Former Miss USA Charlotte Sheffield Passes Away

April 17, 2016, 8:18 am

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Charlotte Sheffield has passed away on April 15, according to her daughter Tammy who posted the sad news on Charlotte's official Facebook page. She had been battling leukemia but contracted a rare pneumonia which further debilitated her. Charlotte represented Utah at the Miss USA 1957 pageant which was originally won by Leona Gage of Maryland, however, Leona was stripped of her title days later during the 1957 Miss Universe pageant when it was revealed that she was 18, married, and a mother of two children. Charlotte was not able to compete in Miss Universe 1957, but was sent to Miss World 1957 but did not place. (Photo credit: owner of the photograph)

Charlotte Sheffield, Miss USA 1957, of Utah, is crowned by Carol Morris, Miss Universe 1956. From 1952 until 1967, when Miss USA won the Miss Universe title, no one else became Miss USA. After 1967, Miss USA's first runner up accepted the title.(Photo credit: Miss Universe Organization)

During the 2011 Miss USA pageant in Las Vegas, several former titleholders were invited as special guests, which included Charlotte Sheffield (second from right), Myrna Hansen (Miss USA 1953), Miriam Stevenson (Miss USA 1954 who won Miss Universe 1954) and Terry Huntingdon (Miss USA 1959). (Photo credit: Miss Universe Organization)

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New Philippine Queens for 2016

April 17, 2016, 12:05 pm

≫ Next: Ariadna Gutierrez Under Fire for Being Overdressed? Colombian Beauty Queen Steals Spotlight During a White House Event

≪ Previous: Former Miss USA Charlotte Sheffield Passes Away

CLICK TO ENLARGE

New Philippines queens for 2016 were crowned on Sunday, April 17, at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila. Here are the winners:

Miss Universe Philippines 2016 - Maria Mika Maxine Medina who will compete in 2016 Miss Universe whose date and venue have not been confirmed.

Bb. Pilipinas International 2016 - Kylie Verzosa who will compete in 2016 Miss International in Japan on November 25th.

Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental 2016 - Jennifer Hammond who will compete in 2016 Miss Intercontinentl later this year.

Bb. Pilipinas Supranational 2016 - Joanna Eden who will compete in 2016 Miss Supranational to be held in Poland in December.

Bb, Pilipinas Grand International 2016 - Nicole Cordoves who will compete in 2016 Miss Grand International in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 25th.

Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2016 - Nichole Manalo who will compete in 2016 Miss Globe whose date and venue have not been confirmed.

1st runner-up - Angelica Alita
2nd runner-up- Jehza Huelar

Photos courtesy of Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc.

Medina was crowned by outgoing Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach who was given a standing ovation during her final walk as Miss Universe Philippines 2015. Miss USA 2015 Olivia Jordan served as one of the distinguished judges. Also present in the audience was Miss Universe Organization president Paula Shugart and former Bb. Pilipinas titleholders.

Miss USA Olivia Jordan

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Ariadna Gutierrez Under Fire for Being Overdressed? Colombian Beauty Queen Steals Spotlight During a White House Event

February 9, 2016, 7:53 pm

≫ Next: Getting To Know Maaliyah Papillion - Miss Louisiana USA 2016

≪ Previous: New Philippine Queens for 2016

Miss Universe 2015 first runner-up Ariadna Gutierrez is stealing the spotlight once again after the Colombian beauty queen was criticized for her dress choice when she attended a White House event on Friday.

Gutierrez was one of the delegates who accompanied Colombian President Juan Manual Santos during his meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama to discuss the future political relations between the two nations after signing the peace agreement with militant group, FARC, Latin Correspondent reported. The 22-year-old stunner was also joined by Miss Universe 2014 winner Paulina Vega.

While Vega was smartly dressed for the occasion with her white blouse, black pants and blazer ensemble, Gutierrez opted to wear a floor-length mauve Oscar dela Renta gown. Unfortunately, Colombian media weren't happy by her choice of gown, claiming her attire was inappropriate for a formal meeting between heads of state, ministers, senators and other officials.

In addition, the press also claimed Gutierrez was "too overdressed" for the event. They even claimed the beauty queen looked like a "cake," and noted that the gown was more appropriate for a gala or red carpet event, according to Pulzo.

Aside from Gutierrez and Vega, Santos' sons Martin and Esteban, actor John Leguizamo and journalist Luis Carlos Velez were also present during the event.

Meanwhile, Gutierrez also recently made headlines when she reportedly received $135,000 (450 million pesos) for her interview with Steve Harvey that aired on Jan. 19. Her Tom Ford dress and shoes during the interview also raised some eyebrows because they cost more than $6,800 (23 million pesos) and $740 (2.5 million pesos), respectively.

In other news, Gutierrez's Miss Universe rival and the pageant's 2015 winner Pia Wurtzbach of the Philippines was recently spotted with a hot date during the fifth annual National Football League (NFL) Honors at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco on Saturday night.

Wurtzbach was spotted on the red carpet with fellow Miss Universe candidate Olivia Jordan of the U.S.A., PhilStar Entertainment noted. She was also one of the presenters along with New England Patriots player Rob Gronkowski at the NFL Honors awards.

Aside from turning heads on the red carpet, the 26-year-old Miss Universe 2015 winner also charmed the audiences as a special correspondent for "Inside Edition's" coverage of the recently concluded "Super Bowl 50."

"Super Bowl" host Levi's Stadium even posted a short clip featuring Wurtzbach and Jordan in the stands, GMA News Online revealed.

"Hope you're enjoying the Levi's Stadium experience Miss Universe!" the Twitter post read.

For Wurtzbach's "Super Bowl 50" experience, check out her Twitter account.

Source: Latin Post, 2/9/2016

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Getting To Know Maaliyah Papillion - Miss Louisiana USA 2016

April 19, 2016, 7:38 am

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≪ Previous: Ariadna Gutierrez Under Fire for Being Overdressed? Colombian Beauty Queen Steals Spotlight During a White House Event

If there were no rules in your life for one day and you could be outrageous, what would you do?

I would immediately take a flight to Europe, find a home and retire there.

What would you like to read as the headline in tomorrow's newspaper?

"Breaking News: Free Education for Everyone"

Describe your dream house.

I would actually prefer to live in a "tiny home" somewhere in New York City.

In a bouquet of flowers, what flower would you be and why?

I would be a sunflower because of my upbeat and vibrant personality. (Great choice, Maaliyah! Sunflower is the official flower of Critical Beauty!)

How would you introduce yourself if you were a guest speaker?

I would make sure to introduce myself with something who has a great life story who can offer great advice for anyone pursuing their goals.

Who do you want to be the next U.S. President and why?

I prefer to keep my political preferences private, however I do think that our next president should equally be aware of what needs to change in the White House as well as with the welfare of the populous and strive everyday to make desirable changes to each.

If you could be great at one thing, what would it be and why?

I would like to be great at cooking (which is perfectly attainable for me) because I was raised in a family who loves food. Cooking is an extension of love where I'm from and I would love to carry that tradition into my adult life.

What do you like to do for fun?

Traveling is my ultimate escape and one of the main ways that I choose to have fun.

If you had one message to the world, what would it be?

You don't have to be perfect to be happy. Imperfection is what makes us human so embrace your flaws and go with the flow of life.

Why should you be the next Miss USA?

I firmly believe in empowering everyone to truly embrace themselves and to go confidently in the direction of their dreams and as Miss USA, I will be able to promote this on a grander scale.

PHOTO CREDITS: MAALIYAH PAPILLION AND THE MISS LOUISIANA USA ORGANIZATION

Follow Maaliyah on her social network:

Official Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/misslouisianausa/

Official Twitter Account @realmisslausa

Official Instagram Account @realmisslausa

We wish Maaliyah the best of luck at Miss USA 2016!

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New Philippines Queens for 2016

April 20, 2016, 6:30 am

≫ Next: Getting To Know BRIDGET JACOBS - Miss Minnesota USA 2016

≪ Previous: Getting To Know Maaliyah Papillion - Miss Louisiana USA 2016

CLICK TO ENLARGE

MARIA MIKA MAXINE MEDINA - Miss Universe Philippines 2016

KYLIE VERSOZA - Bb. Pilipinas International 2016

JENNIFER HAMMOND - Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental 2016

JOANNA EDEN - Bb. Pilipinas Supranational 2016

NICHOLE MANALO - Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2016

NICOLE CORDOVEZ - Bb. Pilipinas Grand International 2016

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Getting To Know BRIDGET JACOBS - Miss Minnesota USA 2016

April 20, 2016, 7:42 am

≫ Next: Miss USA Launches Search for 52nd Contestant From Non-Pageant World ‘to Inspire Women to Step Out of Their Comfort Zones’

≪ Previous: New Philippines Queens for 2016

If there were no rules in your life for one day and you could be outrageous, what would you do?

First, I would head to my favorite frozen yogurt shop, Menchie’s. There I would make the biggest cup of Froyo you’ve ever seen. It would be topped with lots of mini M&M’s, cookie dough chunks, and whipped cream. With my yogurt in hand, I’d catch the next plane to Beijing, China. I got to visit China a couple years ago and would do anything to go again. Most of my day would be spent flying there but I would have all my yogurt to keep me busy! Sounds like a good day, right?

What would you like to read as the headline in tomorrow's newspaper?

“Flint Water Crisis is Over!” My mom is a Michigan native and her hometown is just outside of Flint. The current water crisis is affecting many families in the area. It is unfortunate the health of many citizens were at the expense of saving some state dollars.

Describe your dream house.

I’d love to live in a craftsman style home with a wrap-around front porch. Weather permitting, I can imagine starting every morning with a cup of coffee relaxing on the porch. My dream home would also be on a lake. (Those certainly are not hard to find in Minnesota.) I think watching the HGTV show “House Hunters” too often has me dreaming big!

In a bouquet of flowers, what flower would you be and why?

I would be a daisy. To me, daisies are simple and sweet, which is how I like to live my life.

How would you introduce yourself if you were a guest speaker?

“Hello everyone, my name is Bridget Jacobs and I am the current Miss Minnesota USA. Later this year, I will be representing my state at the Miss USA pageant on Fox TV. I’m currently a student at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities studying business at the nationally ranked Carlson School of Management. Thank you for having me here with you today!” (Cue a big smile :))

Who do you want to be the next U.S. President and why?

I want the most qualified and prepared candidate to be the next President of the United States. At this point, I’m not quite sure yet who I believe that to be. I’m still waiting for a single candidate to catch my vote. It’s an intense race to the White House and actually my first time being able to vote in an election. There are a few candidates I have interests and similar views with, however I have not yet firmly made my decision.

If you could be great at one thing, what would it be and why?

Somewhere in my childhood heart I would love to be a great gymnast. I had gymnastic lessons when I was younger but quickly realized flipping backwards definitely scared the life out of me. I always look forward to watching the gymnastic events at each Olympic Games. Those men and women are seriously talented.

What do you like to do for fun?

My mom and I have been huge into rollerblading for years. In the summer, we rollerblade around the lakes near our house almost every day. I’m also huge into DIY crafts. My apartment room was fully decorated with things I personally hand-made! Living in the “State Of Hockey”, I’m of course a Wild fan! My family attends multiple games each season. Most recently, I went to the first outdoor NHL game in Minnesota held on my campus at the University of Minnesota.

If you had one message to the world, what would it be?

I would want to spread the message of acceptance. It is evident this world is filled with many kinds of people who each have different values and different backgrounds. We could all put forth more effort into accepting and respecting those who are not exactly the same as ourselves.

Why should you be the next Miss USA?

Minnesota is due for that Miss USA crown! I am prepared for the job of Miss USA. I realize that Miss USA is much more than competing in a pageant. She dedicates a year of her life to working with many charitable alliances, making countless appearances and promoting all things, “Confidently Beautiful.” I am ready for the responsibility of being Miss USA. As Miss USA, I would strive to encourage people to pursue their dreams without limitations.

PHOTO CREDITS: MISS MINNESOTA USA ORGANIZATION

Follow Bridget on her social network:

Official Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/MissMinnesotaUSA/

Official Twitter Account https://twitter.com/RealMissMNusa

Official Instagram Account https://www.instagram.com/bridgetjacobs_/

We wish Bridget the best of luck at Miss USA 2016!

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Miss USA Launches Search for 52nd Contestant From Non-Pageant World ‘to Inspire Women to Step Out of Their Comfort Zones’

April 21, 2016, 1:48 am

≫ Next: Getting To Know WHITNEY SHARPE - Miss Massachusetts USA 2016

≪ Previous: Getting To Know BRIDGET JACOBS - Miss Minnesota USA 2016

Forget Miss Congeniality — you could be Miss USA! The Miss Universe Organization announced on Wednesday, April 20, that it’s launching a nationwide search for the 52nd contestant — and they’re looking for someone from the non-pageant world.

According to a press release, “#FindingMiss52 will identify one lucky woman to join 51 contestants from all 50 states and the District of Columbia onstage for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of becoming the next Miss USA. Applications are being accepted now for review by an expert judging panel who will ultimately select the top 10 #FindingMiss52 finalists based on originality/creativity, personality and a web interview. The public will then have a chance to vote on the top 10 and the winner will be sent to compete alongside the other 51 contestants.”

To be considered, hopefuls are instructed to post three photos or videos on Instagram and Twitter using the hashtag #FindingMiss52.

“Miss USA is someone who is strong, determined, and confident,” said Paula M. Shugart, president of The Miss Universe Organization. “Our competitions celebrate women from all backgrounds and with Finding Miss 52, we hope to inspire more women to step out of their comfort zones and experience the amazing opportunities our organization offers.”

The initiative comes following WME/IMG’s acquisition of the organization following former co-owner Donald Trump’s immigration controversy last year.

Olivia Jordan was crowned Miss USA 2015. The 2016 pageant airs live on FOX on Sunday, June 5, at 7 p.m. ET.

For a full set of rules and eligibility requirements please visit FindingMiss52.MissUSA.com

Source: USMagazine.com, 4/20/2016

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Getting To Know WHITNEY SHARPE - Miss Massachusetts USA 2016

April 22, 2016, 7:54 am

≫ Next: Miss Peru 2016

≪ Previous: Miss USA Launches Search for 52nd Contestant From Non-Pageant World ‘to Inspire Women to Step Out of Their Comfort Zones’

If there were no rules in your life for one day and you could be outrageous, what would you do?

I would go to the Brigham's Ice Cream factory and sample every single flavor made fresh that day. It may seem silly, but this is my favorite ice cream brand because I grew upon it. My favorite memories spent with my Nana were shared over a bowl (or two) of Brigham's chocolate chip. When something calls for a celebration in my family, we don't reach for the champagne, but for the Brigham's in our freezer.

What would you like to read as the headline in tomorrow's newspaper?

"Boston Native Wins Miss USA". There are so many causes near and dear to my heart, that I could not pick just one for a headline. Although as Miss USA, I would have a global influence on improving and raising awareness for these specific issues. My voice would be amplified and more powerful than ever before. Advocating for classroom inclusion, social media safety and awareness, as well as funding for breast and ovarian cancer, are all at the top of my list.

Describe your dream house.

My dream home is in front of the camera. I live there in my dreams right now, but it will be a reality in my future. I don't care where I sleep at night, as long as I get to be the one delivering the news to a large audience. A place that you live in is all materialistic. I don't care where I physically live, as long as I get to be in front of a camera, have supportive family and friends, and are happy.

In a bouquet of flowers, what flower would you be and why?

Rose, after my grandmother. I'm obsessed with the scent of roses, and my home is filled with Rose candles. I will buy any beauty product if it smells like roses. Dior has a lip balm I habitually buy solely because of the way it smells! Nicknamed, "Queen of the Garden," it's pretty fitting for a pageant girl like myself!

How would you introduce yourself if you were a guest speaker?

As Miss Massachusetts USA, I'm so fortunate to have had so many opportunities to speak in front of crowds. The best public speaking advice I have ever been given is to know your audience. Something incredibly important to me is teaching young kids social media safety. When I get to speak to a classroom, the first thing I open up with is, "Who has an Instagram?". It catches their attention and makes the kids a little embarrassed and giddy! It perfectly sets up my talk about Internet safety. After that I will introduce myself.

Who do you want to be the next U.S. President and why?

I'm so grateful to live in a country where as I citizen, I have a right to vote. This is my first presidential election that I am age eligible to vote, so it is especially exciting for me! There are qualities in every presidential candidate that I like, but I also disagree with at least one issue as well. Right now, I am undecided because I need to make sure that the vote I am casting is the right decision. I can't urge Americans enough to please do your research on every candidate. Your vote does count!

If you could be great at one thing, what would it be and why?

I wish I could make everyone happy, but I understand that is impossible in life. I'm a people pleaser and problem solver, so I wish I was better at being accepting the fact that I'm not Wonder Woman! Everyone has their differences, and that's part of the beautiful thing that makes people unique. This is a work in progress for me, but I'm getting better at it!

What do you like to do for fun?

I live in the best state because regardless of the season, there is always something to do! In the summer, my friends and I have a tradition that every Monday we go to Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester from early morning to sun down. Some of my favorite memories are on that beach! In the fall I always get in a crafty spirit, constantly sewing or making something. There's nothing better than sitting in front of a fireplace with my creative mind flowing. Winters are spent on the slopes, freezing, but having a blast skiing with friends and family. Spring is my favorite time to get posts in for my fashion blog because the flowers are blooming.

If you had one message to the world, what would it be?

If I could say one thing to the world, it would be a message conveying the importance of being smart over the Internet. Unfortunately, I was a victim of a cyber crime out of my own ignorance of social media safety. It's my mission to teach children while they are still impressionable how imperative it is to be proactive and smart when it comes to the Internet.

Why should you be the next Miss USA?

I am incredibly active when it comes to my job of being Miss Massachusetts USA. In just four short months of winning this title, I have made over 35 charitable appearances and I'm not stopping there. I recognize that I only have one year, and I am making every day count. As Miss USA, my active lifestyle would be a positive addition to the organization. Not only would I be beneficial to the organization, my philanthropic nature would make a profound difference for causes that I am passionate about in this country. If crowned Miss USA 2016, more lives would change than just my own.

PHOTO CREDITS: WHITNEY SHARPE & MISS MASSACHUSETTS USA ORGANIZATION

Follow Whitney on her social network:

Official Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/missmassachusettsusa

Official Twitter Account https://twitter.com/RealMissMAUSA

Official Instagram Account https://www.instagram.com/missmausa/

We wish Whitney the best of luck at Miss USA 2016!

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Miss Peru 2016

April 24, 2016, 9:04 am

≫ Next: Getting To Know LEAH LAWSON - Miss South Carolina USA 2016

≪ Previous: Getting To Know WHITNEY SHARPE - Miss Massachusetts USA 2016

The new Miss Peru 2016 is Valeria Piazza who was crowned in Lima on Saturday, April 23rd. She will compete in 2016 Miss Universe pageant whose date and venue have not yet been confirmed. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonso Wurtzbach assisted in the coronation along with outgoing Miss Peru 2015 Laura Spoya. The first runner-up is Priscila Howard and the second runner-up is Danea Panta.

Photo credits: AmericaTV.com

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Getting To Know LEAH LAWSON - Miss South Carolina USA 2016

April 24, 2016, 10:22 am

≫ Next: Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2016

≪ Previous: Miss Peru 2016

If there were no rules in your life for one day and you could be outrageous, what would you do?

I would throw a concert featuring all of my favorite artists on the front lawn of the White House!

What would you like to read as the headline in tomorrow's newspaper?

“Cure for cancer has finally been found!”

Describe your dream house.

I would love to live in a house by the sea on some tropical island, but more importantly my dream home would have a full time cook to make me food whenever I am hungry, which is like every 5 minutes.

In a bouquet of flowers, what flower would you be and why?

A wildflower. I am a free spirit and I feel that a wildflower matches my personality. Wildflowers also remind me of my childhood and the memories of playing in the fields beside my grandmother’s house.

How would you introduce yourself if you were a guest speaker?

I think that all depends on the event at which I am speaking. I would definitely introduce myself differently if I was speaking to the United Nations versus a charity fundraiser. But I do always like to throw a little humor in my introduction and make people laugh.

Who do you want to be the next U.S. President and why?

As of right now, with it being so early in the race, I am still undecided. However, my hope is that the next commander and chief of our country realizes the responsibility they have to protect the lives and freedoms of ALL Americans, regardless of the color of their skin or religious beliefs.

If you could be great at one thing, what would it be and why?

Being a super translator and having the capability to speak every language! I love to travel, so being able to speak the language for every country I visit would be amazing!

What do you like to do for fun?

Going to concerts with friends and attending sporting events especially football!

If you had one message to the world, what would it be?

Equality. A challenge that women today face is making sure that ALL women, regardless of their age, race, or where they live, are appreciated. In the United States, women continue to earn considerably less than men. However, that is nothing compared to the challenges women face in other countries that do not recognize female rights, intelligence, or their value as human beings. Being Miss USA and Miss Universe would give me a chance to champion this cause globally.

Why should you be the next Miss USA?

Miss USA should be relatable. Being the daughter of a high school football coach, growing up in a small southern town, and standing at 5’6 with an average “womanly” body type, I like to think I am relatable to the American woman. I want women to realize that body ideals, like everything else in pop culture, are a trend. Rather than chase a laundry list of physical attributes, embrace what your momma gave you! And always remember: The media’s idea of beauty is subjective and changes, but CONFIDENCE is always in style.

PHOTO CREDITS: LEAH LAWSON & MISS SOUTH CAROLINA USA ORGANIZATION

Follow Leah on her social network:

Official Facebook Pages: https://www.facebook.com/misssouthcarolinausa/
https://www.facebook.com/leah.lawson.9

Official Twitter Accounts: https://twitter.com/RealMissSCusa
https://twitter.com/realleahlawson

Official Instagram Accounts: https://www.instagram.com/realleahlawson
https://www.instagram.com/missscusa

We wish Leah the best of luck at Miss USA 2016!

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Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2016

April 25, 2016, 6:35 am

≫ Next: Miss Universe Panama 2016

≪ Previous: Getting To Know LEAH LAWSON - Miss South Carolina USA 2016

Sal Garcia, representing the municipality of Maimón, was crowned Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2016 on April 24 in Santo Domingo's Hotel Jaragua. The 23-year-old model will now represent her country in Miss Universe 2016 pageant whose date and venue have yet to be confirmed. The first runner-up is Miss Santo Domingo Oeste, Joely Bernat; the second runner-up is Miss La Vega, Marlenis Peralta who will compete in Reina Hispanoamericana 2016; and the third runner-up is Miss San Pedro de Macorís, Bárbara Santana who will compete in Miss United Continents 2016.

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Miss Universe Panama 2016

April 27, 2016, 9:16 am

≫ Next: Getting To Know JESSICA STROHM - Miss New Hampshire USA 2016

≪ Previous: Miss Dominican Republic Universe 2016

Keity Drennan Mendieta Britton was crowned Miss Universe Panama 2016 during a closed competition on April 26 at Trump International Hotel in Panama City. The 25-year-old model was selected by a panel of eight judges from a field of 22 contestants. She will now represent Panama in the 2016 edition of Miss Universe whose date and venue have yet to be confirmed. The 1st runner-up is Laura De Sanctis and the 2nd runner-up is Margaret Villanueva. Keity competed in Miss International 2011 where she placed 4th runner-up.

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Getting To Know JESSICA STROHM - Miss New Hampshire USA 2016

April 27, 2016, 11:02 am

≫ Next: Miss Slovakia 2016

≪ Previous: Miss Universe Panama 2016

If there were no rules in your life for one day and you could be outrageous, what would you do?

I would escape work for the day. Depending on the weather I would do as many outdoor activities as I could, after my yoga practice of course! I would sky dive, which I have never done before, go for a hike, spend the day on my boat, do some water sports, eat a lobster roll, and end the evening on the beach, watching the sunset with an ice cream cone in hand.

What would you like to read as the headline in tomorrow's newspaper?

“Jessica Strohm, Miss USA. The first ever Miss NH USA to win Miss USA!"

Describe your dream house.

I hope to own two dream homes one day. The first would sit on at least 10 acres of land here in New Hampshire. I love the idea of not having any neighbors close by and the ability to do whatever I want with such a large amount of land. It would be beautifully landscaped with a stable, for my two horses. A large farmer’s porch would wrap all around the house with two rocking chairs on the front as well as a nice seating area with couches for coffee dates in the morning. Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies so a large kitchen is key! I would do light marble counter tops, white cabinets, and a breakfast bar with a built-in sink. The kitchen would be filled with different green plants and succulents to give it some color. The master bedroom would be decorated in grey, beige and white tones to give a cool and relaxed feeling while incorporating furs and other textile accents. I have only ever dreamed of a large walk-in closet, almost its own room, filled with all of my clothes, shoes, an island for accessories storage and a large vanity area for my hair and makeup applications. There are many other features important to me in this first dream home blueprint including a beautiful dining room for entertaining, a family room for movie nights, and a large chandelier in the foyer.

My second dream home would be located in my hometown of Falmouth, Cape Cod, right near Surf Drive Beach, facing the Vineyard, where we can dock our boat, the Jessie Marie II. This would be decorated in the typical beach theme full of beiges, blues, whites, seashells, and stripes. A large patio area and fire pit is necessary for the beautiful Cape Cod summer nights. I am so anxious to own my own home, and with my fingers crossed, I hope to build our first home from the ground up so that I can make it my own, hoping for everything I ever dreamed for.

In a bouquet of flowers, what flower would you be and why?

I would be a tulip in a bouquet of flowers. Tulips to me symbolize sunshine and spring time. Whenever I see a tulip I can help but smile and I hope that people feel the same way about me.

How would you introduce yourself if you were a guest speaker?

Good afternoon/evening. I am Jessica Strohm, your Miss New Hampshire USA. I am an area manager for a broad line food distribution company, a cheerleader for the New England Patriots, Northshore TV host, family member and friend. I am here today to teach you that you can do absolutely anything you put your mind to, and how I have dubbed myself “superwoman.”

Who do you want to be the next U.S. President and why?

Hilary Clinton would be the first female president in our office. There are still a mass of issues in the workplace for equal rights for women. I know personally how hard it is to fight for your rights in a sea of men. If Hilary were to become president she would close the gap for women who fight to be equal to men in their workplace.

If you could be great at one thing, what would it be and why?

Time management is extremely important to stay focused and organized. Sometimes I get carried away chatting with my customers that I fall behind and become stressed over time. If I could be good at one thing it would to know the right time and way to tell my customers that my visit is over and I need to keep moving through my day.

What do you like to do for fun?

Outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, boating and fishing, as well as spending time with friends and family, traveling, and taking “me time.”

If you had one message to the world, what would it be?

Never give up on your dreams. Don’t let anyone or anything stand in your way. You must always reach for the stars and never look back. You can do absolutely anything you put your mind to if you stay driven, dedicated, and determined.

Why should you be the next Miss USA?

Everything I have done in my life has prepared me to take on the responsibility of becoming Miss USA. I have been through trials and tribulations with my family, relationships, my job, and frankly, I do not want to sell chicken fingers and French fries for the rest of my life. I always knew that there was something bigger and better out there for me, that all of my hard work and dedication to all aspects of my life would soon pay off. I am ready to be your Miss USA, and take advantage of any and all opportunities that the crown will present.

PHOTO CREDITS: JESSICA STROHM & MISS MASSACHUSETTS USA ORGANIZATION

Follow Jessica on her social network:

Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/MissNewHampshireUSA/
Official Twitter Account: https://twitter.com/RealMissNHusa

Official Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/missnhusa/

We wish Jessica the best of luck at Miss USA 2016!

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Miss Slovakia 2016

April 29, 2016, 7:02 pm

≫ Next: Critical Beauty Pageant Queens Volunteer as Models to Raise Funds for Animal Shelter

≪ Previous: Getting To Know JESSICA STROHM - Miss New Hampshire USA 2016

Kristina Cincurova, an 18-year-old student from Lučenec, was crowned Miss Slovensko 2016 (Miss Slovakia 2016) at Inchebo Expo Arena in Bratislava on April 29. She will represent Slovakia in Miss World 2016 to be held later this year. The first runner-up is Michaela Meňkyová and the second runner-up is Lenka Tekeljaková.

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Critical Beauty Pageant Queens Volunteer as Models to Raise Funds for Animal Shelter

May 4, 2016, 8:08 pm

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My website ‪Critical Beauty‬ takes great pride in being the first - and perhaps only - ‪‎pageant‬ website that promotes ‪Animal Rights‬ and‪ Animal Welfare‬. Thus, I am very happy that three former Critical Beauty protégées (Anne Ransom, Julianne Pyne, Antonina Les) and the current Miss Boston's Outstanding Teen Brooke Graves have enthusiastically agreed to ‪volunteer‬ as ‪runway‬ ‪models‬ in a ‪fashion‬ ‪show‬ to benefit the Quincy Animal Shelter in ‪Quincy‬, ‪Massachusetts‬ on May 15, 2016! The funds raised will help pay for the construction of a ‪‎new‬‪ ‎building‬ that the ‪shelter‬ desperately needs. If you wish to attend the event, tickets are on sale until May 6 so get them now! Visit this link for details:

https://www.facebook.com/ProjectCatwalk2016/?fref=ts

Thank you to all the models for being the ‪‎heart‬ and ‪‎soul‬ of this event! Can't wait to work with you! ‪#‎BeautiesWithAPurPaws‬

By Rafa Delfin, Director & Founder of Critical Beauty

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Ex-Miss USA and now ex-Shia: Rima Fakih converts to Christianity

May 4, 2016, 8:38 pm

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The woman who was believed to be the first Muslim to win the title when she was crowned Miss USA in 2010 has converted to Christianity.

Rima Fakih gave her life to Christ last month in the run-up to her marriage in Lebanon next week to Wassim Salibi, a wealthy music producer who is a Maronite Christian. Canadian singer The Weeknd, who is managed by Salibi, will perform at the wedding.

Fakih recently tweeted a verse from Philippians:

Fakih's faith was Shia Muslim but she attended a Catholic school.

In a Huffington Post interview in 2010 she said: "We're more of a spiritual family. Religion really doesn't define me or my family. My family's been very liberal, and we appreciate all different kinds of religions."

She added: "My brother-in-law is Christian, and he (and my sister) baptised their two sons. I have an uncle who converted to Christianity, and he's a priest now."

She said: "We'd go to church on Easter. We always had a Christmas tree and every year we go the Radio City Christmas Show, and watch Miracle on 34th Street. But we celebrate some of the Islamic holidays as well."

According to Albawaba, It was only when she went to university in the US that Fakih connected with her Muslim roots: "When I went to the University of Michigan, because there's more of a Muslim community, my dad wanted me to learn more about Islam," she said. "I didn't know much about Ramadan and other holidays, and my dad wanted me to take that opportunity and learn."

On social media, most responses have been supportive of her conversion.

After she won the top beauty pageant, Fakih was quoted as saying: "I'd like to say I'm American first, and I am an Arab-American, I am Lebanese-American, and I am Muslim-American." Some Muslim scholars at the time criticised her for entering the competition in the first place.

Source: Christianity Today, 5/4/2016

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Pageant Organizer Derrick Lee Accused Of Pocketing Charity Money

May 6, 2016, 4:39 am

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Pageant organizer Derrick Lee being confronted by CBS 2's investigative reporter Dave Savini / CBS Local

WATCH THE CONFRONTATION HERE

(CBS) — Contestants in a beauty pageant raised thousands of dollars for charity. They thought it was going to help sick kids. But, where the money ended up is a mystery and now the contestants are asking: Was the contest a con?

CBS 2’s Dave Savini investigates.

Samantha Triani, and her mother Kim want a full investigation into Derrick Lee. He ran the Miss Illinois United States competition in 2015.

“Most beauty pageants are about giving back,” Kim Triani says.

The mother and daughter say they were Lee’s volunteers during this pageant and they question where charitable money went.

“You can’t just tell people you are raising money for a cause and then put it in your own pocket,” Samantha Triani says.

They say Lee sold hundreds of tickets to the event and used a well-known charitable entity — The Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago — to promote a special Miss Photogenic online competition. A related Facebook page uses the hospital’s logo, pictures of children and explains how proceeds will be donated.

Kim Triani says she thinks this was a scam against the people in the competition.

“And he also played on their emotions,” she says.

According to the hospital, they never gave Lee approval to use their name to solicit money. A year later, no one knows how much money he collected.

Just last week, the CBS 2 Investigators found Lee managing a pageant for kids and asked him about the money. He would not say what he did with the money.

“I was a first year director,” Lee says. “I made some mistakes.”

At the event, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office served him with a subpoena. He is being investigated by their consumer fraud unit. The Illinois Attorney General’s office also is investigating whether Lee misspent charitable money.

“I think it’s disgusting,” Samantha Triani says. “I think a lot of children could have benefited from that. We have no way of knowing how that money could have helped them.”

Months after the pageant and after Kim Triani blew the whistle, Lee gave $100 to the charity. He denies wrongdoing.

Lee also has been accused of owing money to past contestants and $4,000 to a company that created a pageant video.

Cook County prosecutors declined to comment on what their investigation entails.

Source: ChicagoCBSLocal.com, 5/5/2016

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Czech Republic win Mister Global 2016

May 9, 2016, 12:31 pm

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In front of a global audience, Mister Global Czech Republic Tomáš Martinka was crowned MISTER GLOBAL 2016 at the Chiang Mai Hall in Chiang Mail Central Plaza Airport in Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 6th. The 3rd Annual MISTER GLOBAL Pageant was streamed live on www.misterglobal.net.

Throughout the two-hour event, contestants from 30 countries competed in four categories: Northern Thailand traditional costume, swimwear, evening wear and interview. The webcast concluded with MISTER GLOBAL 2015 Nguyen Van Son from Vietnam crowning his successor.

Final Results:

Mister Global 2016: Mister Global Czech Republic Tomáš Martinka
First Runner-up: Mister Global Thailand Tawatchai Jaikhan
Second Runner-up: Mister Global Spain Chema Malavia

Third Runner-up: Mister Global Brazil Giba Pignatti

Fourth Runner-up: Mister Global Singapore Noel Ng

Top Ten: Mister Global Korea Gi Jung Kim
Mister Global Malaysia Asyraf Nordin
Mister Global Myanmar Linn Maung
Mister Global Nepal Dikpal Karki
Mister Global Philippines Mark Louie Bornilla

Top Sixteen: Mister Global Guam Jaren Guerrero
Mister Global India Prateek Baid
Mister Global Japan Yusuke Fujita
Mister Global Peru Ronald Freddy Mayorga Peixoto
Mister Global Puerto Rico Dexter Colón
Mister Global USA Leaon Gordon

Source: Mister Global Organization

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Louisiana Wins Mister United States 2016

May 9, 2016, 2:25 pm

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Mister United States 2016 is Avery Wilson, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana who was crowned on May 8th at the Harlem Repertory Theater in New York City. Second place went to Christopher Negron of Illinois who was crowned Mister Global USA 2016. And third place went to André Bland of Virginia who was also crowned Mister Tourism USA 2016. All three men are expected to compete internationally.

Completing the top 5 were Raul Granados of Texas and Emanuel Anzules of Garden State. Rounding up the top 13 were the delegates from Mississippi, Wisconsin, Hawaii, Michigan, Aloha State, Ocean State, Rhode Island, and Pacific. Twenty men from across the country competed in the first national pageant. The contestants were judged in several categories that included social media/platform, runway, swimwear, formal wear and interview. An optional talent segment was also included and won by Wilson who performed a ballet/jazz routine.

The pageant was hosted by the current Miss Teen United States Andreia Gibau and Lisa Opie (creative director and co-founder of Vizcaya Swimwear and a top 5 finalist at Miss United States 2012).

The panel of judges included Miss U.S. International 2015 Lindsay Becker (4th runner-up at Miss International 2015), her mother Denise Becker (Miss Minnesota 1995 for Miss All American Beauty Pageant), Rocky Graziano (executive director of Miss Boston Scholarship Organization), Nick Keeney (Mister USA at Men Universe 2015), Jodie Bergeron (talent manager att MMG), Justin Allen Tate (vocalist, dancer and performer), and Rafa Delfin (director of Critical Beauty).

Avery Wilson, Mister United States 2016 / Facebook

Christopher Negron, Mister Global USA 2016 / Facebook

André Bland, Mister Tourism USA 2016 / Facebook

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Miss Finland 2016

May 15, 2016, 2:01 pm

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The new Miss Finland 2016 is Shirley Karvinen, a 23-year-old Chinese-Finnish beauty who was crowned on May 15 in Helsinki. She will now represent Finland in 2016 Miss Universe pageant whose date and venue have not yet been confirmed. The 1st runner-up is Heta Sallinen (right), 21, who will compete in Miss World 2016 later this year. The 2nd runner-up is Emilia Seppanen (left), 22, who will compete in Miss International 2016 in Tokyo, Japan sometime in October.