Sunday, June 21, 2009

Congratulations...

to Katherine and all the Miss Louisiana contestants. Y'all looked great!

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Miss Louisiana Results

We have a new Miss Louisiana. She is Katherine Putnam, Miss Shreveport.

Top 5:
Miss Louisiana: Katherine Putnam, Miss Shreveport
1st runner-up: Hope Anderson, Miss ULM
2nd runner-up: Kenley Minchew, Miss Lafayette
3rd runner-up: Courtney Haynes, Miss Natchitoches City of Lights
4th runner-up: Joy Thomason, Miss Louisiana Port City

Top 10:
Erica Durr, Miss Bossier City
Brandy Hotard, Miss North Louisiana Bayou
Brittany McGehee, Miss Louisiana Watermelon Festival
Lacy Thibodeaux, Miss Crescent City New Orleans
Ravayna Tracey, Miss Spirit of the Red

Special Awards:
Internet People's Choice: Meghan Melder, Miss La Bonne Terre
CMN Miracle Maker: Mandi Ridgdell, Miss Louisiana Jazzland
MAO Community Service: Erin Husbands, Miss Baton Rouge
MAO Academic Award: Brittany McGehee, Miss Louisiana Watermelon Festival
Newcomer Award: Kenley Minchew, Miss Lafayette
Non-Finalist Talent: Mandi Ridgdell, Miss Louisiana Jazzland
Erin Husbands, Miss Baton Rouge
Heather Williams, Miss Coastal Wetlands
Lauren Lachney, Miss Louisiana Gulf Coast
Miss Congeniality: Lauren Lachney, Miss Louisiana Gulf Coast

Saturday's Podcast

Saturday's podcast can be found here.

Show Notes
Preview of Tonight's Competition
Friday prelim winners: Congratulations
Judging Seminar: full notes above
Interviews: Barron Brandon and Renee Williams
Close

Full Notes from Judging Seminar

Below are my full notes from Saturday's judging seminar.

judging process: need new blood in judging system
very serious process: you’ll change someone’s life, even in a local preliminary. You could be choosing the next Miss America. If you’re interested, get involved.
If you agree to judge, be sure to show up. The local directors depend on you. Only excuse is an emergency.

Don’t expect local pageant to accommodate you.
1st runner-up very important position.
Make sure you understand why you participate in this program.
NO MESSAGE BOARDS!!! Neither you nor your contestants should visit. Very destructive.
Turn your cell phones off. Give contestants full attention.
Very brief conversations.


Scoring system has evolved. Competition is tough.

Interview: behind podium about 10 feet of judges. Do not let her come nearer the judges. All five judges can ask questions. Like a press conference; free-for-all. Push them, but don’t push them over the edge. First way you’ll see contestant. 9:30 open questions, :30 close. Be natural, straightforward and fresh. Judges don’t want to hear canned speeches. Lots of techniques...bring conversation to a natural end.

Interview “queen”: Lynn Harris: judged 8 state pageants. He asks a lot of current event questions. He is studying newspapers. Make sure you’re not slipping. Pay attention to current events.

Amanda Mainord: be discerning and decisive. Not a lot of time to reflect. Balance of understanding. Who is fresh and contemporary? Balance with mind, preparedness. Take the job seriously. Make decisions quickly...not always easy. Don’t apologize for decision.

McNeil Chestnut: Chief judge can control interview. If a judge is “over the edge”, chief judge can overrule question. Discretion and good taste in question. Contestant should be able to answer sensitive questions.

Stephanie Barnes: novice to pageants and judging. Judges really care. Advocates. Don’t have to agree, but want to know where the girl is and what they want. Factual questions. If contestant doesn’t know answer, move on.

Taryn Foshee: Local interviews are important. Looking for technical aspects. What is “real”? She must be prepared. She doesn’t have to know any single answer, but she should be authentic. She must be accessible.

Local pageant can generate authenticity. Have mock interviews and opportunities to speak so can control nervousness.

Proper grammar, diction and phrasing. She should be able to speak well. Looking for potential. End on a polite/easy note. What does she do to connect with the world?

1-10 scale. Interview counts 25%.

Miss America guidelines: start at 5, then go up or down as interview goes on. Don’t be afraid to view the range. 4-6: average. 8-10: better. 10: exceptional. High and lows are tossed out. Be consistent in your scoring.

rhythm to judges’ panel. Sensitive job...use instincts. Use outgoing local titleholder to do a warmup mock interview: 4-5 minutes. This will get the judges going.

No comparative judging. Contestant competes only against herself.

After end of each contestant, mark your ballot right then and there.

Program is a journey. Contestants grow in the program and foster positive things. Need kind honesty that will foster them outside the program.

Keep questions short and to the point.

Talent: 35% of score. Leave prejudices at home. You may not like country music, for example, but you’re scoring a contestant.

Was it entertaining?
Would I like to see it again?
Do I want it to stop?

Local: like American Idol. This can be fixed before state.

Do I see the contestant’s personality during performance? Is she selling the performance? Is her heart in it? Is she giving her best?

Work with local experts to educate yourself: i.e. dance teacher, voice teacher, etc. Understand different styles of music. Use the Internet for sources.

Entertainment vs. Technique: know your limits. Perform your range. Use community resources to prepare for state pageant (community theatre, etc.) . Broad range creates talent. Expand your knowledge.

Pay attention to the little things that will help a contestant improve. They can stand out.

Swimsuit: will move quickly. 15 seconds onstage. First impressions count. Does she own the room? Does the suit wear her or does she wear the suit?

statement of physical fitness. Have they done the best they can do with what they have? Are they fit for their size? Are they comfortable on stage? Does the suit complement their body type?

Be aware of different body types. She needs to take this competition seriously. Tone is important. Be healthy, exercise and respect your own body. Preparing for every phase of competition is swimsuit. Is the body toned? No shortcuts.

Hard to discuss physique with contestants...eating disorders, medical issues, etc. Our bodies are indicative of lifestyle. Must address body issues, but do it sensitively. Use resources for healthy living.

Self-confidence: standing in front of people in a swimsuit.

Evening Wear: First impressions count. Does she own the stage? Is there an element of grace? Does she understand what it means to be lovely? The gown doesn’t have to be expensive, but she has to carry herself well. How does she feel about herself?

Is the girl wearing the gown, or does the gown wear her?

Consignment shops are good sources. Arrogant attitude is a turnoff. Is she graceful?

Poise and grace. Are they connecting with the judges and audience? Is there something that draws you to her?

Does she feel comfortable in her own skin? Choice of gown is important.

Think in terms of average score, then go up or down

On Stage Question: Does she answer the question? She must have an appropriate dress. Want to listen to her answer rather than be distracted by her dress. How does she present herself?

Look at official judging guide.

Is she manageable?

Q&A:

Onstage questions: is it appropriate?
Very important she handle the question. Is she relatable and articulate? Do we want to know more about her? turning question around. “Yes or No”: because.

Paperwork:
Very important. Factual and right. Truthful and done right.
getting caught: contestant’s fault. Take pride in everything you do. Have integrity. Make sure it’s proofed.

Interview:
expose yourself to different panels
public speaking opportunities
carrying on conversation

Q&A

questions up to judge: in good taste. Head judge controls. Interview must make contestant feel confident. Encourage her to grow.

emotions: can be real...judges can steer the conversation.

Fitness:
Plastic surgery: If enhancements are out of control, then judges are against it. Good taste and discretion.

Platform:
Important to be involved in community. Connect activity to platform. Have they been actively involved? How do they express themselves on paper?

Judges' Seminar

The judging seminar will be going on at the Atrium at 9:30 Saturday morning. I'll be taking notes and covering all the important points so you can read them right here on Pageantude.

Friday's Preliminary Winners

Congratulations to:

Hope Anderson, Miss ULM: swimsuit
Kenley Minchew, Miss Lafayette, talent

They were Friday night's preliminary winners. Congratulations again and good luck tonight!

Friday, June 19, 2009

Friday's Podcast

The podcast for Friday, June 19 can be found here. You know what to do...right-click (ctrl-click for Macs) on the link, "Save Link As..." and download to your iPod or mp3 player. You can also listen online.

Show Notes
Intro
Thursday Night Recap/Congratulations
Friday Night Preview
Shoutouts
Tip of the Day: Walk the Walk
Close

For today's and other Tips of the Day, read the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry, available online at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Thursday Night Preliminary Winners

Congratulations to:

Katie Cook, Miss Spirit of Pineville: swimsuit
Brittany McGehee: Miss Louisiana Watermelon Festival: talent

Stay tuned for Friday's podcast where we'll announce/congratulate them and look forward to Friday's preliminary competition.

Alternate Site for Thursday's Podcast

You may also access Thursday's podcast here.

Podcast for Thursday, June 18

Thursday's podcast can be found here.

Show Notes
Live from Monroe
Feedback/Shoutouts
Magnolia Group Talent Rehearsal
Competition Begins Tonight
Tip of the Day: Dental Care
Close

You can find today's and other tips in the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry. The book is available online at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Send us your shoutouts/feedback. The address is pageantude@gmail.com.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

We've Hit 15,000!

Wow! Can you believe it? We hit 15,000, and it's all thanks to you...our loyal readers! Thanks for all the hits! Keep reading Pageantude for all the latest Miss Louisiana and Miss America news.

Alternate Address for Wednesday's Podcast

You can also find today's podcast here.

Wednesday's Podcast Episode

Today's podcast episode is now online. You may access it here. As always, right-click (ctrl-click for Macs), click "Save Link As..." and then download it to your computer. You may then download it onto your iPod or mp3 player.

Show Notes
Miss Contestants in Interview/Rehearsals
Style Show at Pecanland Mall 4:15 this afternoon
Shoutouts and Feedback
Shoutout
Tip of the Day: Interview and "Just Say Know"
Close

You can find today's tip and other Tips of the Day in the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry, available online at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Don't forget to send your feedback and shoutouts to your favorite contestant! E-mail us at pageantude@gmail.com.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Pictures from Monday

Erin Husbands, Miss Baton Rouge, also has pictures from Monday's check-in and other activities. Click here to access them.

Alternate Address for Tuesday's Podcast

You may also access Tuesday's podcast here. Enjoy!

Blog

Erin Husbands, Miss Baton Rouge, is blogging about pageant week. See the blog at www.erinhusbands.com. Click on "Pageant Week" to read her thoughts about competition.

June 16, 2009 Podcast

Today's podcast is now available. Click here.

Show Notes
Intro
MLOT Winners/Top 10
Miss Contestants in Rehearsals
Tip of the Day: Stress Relief/Visualization and Meditation
Close

Keep listening!
Don't forget...you can send feedback and/or shoutouts to your favorite contestant! E-mail pageantude@gmail.com.

Alternate Address for Monday's Podcast

You can access Monday's podcast at an alternate address. Click here. The usual right-click (ctrl-click for Macs) applies.

Congratulations to...


...the new Miss Louisiana's Outstanding Teen, Kelly Bernard!

Results:

1st runner-up: Rachel Causey
2nd runner-up: Justine Ker
3rd runner-up: Rebecca Harris
4th runner-up: Olivia Ruby


Top 10: Jillian Brown
Haley Cooper
Lauren Ford
Dailey Joy Foster
Logan Travis

Monday, June 15, 2009

Podcast: June 15, 2009

Today's edition of the podcast is ready for listening! Click here to access it. As always, right-click (ctrl-click for Macs) on the link, then "Save Link As...". You can then download it to your iPod or mp3 player for listening.

Feedback and shoutouts can be sent to pageantude@gmail.com.

Show Notes
Intro
Miss Contestants Check In
MLOT Finals Tonight
MLOT Preliminary Winners
Shoutout
Special Thanks
Tip of the Day: How to Combat Frizzies
Close

As always, you can read (most of) the Tips of the Day in the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry, available at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Keep listening, and keep reading Pageantude for the latest Miss Louisiana and Miss America news.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Alternative Address for Podcast Episodes

You can also access the podcast episodes through an alternate address.

Countdown 1
Countdown 2
Countdown 3: June 14, 2009

As always, to save, right-click (ctrl-click for Macs) on the link and select "Save Link As..." from your browser. From there, you can download the podcasts into your iPod or mp3 player. You can also listen online.

Very special thanks go out to Ron Chatman of Birmingham, AL for providing the host server. Thank you, Ron!

Gift Deliveries

The contestants will be housed on ULM Campus in Bayou Suites located at 4200 Northeast Drive. Please bring deliveries to the door facing the Oxford Natatorium.

Delivery Times:

Monday 6/15 - 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00

Tuesday 6/16 - 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00

Wednesday 6/17 - Deliveries accepted all day

Thursday 6/18 - 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00

Friday 6/19 - 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00

Saturday 6/20 - No deliveries accepted

Podcast: Countdown Episode 3: June 14, 2009

Countdown Episode 3 is now available. Click here to access it. Remember to right-click (ctrl-click for Macs) on the link and choose "Save Link As..." from your browser. You can then download to your iPod or mp3 player, or listen to the podcast online.

Show Notes:
Intro
MLOT Prelims Tonight
Miss Contestants Check In Tomorrow
Shout-Outs
State Titleholders Already Crowned
Podcast/Blog Access
Tip of the Day: Skin Cleansers
Closing

You can find all of our Tips of the Day in the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry, available online at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Don't forget... You can send feedback and/or a shout-out to your favorite contestant. E-mail pageantude@gmail.com with them.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Podcast Access

You may now access tonight's Countdown episode of the podcast here. Don't forget to right-click (ctrl-click for Macs).

Show Notes:
Intro
Miss Louisiana's Outstanding Teen Interviews
State Titleholders to be Crowned Tonight
Shout-Outs/Feedback
Tip of the Day: Skin Care

You may access the Tip of the Day and other tips in the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry. You can find the book online at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Miss Louisiana Broadcast and Webcast

Miss Louisiana will be broadcast and webcast again this year. For the official press release, click here.

Tech Difficulties

We're having some technical difficulties in accessing this episode of the podcast. I have a trouble ticket out to my web host, and hope to have the problem solved asap.

Thanks for understanding.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Miss Louisiana Recommended Hotels

Host and Recommended Hotels:

The Atrium Hotel – Host Hotel $50.00/night
2001 Louisville Avenue
Monroe, Louisiana 71201
(318) 325-0641


Recommended Hotels:

Wingate Inn and Suites $75.00/night
228 Blanchard Drive
West Monroe, Louisiana 71291
(318) 387-7395

Hilton Garden Inn $104/night (2 free breakfasts
300 Mane Street per morning.)
West Monroe, Louisiana 71292
(318) 398-0653

Jameson Inn $65.00/night
213 Constitution Drive
West Monroe, Louisiana 71292
(318) 361-0750

Holiday Inn and Suites $72/night Standard Room
1051 US HWY 165 $129/night Suite
Monroe, Louisiana 71292
(318) 387-5100


When making reservations, PLEASE let them know that you are with the Miss Louisiana Organization for the best rates. And, remind them again upon checking in that you are with the Miss Louisiana Organization.

Shout-Outs

You can send a shout-out to your favorite contestant, or just comment generally. Your shout-outs will be mentioned on the podcast. E-mail pageantude@gmail.com with your comments and shout-outs.

Cast Your Vote!

KTBS, channel 3, Shreveport is holding a poll for Miss Louisiana. You may cast your vote for your favorite contestant at www.ktbs.com/pages/miss-louisiana.

We've Hit 14,000!

We've had 14,000 hits since the counter was installed. Thanks for all the hits! Keep reading Pageantude for the latest Miss Louisiana and Miss America news.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Podcast

We've started the summer 2009 edition of the Pageantude podcast. The episode can be found here.
To access it, right click (or ctrl-click for Macs) and "Save Link As".

Show Notes:
Intro
State Titleholders Already Crowned
Tip of the Day: Behind the Scenes at Miss Louisiana Post-Crowning

You can find the Tip of the Day and other tips in the book Myths America: A Practical Guide to Pageantry, available at http://stores.lulu.com/mythsamerica.

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Booksigning Pictures


l-r: Becca Price, Jenny Russell, Lacy Thibodeaux, Lexie McKenzie, Hope Anderson, Kimberly Rusley, Valeria Williams, Erica Durr and Heather Williams.

l-r: Jenny Russell, Lacy Thibodeaux, Lexie McKenzie, Hope Anderson, Kimberly Rusley and Valeria Williams.


Judges for Miss Louisiana 2009

These are the judges for Miss Louisiana 2009:

Amanda Mainord Reeves, Miss Louisiana 1986

Taryn Foshee, Miss Mississippi 2007, Third Runner Up Miss America

E. Lynn Harris, Professor, University of Arkansas

Dr. Stephanie Barnes, novice, Bariatric surgeon, Shreveport

Mac Neil Chesnut, North Carolina

Friday, June 5, 2009

Don't forget...

...to listen to the Pageantude podcast! I'll be counting down to, as well as reporting from, Miss Louisiana 2009. You can access the podcast from this blog. I'll be posting links to the episodes on here.

Meanwhile, if you have a shout-out for a particular contestant or have ideas for the "Tip of the Day", I'd love to hear from you! E-mail me with your feedback. 

I'll be using pageantude@gmail.com for podcast feedback.

See you at Miss Louisiana! 

Miss New Mexico

The Miss New Mexico pageant is being webcast this week. Click here to see recorded video.

Monday, June 1, 2009

New Orleans CMN Telethon



Miss Louisiana 2009 local representatives raise money for Children's Miracle Network during a telethon in New Orleans on Sunday, May 31.