When Your Favorite Didn't Make the Cut at Miss USA, Is 'Robbed' The Right Term?

Go on nearly every poll and prediction site and Miss Texas USA was declared the clear winner of Miss USA by fans from day one. Connecticut was also overhyped along with California, as well as a slew of other Miss USA contenders. The sad (but true) reality is that none of these contestants made the finals during the Miss USA competition, and die-hard fans were not having it. 

So, what happened at Miss USA this year?

Spotlight on Miriah Ludtke, Miss Missouri USA 2019

Miriah Ludtke is not only Miss Missouri USA 2019, but she is also a bonafide boss babe and young professional making strides in the sales recruiter industry. After years of hard work, sweat and tears, Miriah has nabbed the title and is ready to prove to the world you can have it all - beauty, brains, a title, and a fulltime career.

Claim to fame

Miss Missouri USA

Fun fact about you

My name is Miriah Jo. Miriah is my Mother’s middle name. Jo(e) is my father’s first name. I don’t think it’s a coincidence either that my initials ended up as MJ since my dad is the biggest Michael Jordan fan ever. 

If you have one wish to be granted in 2018 what is it and why?

That the University of Illinois cheerleaders beat Mizzou in the annual Liberty Battle at The Braggin’ Rights Game in late December, this game has been a long time family affair, and the Liberty Battle is my favorite part. I know I’m a Missouri girl now, but Fighting Illini Basketball will always hold my heart!

When did you start getting involved in pageants?

I learned about the USA system after receiving a postcard in my mailbox. At that time, the organization was partnered with Lindenwood University and offered a large scholarship just for competing. The higher you placed, the more scholarship money you won. That year I went on to place 1stRunner Up at Miss Illinois Teen USA. A few years later I attended Lindenwood and graduated debt free! Who knew one postcard would be able to give me so much!

How does it feel to be the new Miss Missouri USA?

Unreal. If you haven’t seen my crowning video, I encourage you to watch it. When you chase something for as long as I did, it’s hard not to let yourself start to believe it may never happen. When it finally did, years of emotion and heartache from failure poured out of me. It was the most emotional moment of my life. A true blessing…

What's your plan or platform you will work on as Miss Missouri USA?

Big Brothers Big Sisters. My mother spent a part of her childhood in foster care and always taught me how important it is to take care of kids in your community. I have been matched with my Little Jyshyra for three years. She is an amazing young woman and a true blessing to my life.

Tell us something people don't know about you?

I have a serious obsession with romantic tragedies. I may or may not have cried for 48 hours after watching A Star is Born...

Any piece of advice to girls who are planning to join a pageant?

Invest in professional help for stage makeup and wardrobe selection. I can’t stress this enough. What looks good for Prom doesn’t always work on the pageant stage. I highly recommend Ashley Tribble for guidance. Ashley is a makeup business owner and a former gown store owner.

What's the best piece of advice you ever received in your life?

"Good things come to those that grind." 

What's your passion or interest outside pageantry?

I love animals! I had a really hard time as a kid making friends, but luckily I had a pet kitten who was always there for me to cry on. That cat passed in December and was one of the greatest blessings to my life. 

How do you define women empowerment?

For me, it’s about loving yourself and all your failures. Share your failures with the world. There are women out there facing the same struggles who need to know they aren’t alone.

What is something you can't live without and why?

Starbursts. Silly but serious! I am a sugar fiend! 

Social Media

Instagram Personal handle: @miriahl  Official Miss Missouri USA: @missmousa 

Facebook Personal page: Miriah Ludtke  Official Miss Missouri USA page: Miss Missouri USA 


By: Natalie Mc Govern
Photos: Georgina Vaughan (Cover Headshot), 2nd photo byTrey Saxon

PageantLIVE and Ask The Crown Exclusives. PageantLIVE is known for exclusive interviews, and we pride to have and maintains on publishing our original contents. 

Happy New Year 2019, Let's Celebrate!

2018 Highlight

Winner of The Global Beauty Awards for BEST Social Media and/or Vlog

Bellevue, Washington. PageantLIVE Lead Editor, Joyce Cortez accepted the awards.

TGBA Photo booth Fun Moments

Miss Universe 2018 Final TOP 10 Predictions

It will go down to one lucky lady! Who will take home the crown? 

Tonight is the night!! Tune in at 7/9PM ET on FOX.

Final TOP 10 Predictions

By: Joyce Cortez and Natalie Mc Govern

Miss Universe 2018 TOP 20 Post Preliminary Competition

Miss Universe 2018 preliminary competition was held on the 13th of December at IMPACT Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Finals competition and coronation will be telecast at 7:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed on Sunday, December 16th, from the IMPACT Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

TOP 20 Post Preliminary Competition

TOP 3 Strongest Contestants 

1. Miss Philippines - Catriona Gray. This girl came to win! Miss Philippines started strong, and she maintained being a dark horse. We think Catriona is a total package that Miss Universe could ever have - if she wins. Catriona researched the whole Philippines culture and even rediscovered the history of the pre-colonial Philippines, which she showcased in her National Costume. Based on her social media posts, she was involved in designing her gowns, bags, and accessories for the competition.

Catriona debuted her album, "We're In This Together," to raise funds for Young Focus Philippines. Young Focus’ “DNA” is all about education: educating children all the way from preschool to college. Young Focus believes that education is the most effective way to end poverty in a child’s life. (Source: Young Focus Philippines)

2. South Africa - Tamaryn Green. It won't be a surprise if South Africa will have a back to back win. As a medical student and a Tuberculosis survivor, she has been instrumental in the fight against the disease. Tamaryn says, "The world is on the cusp of a global push to deal with this killer disease. I am very grateful to have the power of Miss South Africa platform – which is so much bigger than I could ever have imagined – and to be in a position to make my voice heard. Because of my title, I have an opportunity to help as many people as I can."

3. Thailand - Sophida Kanchanarin. Sophida graduated Magna Cum Laude at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas with the Degree of Business Administration in Finance. At age 23, she became the youngest female manager in TMB Bank. She advocates professional credibility in female leaders, Equal Pay, and the Gender pay gap.

By: Joyce Cortez and Natalie Mc Govern
Photos: Wasan Puengprasert
HO/The Miss Universe Organization

Journey To The Crown: Miss Universe 2018 TOP 10 Contenders

Who will take home the crown? Find out December 16 at 7pm ET only on FOX. 

Pre-Pageant Predictions - October 8, 2018

Week 1 - Updated December 2nd
Our TOP contenders have changed. Will it be the same in Week 2? 

Some contestants from our pre-pageant favorites didn't make on our TOP 10 list because they either lost their charm or doesn't have strong advocacy.

Week 2 - Updated December 9th

Our TOP contenders have changed, some girls outshined our previous favorites. 

We based our TOP 10 Contenders on performance and social media values: their activities before the pageant, did the contestant exert an effort in promoting her advocacy? Did she do her media promotions? Or only posted cute and sexy photos on social media? 

Miss Universe is looking for a woman who would represent their brand. Having a pretty face and perfect body is just a part of it but having a leadership ability, versatility and the ability to inspire others from her dedication in achieving her goals while living each moment - is a tad more valuable.

Who are your favorites? 

Watch out for our TOP 20 after the Prelims! 

By: Joyce Cortez and Natalie Mc Govern

Making Her Grand Debut is Paola Cossyleon, Miss Grand United States 2018

Today, Paola Cossyleon, Miss Grand United States 2018, embarked her journey for Miss Grand International 2018 in Myanmar. The competition starts on the 5th of October and the grand finals on October 25th, enough time for the girls to form the pageant sisterhood bond. Before Paola's departure, we caught up with her about Miss Grand, personal thoughts, and what she anticipates into the competition.

Miss Grand International 2018 in Myanmar

As Paola prepares for the international competition, she told us that she looks forward to so much and is excited about the unique opportunity of bonding with extraordinary strong ladies from all over the world. She further shared, “I can't wait to find out who my roommate is going to be! And of course, I have to mention that I am already dreaming of the fascinating places the Miss Grand International Organization is taking us to."

"Myanmar is a beautiful and exciting country with incredible scenery. I'm looking forward to all the events and activities like the days that will be visiting temples and sightseeing around town," she added.

Her thoughts on "What Makes a Woman Unique?"

Paola believes that women have the uncanny ability to devote themselves entirely to something or someone they love. She affirms, "Though we are great at multi-tasking as well. When we have a goal, we devote ourselves entirely and don't stop until we achieve or surpass it. We don't give up easily."

She is devoted to the crown

If she were to win the Miss Grand International 2018 title? Paola beamingly said, "Wow! Well, I've always felt my civic duty very strongly. As Miss Grand International, I would utilize the platform given to me to the fullest. My year would be full of events bringing awareness to the world of the "Stop the War and Violence Campaign" and mentoring the youth and how to be peaceful, humble, and compassionate human beings."

Best wishes and good luck in Myanmar, Paola!


By: Natalie Mc Govern

PageantLIVE and Ask The Crown Exclusives. PageantLIVE is known for exclusive interviews, and we pride to have and maintains on publishing our original contents. 

A Mother, Military Wife and HandyWoman: Kristi Wischnack Wears Many Hats, but her Mrs Earth Crown is the Shiniest of Them All

With a dream job dressing brides and running a boutique with two little ones at home, Kristi Wishnack, crowned Mrs Earth 2018 on June 10th in Las Vegas, has her hands full on a daily basis. 

A day in the life

Kristi’s daily life is rather hectic and crazy. With two small children, still, at home, her routine is always changing as she owns a small boutique inside Pinkie Couture Salon. She is also a stylist at Natalie M. helping brides find the "perfect dress, dressing prom girls and pageant ladies along with flower girls, and all other social occasions. She loves watching women light up when they find a gown that makes them feel gorgeous and special, she says, "It is always a highlight and makes you feel good on the inside."

She can’t exactly pinpoint when she laid her claim to fame. Her entire adult life has been dedicated to her children and raising them to the best of her ability, but being a mother is her greatest achievement and one she feels blessed and honored to have been given. 

A tomboy at heart, she’s not afraid to get her hands a little dirty

Kristi may be girly on the outside, but she loves being outdoors and using her hands. She grew up getting dirty and removing car parts at her family business, a salvage yard, and always enjoyed tinkering with cars, getting her hands dirty and building things. Her husband can speak to the fact that she is the master builder or repair woman of the house. 

Pageant involvement and why she choose Mrs Earth system

Kristi’s two daughters competed as young girls and teens, and she was always on the sidelines, backstage helping them prepare and being a typical pageant mom. She decided one day she should put herself out there and see what they were experiencing first hand. She competed in her very first pageant in 2015 and met some of her very best friends and women who truly changed her life for the better. 

Kristi shared, "Mrs Earth pageant actually chose me. I was honored to represent the state of Kansas at the national pageant and won the National title of US Earth. This system is a feeder system into the Mrs Earth pageant. I knew from the beginning that going to a national pageant where being Eco-friendly and raising awareness was something I wanted to do. Now I get to use my voice and share a louder message across the world."

Ms/Mrs Earth experience

"Mrs Earth for me was a week full of memories and blessings. I was honored to meet women from all walks of life, all social, economic backgrounds, from all career fields. Standing on that stage with some of the world's most gorgeous women was a moment I will never forget. Learning about other cultures, or differences, or similarities was truly magical. I was blessed to make friends with many of the women and know we will stay in contact long after our crowns are stored away. It was a time I will treasure forever."

Favorite pageant memory

"For me, the one thing I will always remember is dancing in the back row with Mrs UK, Stacy Dixon.  We were dedicated to making memories during the week, and we did just that! She was a sweetheart and we really connected. The after party at Hyde Bellagio was also a huge hit; it was time we got to let our hair down and enjoy the night. Of Course for me personally, the best memory will always be the crowning moment. If you watch the video, you can see me looking over to my amazing husband in disbelief. I am so honored and grateful to be Mrs Earth 2018."

As Mrs Earth and her post-reign plan

Kristi has traveled throughout July and paired up with an organization called Clean the World. Her biggest goals are to share in different projects with her sister queens by helping spread awareness and share this platform with as many people as she can and use her crown to make her voice heard.

Her platform, advocacy in life, and her wishes for the world

"My heart and soul platform is Military Veterans Project. Being the wife and mom of veteran service members, I made it a life choice years ago to give back to our men and women who serve or have served. I am proud to be an American and honored to stand up and fight to find a cure for PTSD, and make sure every veteran is welcomed home, honored and praised for all they have done. It is not an easy job and being married to a soldier is not an easy task either. It doesn't take a lot to give back, but the reward is well worth any sacrifice I may have to make."

Kristi is also very passionate about women's (hearth) health awareness. Three years ago, she suffered a stroke that thankfully did not have any lasting side effects. Through the process, she discovered out that she was born with a heart birth defect. Today she shares research and support organizations like CHD that have mandated for newborns to be screened at birth for these same heart defects.

"Knowing we can save lives with simple testing is important to share. I personally had no idea I had this birth defect until I had a stroke at the age of 41. My life could have ended, but by the grace of GOD and with great doctors I am here today," she gratefully said.

As for her wishes for the world? Kristi's selfless passion feels that the world needs so much, one of them would be a cure for all types of cancer. Sadly, she had watched so many families who had cancer, including her own family.

Her passion is family

Outside of pageantry, Kristi strives to be a good role model, wife and mom. Nothing is more important to her than family. She is blessed with not only an amazing immediate family but also the best-extended family "ever" and loves the holidays when everyone is all together. Her kids are her life, and she wants them to be proud of who she is, what she has done and the legacy she will leave behind one day. 

If there's something, she can't live behind? She says, "My family." She added, "My family has molded me into the person I am today. My husband has seen me at my best and my worst. He has lifted me up and helped me become the woman I am today. I don't believe possessions on earth are things I can't live without, but being loved and giving love to those who love us, that's what matters most."

Pageant advice and why you should choose Mrs Earth system

"Go for it!! You will have an amazing experience if you keep your mind open, winning is just the icing on the cake. The Mrs Earth International Director has a great heart and encourages the sisterhood of pageantry which is really what it is all about. Creating memories that make you want to do better, be better and give more."

Defining beauty

"Beauty comes from within. I do not care who you are, being honest, reliable, dependable and keeping your word makes you a person of character, and to me, your character is what makes a person beautiful."

Defining women empowerment

"I define women of empowerment as women to have faced adversity and was able to rise above it. A woman who sees past as a privilege to improve, and can focus on short and long-term goals. Knowing when to stand up and say enough is enough, having a passion that fuels fire to make a difference. Empowerment is more than just a word; it is a mindset. We all have it; some need to believe it and believe in themselves."

Social Media

Facebook: Kristi Wischnack, Mrs. US Earth, Mrs Earth 2018 
Instagram:  @mrsearth2018
Twitter: @Wischfitness 
Snapchat:  Divakristi


By: Natalie Mc Govern

PageantLIVE and Ask The Crown Exclusives. PageantLIVE is known for exclusive interviews, and we pride to have and maintains on publishing our original contents. 

Ms Earth 2018 Corrine Devin: From the Navy to the Crown

Corinne Devin is a naval officer, pageant veteran, and an orthodontist. A fun fact, she was also a coxswain on a male crew team in college. It’s been a roller coaster ride of eleven years but Corinne has enjoyed every minute of it. When she was in dental school, she noticed how her faculty who had a military background wasn’t afraid of pushing the envelope or trying new things for her patients so when she was offered a military scholarship in the Navy she signed up. During her fellowship, she was told she had the personality of an orthodontist but didn’t know what that meant until her deployment where she was wiring jaws shut of marines. She found in orthodontics where she could change her patient’s outlook, improve their confidence and develop a fantastic doctor-patient relationship. 

Her Start In Pageantry

Corinne got involved in pageants when she was 24 years old and was in dental school. A classmate of hers informed her about the Miss USA competition where the 2nd runner-up that year was a dental school student and told her that she should do it.  Before she even had a chance to answer, another one of her classmates stated, “Corinne could never do that and told me I dare you to do that.”  That’s all she needed to hear to take the plunge and do her first competition. That moment compelled her to compete and try for something others thought would be unattainable. 

The reason she chose the Ms/Mrs. Earth system is for several reasons. She wanted to be part of an international system where she felt that many aspects could be incorporated into her daily life. Corinne lives overseas and constantly travels. By being overseas she has the unique opportunity to be an ambassador and role model from taking care of the environment to education - to the health of her community. These goals fell in line with the Mrs Earth Organization as it not only advocates taking care of the planet but also kindles the sisterhood and camaraderie that exists. Corinne was drawn to it by the women who were coming to compete. Her predecessor, Ms Earth 2017 Kristin Chucci, is a good friend of hers who she has known for ten years, and she really set the standard of how she wanted to carry out her year as Ms Earth 2018.

Missions and Mantra

Corinne believes that education is very important in today’s society:

“If we don’t educate our youth, none of the changes we make today will carry on for tomorrow. We live in a world where there are five continents and over a hundred countries, but the one constant is that we all share this planet together. It’s the commonality we have despite the many cultures and societies we function in. Learning to put that first is a challenge I want to take on living in another country and in my travels abroad.”

Corinne’s favorite experience was reuniting with old friends and meeting new friends. In the last year, her job relocated her to Sicily and as she has navigated her new home and life in Europe the one thing she has missed is pageantry. She’s been able to visit three women in her division that live in different countries. The sisterhood she has gained through pageants has been a valuable experience. The international friends she has made along the way have been supportive and she could not be more thrilled to have the time to share that bonding experience with them. 

Ambitions and Goals 

Corinne has a few goals she has set for herself during her reign. She would love to travel to ten countries on her list to promote the earth system, as well as go to national pageants that support this international system. Corinne loves to travel and aspires to throughout her year with an eco-focused mindset. She would like to act on behalf of organizations as a spokesperson as she currently works in public affairs in the Navy, Italy, and the United States. She would like to use her title as a way to impact, speak and educate as many people as possible. Her third goal is to serve as an ambassador for Mother Nature and bring light to this cause with the strong and powerful tool of social media to incite enduring change. 

When it comes to beauty she also enjoys eating clean and the feeling of a great workout or a night catching up with friends. Corinne could be dolled up or wear no makeup and lounge in workout clothes but it’s what she radiates after taking care of herself that matters. She finds the strength in struggles and opportunities when there are obstacles. She has learned to be innovative with every challenge that she has faced, handling it with stamina, grace, and dignity that not only pushes her to be better but also raises the bar for the women who surround her.

Words of Wisdom

“Plan ahead and Network. My journey started two years ago by looking at where in my life can I improve, and change for the better. Learning how to cook, work out smarter, and apply stage makeup all required planning and creating a team of individuals that could help bring out the best in me.”

Must-Have Necessity

One thing she couldn’t go without? Chapstick. With super dry lips, she has one stashed in every handbag in her car, office, and coat in the office.


By: Natalie McGovern

PageantLIVE and Ask The Crown Exclusives. PageantLIVE is known for exclusive interviews and we pride to have and maintains on publishing our original contents.

Collective Thoughts On Miss America - What Could Be the Most Underwhelming or Anticipated Event

We’ve observed over the past couple of weeks a potential cluster that is about to unfold, i.e., Miss America 2.0, and we are going to be as frank as possible with no PC jargon shading our perspective. Some things seem progressive, some antiquated, and some things just leave us scratching our heads. 

Before we get started on our expert critique, we want to give this disclaimer: If an organization is going to truly empower women and take back that power, then some hypocrisy needs to be addressed first. For instance, the current leadership that pretends to support women when truly they are blatantly silencing their voice. Chairperson Gretchen Carlson and CEO Regina Hopper, who has notoriously been dubbed the "Ice Queens," have employed bullying and gaslighting tactics that would make every HR personnel cringe. 

Gretchen has been proven a bully and there's no mistaking that. She can deny all she wants, but we see through the facade. There are signs plastered all over Atlantic City protesting her ill leadership because, you know, you'll always be able to spot a fake mean girl getting called out.

Cara showed us what she's made of, and it's truly admirable. She’s spoken the truth on national television without permission but did so with the girl’s interests at heart. And she wore a pink gown on stage during prelims which is probably the best way to "stick it to the man." #standwithcara

Other things to note: Several former Miss Americas' who did not speak out against Gretchen or sign the petition are helping her host. So do they support bullying or just crave the spotlight? Stand on the right side of history because America is watching.

No Miss? Sashes now simply say the name of the State they hail from. How is this then still technically “Miss America?” Looks like they missed the mark.

Some candidates supposedly are trying too hard and are fully embracing the PC changes and supporting Gretchen Carlson and her minions, ad nauseum. Dial it back a little, girls. We all know you want the crown, no matter the cost.

No Runway. If you are still modeling and presenting in an evening gown, why not just strut it? No one is calling NYFW and chastising them for their runway during fashion shows.

Of course, there is no swimsuit, which we totally lament. We predict lovers of the bikini (pretty much the majority) will start to leave in flocks. We hear formers calling Miss USA's name.

Rumors heard through the pageant and grapevine are that locals and state pageants might be entirely dissolved to pave way for future regional competitions. Okay, this is not American Idol. State and local pageants benefit the community as a whole and further promote the organization. Hmm... That would explain the doing away with “Miss” on the State title.

If talent now counts for 50% of the score then doesn't that alienate more women than the swimsuit competition ever did? Again, this is not American Idol. Isn’t the goal to be inclusive of all women?

Let’s be real, folks. Half of the glitz and glamour might be gone, but this is still a pageant.


By: Natalie McGovern

PageantLIVE and Ask The Crown Exclusives. PageantLIVE is known for exclusive interviews and we pride to have and maintains on publishing our original contents. Photos from Wayne Parry/AP, Getty Images and the Atlantic Press.

Spotlight On Miss Nebraska USA 2018, Bree Coffey

Imagine her surprise when Miss Nebraska USA Sarah Rose Summer was called as the new Miss USA 2018, and suddenly she realized -- she would be taking her place! 

We caught up with Bree Coffey, the newly crowned Miss Nebraska USA 2018 who was obliged to take over the duties of Sarah Rose Summers as the first runner-up to the Miss Nebraska USA pageant.

She is honored and excited to hold this title and forever be a part of the close-knit Vanbros sisterhood.

Up Close And Personal  

Claim to fame.

I have yet to discover my claim to fame, but I do make great Guacamole!

Fun fact about you.

I played Badminton for my Junior College, and we ended up going to State!   

If you have one wish to be granted in 2018 what is it and why?

I wish that anyone waiting for a life-saving organ would get one so that they have a second chance at life.

Tell us something that people don't know about you.

Coffey hasn’t always been my last name, I was blessed with this last name at the age of 21 when my stepdad adopted me.

Bree As The Newest Member Of The Miss Universe Organization Sisterhood

What was your first thought when you heard that Miss Nebraska is Miss USA 2018?

My first thought was holy cow did that just happen as I screamed out loud “OH MY GOSH SARAH!!!” I mean, honestly how cool is it that Sarah Rose Summers is the first ever to win Miss USA from Nebraska?!

How does it feel to be the new Miss Nebraska USA 2018?

To be crowned the New Miss Nebraska USA is a blessing, and I am so honored and humbled to take over for Sarah Rose Summers.

What's your mission or plan as Miss Nebraska USA?

I plan to bring awareness to many different causes that are close to my heart. My platform is Organ and Tissue donation, but I would love to get involved with places like Open Door Mission, Rainbow House, Ronald McDonald House, Children’s Hospital, and many more great organizations.  

Life And Pageants 

When did you start getting involved in pageants? 

My first pageant was in June of 2014 when I competed for Miss Hollywood USA. Ever since that pageant, I've fallen in love with what pageantry is all about, and I haven’t been able to stop since.

Any piece of advice to girls who are planning to join a pageant?

The advice I would love to give girls who are planning to compete in a pageant is to have fun and be you. If the outcome isn’t what you wanted that’s okay because I always say everything happens for a reason. If you win, that’s amazing and if you don’t, try again. Every year there are different judges, and you never know what they’re looking for. 

Always stay positive because what you put out into this world will come right back to you, and I believe that your positivity will show on that stage or an interview.

Also, if you’re the first runner-up remember you can end up filling the winner's shoes so be ready and get ready for your life to change for the better.

The best piece of advice you have ever received in your life?

Always go with the choice that scares you the most because that’s the one that is going to help you grow.

What's your passion aside from pageantry?

One of my passions is to travel. I love to meet new people, experience new places, and I enjoy getting to eat foods I’ve never had and be around different cultures.  

Tell us something you can't live without and why?

The one thing I can't live without is my family. Family means everything to me, and I’m not sure what I would ever do without them. Friends are equally as important as they are family you choose, and with, that you gain an extended family.

Bree On Women Empowerment

I believe Sarah Rose said it best in her onstage answer, “Speak your voice.” Your voice is the most powerful thing you have, your ideas, beliefs, and those are what empower you.

Social Media

Facebook: Miss Nebraska USA

Instagram: @Missneusa

Twitter: @RealMissNEusa

By: Natalie McGovern

PageantLIVE and Ask The Crown Exclusives. PageantLIVE is known for exclusive interviews and we pride to have and maintains on publishing our original contents.

Miss America In Identity Crisis, An Iconic Era Over?

The current Miss America 2018 Cara Mund may be in favor of eliminating the swimsuit and evening gown competition, but not all former Miss Americas are on board with the controversial decision.

In December 2017, thousands of contestants and titleholders rallied together to sign a petition in wake of the Sam Haskell email scandal that ousted him from his leadership position as CEO. Newly elected chairwoman of the Miss America Organization Gretchen Carlson, Miss America 1989, had championed to save the program and beloved pageant on January 1st. On June 5th, Ms Carlson announced Miss America 2.0 on ET.

And then it became a love-hate relationship overnight.

In the blink of an eye, the pageant was completely turned upside down and stripped of its identity and origins as a bathing suit beauty contest with the announcement of the swimsuit and evening gown elimination. Meaning precisely that the Miss America as we all know and love will cease to exist.

Miss America's decision would take away from one of the hallmarks of the iconic pageant with its emphasis on health and fitness. Miss America 2016, Betty Cantrell, who has been working to advocate for healthy lifestyle initiatives and address pertinent issues such as obesity in Georgia post her reign, views the change as a step backwards and that it shames women in celebrating positive body image.  

Accordingly, in an article from NBC News featuring Ms Cantrell, she stated, "Miss America is about having beauty and brains — it's not about being Miss Businesswoman. It's essentially saying that women shouldn't be proud to be in their own skin. We're telling women to cover up. This is setting women back decades." Furthermore, Cantrell says, "I hope they get the reaction they want but I don’t think that this will help with their ratings. I’m concerned about the future of this organization."

Miss America 2017 Savvy Shields echoed a similar sentiment and felt that she was empowered in all areas of the competition, whether it was the swimsuit or evening gown portion. She shared this message on social media, "It’s my hope that Miss America will continue this legacy of strength. I felt empowered when I was wearing my evening gown, when I was in my swimsuit, when I was in my workout clothes, when I was in business attire and even when I was in sweatpants. Ultimately, empowerment is not what we wear, it’s who we are."

In an Orlando Sentinel interview with Erika Dunlap, Miss America 2004, made a bold statement saying "What does a feminist look like? A feminist is someone who, male or female, wants to position women so that they are powerful and that they have choices. And so, I feel like you can be in a swimsuit and a feminist."

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, you can do both. Beauty and brains can indeed go hand in hand.

We took a poll on social media to gather some perspectives on this hot-button issue. The answers? A resounding NO!

Not surprisingly, people like tradition and the aesthetic.

Pageant contestants and the public alike are bewildered by the hasty decision to scrap the most iconic part of the competition and what it was founded on, which is bathing suits. The evening gown is also a hallmark of tradition and what the pageant is most known for, that is, showcasing and celebrating beauty and poise.

Many reported on Twitter, as well, that they vow not to watch this year’s upcoming pageant and that seeing swimsuits parade across the stage is one of the many reasons they tune in. Viewers have lamented that they will miss evening gown because it’s what makes Miss America - it is what you think of - in that crowning moment!

Will #byebyebikini start a revolution, or cause a slow demise of the prestigious program?

Will ratings tank from a rash decision? What do you think?

By: Natalie McGovern

Disclaimer: Quotations and photos are from different resources.

TOP 10 Miss USA 2018 Evening Gown Preliminary Competition

Miss USA preliminary competition was held on May 17th at Hirsch Coliseum in Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana. The final competition will be aired LIVE on FOX on Monday, May 21st at 8 pm ET.

Like we always say here on PageantLIVE, the presentation is the key when it comes to evening gown. Here are our TOP 10 who we thought delivered elegance, gracefulness and, ladies who are ready to represent Miss USA at any given time.

TOP 10 Favorites

1. Miss Oklahoma - Cheyene Darling. Miss Oklahoma is a breath of fresh air whenever she hits the stage. Her fluid flowing, high slit red beaded gown is giving us a hint of mystery and the way she carried herself sealed the deal.

2. Miss Nevada - Carolina Adriana Urrea. Miss Nevada's jeweled, nude underlay gown by Alfredo Barraza with cut-out neckline, vertical lines following her toned statuesque and long sleeves made her look like she is ready to take over the Miss Universe stage.

3. Miss New Jersey - Alexa Noone. Miss New Jersey perfected her overall stage performance wearing a Sherri Hill strapped nude gown with iridescent gold leaf appliqué, paired with Stephanie Somer's diamond-shaped dangle earrings. 

4. Miss California - Kelley Johnson. Miss California is giving us a combination of classic and modern Hollywood glam, which is true to her state! Her Renè Atelier beaded deep V-neck, black lace bodice with a high slit and chic messy bun made her stand out!

5. Miss Texas - Logan Lester. Miss Texas is a shimmering golden goddess! She wore a sheer, body fitting, bustier and unconventional gold gown by New York-based fashion designer Naeem Khan.

6. Miss Mississippi - Laine Alden Mansour. Miss Mississippi's Lainey Berry couture gown looked heavenly. Her golden nude sheer gown with aquamarine beads and attached flowy aquamarine sky bluish hue chiffon reminds us of Elsa and Ariel in one. A fairytale on the Miss USA stage!

7. Miss Georgia - Marianny Egurrola. Miss Georgia is wearing a bohemian-blue-rhapsody inspired gown by Sherri Hill. Her beaded, regal blue, fringe gown with sheer paneling complemented with her natural black hair is a match made for elegance and charismatic persona.

8. Miss Virginia. Ashley Vollrath. Miss Virginia looked stunning! Her classic volumized combed back hair matched with exotic hybrid cheetah inspired, electric pleated gown she designed with Sherri Hill made her look like the Miss USA total package.

9. Miss Tennessee - Alexandra Harper. Miss Tennesse looked ethereal in her Jovani champagne gown with rose gold applique that complements her skin perfectly. Her presence on the stage looked effortless and could easily get the Miss USA crown.

10. Miss Nebraska - Sarah Rose Summers. Miss Nebraska is delivering a glamorous yet girl next door persona. Her classic black gown and bustling train by Sherri Hill, against her blonde hair and flawless skin look exquisite.

By: Joyce Cortez and Natalie Mc Govern

Disclaimer: Photos are from Miss Universe Organization and credits to official photographers Patrick Prather and Alex Mertz.