Skin Care Tips From Miss Delaware

06:05 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

As a pageant girl I often get questions about beauty, especially since my platform relates so closely to skin care! I won't deny it, I hit the genetic jackpot as far as skin, inheriting a nice average of the skin my family has. I got my Daddy's freckles and my Mom's resistance to sunburn as well as a generally balanced complection. This doesn't mean, however, that I don't take care of my skin! It is so important to take care of the largest organ on your body!

As far a facial care goes, it is important to take 4 steps each and every day: Cleanse, use a toner, moisturize, and wear sunscreen! You can save yourself a step by using a moisturizer with a built-in sunscreen, which is very common today. I recommend Artistry brand cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. Artistry is a luxury skin care brand and their products have kept my face blemish-free and glowing since my first experience with the Miss America Organization in 2010. I use their balancing set as I have combination skin, but they also have phenomenal products for everything from oily skin, to dry skin, to aging skin. I then follow with a good sunscreen, Artistry recently came out with an SPF 50 facial lotion that I am dying to try (if anyone wants to get it for me for my birthday...) since it's hard to find a lotion with an SPF over 30. Before bed, I follow my cleansing routine with Artistry Creme Luxury Eye Cream, which was a very generous gift from the wonderful people at Artistry when I was in Orlando for Miss America's Outstanding Teen. 

A run-down of my daily routine:

Morning: 
Artistry Essentials Balancing Kit


Aveeno Positively Radiant SPF 30 moisturizer

Night: 


Artistry Creme Luxury Eye Cream, AKA The BOMB

The single most important step of this whole process is sunscreen. If you only wear sunscreen for a day on the beach, you are opening yourself up for skin damage, premature aging, and most importantly skin cancer. Your skin is exposed to UV radiation every day, and the skin on your face is much more sensitive and prone to damage than skin anywhere else. If you're my age or younger, wearing sunscreen on a daily basis can not only save your life, but can prevent you from getting wrinkles, crow's feet, age and sun spots, and non-life threatening cancers such as carcinomas. If you've already begun to notice a decline in the condition of your skin and signs of aging, wearing sunscreen along with a good skin care regimen can delay, improve, and even reverse these problems. If there is one tip I wish for you to take from this post, it's:
Wear sunscreen every single day!

If you're interested in purchasing any Artistry products, you can find them here: http://www.artistry.com/

Sidenote: Artistry is a sponsor of the Miss America Scholarship Organization, so when you buy products from them, you are also making an investment in helping young women like me earn scholarship money! Artistry did not ask me to write this blog post, I just genuinely LOVE their products and I think everyone should give them a try!

Do you have any skin care tips, favorite products, or questions? Tweet me; @MissDelaware12

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Miss Delaware FAQ's

07:38 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments


It seems that on appearances I always get asked the same few questions, so I decided to address some of them in a blog post.

Q. “How tall are you without heels?”
A. I’m about 5’9” flat-footed. I come from a tall family! I love heels though, so often at appearances I’m about 6’2”.

Q. “Do you watch ‘Here Comes Honey Boo Boo? Were you a ‘Toddler and Tiaras’ girl?”
A. Yes, I love “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” and “Toddlers and Tiaras.” No, I was a Ninja Turtle, Power Rangers, and Batman type of girl, and I still am.

Q. Do you know Donald Trump?
A. No, Donald Trump owns the Miss Universe Organization. The girls who are involved in his system are contestants for Miss Teen USA, Miss USA, and Miss Universe. Miss America is a separate entity and is a scholarship organization.

Q. Don’t you find it degrading to be on stage in a bikini being judged?
A. No, to me it is empowering to be on stage in my swimsuit. I have put a lot of hard work into my figure and I can’t wait to show it off at Miss America. It’s a huge confidence booster for me.

Q. How does your crown stay on your head?
A. I have excellent balance…no just kidding. Seriously though, bobby pins and clips.

Q. Does that thing (my sparkly hat) get heavy on your head?
A. I have zero complaints about it, I would sleep in it if I could.

Q. Are you a real princess? (My favorite question, and usually from little girls.)
A. Yes, and so are you.

Q. Why did you get involved in pageants?
A. I started out in pageants to earn scholarship money. I've now earned enough to pay for my 4 year undergraduate education and almost a year of law school after college! I strongly encourage young women to get involved with MAO to win scholarship money. After my first year with MAO I realized that there is a lot more to this than money. I am involved in this organization to grow as a person, my confidence has gone through the roof since I began competing, and my speaking skills have increased exponentially. Also, I see now that I am a role model to young girls. My 8-year old sister is my inspiration, and I try to be a positive influence in her life and the lives of other girls her age. 

Have any other questions for Miss Delaware? Feel free to tweet them to me, @MissDelaware12 and I will get back to you!! 

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Riverwalks, Weddings and Flu Shots!

08:16 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments



This past week could not have been more opposite from my last week! Every day this week I was running to appearances, meetings, and speaking engagements, and I enjoyed every second. 

I worked out with Paul Timmons at the firm in Rehoboth Beach, DE, my official trainer for Miss America on Monday. I always enjoy working with Paul and I am learning a lot from him about health and nutrition. 

Tuesday I went and visited the Fenwick Island Lion's Club at Harpoon Hannah's. In high school I was fortunate enough to receive the John Furlow $4000 scholarship from this organization, and I was honored when they invited me to their meeting to speak and join them for lunch. As it turns out, I'm fantastic at stalling and rambling. Upon my arrival they asked for a 20 minute speech. No that is not a typo, I spoke for 20 minutes about college scholarships, Miss Delaware, Miss America, skin cancer prevention, and every other aspect of my life. I ended up having a wonderful time reconnecting with the Lion's Club and being able to express my gratitude to them. 

On Thursday I headed upstate to visit my skin care sponsor, Hockessin Day Spa to be spoiled. If you live in the area and have not had a facial from Donna yet, you are seriously missing out. Not only is she awesome and funny and sweet, but she keeps my skin glowing and fresh and always hooks me up with some awesome products! I then headed to the fabulous Debi Wilson's house to pick my spot for Miss America in the Miss America Lottery! I am glad to say I was lucky enough to get the spot I had my eye on. Call me superstitious but I was contestant number 7 in the Mu group at Miss Delaware, and I will be contestant number 7 in the Mu group at Miss America. It's all becoming so real now I can hardly contain my excitement. I ended the night catching up with some sorority sisters at the Alpha Xi Delta house at the University of Delaware.

For those of you who don't know already, I am a huge football fan. I love high school, college, NFL, and any other type of football you can possibly think of. I have 2 brothers who played on my high school football team, and while I was cheer leading captain I could never keep my eyes off the field. Friday night I was invited to Seaford High School Community Night to meet and greet, sign autographs, and toss the coin to start the game! I even got to spend time with Miss Seaford, Carolyn Smith! It was so much fun running around with the younger football fans and we even ended up on the local news. Though I had to hide my Indian River pride for the night, I had a blast at Seaford High and I hope to go back soon.

Without a doubt, Saturday was my busiest and most fun day by far. In the morning I headed up to Milford for the Riverwalk event. If you're unaware, I'm high energy, clumsy, accident prone, and silly, so there is never a dull moment. The wind gusts of 20 mph forced us to take down our tent and our decorations, and we ended up with nothing but a bare table and raffle tickets to sell. One man asked me if I was selling kisses, yikes, I got my flu shot from Walgreens pharmacy, and ended up staying for 3 hours after I was booked because I was having such a blast! After that I headed up to Dover for the Denim and Diamonds fundraiser for Meals on Wheels. I was joined there by my fabulous Executive Director, Debi Wilson, Maria Cahill, Miss Delaware 2011, Marcie Smith, Miss Diamond State 2012, and Stephanie Bailey, Miss Newark 2012. We had a blast dancing with all the guests and sampling delicious food from throughout the state. Maria and I took center stage to "shuffle" and at one point I distinctly remember hearing someone say "Look, Miss Delaware is doing the running man!" It was great to be able to spend a night with my pageant sisters and raise money for such a great cause.

Yesterday my mom was married and we celebrated at a good friend's house. I even let myself cheat and have a piece of wedding cake, but don't tell Paul! My mom's husband is leaving for Afghanistan in October so all prayers for his safe return home are greatly appreciated. 

All told this week was exhausting and full of travel, but I would want to spend my time any other way. 



Here are just a few shots from this week, there are many more to come!

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The MIS-adventures of Miss Delaware(s)

12:25 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments



This week was an interesting one, in that I didn’t have any appearances. No, you didn’t read that wrong, it was a slow, relaxing week in the life of Miss Delaware. I took full advantage of it, spending a lot of time with my little sister, Remi, who is the funniest 8-year old child to ever roam this Earth. We had a sleepover, a beach day, and a movie night! I wish everyone could meet my sister, because she is quite a character. She marched to the beat of her own drum, to say the least, and she says the funniest things without even trying.
“Remi-isms”:
“Remi isn’t even a real name. I wish my name was Whitney…or Sprinkles.”
“I am sweating like a meatloaf.”
“I’m like a seal on wheels!”
This is why my sister is the greatest child ever to live.

Anyway, I also learned something about myself this weekend. I am a scaredy cat. Maria Cahill (Miss Delaware 2011) decided she wanted to come down to visit me and rent jet skis, something that’s on her infamous bucket list. We attempted to go out yesterday, in the pouring rain, but the second we sat down on the skis, thunder and lightning started and we were rescheduled for this morning. I was a little nervous, but I thought that once I was out on the water I would be fine. WRONG. It took me a solid 20 minutes on the jet ski to will myself about 15 MPH. Eventually I put the pedal to the medal and hit 50, yes 50 MPH. It ended up being a great time, and Maria has another thing to check off of her bucket list.

Maria and I being refined and distinguished.


After jet skiing I headed to Paul Timmons at The Firm in Rehoboth Beach, my official personal trainer for Miss America. The Firm has this tradition where you can earn a black shirt, but you can’t buy one. You have to push yourself beyond physical and mental exhaustion and rise to the challenge. I’m proud to say that today I earned mine today by doing a 65 lb overhead squat and loaded knee jump. Check out the video!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfH-6Fy3hy4&feature=player_embedded

All told, this week was exactly what I needed. Free time to think, relax, and hang out with my family and friends before the busy week I have ahead of me.

Until next time,
Alyssa


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MAOT in Orlando, FL!

10:31 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

Wednesday morning I woke up at 4:00 am, excited and ready to head to Orlando, Florida to watch the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant. 2 plane rides and a few hours later, I arrived in Orlando with my Mom, took a shuttle to the hotel, and got ready to meet my new Miss America sisters!

I headed to an Artistry consultation, where I got a whole goody bag of my favorite Artistry product, including their Luxury Care Eye Cream, Glitz Light Up Lip Gloss, Balancing Cleanser, Toner, and Moisturizer set, and the essentials kit in Light. I cannot say enough about these amazing products; they really keep my skin Miss America perfect all the time! We took some fun shots with our favorite shade of Light Up Lip Gloss, and had an interview with some Artistry Representatives. I would like to give a big shout out to Artistry, as they just came out with an SPF 50 facial sunscreen that not only protects your skin from sun damage, but also improves your skin quality and clarity! That night I got to watch Delaware’s Morgan Burris light up the stage in her evening gown and onstage question portion of the competition. 

Thursday was a whirlwind of filming for our wonderful Miss America sponsors. There are so many new and exciting marketing strategies that Miss America is adopting this year, so keep your eyes peeled! We also got to peak at the swimsuits by Catalina that will be featured at the Miss America Pageant in January! This is so cool for us, because after the pageant, the EXACT SAME swimsuits you see on the contestants will be available in select Wal-Mart stores and online! They are affordable and super cute!  Thursday night Morgan competed in the fitness portion of competition, and spend more time with my Miss America sisters.

Friday we filmed again for sponsors, had our first contestant orientation for Miss America, and then we headed to Disney World! We were lucky enough to have security escort us to the front of every line so we were able to go on a lot of rides, including the tea cups, It’s a Small World, Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain, and a few more! I even rode in the front of Splash Mountain with Miss California, Leah Cecil and we got soaked!  We ended the night dancing with Stitch and headed back to our hotel, exhausted but extremely happy.  

Saturday morning, I was filmed for an interview with ABC, and then got some free time to hang out by the pool with my Mom, and grab some lunch with an old friend, my principal from Southern Delaware School of the Arts, Tim Fannin, who moved to Florida when I was in 8thgrade! It was so nice to see someone who was such an integral part of my journey to the Miss America stage. Without my performing experiences and academic achievements at SDSA, I wouldn’t be the performer or person I am today. Saturday night finals at MAOT were such a pleasure to watch. Congratulations to all of the young women who were able to represent at that level, and to Rachel Wyatt, the new Miss America’s Outstanding Teen from South Carolina. She blew me away with her talent, a beautiful lyrical dance to “The Climb,” and she embodies what the organization is all about! 

I am so proud of Morgan Burris, our Miss Delaware’s Outstanding Teen for representing us with grace, poise, beauty, and genuine heart at MAOT. She never fails to amaze me and this week was no different. Though her journey in Florida is over, her amazing story does not end here. She is beginning a new chapter and returning to Delaware to finish her year with the same dedication and passion she has shown thus far. She is making a difference each day in the lives of other children who were adopted like she was, and encouraging other young people to follow their dreams. Morgan is one of the few young women her age who are able to make a difference. She is beautiful inside and out and she has a light that radiates through her smile, her eyes, and everything she says. Morgan truly is OUTSTANDING in every way, shape and form through the message she conveys, the hope she provides to others, the passion she has for service, and her genuine love for others. She is an inspiration to me and I feel so honored to be her “big sister.” 

This week through watching Morgan compete, and meeting my Miss America sisters, I am finally starting to realize that I really will be competing for Miss America in January. This lofty goal that I’ve kept in my back pocket all these years is becoming a reality. I can’t wait to reunite with the other 52 incredible titleholders, and make even more memories in January!

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The New MTA Court Attends 2 Events in the San Gabriel Valley on August 17, 2012

01:54 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

On the weekend of August 17-18, 2012, eight of the ladies of our Miss Taiwanese American Court attended and volunteered at these two events in the San Gabriel Valley.

The Fusion Friday FASHION SHOW, held at the Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena, was organized by APEX (Asian Professional Exchange) and hosted by Vivian Bang (one of the stars of the TBS new sitcom "Sullivan and Son").  Among our ladies who attended this event included Miss Taiwanese American Queen Annie Lee, First Princess Deborah Lu, Second Princess Tiffany Cheng, & Sixth Princess Tiffany Yi-Tzu Chang.  They modeled showing their cultural outfits among the many other fabulous models from other pageants such as Miss LA Chinatown, Miss Asia USA,  Miss Vietnam of Southern California, Miss India America, and Los Angeles Area Mongolian Association.  Photos Courtesy of Kwirious Photography and Camera ShyInLA Photography.


The ART WALK was the San Gabriel Valley Humane Society's first time showcasing their talented animal artists and their amazing work. Activities included a raffle, auction, animal art to purchase, games, crafts, concession stands, and food trucks. The main purpose for the event was to help raise funds for homeless animals, and because a few of the ladies on our court have a passion to help animals, they volunteered their time to the activities of this event. Among our ladies who attended this event included Third Princess Julia Tsai, Ambassadors Lillian Chen, Dana Kung, & Stacy Wu. Photos courtesy of Dana Kung.
 
 

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Ferry Fiascos, Photoshoots, and Parades!

17:24 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

I can safely say that this week has been the busiest one in my year as Miss Delaware thus far. I don’t say this to complain because I’m happiest when I’m busy!

Sunday was the day of the ferry fiasco. After planning ahead (for once in my life) and booking a ferry ticket to work with my INCREDIBLE Miss America choreographer, Jamie Ginn, Miss Delaware 2006, I arrived an hour early for my ferry to Cape May, NJ. Once 7:25 am rolled around and the gate still had not opened, I realized I had booked the ferry backwards, from NJ to DE, and the first ferry from Lewes wasn’t until 9:15 am! Luckily the incredibly understanding customer service employees exchanged my ticket free of charge and helped me along my way. Misfortune over? Not quite. I have been on my fair share of boats in my life, I live near the water and I spend as much time on it as possible. Never before have I been seasick, but Sunday, of all days, my stomach got the best of me. I arrived in Ocean City, NJ slightly green, nauseous, and flustered, but excited to get to work. The session was incredible and I cannot wait to perform my new routine at Miss America!

The day ended with my Outstanding Teen, Morgan Burris’s send-off to Orlando for the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant! Morgan emulates everything the MAOT program is about, she is kind, compassionate, incredibly talented, intelligent, and well spoken. I can’t wait to watch her work that stage in Florida. GO DELAWARE!

Monday was a super intense, rope climbing, kettle bell flinging session with my official Miss DE trainer, Paul Timmons at The Firm in Rehoboth Beach. Tuesday I headed to Harrington for the Delaware Electric Cooperative dinner, Wednesday I visited Sal Cutrona, my Miss DE hair sponsor and Gloria, my nail sponsor at Michael Christopher Salon in Wilmington to get pretty before Orlando. Thursday I went to the Eagles vs. Steelers football game with a friend, totally unrelated to Miss Delaware, but totally AWESOME.

On Friday I participated in Trash the Dress for Charity. Lead by photographers Sam Ellis and Anne Donaway, young women can donate an old prom or homecoming dress to those who are not able to finance their dream dress. Sam and Anne take pictures of the models on the beach and gradually making their way into the water. They then dry clean these dresses and get them to those who need them! I had an extra dress hanging around in my closet that I hope someone will love! Nothing better than modeling and swimming in a gown for a great cause! I was honored and excited to be a part of this project.

Saturday I had an interview with Prita from PageantProfessors.com in Washington, DC and tomorrow morning is the Bower’s Beach  Parade!

This week was a busy/hectic/fun one, and I can only hope I stay this busy throughout my year as Miss Delaware!

P.S. If you haven’t seen it yet, check out Maria Cahill, Miss Delaware 2011, on Life on the Rock on EWTN! She was a total natural and I’m super proud! 



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Congratulations to the 2012 Miss Taiwanese American Court!!

05:15 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments


CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2012-2013 MTA COURT!

Annie Lee, Miss Taiwanese American Queen, Miss Talent & Miss Popularity
Deborah Dee Lu, First Princess
Tiffany Cheng, Second Princess
Julia Tsai, Third Princess
Aura Gilham, Fourth Princess & Miss Photogenic
Renee Lee, Fifth Princess
Tiffany Yi-Tzu Chang, Sixth Princess

Miss Taiwanese American Ambassadors 
(Alphabetized by Last Name)
Vicki Chang
Lillian Chen
Hilary Kao
Joanna Liao
Trina Peng, Miss Congeniality
Stacy Wu





SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM THE 2012 PAGEANT CEO, CATHERINE YU LIN:

Congratulations to the 2012 Miss Taiwanese American Court and Ambassadors! In my mind, you are all deserving of the queen title. You truly inspired me with your hard work, passion for community service, and determination to strive for the very best that you can do. I am a very proud Pageant CEO thanks to you all. Great job ladies!





AUGUST 4TH 2012 MTA PAGEANT IN THE NEWS:


A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE 2012 MISS TAIWANESE AMERICAN PAGEANT:


Had the pleasure of judging the Miss Taiwanese American pageant over the weekend. It's difficult judging 14 girls in 4 categories, it all becomes a blur after a while. But luckily I've worked with so many amazingly talented, musicians, singers, actors, and filmmakers, so I know a thing or two about spotting talent!

~ George Shaw, 2012 MTA Pageant Judge


Congratulations to the new court! I know you will all do an amazing job of serving and representing the community. Keep shining and smiling! I'm honored to have had the privilege of serving this year as Miss Taiwanese American 1st Princess. Now it's your turn to shine!

~ Sarah Ho, 2011 MTA First Princess

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The Big "Thank You" Post

16:36 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments


I want to say a quick thank you to some important people before I blog about anything else.

Without God, nothing in my life would be possible.

Thank you to my family for being so supportive in every way possible. My Mom, who has never missed a recital, performance, swim meet, or pageant, Dad who supported me financially and emotionally through my journey to Miss Delaware, my step-mom Karen, step-dad Dan, Floyd, Mom mom and Pop pop, Aunt Lisa and JP, my big brother Cory, my sister Remi, my step-brothers Ben and Zach, you are the best big happy dysfunctional family I could ask for.

To my friends, thank you for being there for me. Shelby, Abby, Taylor, thanks for being there for me since elementary school.

To my sorority sisters who have supported me every step of the way, a huge thank you. Ali, Steph, Kayla, my sorority family who stuck by my side, Veronica who I don’t know what I would do without, Marykate, who came all the way down to watch and cried more than I did over the win, all of the girls on exec. for the thoughtful and delicious edible arrangement. I’m so happy I have about 140 of the best sisters in the whole world.

Dillan, thanks for coming the long distance to watch me, and for putting up with me when I was going a little crazy preparing.

All of the Miss Delaware 2012 girls, I love each and every one of you. Thank you for making this experience unforgettable. Alix, thanks for being the best roommate I could have asked for you. I loved our late night talks and getting ready together. Becky thanks for being a sister to me all year. You have a very special place in my heart and I miss our Newark breakfast and protein shake dates.

Maria Cahill, I can’t even say “thank you” enough. I know you would make fun of me because I’m tearing up while I’m writing this. I knew when I met you last year, you were the kind of friend that only comes along once in a lifetime, and I’m so proud to call you one of my best friends. Thank you for setting such a great example for me to follow, and thank you for being so helpful to all the contestants this year. Let’s go get froyo.

To all the former Miss Delawares, thank you for being role models and inspirations to me. Kama Levandis, thank you for being my idol and encouragement, even though you didn’t know it.

To the best board in the whole World, thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to this program and your girls. You treat every one of us like your own, and we all love you for that.

Marcellus Beasley at B-Fit Enterprise, you believed in me from day one. You told me the day we met that I could do it and you stuck by me, not only as a trainer, but as a friend. I can’t thank you enough for all you have done for me.

The fabulous Tony Bowls, Josh Cody, the Perfect Dress in New Jersey, and Chris Saltalamacchio, thank you for making me feel like a princess while I was picking out my gown. Y’all rock, and I couldn’t have done it without this team.

David Button and Jen Hayward, thanks for being such awesome local mentors, and for believing in me from the start.

Everyone who was involved with my journey, thank you for helping me achieve my dream.

I am incredibly blessed to have so many people in my life who have been so fundamental in reaching my dreams. I am so grateful to everyone who helped make this possible.


Until next time,
Alyssa

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My FIRST Blog Post as MISS DELAWARE!

07:57 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments


HI EVERYONE! My first blog post as Miss Delaware, how amazing/unbelievable is this? Every morning I wake up and I still have to double check to make sure I’m not in some incredible, ridiculous, inception-caliber dream. 6 weeks after being crowned, I am finally having a few quiet moments to reflect on the week that has forever changed my life.

Just 2 years ago I was an awkward, self-conscious, and quirky college freshman at the University of Delaware (GO BLUE HENS!) trying to find where I fit in, when I received a facebook message from Mama Sandy Soucek, telling me I should compete for a preliminary pageant to Miss Delaware.

I have grown more in the past 2 years through my experience with the Miss Delaware/Miss America Organization than I have in 18 years prior. After placing 4th runner-up to the fabulous Maria Cahill, a best friend of mine, I decided that I was going to put myself out there this year and leave everything I had on that Miss Delaware stage. I prepared like I never had before.  I lost 2 dress sizes and about 20 pounds, improved my talent and selected the wardrobe of my dreams.

For the first time ever, I was 100% confident with my body when I stepped on stage Thursday night for swimsuit. I felt completely confident with my onstage question (it probably didn’t hurt that it was about my platform) which I have been involved with for 8 years, (more on that later). Friday night I was so ecstatic to receive the evening gown preliminary award and my talent went even better than I  hoped.  Saturday night was a complete whirlwind. Out of the top 11, guess who was number 11. Yup, this girl right here. If you thought I was a nervous wreck, you should have seen my poor Mother! She just about had a coronary right there in Dover Downs. With the announcement of the top 5, I was at peace. Did I want to be Miss Delaware? You bet. I had put a year of hard work and dedication into this and I knew I was ready for this job. Having said that, there were 4 other beautiful, intelligent, and well rounded young women in those hot seats with me that would have made a wonderful state titleholder.

The crowning was an absolute blur. All I remember is hearing names called, and thinking “that’s not me.” I was so happy I got to share that moment with Renee. That girl didn’t win Miss Congeniality for nothing. She kept all of us smiling and laughing all week. I don’t remember what song was playing, I don’t remember what I did, and I certainly don’t remember hearing my name called out, but I eventually realized I was still standing there. Judging by the pictures from Miss Delaware, I think I held it together pretty well, and I was so happy to see the positive reactions from every other contestant. These girls are like my family now and I am so thrilled, honored, and humbled to be a representative for this class of young women.

I am sorry this is such a long post, but there is no way to shorten what was the single best week of my entire life into a short paragraph. I am so thrilled to start my reign as Miss Delaware, and I hope you all follow my adventures on this blog!

Until next time,

Alyssa



                           Check out this slideshow from Miss Delaware week!


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Meet the Finalists of the 2012 Miss Taiwanese American Pageant!

14:14 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

2012 Miss Taiwanese American Contestants
(Photo Courtesy of Kalen Sheng of Photo Kronology)


Check out a new video to meet the fair ladies of our 2012 Miss Taiwanese American Pageant! 

2012 Miss Taiwanese American Pageant Finalists
Contestant #1 Joanna Liao
Contestant #2 Stacy Wu
Contestant #3 Tiffany Yi Tzu Chang
Contestant #4 Aura Gilham
Contestant #5 Vicki Chang
Contestant #6 Dana Kung
Contestant #7 Deborah Dee Lu
Contestant #8 Lilian Chen
Contestant #9 Trina Peng 
Contestant #10 Hilary Kao
Contestant #11 Renee Lee
Contestant #12 Tiffany Cheng
Contestant #13 Annie Lee
Contestant #14 Julia Tsai

2012 Miss Taiwanese American 台美小姐選拔賽, 由大洛杉磯台灣會館主辦, 入圍佳麗7月21日首度記者會, 公開亮相, 37位報名, 初選晋級14位, 將參加8月4日洛杉磯的聖蓋博希爾頓大飯店的決賽盛會, 由於佳麗素質學識皆高, 最後誰能艷冠群芳, 奪下后冠及獎金, 令人期待。

The pageant night is just a week away now on Saturday, August 4th, 2012 at the San Gabriel Hilton! We are so excited, & so proud of all the ladies for their achievements! ~ Catherine Yu Lin, Pageant CEO & the Pageant Committee

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Miss Puerto Rico

11:04 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

For the record, this is about to be a really short post.

Not because we don't like Puerto Rico, but because the Junkies are still kicking themselves for not taking that immersion internship to Mexico in college.  After a zillion credits in Spanish Language and too many years later, we are seriously inept at doing the adequate amount research on a contestant because everything we find is in Spanish!  Including Facebook pages!  Who knew Miss Puerto Rico and this blog would be yet another reason why we should've given up Christmas vacation???  Ugh!  But I digress...

Here's Laura Ramierez, Miss Puerto Rico 2011... isn't she lovely?


Puerto Rico has an outstanding Miss Universe track record and lots of girls know how to look glamorous!  If Miss America can tap into some of those contestants who are interested in the scholarship opportunities offered by MAO, they'll be in great shape!

Miss Puerto Rico History:  Miss Puerto Rico returned to Miss America in 2010 - after nearly a 50 year hiatus!  Mimi Pabon won Swimsuit in 10, but nothing else of note.

Best Junkie Research Tool: The Miss America Website has all the contestants here...

Who To Watch:  Ummm.... we have no idea.  Based on our research, it appears that all 14 of the contests are brand new this year.. which doesn't give us much to go on.  Admittedly, we're really stretching it here... but if you gotta take a shot in the dark, here's who we're picking..

Kiara Liz Medina - She's on Twitter, has a Facebook page for her local pageant and she's a Flamenco Dancer

Valerie Trinidad - Former Miss Kissimmee Florida Latina competed at Miss Florida Latina, Jazz Dancer

Amanda Morel - Martial Arts Talent

Gonna be just as surprised as you are when we crown Miss Puerto Rico tonight! :)  Junkie Love!!! :)

MAJ

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Miss Kentucky

21:57 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

Ann Blair Thornton, Miss Kentucky 2011 did Kentucky proud by bringing home this year's Quality of Life award from Miss America.  And while I desperately wish they'd come up with a better name for this award (as evidenced in this blog we posted back in January), I can't argue with the 'heart' of the award.  Ann Blair lived her platform every day and as she shares, her 'platform journey' and her 'pageant journey' go hand in hand...

If you didn't get the chance to see Ann Blair's finalist video for the QoL, check it out here!  We LOVED the "little reminder" she reveals near the end of this video regarding so many important people she met throughout her journey with her platform.


Here's wishing Ann Blair all the best in the future!

Miss Kentucky History:  The one and only Heather French, Miss America 2000 is the only Miss America from Kentucky.

Best Junkie Research Tool:  You can still vote for your favorite contestant at the Miss Kentucky Website and see each contestant's pertinent information right here...

Who to Watch:  
Jeffra Bland - KY Teen USA 09 & 4th runner up at Teen USA, 3rd runner up in 10, 2nd runner up in 11

Jenna Day - 1st runner up in 11, Prelim Talent winner, poli-sci major, Top 10 at Miss Sweetheart

Ashley Ferry - Miss KYOT 08, 4th runner up in 11

Annie Franklin - 4th runner up in 10, Top 10 last year, daughter of Miss KY 88

Olivia Henken - Semifinalist in '11, lead singer in a band, already has a couple of albums produced

Ramsey Carpenter - Non-Finalist Talent and Non-Finalist Interview in '11

Person of Interest! Melissa Cox is the sister of the new Miss Indiana 2012, Merriebeth Cox!  They're both Baton Twirlers and both adorable blondes!  We've seen lots of sisters compete in the same year at the same state pageant, but different states are certainly more rare!

All the Best to Miss Kentucky!  Good Luck to Everyone in the Bluegrass State!!! :)

MAJ



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Miss Arkansas

21:44 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments

Kristen Glover, Miss Arkansas 2011 wins the 'Super Smarty Sexy Scientist' award of this year's class.  The girl graduated Magna Cume Laude from Ouachita Baptist University with a degree in Chemistry (For the record, the last time the Junkies even took a Chemistry Class was at the age of 16!).  Her future plans include Pharmacy School at the University of Arkansas... like we said, Super Smarty Pants! :) 

There were scores of photos of Ms. Glover which were Fabulous...



 

Here's hoping Kristen's future lab partner at least has a clue and appreciates who he/she's been paired up with this fall!!! :)  

Kristen was a Quality of Life Finalist Award winner at Miss America this year for her platform called, "Second Chances through Mentoring".  If you've seen her Facebook page or her blog (check it out here) you know her year hasn't been about photos - it's been about the kids.  She's a great role model and has a strong future ahead of her! :)

Miss Arkansas History: Two Miss Americas hail from the state of Arkansas... Donna Axum in 64 and Elizabeth Ward in 82.

Best Junkie Research Tool:  All the contestants are listed along with their prelim competition groups which you can see here for yourself! :)

Items to Note:  From our perspective, this year's pageant seems to have 3 categories:
1. No Brainers
2. Newbies
3. You Never Know... 

Who to Watch = No Brainers:
Simone Mullinax - 2nd runner up in 11, 1st runner up in 10, won Miss Sweetheart last year

Sloane Roberts - 4th runner up in 11, AR OT in 08 and 2nd runner up at MAOT 08

Sommer Allen - 4th runner up in 10, 3rd runner up in 11

Morgan Holt - Semi-Finalist in 09 and 10, AR OT in 07

Who to Watch = Newbies:
Caitlyn Cook - we're pretty sure she can sing and has a great headshot

Mary Lacey Thompson - musical theater major, inside scoop says she's 'a super sweet Southern girl'

Who to Watch = You Never Know:
Rosalyn Taylor - Top 15 in 11, won every category at her local

Helen Winser - Prelim Evening Gown and Prelim Swimsuit Winner in '11

Helen Billingsley - Prelim Evening Gown Winner in 11

Prelims Begin on Wednesday!  Junkies Love Miss Arkansas!!! :)

MAJ
 

 


 

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August 4th Pageant Night Tickets Are On Sale!!

01:01 LaoPhoi.com 0 Comments


2012 Miss Taiwanese American Contestants 
(Photo Courtesy of Peter Phan)


The Miss Taiwanese American (MTA) Pageant (台美小姐選拔 ) is an annual competition by Taiwan Center Foundation of Greater Los Angeles (大洛杉磯台灣會館基金會). In this pageant, a select group of young Taiwanese American ladies are chosen as finalists to compete for the title of Miss Taiwanese American Queen.

For the upcoming 2012 Miss Taiwanese American Pageant, 14 young Taiwanese American ladies have been chosen as finalists to compete for the title of Miss Taiwanese American. By the night of the pageant, they will have spent 5 weeks preparing for this spectacular event where they will have learned techniques on self-presentation as well as the history and current affairs surrounding the Taiwanese American community.

Come cheer and support your contestant!

Check-in Time 5:30 PM
Dinner 6:00 PM

There are 3 types of tickets: 
(1) REGULAR ADMISSION (light pink colored tickets) = $80 with 1 vote for 1 contestant, and $800 for a table of 10 seats
(2) ONE VIP ADMISSION (pink colored tickets) = $200 with 3 votes for 1 contestant, and $2,000 for a table of 10 seats
(3) TWO VIP ADMISSIONS (purple colored tickets) = $300 with 5 votes for 1 contestant, and $1,500 for a table of 10 seats

*** To purchase tickets for the August 4th Pageant Night, please mail or hand-deliver a check payable to Taiwan Center at 3001 Walnut Grove Ave., Rosemead, CA 91770. Then in the memo, please write "MTA Pageant Tickets" and have your phone number written on the check so that we contact you to confirm your order.

So don't wait until last minute to get your tickets! Tickets may run out by pageant night !! Contact Taiwan Center at (626) 307-4881 for tickets, advertising & sponsorship.

We look forward to seeing you on August 4th!! :) It's going to be a GREAT production!! ;D

MTA Pageant Committee
Taiwan Center Foundation for Greater Los Angeles

WEBSITE: http://misstaiwaneseamerican.blogspot.com/
E-MAIL: taiwancenter0@gmail.com

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