The first major announcement during Pageant Week are the Quality of Life Finalists. Honestly, Miss America could use a lesson in branding with this award... Quality of Life always makes me think of 'old people' in a hospital or nursing home somewhere. It doesn't accurately reflect the countless hours of community service these girls perform when they win their titles. Truly, they could call it the "Golden Service Award" or the "Community Action Award" or something... Perhaps they're simply waiting on a sponsor (lol).

In any event - here are the eight finalists and their personal platform issues:

Miss Arkansas Kristen Glover – Second Chances Through Mentoring
Miss Hawaii Lauren Cheape – C.A.R.E., Collegiate Athletes Reaching Everyone
Miss Kentucky Ann Blair Thornton – Alzheimer's Awareness and Research
Miss Michigan Elizabeth Wertenberger – Continue to Dream, Giving Hope to Children with Chronic Illness
Miss Minnesota Natalie Davis – Autism Awareness: The Missing Piece
Miss New Hampshire Regan Hartley – Bullying Awareness in Our Community
Miss New York Kaitlin Monte – Anti-Bullying Through Youth Leadership
Miss Ohio Ellen Bryan – Promoting Lightning Awareness, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors"

Did anyone else notice this was announced in alphabetical order? Wonder if you're able to connect those dots when you're standing on stage? Might want to 'mix it up' next time to keep everyone on their toes!

In case you're a Newbie, here's a little more about the Quality of Life Awards from the Miss America Press Release...

The Quality of Life Awards were introduced in 1988 to recognize contestants who excel in their commitment to community service. In order to be considered for the Quality of Life Award, contestants must submit an application describing their involvement with Children's Miracle Network, the national platform of the Miss America Organization, and their own personal platform issue.

The winner of the Quality of Life Award will receive a $6,000 scholarship, the first runner-up will win a $4,000 scholarship, and the second runner-up will win a $2,000 scholarship. Winners will be announced at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on January 14 during the 3 p.m. (PST) press conference.

While the Quality of Life Award TECHNICALLY has nothing to do with how you finish as a competitor (you don't get any 'points' for being a finalist or a winner of the QoL) it does tell you which contestants have compelling stories to share during their personal interview with the judges. Plus, there's some really good topics this year! Ohio's Lightening Awareness is the first of it's kind at Miss America (her sister was struck by lightening and is now disabled), and Bullying from New Hampshire and New York is a perfect fit given all the national media attention it's getting. Something else these finalists all have in common, they're basically 'lived' their platform issue. Michigan has survived a chronic childhood disease... Hawaii was a collegiate athlete... Kentucky's grandfather struggled with Alzheimer's... etc, etc. Again, it has no bearing on whether or not they'll make it into the Top 15, but they've already got a leg-up when it comes to communicating an emotional story about how they've served their state so far.

Plus, don't they all look beautiful in their clothing from Express? I appreciate how they all have Red, White and Blue as the 'pop' of color (along with Black and White). Based on initial photos, I didn't see any fashion-faux-pas... but the week is still young :)

Stay Tuned... We're just getting started! :)

After doing some perusing of the Miss America Press Releases, I came across this announcement regarding our new Swimsuit Sponsor, Kompliqué:

Showcasing strength, body, intelligence and beauty via their new official swimwear sponsor Kompliqué; the swimwear features vibrant colors and bold patterns that match the style and personalities of the individual Miss America contestants—and the bold new direction the Miss America brand is taking.

President and CEO of the Miss America Organization, Art McMaster states, “This year we are celebrating the vibrancy, individual style and colorful personalities of our contestants, and aligning with Kompliqué as the official swimwear sponsor, will allow each contestant’s personal style to shine in the fitness and health competition. It will bring an entirely new dynamic to the production of this year’s show as it emphasizes the intelligence and health of today’s young women.”

That causes me to raise an eyebrow... and it tells me something about who will be likely to win this year's pageant.

While Teresa Scanlan has been OUTSTANDING and I mean OUTSTANDING as Miss America 2011, it appears that in 2012, we're going to see someone who is not a serious, or dare I say, as 'mature' as Teresa is (I know - she's only 18, but she's way more mature than I am on most days!). Obviously, we're still going to crown someone who's capable and confident, someone who's talented and poised, but we're going to crown someone who's a little 'silly'... a little 'quirky'... and a little 'fun'. I know, I know, Teresa has the whole 'duck tape' thing going for her (she loves making things out of duck tape and even served as the Grand Marshall for a National Duck Tape parade held earlier this year) - but let's face it. The girl is mature beyond her years. In 2012, they're now looking for someone who's got flair, someone a bit silly, someone who isn't afraid to be 'uncool' or 'cheesy' in their own special way... and wrapping it up with the label of 'a great personality'. :)

So - based on our research, here's who we're finding that has a bit of this 'Bold New Direction' that Miss America says they're looking for:

- South Carolina. She's not just the beauty queen who lost 100 pounds, she also does impersonations (Cher and Paula Dean to name a few). That's got cheesy written all over it.
- Oklahoma. The girl grew up on a dairy farm in a town of 880 people. And she's a championship Irish Step Dancer (amongst 4, count 'em 4 step dancers this year... more on that later). We say that's 'fun' and brings 'flair'.
- Kentucky. We weren't overly impressed with her video, but she's known Heather French ever since her days in the MAOTeen competition and the families are friends. She's always grinning ear to ear in her photos and despite the fact that we wish she would've taken the video a bit more seriously, we think she's still a contender with this line of 'silly' thinking.
- Missouri. Last we heard, this girl is gonna sing "Dream On" a cappella in a leather bustier for her Talent. Now THAT'S the definition of 'quirky' if we ever heard it! She's so incredibly genuine - if she has a good interview, we think she's got a serious shot at Top 5.

As I've said before... these are my musings and you're welcome to take them for whatever it's worth... But when the Press Releases start talking about a 'Bold New Direction', it's my opinion that you best pay attention and prepare to see a different kind of girl.

Anyone think I'm crazy???

Here we are! The first week of January usually signifies something special in the life of pageant girls (at least since this blog began a few years ago)... It's time for us to begin our journey towards crowning the new Miss America 2012!!! In just a few short days, we'll have ourselves a New Queen - but between now and then, this is the best place to learn all of the official 'inside scoop' on the competition and the crown!

But before we get started on my rantings, let me set a few ground rules. Such rules aren't typically the way I'd begin a new post, but because so many new followers have recently come through our Facebook Fan page, I thought it might be necessary to 'Set the Stage'...

1. If you're one of my long-time friends/family members who has seen my Miss America obsession morph into the web, thanks for hanging in there with me. At least you don't have to see all this stuff on my personal FB page anymore.

2. If you've found this blog because of our official Miss America Junkies Facebook page, then welcome! There's several year's worth of commentary that began as simple emails to my closest friends/family on this blog (see right hand side under 'blog archive 2011, January... trust me, it's all there). I'm not sure I ever thought I would publish these thoughts beyond emails, so just keep that in mind. "Miss America Junkies" was birthed as a personal way for me to keep in touch with friends/family across the country during Miss America week. Plus - it was hilarious when the Miss America reality shows were all the rage a few years ago!

3. Regardless of how you've found this page, you should know these are my personal thoughts and opinions about Miss America. That means, I might say something unfavorable about your state. Truth is, I think I've said something unfavorable about every state (so at least there's equal opportunity offensiveness going on!). :) If you're looking for cute photos and pithy commentary, then please continue with just the Facebook page. This blog is where I get much more specific and much more opinionated. Sometimes I'm right, sometimes I'm wrong... but the last thing I want is for this blog to be boring. I'm not as bad as Perez Hilton, but I thought I'd at least give you fair warning :)

That all being said - The majority of the girls are arriving in Vegas today (January 4th) and their official arrival ceremony starts tomorrow afternoon at Planet Hollywood. As soon as pictures become available, we'll make sure you see 'em! They say the ceremony will be indoors this year, which is different than years previous (not sure where they'll host that) - so we'll let you know. Also, the most disappointing part of this year's festivities is the fact there will NOT BE A PARADE!!! I'm completely bummed as I think this was a spectacular highlight during the competition week! DSW pulled their sponsorship, which means no shoe parade. Pictures from last year's event are below should you choose to reminisce...

Otherwise - Enjoy the crazy commentary about to begin via this blog! If you haven't already viewed the videos of each Miss America contestant, you're behind! Check 'em out here www.MissAmerica.org/videocontest/ . This is the best place to objectively take a peek at all the girls and determine who's in it to win it, and who's a bimbo (and you'll certainly see both!).

The winner will be crowned live on ABC next Saturday night! Whooooooooooo Hoooooooooooo!!! :)

MAJ

Hey, erveryone!! I am headed off to Vegas tomorrow around 4am.....yikes.....so just wanted to give you a few more pictures at my 6 month mark.

ALSO, make sure you go to missamerica.org/videocontest to vote for my video which, in turn, could get me into the top 15!!!!

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FOR THE SUPPORT!!! I LOVE YOU ALL!!

For updates during the pageant, follow my twitter @missdelaware11 or check my blog for occasional updates as well :)

xoxo,
Maria Cahill

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (I Thessalonians 5: 16-18)”

Hey, everyone! The days are quickly dwindling down for me to leave for Las Vegas (9 to be exact!) ! To say the last 6 months have flown by would be the understatement of the century. I would like to think that after that time, I have not only matured in my role as Miss Delaware, but also as a friend, sister and a person. My send-off party took place just about 2 weeks ago and the amount of support I recieved was completely overwhelming (in a great way!). Before I leave for Miss America, I would LOVE to take the time to simply thank those that have been so kind and giving. I have had the most wonderful support any girl could ask for.

To my family - Thank you for being there through everything. No matter what happened, good or bad, you stood right beside me, encouraging me all the way...except in the bad....then you just smacked me around a little bit...kidding...kind of :)

To Debi - my WONDERFUL executive director...After our first meal out together (McDonald's, of course) and I ordered the number 1 Big Mac Meal, no pickle, large lemonade, large fry and you ordered the number 2 Quarter Pounder Meal, I knew we were in for a fabulous year :) Thank you for treating me like I was your daughter and doing everything in your power to make sure I felt the best I could before leaving for Miss America. I can credit you for bringing me from "blonde-ish and blah" to "brunette babe." I can say that I am prepared for the job of Miss America because of your guidance.

To Susan - There are people that you meet in this world that make you want to be a better person. You are one of them. Thank you for booking me on appearances all around the state...even places that I have never been or even knew existed....which says a lot considering the size of Delaware :) You are the person that I can call to brighten my day. Thank you for all you have done to get me ready!

To George and Carol - interview. Enough said. I always felt extremely confident in my interview but I feel even better now. Thank you for setting me up with some of the brightest and toughest interview panels over the last couple months. I have grown, not only as a speaker, but as a women knowledgeable in all sorts of current events (...don't worry, Carol...I will get Occupy Wall Street down eventually...)   I hope I can keep it together when I meet Kris Jenner...probably not though...

To the rest of my Board of Directors - THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done. From letting me camp out at your house (Sandy and Bliss :)...) to escorting me on various appearances, you never cease to amaze me with your kind hearts and generosity. I hope to make you all so proud in Las Vegas!!

SIDENOTE : Always plan a speech ahead of time. At my sendoff, I wrote a few names (in lipstick, 5 minutes before I was to speak...) on a piece of paper and forgot some important people. Ahead of time...and in pen, everyone.

Paul Pruitt (my wonderful, official photographer!) - PAUL!!! I have to thank this man a million times, especially since he was left off my scattered (to say the least ) list at my sendoff. Thank you for shooting my headshots as well as every picture at my sendoff. The pictures are absolutely STUNNING and I cannot wait to share them with the rest of the world! I am ready for some crazy, out-of-the-box shoots! Everyone check this incredible photographer out at paulpruittphotography.com!!!!!   .....right now.....seriously.....leave this page and visit this site!

Marisa - my ONLY local director, and the person (along with my family) who told me from day one that I could be Miss Delaware. It seems like only yesterday that I was watching Miss America with you last year and we were getting so excited that I might have a chance at being on that same stage next year! I cannot believe it is coming true :)

To Ronnie, Debbie and The Bridal Suite of Johnstown - thank you for making me feel and look like a million bucks. I am so thrilled to be representing you at Miss America! My wardrobe is absolutely drop-dead gorgeous and it is all thanks to you and your staff. I am so glad you will be able to watch me work it on the Miss America stage. Your kindness and generosity is astounding to me and something that I greatly respect and appreciate.

Paul and Marisol Timmons from The Firm - my AMAZING, INCREDIBLE, WONDERFUL trainer and nutritionist. Out of everything that I have done so far, one of the things I am most thankful for is having you both in my life now. It is because of you that I am now able to proudly say that I can do man pushups (when I first walked in the door, I could do zero....impressive, I know...), deadlift 135 pounds and backsquat 115 (up from the 25 I started out with...and having an extremely hard time while in the process...). Thank you for helping me break the McDonald's cycle and showing me the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.   No, I may still not like sweet potatoes, but I am a work in progress, I promise. Not many people (I can't think of any, actually...) can get me down to 16% body fat (down from 21%) in a matter of 4 weeks. Just goes to show how hard work can pay off! I cannot wait to continue working with you for the remainder of my year!

Oh, you want me to flip a 240 pound tire? Sure thing :) check below :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMyswskU0_I&feature=autoplay&list=UUX6UomnrjfFjiQlvLuohGbQ&lf=plcp&playnext=1

Sal, Diana, Gloria and the entire Michael Christopher team - Sal, in just 5 months, you brought me from a Miss Texas hairstyle to one of a Miss America. (Don;t get me wrong though...I will go back to that Texas hairstyle any day...) Thank you all for completely transforming me in more ways than I thought possible. I will never go to another salon again!

All my friends - your texts, calls, email and words of support have meant the world to me. Literally. Thank you for loving and supporting me before this crazy adventure and after. After this incredible journey is over, we will definitely be all hanging out ALL THE TIME again!!! I LOVE YOU!

Jennifer Sedler (Miss Arizona) - I love you, too. AHAHAHA!! I am glad someone stalks my blog. Someone has got to do it :) See you soon! <3
Delaware - no matter what the outcome may be on January 14th, I will do everything in my power to make you all proud!

Until Next time,

Maria Cahill
Miss Delaware 2011

"Anything is possible in Christ who strengthens me."

Hello everybody! From this moment on, I am NEVER promising to have blogs up more often because that plan always fails...massively. As a lot of you know, I have just been SO incredibly busy the last couple months!!

SIDENOTE: You know it is a problem (or is it...) when your body's internal clock starts waking you up a 8 o'clock instead of the usual 11am...

In the past couple months, I have been in SOOOO many parades, on radio, television and in newspapers. To this ay, I can't believe this is all happening to me! Now, I am educating people on the importance of safe driving, good character through Character Counts and visiting all ends of my state. Things do truly happen for a reason!

Some of my most memorable appearances have happened over the past few months and I just have to share!

I got the opportunity to be in the ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade as well as film two hits for Good Morning America with other state titleholders! It felt like the entire state of Delaware came to watch this parade because our float (which was a kittens float....??) could not go two feet without me hearing "DELAWAREEE!!!" being screamed. That was awesome to be a part of!

With Sam Champion of GMA!

One of the many incredible appearances I have had happened just this past week! I got the opportunity to work with the Delaware State police (THANK YOU!!) to travel to numerous hospitals, special needs facilities and schools to visit kids. Talk about one emotional and incredible experience! Nothing gets to your heart quite like a young child telling you that he or she wants "to get better" for Christmas and nothing else. It really puts into perspective those things in your life that you take for granted each and every day. I got to meet young kids (who thought I was dressed up as a fairy...) as well as some teenage boys and girls who loved the fact that a "beauty queen" came to see them. Putting a smile on everyone's face made that long week so worth it. I would do it every single day of my year if I could. It was moving like nothing else.

I will have another blog about my send-off and other preparations up soon (and by soon, I mean before I give up my Miss Delaware crown in June...)!!

Stay chill and remember that things happen for reason,

Maria Cahill

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2