice public speaking. I still remember the “30-second Speech” I gave to introduce myself!

PPM: How did you get into pageantry?

I’ve known since I was seven that I wanted to be Miss America. However, it was my cousin who asked me (when I was 13) if I wanted to do Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens with her. That is where it all started.

PPM: What is your Platform?

I chose my platform in memory of one of my favorite uncles, whose life was prematurely ended at the age of 35. My platform advocates the awareness and prevention of heart disease. It is called, Gotta Have Heart: 30-for-30. I am encouraging everyone to get out and walk for 30 minutes a day for 30 days. It is free, simple, and will change your life. Plus, the sun is coming out in Washington! What better time to walk than now?

PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing in the Miss Pierce County Pageant!

I can remember the most exciting part was getting the letter in the mail welcoming me into the Miss Pierce County class of 2012. From there, the excitement continued to escalate; meeting the other contestants, working side by side with the American Heart Association on my platform, enjoying all the rehearsals, all the way up to the crowning moment. It has only gotten better as the months have passed.

PPM: What would you tell someone who is considering competing in a pageant?

Go for it! There are scholarships to gain, friends to meet, and life skills to be learned.

Check out the Miss Pierce County Facebook page, as well as www.misspiercecounty.org!

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 35

PACIFIC

PAGEANTS

Magazine

PACIFICSpotlight Ashley Southern

Miss Idaho Outstanding Teen ing so hard on my talent! I have been dancing since I was three years old and I love dancing on stage especially to a song I love!

PPM: What makes your pageant system unique?

This is a great pageant system because there are so many things to work on and as you do the confidence increases. Service, Scholarship, Style and Success are the four points of the crown, and are wonderful goals. I love being of service and helping others and then promoting the program such as Project Unify and encourage high school students to do the same. It is wonderful to work on a talent and develop it enough outside of classes and to be prepared to perform to the best of your ability on a different stage where many different types of talents are performed. The fitness part is fun and I like that we can explain to the judges the activities we participate in as we do a routine on stage. It is just another way for the judges to get to know us and what we love to do to stay fit. Academic goals are important and College has been a part of my goals ever since I can remember. It is a wonderful program and I am honored to be a part of it.

PPM: What would you tell someone who is considering competing in a pageant?

If anyone out there is considering participating in a pageant I would wholeheartedly encourage you to do so!! There is so much that comes PPM: How did you get into pageantry? out of it such as meeting amazing, talented and beautiful young My first time competing in a pageant was Miss women! Making friends is a wonderful outcome but there is also so Teen Idaho 2011 and I came in first runner up! much I have learned about myself, my strengths my weaknesses and I’d been thinking about doing one for awhile and things I want to improve and work on to be a better person with and then I heard a commercial for it on the radio. I without the crown. There is a positive feeling at these pageants and knew I had to do it! the young women I have met have all been so sweet, kind and helpful in so many ways it’s like a sisterhood. I have four brothers and I absoPPM: What is your Platform? Why did you lutely love them, but it has been fun to have so many pageant sisters! choose it?

My platform is Special Olympics Project Unify. I chose this because I have a personal interest in it.

My first experience was as a hugger at the age of 12 but before that I had an aunt who competed as an athlete in the program and it was a wonderful opportunity for her. I love being a part of the program and there are amazing athletes that I have met and they have enriched my life just by knowing them. I love the idea of everyone working together for a common goal or in a sport regardless of challenges.

PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing?

The most exciting part about my journey to competing in Miss Idaho Outstanding Teen was work36 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

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PAGEANTS Magazine

Ms America 2012: through the eyes of Ms Washington, Laura Hunter PPM: This isn't the first time you competed in Ms America, what made you go back?

This was my third try at the Ms. America Pageant. I have been 1st runner-up, top 12 and this year I was 3rd runner-up. I like the idea of the pageant and that they celebrate amazing women regardless of age or marital status. I know that having the title of Ms. America would open doors for promoting my platform, The Corazon De Vida Foundation Supporting the orphans of Mexico. I also like the Hollywood feel of the pageant. The director, Susan Jeske, puts a great deal of effort into having special events for the contestants like the day of beauty and the red carpet party.

PPM: What did you do to prepare for Ms America?

I prepared in two ways, physically and mentally. Physically, I did all of the things that most pageant contestants do. I cut calories, exercised every day and lost 10lbs. I practiced regularly in my shoes and went over my bio sheet most every day. I made appearances as Ms. Washington America and promoted my platform and the pageant. Last but not least, I spent a lot of time shopping.

PPM: Before we get into Ms America, tell us how your career in the Pageant Industry began!

I competed in my first pageant at 17 years old.

I graduated from high school early and went to college at 16 so I was living on my own at the time.

I was always interested in pageantry but it was not something my parents would have supported so when I moved out I thought I would give it a try. I competed in a small prelim and I won the overall title so I thought I was an expert. At the state pageant I found out that I was incorrect. I was very much out classed and had no idea 38 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

what I was doing. After a few more heart breaking pageants I quit pageantry. After some self reflection I knew that quitting because I lost was the wrong thing to do so I decided that I would learn the skills needed to win and make a goal of winning a major national title. I am still working on that goal. I have been fortunate to hold many titles and meet so many amazing people as I progress towards my goal.

Preparing mentally was where I really made a change from the last time I competed. Previously, I was spending time comparing myself to other contestants.

I would look at the pageant website and FaceBook and try to size up the competition and figure out how to do better than the other contestants. Although I always thought I had a healthy attitude I realized that I was really not living the values I believed in so I have made a concentrated effort to turn that behavior around. I now realize that I cannot get upset about the decision of a few judges with very little information to go on or pin my hopes on that decision in order to be happy.

My family and I have so many exciting things going on this year. I am competing for Mrs. US Globe in August. I have never competed in the Globe system before so I am excited to join the Globe family! Professionally, I am an actress part time in Seattle and I expect that aspect of my work to keep growing. I also expect this to be a great year for Beyond Photography.

I will be traveling nationally doing headshots for other contestants and I look forward to shooting in Hawaii, Oregon, California, Nevada and New York this year.

I have to be responsible for my own happiness so that is what I am concentrating on. Now, I do not worry at all about how the other contestants compete and instead I work on being the best person and contestant I can be while enjoying my opportunity at every pageant. If I do win that's icing on the cake and I will do my best to be a great titleholder and enjoy every moment of that opportunity also.

PPM: How was this year different from the last time you competed in Ms America?

I always try to improve from my previous performance. I would say that I was more confident on stage and I had a better attitude in general. I also had fun with my wardrobe. I would never tell a girl I coach to wear a leopard print dress with flame cut outs for beauty but I decided to just have fun this time and wear what I love. This was the first time I really felt that everything I wore was based solely on what I love to wear. I will be going back to a more traditional wardrobe after this but it was fun to play with my wardrobe a little.

Although the judges didn't all love my dress it was a crowd favorite and I loved wearing it!

PPM: What is the greatest lesson you took away from your 2012 Ms America experience?

I left the pageant feeling really good about myself because I succeeded in my goal to be a better person and take responsibility for my own happiness.

By changing my attitude and expectations I learned that having the right priorities is what makes a person happy. I think that this was one of my most successful pageant experiences even though I did not win the crown.

PPM: Will you compete again? If so, what do you plan to do differently if anything?

I will compete again. I watched the video as soon as I got home and saw quite a few things I would like to work on. That got me really excited to go back out and compete again soon. I love a challenge. For example, I saw that my hand placement was a little off and my smile was a little forced at times. There were just a number of small things of that sort that I would love to work on. I will also be working even harder on my fitness level.

My family is also planning to move from Bellingham to Seattle this year in order to have more time together, expand my photography business and be closer to my acting work and my husband's job. We are directing a small charity pageant system, as a family, called Hearts of Washington to raise money for the charities that are close to our hearts. I will also be hosting the President's Volunteer Service Awards for the third year.

Finally, I will be traveling to Mexico again to visit the orphans this year and work with the Corazon De Vida Foundation. I know this will be an eventful and exciting year!

PPM: You have won over 50 titles at the local, state and national level, why do you continue to compete?

I compete for a number of reasons.

First, it makes me happy. I enjoy the fashion, the friendships, the trips and the girl time. Second, I compete because it does give me more opportunity to do the civic work I love to do. Finally, I compete because I set a goal for myself to win a major national title and I am still working toward that goal.

PPM: What is in the future for you?

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 39

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Winning Wardrobe

Presents

INTERVIEW What TO Wear & What NOT to Wear!

Meet the Photographer behind the Cover Editorial and Winning Wardrobe…

Contact Monica!

Email: m_berginc@yahoo.com Regal Majesty Website: www.regalmajestypageant.com

What got you into pageant photography?

I started out as a boutique unique photographer and I had a pageant mom see my work at a dance studio and she contacted me to see if I wanted to do "headshots”, I said sure I will give it a try, and she also talked me into putting my own daughter into a local pageant and much to my surprise she WON! So not only did I get bit by the pageant bug , I also had a lot of requests for shoots , headshots , royalty shots and also glitz headshots.

Tell us your history within the pageant industry in WA? Currently I own and direct a fast growing popular pageant system call Regal Majesty; it’s a semi natural pageant for girls and woman of all ages. It’s a well ran, organized system that celebrates all aspects of pageantry, I consider it the pageant for the modern girl/woman who have personality, creativity and a touch of glamour. Regal Majesty is a pageant where every girl/woman is royalty and not a monarchy.

What makes your photography style stand out against the others in the industry?

Each Photographer brings something unique to each shoot, I think my love for photography and my drive to grow and learn more make my pictures shine, by capturing that twinkle and smile that show the best part of each person I shoot.

What other pageant winners and systems have you been a part of?

I have been taking headshots for many natural pageants winning national and state pageant photogenic titles as well as portfolio titles. I have shot systems including NAM, Starlet, AAG, Dreamboat Dolls, California Fabulous Faces, and UMMI. I also LOVE taking Pageant royalty court group and individual photos! I had the pleasure of taking past Cinderella, AAG, Miss Aquafest, my own pageant system Regal Majesty and also the Washington Plus America official Contestant headshots Any special words you would like to share with our Readers?

I hope my love for photography, shows in every shot I take, it’s amazing hobby that I love, and I am glad to share it with you. My advice is to use lots of different Photographers, each one has their own style and lighting styles, each has creative elements that are great to utilize for a diverse portfolio.

PACIFICPageants Magazine | 41

What TO Wear for Polished

Fresh

Y-O-U!

a Pageant Interview Natural

Poised

Age-Appropriate

If you are going to spend

moneyâ&#x20AC;Ś

TAILOR it to fit you

perfectly!

Choose nice-fitting, age and pageant system appropriate shoes!

Natural

age-appropriate makeup!

Plus Size Queens

always make

sure your suit fits your

curves and

flatters your body type!

Nude shoes are the safest bet, but if you are

carrying a little more

weight or not comfortable

in high heels try a discreet platform shoe!

Choosing the right

color for your skin tone is everything!

Plus Size ladies you

do not have to choose black, branch out!

The right

color, the

right fit = the right first

impression!

Natural makeup + natural hair = a

pleasant experience

for the judges who get to look at you,

allowing them to

enjoy what you are saying!

You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong with a nude shoe! Remember the goal is to get the judges to listen to you, not be distracted by you!

Natural makeup and soft

hair styling that allows the judges to see your eyes are always best!

The goal in interview is to

draw the attention to your face and what you are

saying. With a classic, age-

appropriate, nude shoe you can never go wrong!

Find a

suit that

is tailored

to you & a color that flatters

your skin tone!

Whether you are competing in Mrs. America (left),

Miss Plus America (center) or

National American Miss (right) There are some

Across-the-board rules:  READ the wardrobe guidelines  Get your interview suit or

dress tailored to fit you like a glove!

 Make sure the color flatters your skin tone and hair color.

 You can almost never go wrong with natural hair, nails and makeup!

When you look right for interview, all you have left to do isâ&#x20AC;Ś

Be YOURSELF!!!

What NOT to Wear for a Pageant Interview It’s TOO Much Way TOO Little “Oh No She Didn’t!”

You are wearing THAT for Interview??

Awww but isn’t she cute??

NOT For Interview!



Wrong Hair



Bad Shoes



Bad Look!

One of the BIGGEST mistakes made in kids’ pageants is clothing that does not fit!!

The judges CAN see if her shoes are too big and it’s a HUGE distraction when she has to keep adjusting her clothing because it’s too big or too small!

GET A TAILOR!

First question…DID YOU EVEN READ THE WARDROBE REQUIREMENTS??

We applaud you for being proud of your curves, but the judges do NOT need to see all of that! Too much cleavage!

Let go of this jacket, its screaming for help! Don’t think you can “suck it in” until interview is over, because if you bust one of those buttons you are DONE!

At least I am in Pretty Feet!

NOT!!

skin-tone Sweater Dress??

Pocahontas Earrings A SIDE ponytail Peep-toe PATTERENED WEDGES OMG and letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not forget the PANTYLINE

JUDGES WANT TO SEE YOUR EYES!!

The shoes are HUGE and NOT for interview can you say GET A PEDICURE?!

Judges WILL notice, even your toes!

This look says Night Club, NOT Crown me a Queen!

Excessive

TOO MUCH! Do you want the judges to be distracted by your hair bow and hot earrings or do you want them to LISTEN to what you are actually saying in interview?

Accessories!

She looks GREAT in both outfits, but one says “I’m ready to represent your organization” and the other says “Hot Date”

66% Judges said YES!

34% Judges said YES

Yes, the outfit on the right is super fashionable and cute…

but it’s TOO MUCH for interview

28% 72% Judges said YES!

Judges said YES

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To book Bekah for Modeling or Motivational Speaking please contact her at www.BekahBaker.com

The face behind PACIFICPageants Hair & Makeup

PPM: How did you get into this business?

For over 12 years, my experience and talents have been used in the fashion and entertainment industry, as a regional artist for Smash Box, Urban Decay, Benefit, Hot Pants Cosmetics and Sephora, and as a Bridal Stylist. A graduate from the Art Institute of Seattle, with an Associate of Applied Arts degree in Digital Media/Video Production, my abilities as a stylist and in production have been utilized in front of and behind the camera. Most recently I was the Lead Hair and Make-up designer for the feature film “Rogue Saints” (www.roguesaintsmovie.com), which won the “Family Feature Award” at The Attic Film Festival in Austin, TX. From my work in film and video production I also found I have a “niche” for photography and five years ago I launched my own business, “Monaalis Pro. - photography and creative services”. Monaalisa Pro. has allowed me to develop and expand my “brand” as a stylist, media producer and photographer.

PPM: What makes you unique from others in the industry?

My extensive experience as a stylist in the entertainment and fashion industry coupled with my education and experience in media and film production gives makes me a “total package” in the services I can offer. As a stylist who is also a photographer and media producer, I have a technical understanding of this industry that not all make-up artists possess, which makes me useful and marketable in more than just one area. I also believe that value and exceptionality can go hand in hand- meaning great product and excellent service can be affordable. I really try to make my services accessible to ALL consumers, yet still maintaining personalized attention to each of my clients and offering a level of “exclusivity” in the work I do.

www.monaalisapro.blogspot.com

Cover & Winning Wardrobe Artist, ALISA CLARK

PPM: What services do you offer?

I specialize in make-up artistry and hair design; primarily using my talents in the fashion, film and wedding industries. I am also a “Life Style” photographer with a focus on weddings, families and kids.

PPM: You did some awesome photos of Mrs. Renton 2012, are you venturing into the pageant industry now?

I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to do the headshots for Amie Rhyner, Mrs. Renton 2012. Having the opportunity to work with her as her stylist and photographer has gotten me excited about venturing into the pageant industry as a professional (and not just a competitor). As much as I LOVE competing, I find working with the girls/women competing just as, if not more, fulfilling! I would love to be the photographer that produced an “award winning” portfolio/headshot or for my hair and make-up skills to be recognized in the pageant community.

PPM: What are your future plans for Monaalisa Pro? At this point in my career THE SKYS THE LIMIT!!! I feel as Mrs. Renton America though I have come so far and have already accomplished so much over the last 12 years.

My hope is to continue to produce and maintain successful business relationships, be open to any and all opportunities to use ALL of my skill sets, and to never stop growing as a professional. The Ultimate dream???!!! To be successful enough that my husband and I can work together as a team FULL TIME and be creative together!!!

www.facebook.com/monaalisapro

PL

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ABOUT OUR PRELIMINARIES!

SAVE THE DATE FOR STATE! P PR RE ES SIID DE EN NT T’’S SD DA AY Y W WE EE EK KE EN ND D

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AMERICA

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F FO OU UR R D DIIV VIIS SIIO ON NS S Mrs.

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Ms

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Miss

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Teen

(Age 13-17)

∙∙

IIN NT TE ER RV VIIE EW W ∙∙

P PH HO OT TO OG GE EN NIIC C

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Health & Fitness

Bekah Baker

in place for 60 seconds allowing your body to recover from your intense burpee session. Repeat 10 times for 15 minutes Bekah resides in Bellevue WA with or Keith her husband ofcan 13 total. You can also split 15sec/30sec 60sec/120sec.

You years 4 kids.

In 2010 Bekah found herself create & thetheir perfect workout between 15-20 minutes eachunhappy day & with how she looked and sick and tired of being sick and tired.

So she set out on a quest to get her body back! Along the way she discovered she not only found a body way better than the one she lost but also found her authentic self. She has stopped apologizing and started embracing and walking boldly in the destiny God is showing her. Bekah started a blog called “A Mama Bringing Sexy Back” to share with others a no-holdsbarred perspective of her journey.

She is now co-owner of Pro Body Supplements, a National NPC Bikini Competitor, & Fitness & Commercial Model among other things! For more info about Bekah go to: www.BekahBaker.com www.ProBodySupplements.com Email Bekah at: Bekah@ProBodySupplements.com

EXCERSIZE SMARTER!

EXERCISE SMARTER! I’ll be honest – At first

this was titled “Exercise smarter not harder!” but then I realized that wasn’t true at all – The KEY I’llis be honest – At first wasexercise titled “Exercise getting the MOST bangthis for your buck in thesmarter least amount of time possible Let’s that clear wasn’t one thing up right not harder!” but then Iright? realized true at all – now: It’s not ever going to be easy. If it were easy then The KEY is getting the MOST bang for your exercise buck everyone would be in the best health & physical shape of their inlives. the No, least amount of time possible “easy” isn’t what we need.

What weright? need isLet’s TIME!clear As thing a momup with 4 kids, time a premium commodity just If one right now: It’sis not ever going to beI easy. seem to have enough of. But the bottom line is the better it don’t were easy then everyone would be in the best health you take care of yourself, the better you’ll feel & the better &you physical shape their lives. “easy” isn’t what feel, the betterofparent, sibling,No, friend, co-worker, and we spouse – youwe willneed be! It’s not “selfish” to take care of yourself need.

What is TIME! – All these relationship you care so much about deserve the version of yourself that means you have no I AsBEST a mom with 4 kids, possible. time is So a premium commodity choice but to find the time to exercise & eat healthy. just seem to have for enough of. But bottom line is So don’t aside from petitioning extra hours to the be added to each the youbetake care ofMORE yourself, the better you’ll daybetter what can done?

Make of the time we have.

It’sfeel achieving bestthe possible results in the least amount of co&about the better youthe feel, better parent, sibling, friend, time. One of the BEST ways to achieve this with exercise is worker, and spouse – you will be! It’s not “selfish” to take using the High-intensity Interval Training method otherwise care of yourself known as HIIT. – All these relationship you care so much Scientists from Canada did aversion study on of HIIT that waspossible. printed in So about deserve the BEST yourself The Journal of Physiology in 2010. Corresponding author that means you have no choice but to find the time to exProfessor Marin Gibala explained to the press: “Doing 10 oneercise eat healthy. minute& sprints on a standard stationary bike with about one minute rests in between, three times a week, works as well at muscle as many hours of conventional long-term Soimproving aside from petitioning for extra hours to be added to biking less strenuously.” each day what can be done? Make MORE of the time we The beauty of HIIT is you can do it with cardio & with have.

It’s about achieving possible results in the resistance training.

A couplethe of best my favorite ways are with least amount of time.

One of the BEST ways to achieve running sprints outside or by using my own bodyweight.

Exercises burpees, climbers, jumping squats, & this with like exercise ismountain using the High-intensity Interval jumping lunges are just a few things you can do in your own Training method otherwise home – no equipment needed! known as HIIT. To start double your “active rest” period with your “intensity” 72period. | PACIFICPageants Magazine So for instance, do burpees for 30 seconds then march

see incredible It is possible to on getHIIT the SAME results Scientists fromresults!

Canada did a study that was printfrom 20 minutes of HIIT as it would normally take over 1 edhour in The Journal ofslower Physiology in 2010.

Corresponding of conventional steady paced cardio.

I know it’s author Professor Marin true because I’ve done it bothGibala ways! explained to the press: You have minutes – Consider that 1 hour is “Doing 10 20 one-minute sprints the on fact a standard stationroughly 4% of your entire day. You must & you will find the ary bike with about one minute rests in between, three time to put less than 2% of your day towards making your times week, works as well muscle as bit many body astronger, healthier, fitter,at&improving to feeling just a little more fabulous! hours of conventional long-term biking less strenuously.”

QUICK TIP: of HIIT is you can do it with cardio & with The beauty Eat less… MORE OFTEN! resistance training. A couple of my favorite ways are with • sprints Eat smaller meals 5-6 times a daymy own bodyweight. running outside or by using • Always have a balanced source veggies, & Exercises like burpees, mountainof protein, climbers, jumping healthy fats with each food meal. squats, & jumping lunges are just a few things you can do • For a balanced diet add a small serving of healthy in your own no equipment needed! carbshome to 1-2–meals each day (fruit, brown rice, sweet potatoes, quinoa, steel-cut oats)

• double Supplement as needed meals with a protein shake “inTo start your “active1-2rest” period with your • period.

Get a handy ½ gallon jug, filldo it burpees with purified tensity” So for instance, forwater, 30 sec& drink throughout your day. onds then march in place for 60 seconds allowing your body to recover from your intense burpee session. ReDear10 Bekah: peat times for 15 minutes total. You can also split I’ve been trying to eat a little healthier but my family still 15sec/30sec or the 60sec/120sec.

You foods can create perfect wants to eat all same less healthy they’rethe used to workout between each day &dosee eating. This makes it15-20 so muchminutes harder for me! What you incredfeed your kids &It husband?

How do the you SAME stay consistent with 20 ible results! is possible to get results from temptation is all around you? minutes HIIT Sincerelyof – In thisas allitbywould myself normally take over 1 hour of conventional slower steady paced cardio. I know it’s true Dear In-this-all-by-myself, because I’ve done it both ways!

I can truly relate! When I started my journey I was in it all by myself also. I had a husband who enjoyed his giant bowl of

You have 20 minutes – Consider the fact that 1 hour is roughly 4% of your entire day. You must & you will find the time to put less than 2% of your day towards making your body stronger, healthier, fitter, & to feeling just a little bit more fabulous!

QUICK TIP:

Eat less… MORE OFTEN! •

Eat smaller meals 5-6 times a day

• Always have a balanced source of protein, veggies, & healthy fats with each food meal.

• For a balanced diet add a small serving of healthy carbs to 1-2 meals each day (fruit, brown rice, sweet potatoes, quinoa, steel-cut oats) • Supplement as needed 1-2 meals with a protein shake

• Get a handy ½ gallon jug, fill it with purified water, & drink throughout your day.

Dear Bekah:

I’ve been trying to eat a little healthier but my family still wants to eat all the same less healthy foods they’re used to eating. This makes it so much harder for me! What do you feed your kids & husband? How do you stay consistent with temptation is all around you?

Sincerely – In this all by myself Dear In-this-all-by-myself,

I can truly relate! When I started my journey I was in it all by myself also. I had a husband who enjoyed his giant bowl of rocky-road ice cream every night. He worked out enough to stay in relatively decent shape no matter what he ate. How annoying is the male metabolism?  In my house what I did was start switching out everything white or processed for whole wheat or natural.

• Brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice • Sweet potatoes instead of russet or red • Whole Wheat bread/pasta instead of white • Multi-grain Chips instead of potato • 100% Fruit spread instead of sugar-added jams/ jellies • No-sugar added peanut butter & applesauce • Greek yogurt (very high in protein) w/ fruit spread stirred in instead of regular (very high sugar) yogurts • High fiber/low sugar cereal instead of high sugar corn cereals

Some things went over better than others! But you must realize this is about training your taste buds & your children’s taste buds to learn to like & eventually crave HEALTHIER choices! It’s up to us as parents to set our kids up for success. Am I a “Sugar Nazi?” NO! Yes, my kids can have candy. ONE piece. Yes, they can have ice cream.

ONE scoop on a small cone. I allow them to have those foods, but with major portion control! I’ll buy mini cupcakes for their school parties instead of those giant sized ones – even if the bigger ones are “cheaper!” At our house if you’re thirsty go drink water. It helps if the fridge isn’t packed with soda & juice. So we don’t put those things in there! Also, if it’s not there I can’t eat nor drink it. So I keep my favorite foods OUT of the house as much as possible & save them for my “cheat meals” which I’ll talk about more in the future. I hope some of these tips will help you slowly adapt your family to a healthier lifestyle.

What better gift than healthy eating habits can give our families? It won’t always be easy but it will definitely be worth it.

RECIPE:

Salmon & Asparagus Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, cut into 2-inch pieces • 1-1/2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil • Course sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste • 1 pound fresh or frozen salmon fillets with skin • 1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel • 1 teaspoon snipped fresh parsley Directions:

1. Place two (1 large and 1 medium) cast-iron skillets or oven-safe heavy skillets in a cold oven; heat oven to 450 degrees F. In a medium bowl combine asparagus and 1/2 teaspoon olive oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Brush the remaining1 teaspoon of olive oil on both sides of fish; sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Carefully remove hot skillets from oven. Place fish, skin side down, in the large skillet. Place asparagus in medium skillet. Return skillets to oven. Bake for 12 minutes, or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork and asparagus is crisp-tender.

3. To serve, sprinkle fish with lemon peel and parsley.

(Recipe adapted from recipe.com)

Have you always wanted to try a pageant, but you think or have been told : 

Once you lose weight, you will be a winner…



Such a pretty face but…



You have an amazing… personality…



Maybe our program isn’t for you…



You don’t look like a beauty queen…



And Miss Congeniality is… (again)



We are so proud of you for trying but…



There is no way I could walk on a stage and be judged!



If only I were thin I could…



Once I lose the weight, then I’ll be qualified…



She’s a great girl, just not the right fit for us…

We want to introduce you to a growing Pageant system created exclusively for YOU! The Washington/Oregon Plus America systems are designed to level the playing field within the pageant industry for women and teens of size. For the curvy MAJORITY who wear a size 12 and up! Our mission is to provide opportunities and give a voice to women and teens as-is and right now, emphasizing community involvement and volunteerism. Our system does NOT glorify obesity, but shows a realistic reflection of what people look like while promoting Healthy Curves and a Positive Body Image. As we grow, our desire is to provide substantial academic scholarships through our Teen program and become a significant financial contributor to our charities.

WA/OR Plus America will not be just another pageant, it is an EXPERIENCE! It WILL be life-changing!

What do you have to lose?

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY IN THE 2013 PAGEANT! Seems far away? TIME FLYS! Don’t get left out! With one year under our belt, spots are filling much faster because people now SEE just how amazing the Plus America system is!

OREGON ENTER/INFO: 74 | PACIFICPageants Magazine WWW.ORPLUSAMERICA.COM

WASHINGTON ENTER/INFO: WWW.WAPLUSAMERICA.COM

PACIFIC

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Ask Laura Laura Hunter

“Why it seem seemlike likethethe same people always “Whydoes does it same people always win?”win?”

Always WA Alwaysaa runner-up-Auburn, runner-up-Auburn, WA DearAlways Always aa runner-up, Dear runner-up, know that that ititcan difficult to see peoplepeople win timewin and time I Iknow canbebe difficult tosome see some time again. It can notch away at your self confidence and and time again. It can notch away at your self confidence make you start looking for external reasons why this keeps and make you start looking for external reasons why this happening. I hear a lot of contestants and moms of keeps happening. I hear a lot of contestants and moms of contestants complain that certain girls or ladies always win contestants that certain or ladies always win because theycomplain know the directors, theygirls are well known in because know directors, they are wellthose known in pagpageantthey circles, it's the all political, etc...

However, reasons eant circles, it’sreason all political, etc... are not the real some ladies win However, more often those than reasons others.

Thereal reason is also not natural Theoften real reason are not the reason some ladies ability. win more than othis preparation. thatnatural win a lotability. have practiced andreason ers.

The reasonThe is ladies also not The real their skills.

They havethat worked to the ishoned preparation.

The ladies winhard, a lotlistened have practiced and advicetheir of experts, andworked are able hard, to looklistened at honed skills.sought Theyhelp have to the themselves objectively. advice of experts, sought help and are able to look at themselves I haveobjectively. had many contestants complain to me after a pageant that they were "perfect" but didn't win. They believe that they

Ask Laura is written by Laura Hunter. Laura has been involved in pageantry as a photographer, hair and make-up artist, contestant and coach for over 15 years. She has held numerous state and national titles and currently holds the title of Mrs. Washington International.

Laura is a successful photographer and has owned her business, Beyond Photography, for the past 17 years. Her work has won countless awards, been featured by nearly all of the major pageant systems in the US and appeared in many magazines. Laura is also a contributing author and photographer published by Forbes Magazine.

A successful actress and model, Laura has appeared in television commercials and print ads for many companies.

She has been featured in national ad campaigns including Bissel, Microsoft, Avery Labels, Toyota, Disney and many others.

Laura also enjoys volunteerism and serving others through philanthropy, she has worked with The Red Cross, The Boys and Girls Club, Women in Business, Relay for Life, the Susan G. Komen Fund and other charities. Laura is the co-founder of a non-profit charity cheerleading team, the Pacific Panthers. She was recently awarded the President's Volunteer Service Award for donating over 350 hours of her time to charity in the past 12 months.

Laura is married to Jeremy Hunter, an aerospace engineering program manager at Greenpoint Technologies.

They have two beautiful girls, eight year old Isabelle and two year old Victoria.

I could have not haddomany to me after a pagbetter contestants and would notcomplain change anything.

Without eant that they “perfect” butladies didn’tand win.

Theyabelieve exception, I didwere not agree with these had quite fewthey tips they could on. The to winning a pageant is that could notwork do better andkey would not change anything. practice,exception, practice, practice andagree seeking reputable help. and had Without I did not with these ladies quite a few tips they could work on. The key to winning a There is a book on this subject by Geoff Colvin called Talent pageant is practice, practice, practice and seeking reputable is Overrated. I highly recommend it! help.

There is no way to guarantee a win but if you are well

There is a and book thispackage, subjectthen

by Geoff Colvin called Talprepared theon total you dramatically increase your odds.I highly recommend it! ent is Overrated.

Goodis Luck!

There no way to guarantee a win but if you are well prepared and the total package, then you dramatically “What do I do if I have done everything possible to win increase your odds. and I never do?”

Frustrated-Spokane, WA

Good Luck!

Dear Frustrated,

“What do I do if I have done everything possible to win It isIimpossible that you have done EVERYTHING to try to and never do?” win a pageant.

However, if you feel that you have exhausted Frustrated-Spokane, WA

your resources in pursuit of a particular title you may need to look Frustrated, objectively at yourself and see if maybe you need to try Dear another system instead. For example, if you are trying to win Washingtonthat America and you do not have a strong talent ItMiss is impossible you have done EVERYTHING to try to then the problem is that you either need to spend a lot of time win a pageant. However, if you feel that you have exhausted developing a strong talent or move to a system where talent is your resources in pursuit of a particular title you may need not a requirement.

to look objectively at yourself and see if maybe you need to tryI believe another system instead.

Foreveryone example, if you areand trying that there is a place for in pageantry if to holding title is important to you and then you you must find the a strong win MissaWashington America do not have pageant that best suitedistothat youryou strengths weaknesses. talent then theis problem eitherand need to spend a lot of time developing a strong talent or move to a system where PACIFICPageants Magazine | 75

talent is not a requirement.

I believe that there is a place for everyone in pageantry and if holding a title is important to you then you must find the pageant that is best suited to your strengths and weaknesses.

“I really want to be Miss Washington, but my talent is not strong, what do you recommend?”

Not Talented Enough-Seattle, WA Dear Not Talented Enough, On the surface, this is a simple problem. You have three choices. First, devote yourself to developing your existing talent into a strong talent. If that means practicing three hours a day then that is what you will need to do too achieve your goal. Your next option is to find a new talent and devote yourself to that talent until it is of national caliber. Your final choice is to choose a different pageant system. I believe that there is a place for everyone in pageantry and if holding a title is important to you then you must find the pageant that is best suited to your strengths and weaknesses.

What makes this a more difficult problem is dealing with the underlying emotions. Before you decide what path to take it would help you to do some soul searching and figure out why you really want to be Miss Washington America. Are you searching for prestige, acceptance, wanting to be part of the sorority or is it for some other reasons. Once you know and understand what your motivation is it will be much easier for you to make a decision.

There is a book that would be really helpful for you. It is Anthony Robbins, Awaken the Giant Within You. I think this book should be required reading for all pageant contestants. I highly recommend that you read it.

Good Luck!

“I’m a pageant mom and my daughter says she doesn’t want to do pageants anymore, but she has so much potential, how should I handle this?”

Supportive Mom-Boise, ID Dear Supportive Mom, There are a lot of things to look at when a child decides to quit any pass time. First, why are they quitting. Is it because they really do not enjoy the activity or is it because they don’t want to practice. If the problem is the latter it may be beneficial to the child to stay in the activity or to keep them in some other activity, like dance, that promotes follow through and teaches them how to achieve a goal. If the problem is that they don’t enjoy it you may want to ask them what they don’t enjoy about it. It may just be that the child would like more input into the clothing or wants to compete less often.

If this is the case then you should be able to work out some compromises.

76 | PACIFICPageants Magazine

Finally, you need to take a good hard look at your motives.

Pageantry does teach valuable life skills but they are all skills that can be learned elsewhere also. Your child could go to toast masters, join debate and go to a modeling school to get the same skills. Why do you really want your daughter to compete? If you find that the reason is that you enjoy pageants more than your daughter then you may want to consider competing yourself, directing, volunteering or helping another child that really wants to compete instead.

“I have thought about doing pageants, but it seems like a big click, is this true?”

Scared to not fit in-Tulatin, OR To the contrary, pageants are a great place to make friends and the women are really great! Pageant women tend to be successful, dedicated, fashion oriented women. What’s not to love? Most of my close lifelong friends are pageant people. Making friends at a pageant is the same as making friends anywhere. It’s a little uncomfortable at first but you just have to put yourself out there and try.

Think of it like starting a new job or the first day of school.

At first, it’s a little lonely and you feel self conscious but you slowly get to know people and one new acquaintance introduces you to another and before you know it you have a whole new group of friends.

The most important thing to remember when you are trying to make friends is also to be a good friend. Once you get to the pageant help the other ladies, make a point to talk to everyone and be sure to be complimentary. A little kindness goes a long way.

“It seems like everyone looks the same in pageants. How far should someone go to stand out?”

Pageant Patty-Tacoma, WA Hi Pageant Patty, While it is true that clothing designs and hair and makeup styles are similar in pageants, that doesn’t mean that everyone looks alike. There are thousands of beautiful dress designs and interview suits choose from. That being said, where you should be trying to stand out is not in your clothing but in your character, fitness level and stage presentation. If you can be a strong and confident individual in these aspects of the pageant you will have a marked edge over the competition.

However, all pageants are different and have different standards for their clothing choices. If making a fashion statement is important to you then you should choose a pageant that puts an emphasis on fashion. I recently competed in a pageant where wearing a less conservative wardrobe was acceptable and I had a lot of fun doing that. It may be good for you to look at the last few years of stage photos for the pageants you are considering and choose one that consis-

tently has a more fashion forward look.

“I really struggle trying to get thin enough to win at Miss Oregon USA. I work out three hours every day, drink tons of water, no fast food, high protein, I just can’t seem to get the body they want. What do I do?”

Too fat to win-Salem, OR Dear Too fat to win, First, there are four segments of the Miss OR USA Competition and unless you have consistently gotten perfect scores from every judge in every segment of competition then you cannot assume that you are not winning only because they do not like your body.

The fitness problem is an easy fix if you are willing to work hard, and it sounds like you are. You need to get a fitness trainer that specializes in pageantry, I recommend Body Design by Mike. Do exactly what he tells you to do without cheating. You will also need to start about six months before the pageant. If you do that you will have the figure you want.

The good news is that you will no longer have to work out three hours per day.

The rest of the competition is equally important. Judges are looking for a total package. Practice in front of a mirror every day, get a good coach that has had a high level of success with the Miss USA system and work hard on your interview skills. Pageants are won in interview.

There is no way to guarantee a win but if you cover all of your bases you dramatically increase your odds.

“Why are pageants so expensive? I would love to do one, but it seems like if you are not rich you don’t have a chance.”

Broke and Bummed-Moscow, ID Hi Broke and Bummed, Pageants are a hobby and hobbies are luxury items. That is to say they are things we do not need to do. Pageants actually cost about the same as any other hobby. In fact, they are somewhat inexpensive compared to hobbies like showing horses, racing cars, ice skating and others.

The reason they cost what they do is that the people running them are not doing it as a community service. This is their job. They need to cover a large production cost and still have something left over to live on. In my experience, there are very few pageant directors, even in the really big systems that make enough money to live on. Most direct as a hobby and barely make a profit.

Photos and wardrobe can also be expensive but these expenses can be lowered dramatically by buying or borrowing used clothing and using a local photographer. You should be able to get a dress, suit, photo and swim suit for under $500

if you are willing to spend the time to find great deals. You could spend a lot less if you borrow some of your wardrobe.

Of course, I recommend Beyond Photography for your photos. I do offer a very reasonably priced headshot package.

If you really want to compete and cannot afford it there are some options you can explore to raise funds. You can become a vendor and sell pageant related items to offset your costs. You can put on a fundraiser like a silent auction or bake sale. You can get sponsors through friends, family and businesses you frequent. If you have any special skills you can offer your services to the directors to see if a trade can be worked out. With a little perseverance and ingenuity you can compete and have it be affordable.

“I am trying to find the perfect gown, how do I make sure no one else has it?”

Crown Clone-Bellevue, WA Dear Crown Clone, Finding the perfect gown can be so difficult. My advice is to try on every style you can find and see what is right for your body type. After you find a good shape decide on what color you want to wear then go to as many stores as you can trying on the gowns. It is important to remember that the gowns are not made for your body so expect to need to alter your gown. If you wait for the perfect fit you may never find a dress.

There are a lot of online stores and auctions where you can get a dress. I would not order one unless you have tried on that exact dress in a store prior to ordering it. You can also have a dress custom made. I have seen beautiful custom dresses and awful ones so you just have to be careful.

Unfortunately, there is no way to make sure you have a dress no-one else is wearing. Honestly, it doesn’t matter. If it fits you perfectly and you feel like a million bucks in it it’s perfect. Don’t let what other people do or wear get into your head. You will never lose a pageant because you had the same dress as another girl but you could certainly lose because you lacked confidence so don’t sweat it if it happens.

Ask Laura the question you have always wanted to ask!  Your Question  Descriptive Feeling  City & State EMAIL TO: info@pacificpageants.com SUBJECT LINE: Ask Laura PACIFICPageants Magazine | 77

PACIFICPageants would like to thank the titleholders who modeled in Winning Wardrobe!

Mrs. Auburn Plus America, Alisa Clark (Left) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Regal Majesty Queen, Lauren Sturgill (Center) Miss Seattle Teen USA, Priya Gopal (Right)