Helping Pageant Dreams

Come True

An Interview with

Ali Nicole Browning

Miss Illinois Coed Sweetheart
2008
...and her diary from the Coed National Pageant!

5 Pageant
Interview Tips

Plus Pageant
Hairdos
with Theresa Robles
Choose yours!
Pageant Scopes,
Miss Georgean’s Fitness advice,
and so much
Cover Model Finalists! more...
Who will be the grand winner?
Fall Issue 2009
 Presented by: Tiara Magazine & *Miss *Mrs. U.S. Beauties Pageant
"Celebrating You... The Modern Woman"
LOCATION:
Pipers Banquets Events of Elegance 1295 Butterfield Road Aurora Illinois
FASHIONS PRESENTED BY:
Bri'Zan Couture 103 E Washington St. Suite 113 Naperville Illinois 630-428-1414
EVENT:
"Dare To Dream" Holiday Luncheon / Fashion Show
Date: Sunday December 6, 2009 Time: 3pm - 7pm
Tickets: $38.00 person
Reservations and advanced ticket purchase is required.
No tickets will be sold at the door. Deadline is November 25, 2009.
Join us as we unveil Tiara Magazine's first issue. www.tiaramagazine.com
This event will be an exciting one with door prizes, raffles and a fashion show.
Tickets will be $38.00 per person which will include lunch, fashion show & a Christmas
Gift given to everyone in attendance. We will reserve tables if there is a party of 12.
One participates name will be selected via drawing and 10% of the events proceeds will be
presented to their favorite charity. This event will be presented as a 2 page spread
in the 3rd Tiara Magazine issue to be released early 2010.
The first 100 tickets sold will have their name entered into a special drawing. One winner
will receive a 26 inch HDTV & DVD Home Theater System that they will receive at the event.

For location & more Information

Sponsorships contact U.S. Beauties Pageant
Available. Productions at 312.909.8737 or
info@usbeautiespageant.com

2 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM

 Featured On The Cover
Lady Di’s Director’s Corner INE
GAZ VER M
A MA N’S CO
TIARGEORGEA
MISS
ODE
LS

?
- 2008
a June

Page 6 - Miss Georgean Cover Models

Emeli

- 2008
May
Kira

- 2008
April
Cindy

- 2008
mber

Welcome to the first Tiara Magazine issue.

e Septe
Ali Nicol

Who will be the Grand Cover Model?

st 2008
Augu
ntha
Sama

- 2008
na july
Giani

Page 11 - 5 Pageant Interview Tips

2008
ber -

I’m very excited to be a part of this exciting

r Decem
Taylo

- 2008
mber
Nove
Kalea

er - 2008
Octob
Tyler

venture as one of their writers. I have been Let our Lady Di show you the way...
- 2009
e March
Rayle

2009
ary -
i Febru
Hayle

ry - 2009
na Janua

Page 16 - Interview with Ali Nicole Browning

Orian

in this business since 1982 as a pageant

coach, pageant director, writer, pageant
judge, publisher, talk & radio host, free
lance fashion designer and public speaker
so I feel qualified to take on this job.
Miss Illinois Coed Sweetheart 2008
Page 18 - Ali Nicole’s Coed Diaries
A day in the life of a pageant queen!
Page 20 - Pageant Hairdos with Theresa Robles
You’ll love these hairdos!

I have seen pageantry evolve over the

years. As a national pageant director my-
self, I know what it is like to produce a
pageant competition. I feel pageant direc-
tors don’t get the respect they deserve and I
hope this changes in time. Without pageant
directors, there will not be pageant compe-
titions, so hardworking directors should be
held to a higher standard by their peers and
contestants.
With each issue I will speak about many
facets of the pageant industry that new
contestants especially need to know, along
with providing pageant coaching tips. I
love questions so please email them to me
at info@usbeautiespageant.com
Together we will learn & grow. Lets enjoy
the ride!!!
In Loving Memory
Editor’s Note Chief Editor - Sherrie Gearheart
Welcome to Tiara Magazine, the source for comprehensive coverage
of pageant culture, dedicated to helping
your pageant dreams come true. As this is-
sue commemorates the first publication of
Tiara Magazine, I wanted to take a moment
to welcome you to pageantry’s new home.
Coupled with bringing pageant culture to
you and yours, we also wish to bring to you
the ideals that surround the world of pag-
eantry like the importance of self-esteem,
hard work, and sense of meaning. As a title-
holder, pageantry coach, pageant judge, and
competitor, I come from a perspective that
is aware of all aspects of pageantry and I’m
really excited to include them all here for you. Whether it’s boys, Mrs.,
plus, or any other kind of pageantry that has your interest, you will find
the most current and relevant articles, information, and advice for fur-
thering your own pageant aspirations. Look out for our upcoming issues
featuring our grand cover model winner, a charity special, and a fashion
issue. Thank you for being a part of the launch of this publication, and I
look forward to building a lasting relationship with our subscribers.

This first issue of Tiara Magazine is Pageant Hugs,

dedicated in loving memory of my
grandmother, Georgean Wesolaski. You
were and will always be the world to me.
I am who I am today because of the love,
guidance, and joy you gave me as a child
and throughout my entire life. You are
my biggest inspiration and I love you to
pieces. God bless you grandma. I will
always miss you.
Your loving granddaughter,
Sherrie Gearheart
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
Sherrie Gearheart
Chief Editor
Email: editor@tiaramagazine.com
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in Tiara Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the
editor, publishers or their agents. Tiara Magazine cannot assume liability for any
products and services advertised or featured herein. All information and services of-
fered are “as is.” Tiara Magazine disclaims and does not assume any liability for any
products or services listed in this publication.
No part of Tiara Magazine may be reproduced without the prior written permission
from Tiara Magazine. Although every effort is made to ensure information is correct
at press time, Tiara Magazine does not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to
any party for any loss or damage caused by errors, omissions, or financial difficulties,
whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
For further information, email: editor@tiaramagazine.com
TIARA MAGAZINE 3
 ~In This Issue ~ Contributers
Publisher - S&A Publishers
Page 5 - 7 Steps To Sensational Singing
by Melisa Sudgen Chief Editor - Sherrie Gearheart
Page 8 - Profiles: Speaking Tips Creative Director - Alan Pangelinan
by Carl Chu
Page 10 - Hairstyling Tips: The Do’s and dont’s Design Team
by Theresa Robles Jennifer M. Lezan
Page 13 - Observations of a Pageant Brother Daisy Garcia
by Jason Browning Neli l Kehaiova

~In EveryIssue ~ Photographer

Alexi Killmer
Page 3 - Directors Corner
with Lady Di Cover Photographer
Page 14 - Pageant Scopes
Tiara What do the stars have in store for you?
Daniel DuVerney

CONTESTS Page 15 - Ask A Judge Office Manager - Bridgette King

Lady Di answers all!
ENTER TODAY!! Page 22 - Fitness by Josh Public Relations
www.tiaramagazine.com Learn from our “Fitness Guru” Jera Anders
Page 24 - Tiara Friends Lee Marchenko
Page 4 - Tiara Cover Models Introducing Plus Teen USA
Page 7 - Miss Georgean Cover Model Contest Featured Writers
Diane Wozniak
“Who will be the grand winner?”
Melissa Sugden
Page 9 - Embarassing Pageant Stories Theresa Robles
Tiara wants to know! Josh Rogers
Page 11 - The Royal Circle Carl Chu
Show off your title today! Jenny M. Lezan
Jason Browning
Page 14 - Birthday Queens Bridgette King
Celebrate your birthday with Tiara
Page 15 - Ask a judge: Pageant moms & contestants Advertising Information
Submit your pageant questions and get answers Phone: (815) 914-8602
Page 30 - Tiara Spotlight Winner Lily Roman sales@TiaraMagazine.com
What makes you unique? Deadline: September 31st

Attention: All Title Holders and Pageant Directors!

Tiara Magazine is very excited to announce our Tiara Cover Model program. Title-holders from all across the
country now have the opportunity to promote themselves nationally through our magazine, and absolutely free of
charge.

Here’s how it works: A pageant director or title holder make arrangements for the title holder to appear in a
pageant, at a convention, boutique, or at any other related event to promote Tiara Magazine. If you’re a pageant
director, you can set up an appearance at your own pageant. We send you copies of Tiara Magazine, and you send
us a photo of the title-holder signing a copy of Tiara Magazine. Out of all the participants we receive submissions
from, we will pick the person that we think most embodies the Tiara spirit to appear in the next issue.

Winners of the program will receive a half-page section in Tiara Magazine where they will be named Tiara Cover
Model, have a short biography or personal statement, and a photograph of the Tiara Cover Model signing Tiara
Magazine at an event. All other finalists will be featured on our Tiara Cover Model webpage, where they will also
have a short biography or personal statement and a photo. If you’ve ever thought about taking pageantry to the
next level, Tiara can assist you in elevating your career. Get started today and call us at (815) 914-8602 or email at
info@tiaramagazine.com.
4 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
 7 Steps to Sensational Singing
You’ve heard the saying “your body
is a temple?” Well, when you’re a
your body is your in-
singer
strument! That being said, if you
wish to be a sensational singer...there
are steps that must be taken beyond
the rehearsal studio. You must also
take care of your body, your instru-
ment! Sound tricky? It’s really not.
Most of it is common sense. How-
ever, it’s the simple things we often
times need to be reminded of that
are the most important. Here are the
Seven Simple Steps to becoming a
Singing Sensation!
1. Get Plenty of Beauty Rest
When you are tired, so is your voice!
Aim for at least 8 hours of uninter-
rupted sleep a night. I know it’s
often easier said than done, but it’s so
important to give your body the rest
and more importantly, the restoration
that it needs.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
Room temperature water is best. If
the water is too warm or too cold,
it will either loosen or tighten your
vocal chords. It is okay to add a little
lemon, but don’t over do it as citrus
can actually damage and dry out the
vocal chords if you have too much. It
is often recommended that you drink
Mel Sugden
Vocal, Acting, and Pageant Coach
Melgrimsug@gmail.com
Page Design by Daisy Garcia
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
tea with honey and lemon for a sore
throat, and this is great advice…but do
be careful with honey or any kind of
candy or sugar prior to a performance
as it can coat your vocal chords and
create mucus. Not so good for clarity
in your voice.
3. Don’t Skip the Cardio
Cardiovascular exercise not only
improves your health and the shape of
your body, it improves your breathing
capacity. Since your breath is essen-
tially what is carrying your voice, the
stronger and deeper that you are able
to breathe and sustain that breath, or
even manipulate your breath, the more
agility and versatility you will have as
a vocalist.
4. Watch What You Eat
When I say to watch what you eat,
I am not suggesting that you diet.
That’s not what it’s about. What it is
about is being aware of what you are
putting into your body and how it will
affect the outcome of the sound you
produce as a vocalist. For example,
you wouldn’t want to eat a bunch of
ice cream or any dairy for that mat-
ter as it will create excess mucus and
possibly even congestion. Both would
greatly alter your desired sound. In
addition be careful with chocolate,
pasta, or anything that would dry
out your throat and/or create excess
refrain from
mucus. Also, please
EVER using any kind of
numbing agent on your vocal
chords. Nearly all vocal coaches
and experts agree that using numb-
ing agents on your throat such as,
Chloraseptic, could affect your vo-
cal chords because you can not feel
if you are straining or damaging them.
5. No Smoking Please
Not only is smoking bad for your
body, it is also bad for your voice. It
will dry out and damage your lungs
and vocal chords. And it goes with out
saying, but never do drugs.
6. Skip the Clubs and
Concerts
Before a performance, it’s just as
important to protect your ear drums as
it is anything else! If you can’t hear
properly, you will not be able to sing
properly. Of course, the exception to
the rule is someone who is deaf or tone
deaf and must learn to sing with out
listening but rather by feeling place-
ment in their bodies. Most of us use
our ears as a an indicator as to whether
or not we are singing in key. Also, if
you are in a loud concert or nightclub
chances are you will need to yell to be
heard. Yelling is another big no-no for
those vocal chords!
7. Cool Down and Warm Up
Last but certainly not least…before
every performance you must cool
down and warm up. What I mean by
cool down is get centered and focused.
Do some deep breathing exercises
and maybe some visualizations of
how you wish your performance to
go. Find a tranquil and quiet place
to relax and close your eyes. Focus
on the breath entering and leaving
your body, expanding and contracting
your diaphragm. Next, warm up your
voice. Move your voice up and down
through your range until you feel you
are ready. Don’t scrutinize or force
your warm ups, warm ups are simply
that…warming up. Enjoy yourself!
Really embrace the moment and your
audience.
Follow these simple steps and you’ll
be well on your way to singing sensa-
tionally!
TIARA MAGAZINE 5
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FINALISTS!!
e r o f
The winner will be on the cover of Tiara Magazine in 2009!
e c o v
o n th
$100 cash, One hour free of training with Miss Georgean!
i l l be z i n e?
FOR DETAILS ON HOW TO ENTER PLEASE VISIT:
h o w M a ga
W Tiara

?
WWW.MISSGEORGEAN.COM

OR E-MAIL US AT: Emel

ia - Ju
ne 20
08

2008
May
Kira -

EDITOR@TIARAMAGAZINE.COM Cindy
- Apr
il 2008

r 2008
embe
- Sept
icole
Ali N

t 2008
Augus
tha -
Saman

08
ly 20
na - Ju
Giani

r 2008
embe
- Dec
Taylor

r 2008
embe
- Nov
Kalea

2008
ober
- Oct
Tyler

09
ch 20
- Mar
Raylee

2009
bruary
i - Fe
Hayle

nuar y 2009
a - Ja
Oriann

Arkansas & Missouri

Miss & Mrs. US Beauties
2010 State Pageant

Crowning
4
State
Titleholders

Reserve your
local title
today!

Email: missouridirector@gmail.com

6 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM

 COVER MODEL CONTEST
Who will be on the cover of Tiara Magazine’s 2009 Winter Issue?

Cindy - April 2008 Kira - May 2008 Emelia - June 2008

Gianina - July 2008 Samantha - August 2008 Ali Nicole - September 2008

Tyler - October 2008 Kalea - November 2008 Taylor - December 2008

Page designed by Jenny Lezan

Orianna - January 2009 Haylei - February 2009 Raylee - March 2009

All pictures provided by contestants

WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 7
 PROFILES
Carl Chu
TIARA MAGAZINE
Carl Chu graduated from Arizona State University with
a degree in business management and earned his Masters
of Business Administration from the University of South
Dakota. He is a second degree Black Belt in Taekwondo,
and competed in national and international tournaments.
Carl is a motivational speaker and conducts leadership
seminars for high schools, colleges and
organizations across the country. At the
age of 19, he published his first book
titled, On Track To Success, which was
used at Arizona State University. Two
years later, he published his second
book, A Step In The Right Direction.
SPEAKING TIPS
Brought to you by: Carl Chu
Grab your audience’s attention from the start. Use
those first few seconds to engage your audience
and get them to want more. When I started my
speaking business, I wanted to have an opening to
my presentation that no one would forget. I start
every presentation with me running out onto the
stage or through the audience in a train conductor
hat and blowing a whistle. Yes, I did say train
conductor hat. A lot of people laugh and point,
but it all ties into my presentation titled, “On
Track to Success”. Use your creativity to think
of something fresh and new to get your audience
involved. You may need to step out of your com-
fort zone and push your limits.
When you give a presentation, have passion and
excitement about the topic. If you are excited
about it, others will want to listen and they will
get excited too. You can tell when you have had a
successful speech, because you will be exhausted
a few hours after it is finished. Show enthusiasm
for the topic, and the audience will be hanging
onto every word you say.
8 TIARA MAGAZINE
8 TIARA MAGAZINE
“Speaking is a powerful communication tool.
You have the ability to educate and inspire
someone. Giving a good speech or presentation
takes hard work and practice. Let us take a
look at three tips that will help you deliver your
next great speech.”
A successful speech or presentation is a success
because of preparation. Preparation comes in many
forms. The most common form is rehearsing at
home. I prefer to use outlines for a speech when I
practice at home. This helps keep the speech from
sounding prerecorded. Anytime you know you
will be giving a speech, visualize yourself giving
it. See yourself speaking; hear the crowd, and even
feel the heat from the lights on your face. If you
are able to get access to the room prior to speaking,
go walk through it.
“A successful speech or
presentation is a success
because of preparation”
Page designed by Jenny Lezan
I hope these tips help you on your next speech or
presentation. Remember, you are able to touch
many lives when public speaking. Have fun and
the audience will have fun with you.
To contact Carl Chu about his books, presentations,
leadership workshops, and coaching, visit his website:
www.carlchu.com or email him: onechuthree@aol.com
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
 email Carl for your first session: onechuthree@aol.com!

Tiara Wants to Know!

Embarassing Pageant Moments?
We Want To Hear!!

Submit your most embarassing pageant moments to:

editor@tiaramagazine.com and maybe yours will be
featured in our upcoming magazine issues.

Send it in today!

subscribe today!! www.tiaramagazine.com

WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 9
 Hairstylist ~THERESA ROBLES~
For the last 12 years, Theresa Robles, of with a product consultation to ensure that
Carol Stream, Illinois, has been providing each client is using the product that is
professional styling services with an addi- right for them and their style needs. The-
tional 20 years of salon experience prior resa only uses the very best products and
to becoming licensed. Theresa provides firmly believes that the investment in her
exceptional service to her clients by work- clients is worth it. That’s why they all come
ing from her shop or traveling to her cli- back. Continuing education and product
ents when needed. Theresa offers more awareness is important to Theresa. She
than just salon services. She is very pas- attends many classes each year on style,
sionate about hair and image. Her spe- product, and hair health. She then shares
cialty services range from basic hair cuts, her knowledge with her clients. Looking
to updos, to beauty pageant & bridal forward to the style challenges each day
consultant services. In between, Theresa brings, Theresa loves her profession and
hosts large events which include parties, will continue to style for many years to
color consultations, and a plethora of spa come.
services for the public. Before taking on By: Theresa Robles
Photo by Alexi Killmer any new client, Theresa provides them Email: curlupanddye61@hotmail.com
Don’t
Style Tips from Theresa Just because your mother may have used lemon juice
while sunbathing, doesn’t mean you should. Use of lemon juice in
Do For blondes whose hair seems dull and lack luster, try your hair will surely produce sour results. Chemicals in your hair
using clarifying shampoo and let it sit in for 10 minutes, THEN or applied after use of lemon juice may actually cause your hair
USE YOUR SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER rinsing with to burn.
cool water. Repeat as needed. Don’t Friends don’t let friends do “home coloring.” Always

Page designed by Jenny Lezan

Do Tired of those fly away hairs? Try using clarifying
shampoo, THEN USE YOUR OWN SHAMPOO. Next, deep
condition for 10 minutes, rinse with cool water and apply a
leave in conditioner. Any professional leave in conditioner
will work.
DoFor added shine, brush your hair with a boar hair brush.
seek professional services for the application of color. It’s worth
the money to have it done right in the first place. Home coloring
kits are very harsh on your hair.
Don’t It’s recommended that you don’t wash your hair the day
before your scheduled updo. The updo is much easier to style
without your hair being washed the same day.

Check out Theresa’s Updos on pg. 20 www.myspace.com/

thegoodfind
Miss Northern Suburbs
A Miss America Local Organization
Are you the next Miss Illinois?

The Miss Northern Suburbs Pageant is looking for

contestants to compete in Miss, Outstanding Teen,
Pre-Teen, and Princess.
Check out our website:
www.missnorthernsuburbs.com
Executive Directors Kristen Hadap & Robin Ruchti
e-mail: missnorthernsuburbs@gmail.com

10 TIARA MAGAZINE
5 InterviewiTips Lady D
Impressions: We form our spontaneous
impressions of people by the way they
present themselves, physical appearance,
dress, speech, style, and mannerisms.
Research shows that we form
impressions within seconds of meeting
someone.

Eye Contact: One of the best tips that I

can give you is to make eye contact with
your judges. Without eye contact, judges
will think you are nervous or shy. Your
eyes have to sparkle when you speak
with the judges. Your eyes carry emotion
and how you feel about certain situations
you may be in, so feel the confidence
and start to show this in interview.
Without self confidence, it will be hard
to win any pageant.

Smile: It is important that while you are

holding eye contact with your judges,
you don’t forget to smile. You have
worked so hard to get to this point so
don’t freeze now. Relax and enjoy your-
self.
Hand Gestures: Hand and arm move-
ments while speaking shows personal-
ity but too much makes you look like
a police officer in the middle of a busy
intersection waving his hands around to
move traffic. Stay focused on your body
language as you speak with the judges.
Answers: When you answer the judge’s
questions make sure you elaborate a bit
when giving your answer but don’t be
too lengthy as to ramble on. Given the
short question and answer session, the
judges would like to get to know you.
By: Diane Wozniak
“2009 Ultimate Grand, Kaci”
Darling Divas
& Dashing
Dons Pageant
“A great pageant experience for Divas & Dons
of ALL ages”
As seen on TLC's Toddlers & Tiaras,
our pageant is fun, fun, FUN!
Saturday January 23, 2010, Brooklyn, New York
Age Divisions from babies to adult
Titles include Ultimate Grand, Grand Supreme,
Mini Supreme, Novice Supreme
Division & Optional titles
and much more.
Email:
cwilliams@mydarlingdiva.net
for more information
join our mailing list on our website
at www.mydarlingdiva.net

WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 11

 Owner Norieta Stephanos
blunoo@bellsouth.net
Proud sponser of the beautiful, accomplished, married women of the 2007 Mrs. America

Visit mycrowningcloset.com for amazing savings on your

Pageantry Wardrobe! Offering designer name gowns, suits,
and cocktail dresses plus many one of a kind pieces!

Tajari Lester Tiara Royal Circle Juanita Ingram

Directors, titleholders and Mrs. U.S. Beauties

pageant moms:
Jr. Miss Round Lake Area
2009

Karen Zavicar
Be Seen in Tiara Magazine. Annika Churchill

Submit a photo, name, and title to

editor@tiaramagazine.com
Mrs. New Mexico US Beauties
2009 & 2010
email for rates as well Little Miss All American
Achievement, Round Lake Beach

Haylei Simpson Melanie Cholka Cynthia Kempen Andrea Hernandez Courtney Reynolds

Majestic Queen of Queens Mrs. Midwest All American Elegant Miss United States All Miss Kalamazoo US Beauties Miss Georgia
America ’s Beautiful Star 2008 Acheivement 2008 American Achievement 2008
2009 U.S. Beauties

12 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM

All pictures provided by contestants
 TIARA MAGAZINE THOUGHTS
Ask not what your country can do for you...
Observations of a pageant brother
In a time where industries and
individuals rush to their
government to ask for
bailouts and subsidies there is one
group of Americans who instead
go out looking for ways they can
make their community and country
a better place...Pageant girls.
These young women have
resumes overflowing with
charitable works that most
people never know they per-
formed. It is one thing to see these
good deeds on paper but I’ve
seen first hand how someone like
my ten year old little sister, Ali, can
make an impact in someones life.
One of the most notable of her
philanthropic activities is her vocal
performances at almost every nurs-
ing home within driving distance.
Pageants turn out a culture of
young women who go out
looking for what they can do for
others. The selfless traits found in
those girls seem to be hard to find
in young people these days. Just
ask those at the nursing homes
who watched my sister perform.
During competition their works are
showcased on stage and praise is
rightly given but outside of com-
petition these girls face so much
Page designed by Jenny Lezan
ridicule. My sister is young and has
not yet experienced this but she will
soon learn to be careful who she
tells about her participation in
pageants. The dumb pageant girl
jokes will soon be coming her way.
Some are even made fun of by
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
their friends and family. Others risk em-
barassment on a larger scale. Take Miss
Teen South Carolina USA 2007 Caitlin
Upton for example. She was the brunt
of so many jokes about her answer to
a question in the finals at the nationally
televised Miss USA pageant. I took insult
to every bad thing said about that girl just
as if she was my sister.
Just as all contestants do, my sister has
made and will make many mistakes on
stage but that is not how she will be
remembered and hopefully not how Ms.
Upton will be remembered. Those whose
lives have been impacted by their acts will
not remember their on stage mistakes but
how their life was changed in a significant
way by these girls. After attending the
Miss IL USA pageant and hearing about
all what Shannon Lersch was able to ac-
complish in her year as Miss IL, I wished
that all could hear about the good she
has done. I have no doubt that anyone
Article written by: Jason Browning brother of
Miss IL Coed Sweetheart 2008 Ali Nicole.
who is skeptical about pageants and
subscribes to the stereotype that the
contestants are dumb would never
say another bad thing about these
girls after having one conversation
with her.
My sister has a lifetime ahead of her
and so many lives to change. For now
she will have to stick to what she at
such a young age does best, sing. It
seems so insignificant to see it on pa-
per but, as someone who has seen
the nursing home residents watch
with pride and a tear in their eye
as Ali sings to them, they and I both
have hope for the future in knowing
that there are young women like my
sister who will not be asking what
can be done for them but instead
what they can do for others.
R I B E
BSC
SU
NOW!
TIARA
MAGAZINE
www.TiaraMagazine.com
TIARA MAGAZINE 13
 Page designed by Jenny Lezan

All pictures provided by contestants

14 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
 Ask a Judge
I call the judge’s interview a
“Quest to Impress.” When
you sit back and think about that
you will realize what I mean. You
are meeting men and women who
you don’t know, and within five or
so minutes, you have to impress
them with your answers. Well, this
may be easy for a “seasoned vet-
eran” contestant, but a new con-
testant normally dreads this part
of the competition, unless they
already have experienced pub-
lic speaking skills. There are two
types of judges interviews, one
on one and a panel. Personally, I
found that I can impress a panel of
judges at the same time, but this
may not hold true for all contes-
tants as I have spoken with many
who like the one-on-one judges
approach. Also judges form their
by: Lady Di
opinion in a matter of seconds and
mainly remember what you said to
impress them during the interview.
Which brings me to this, the judges
questions. In some cases, judges
will ask questions from the con-
testants bio or fact sheet. Judges
must also follow the criteria of the
pageant system as explained by the
judges coordinator. Sometimes this
formula works and other times the
judges will direct questions to the
contestants that maybe they were
instructed not to do, which embar-
rasses the pageant director who
has previously mentioned to her
contestants that certain questions
won’t be asked. Now you ask,
what questions are normally asked
by the judges to the contestants? I
have added sample questions that
you may hear in an interview.
1.) Where do you live?
2.) Why did you enter this pageant?
3.) How did you prepare for your
pageant?
4.) Have you been involved in any
volunteer work?
5.) Tell us about yourself?
In the next issue I will post some of
your pageant concerns and answer
them so you can be a better pageant
contestant!
By: Diane Wozniak
Pageant
Moms & Contestants:
Please email pageant questions
or
concerns to:
info@usbeautiespageant.com

~Now Available~
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Miss Georgia USA • Miss Georgia NOTeen EXCUSES
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WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 15
 :
TIARA MAGAZINERVI EW S
E
INT li N i c o le
o ed
A o is C
I ll i n 0 0 8
s s
Mi theart 2
S wee
One word describes this 10 year old young lady, precious. Ali Nicole is
incredibly wise beyond her years and has an ambitious mind and genuine
heart. Nowadays it is refreshing to see young people trying to make a
difference in their community. Ali Nicole is doing just that, making a difference
and standing by what she believes in. It is great to see this young girl whose
mom had received a flyer in the mail about a competition 6 years ago grow
as a young lady in pageantry. Her mother states that, “even as a young girl
of 4, as she competed in pageants you could see that this was something
she loved and was meant to do”. In my interview with the Miss Illinois Coed
Sweetheart 2008, I was able to see the heart and liveliness of this young girl
that is shown in her passion for volunteer work and helping those less fortu-
nate than herself. This young girl is making it a point to be a great role model
for those around her. Read on to find out more!
Interview & Illustration by: Jennifer M. Lezan
Photos provided by: Susan Browning
TM: So, Ali Nicole where are you really love to get to know all of the and dances and my speeches.
and your family from? girls that are in the pageants with I also work with my coach Miss
Ali: Well, we are from a beautiful me. You get to meet so many new Georgean and listen to everything
small town in West Central Illinois people! I also love learning new she says because she really helps
that used to be called Boonsville. things and at pageants I get to to make me a better competitor.
TM: Do you have any hobbies that experience new things all the time! She helped me most with my 20
you love to do at home when you TM: That sounds amazing! second speech that was about me
are not competing in pageants? Pageants must be incredibly fun, and my home town. I also make
Ali: Yes! I love to dance (aside from but are there ever times that you sure to go to bed
dancing competitively) and I am get nervous or stressed out? early as well because a good
on the basketball team at school! Ali: Definitely, but that is just night’s sleep is always helpful!
I love sports! I also love to sing, go something you can overcome. I I practiced my talent and my
swimming, and play golf. would have to say I get most speeches a full 2 months before
TM: Ok, now I want to move on to nervous right before interviews, but my pageant.
learning more about your recent I always make it through. TM: What are the different events
title win. Can you tell me a little bit TM: Good for you! So, how do you have to prepare for in each
Page designed by Jenny Lezan

about your experience at a state
and national level pageant and
Florida?
Ali: Well, pageants are just a great
experience! There are tons of
positive things about them. I
you get ready to compete in a
pageant? I know in order to be
a winner there must be something
you do to be your best!?
Ali: Of course! I practice ALL
the time. I rehearse my songs
pageant and what is your favorite
event?
Ali. Well, there are quite a few,
but the most important ones that I
needed to do well in to win were:
the personal introduction, the

16 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM


TIARA MAGAZINERVI ole
interview, and the evening gown
section. My favorite is the evening
gown section, though, because I
love to wear my favorite gowns!
TM: Is there a talent portion as
well? And if so, what is your
talent?
Ali: Yes, there is a talent section
and my talent is singing! I have a
voice instructor who works with
me on choosing music and prepar-
ing my vocals. My last song was
“Dream to Dream.”
TM: Can you tell me a little bit
more about your volunteer work? I
know that is a big part of what you
are doing within your reign.
Ali: Oh, yes! Of course! I believe
very much in volunteering! I do
many different things! I help to
ring bells for the Salvation Army, I
sing at nursing homes, I help raise
money for blood drives and Relay
for Life, I work with the Children’s
Miracle Network, I help with writ-
ing for soldiers overseas, I help
collect shoes for kids in third world
countries and I also collect baskets
with food and necessities during
Christmas time!
TM: Wow, that is incredible! You
Page designed by Jenny Lezan
have done so much for your age! Is
there anyone that has really helped
you along your journey towards
being Miss IL Coed Sweetheart
that you would like to thank?
Ali: Yes, I would like to thank my
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
:
EW S
T
IN AE l i N ic
C o ed
i n o is 8
s I l l 2 0 0
Mis theart
e
dad for always being my escort
Swe
TM: So, can you tell our
and getting me to where I needed readers what it feels like to be on the
to be on time, my mom for always
cover of Tiara Magazine?
supporting me and giving me the Ali: I feel very excited and honored to
ability to achieve my goals and my
be on the cover of Tiara Magazine!
pageant coach Miss Georgean I have never been on the cover or in
who always made sure I was
a magazine before and it is a great
100% prepared for every area of new experience! I find it astounding
competition!
that so many people are going to
TM: Do you have any tips that you see it and learn about me! I am also
would give to young ladies trying
thankful for the opportunity!
to compete in a state and national
level pageant?
Ali: I would definitely say to
practice, practice, and practice!
Always listen to your coach
because they are there to make
you better, try and go to bed
early before competitions, be
yourself, have fun, always tell
yourself that you look good, and if
you don’t win the first time try, try
again!
TM: How did you feel when you
won your title?
Ali: I felt so excited and ecstatic! I
was also grateful because I knew
my hard work had finally paid off!
TM: What has winning meant to
you?
Ali: It means that I represent all the
great state of Illinois and that I can
and will be a great role model for Wanna be featured?
all the young people around me. It Send your info to :
also means that I definitely should
always be on my best and most
editor@tiaramagazine.com
respectful behavior.
TIARA MAGAZINE 17
TIARA MAGAZINE
Monday, November 24th
First was pageant check-in. (Mom
was freaking out cause our room
was not ready so we had to change
into my red suit in the bathroom.)
When we got in line I was so glad
to see one of my best friends, the
IL Teen Queen, Mel. And we soon
ran into the other IL Queens. As
we waited in line a nice man came
around with paperwork for us and
visited with us. He encouraged us
to have a fun week and if some-
thing happened when we were per-
forming just keep going. I told him
about the time on the 4th of July
when I was singing and they set
off some fireworks. I just kept on
singing but my Dad who was video
taping jumped and about dropped
the camera. He said that was a
great story and since it was on tape
I could tease my Dad about it. As
we had suspected, he was one of
the talent judges for the competi-
tion on Thursday.
I started making new friends right
away, Miss Kentucky and Miss
Florida. By the time we got thru
with the pageant check-in our room
was ready.
When we went to Talent practice
there was a girl in the sweetheart
C o e
T he
party and orientation. I sat by a
girl in my age division, Miss Kan-
sas, and her name was Allie, too.
We had fun. I got a picture taken
with Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine,
and Pocahontas at the party. Then it
was time to really party and dance.
And there I made friends with Miss
New York, Miss Maryland, Miss
Georgia, and Miss New Jersey. I
got to go swimming that night and
met Miss Philadelphia Sweetheart.
We had a blast in the pool.
Tuesday, November 25th
I had been waiting for this day for
months – A day at Disneyworld.
We met the other IL Queens in the
lobby and of course the moms took
lots of pictures. Miss IL Preteen
got us all matching shirts to wear
to Disneyworld. We rode the bus
to the park. I spent most of the
day with the other IL Queens, Mel,
Sydney, Lynzi and Lynzi’s brother,
Joey. The first ride we rode was
Space Mountain and it was my
favorite ride of the whole trip. We
rode lots of rides and got pictures
with Mickey and Minnie.
That day was the Miss IL Preteen,
Lynzi’s 16th Birthday. We
celebrated with cake down in the
lobby and played pool when we got
a r i e s
d D i
Wednesday, November 26th
I got to sleep in as the
Modeling Competition was not
until 11:00am. I loved my out-
fit! I wore dark denim jeans with
a matching jacket, silver sequin
tank top, and white tennis shoes. I
loved my silver trimmed black hat.
I was not nervous as I waited my
turn. I felt confident and strong
when I did my routine on stage. I
hope I made the top 5!
The optional competitions were go-
ing on all day. After lunch, Mom
and I went to cheer for my sister
queens from IL who were
competing in speech, talent, and
sportswear modeling.
Before each performance or
appearance on stage it is always the
dreaded hair in hot curlers and then
the picking, pulling, and styling. It
feels like she is pulling my hair out
and with all the hair spray I think,
“Will my mom every get done
spraying my hair?”
It was time for my talent. There
were lots of Sweetheart contestants.
I was getting nervous as I waited
my turn. The other girls were
good. Finally it was my turn. I
sang “Dreams to Dream” from “An
Page designed by Jenny Lezan

division that was awesome – she American Tail: Fievel Goes West”.
back to the hotel. My mom and I
could do back flips and cartwheels I walked out on the stage with a big
went down to check out the stage
with no hands. I was nervous smile on my face but butterflies in
for modeling. We found out it was
cause I would be competing against my stomach. I concentrated on my
different than I had practiced, so
her. My practice was good but I felt words and facial expressions as my
I thought about how I would have
like she did better. That evening coach had taught me. I felt so re-
to change it up for the competition
my mom and I went to the kick-off lieved when it was over and I knew
tomorrow.

18 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM

 The Coed Diaries
I had aced my performance. (But I
was so nervous - ooops I
forgot to extend my arm when I
sang “Come with me, you will
see what I mean!” But the judges
didn’t know I forgot.) It was great
to hear my sister queens and
families in the crowd cheering for
me as I walked off the stage.
It was time for rehearsal to learn
our dance routines. The dances are
fun and I am going to do awesome!
After rehearsal I got to spend the
next hour with Sarah from
Maryland. She is lots of fun.
The gift exchange and cookie
party was great! I had lots of fun
with my new sweetheart friends.
I got lots of candy and fun items
from the girls from all the states.
Mom took lots of pictures with
my friends. For the group picture I
learned a new chant for picture
taking. “One, two, six!” You have
to smile when you say six.
The hotel had 2 big pools and
finally there was time to swim. I
could get my hair wet!
Thursday, November 27th
I hate to get up early! Time for the
dreaded hair fixing and I had to be
down early for the National Awards
Page designed by Jenny Lezan
Program. I loved my white suit
cause my mom made it for me.
Everyone got a trophy for
attending. I got a Spirit of
American Trophy for participating
in the optional competitions. My
name was called as they named
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
Written by: Ali Nicole Browning
Photos provided by: Susan Browning
the top 5 girls for most recom-
mendations. As they called out the
other top 5 winners, I was disap-
pointed that I was not a finalist in
the sportswear modeling but I was
really disappointed I did not make
it in the top 5 for Talent. I felt like
I had done my best but only danc-
ers placed. I have been in lots of
talent contests in the past few years
and understand that I can’t always
win or place even when I do my
best. It was Thanksgiving Day and
we met my sister queens and their
families at the pool for Thanksgiv-
ing dinner. We have so much fun
together!
Time for the Evening Wear
competition - that is my favorite. I
love my orange dress! I thought
we were going to practice where to
walk on stage. But when we got
there only Bailee, the 2007
National Sweetheart Queen walked
on the stage to show us what to do
and then they brought in the
Judges. I watched where the girls
in front of me walked on the stage
to practice in my mind where I
should walk and figure out what
to do. As I stood waiting my turn
several things my pageant coach
told me were running thru my head
– walk slowly, float, smile, look
only at the judges, relax myarms
and hands, be confident, and have
fun. When I am on stage and
competing it is fun and it is easy to
smile. And that is exactly what I
did and I felt good about my time
on stage. cont. on page 26
TIARA MAGAZINE 19
 CHOOSE YOUR PAGEANT UPDO
A Sweet Treat for Your Hair

Twist and Shout

This is a fun hairstyle for an

appearance or fashion inspired
area of competition such as runway, casual, or party wear.

My Little Pony There is nothing more glamorous than a side sweep of

soft curls. This look is perfect for Teen, Miss, and Mrs.
contestants.

Ponytails are so versatile for

contestants of all ages. Whether
neatly pulled back with a barrette for interview to project a
polished, pulled together look, or elegantly pulled loosely with
Sassy and Flirtatious
soft curls for evening gown, a pony is the new, fresh look for
pageant hair that will help highlight your facial features and
project an air of confidence.

20 TIARA MAGAZINE WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM

 Brought to you by:
Theresa Robles

Cotton Candy

Looking to soften your image in

your interview attire? Simply add
an elegant updo. The best part it
is a real multitasking hairstyle.
You will be able to go from interview, to speech and into
evening gown without the stress of getting your hair to switch
styles and the less you have to worry about the more fun you
will have on your pageant day!
Balloon Swirl
Sheer Elegance

Either of these dramatic up dos will add that extra

touch of drama and glamour you need for the evening
gown competition. You can even personalize this look
by adding a beautiful rhinestone clip for an extra touch
of sparkle.

Email: curlupanddye61@hotmail.com

Captions by: Bridgette King

Photos by: Alexi Killmer
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 21
 The “SKINNY” on the Importance of a “Fit Body” for Pageant Success
By: Josh Rogers, B.S. Exercise Science; NASM, C.P.T.
www.energyfitnessbyjosh.com
I hate to be the bearer of bad
news, but despite what the media and
advertisers feed to their audiences—there
is no magic pill or diet for the perfect
body. The formula for success is hard work,
discipline, and safe and effective guidance
by a professional. Sounds pretty simple,
right? Well, here is some food for thought
(take it with a grain of salt, but watch the
sodium—LOL!)
• Fitness is just as important as any other
part of a pageant, perhaps even more so. It
carries over into all other areas of competi-
tion. Aside from affecting how you look;
it also affects your confidence, stamina,
muscle tone, vocal projection, and your
ability to protect yourself from illness.
• If you are going to spend thousands of
dollars on
cloth-
ing and
interview
prepara-
tion, why
would you
not invest
some of
your time
and effort
into your
body? You
simply
can’t go
halfway
and expect to win. Give it all 110%!!!
• The most important sacrafice is to make
staying fit a lifetime commitment, not just
a month ahead of time. You can’t expect to
make a significant change in your physique
in only a month or two. There is no quick
fix or magic pill!
• If you choose to work out and diet like a
mad woman for a month before your pag-
eant due to your lack of discipline and not
being physically prepared, you risk serious
illness and injury, as well as burn out.
22 TIARA MAGAZINE
Once the competition is over, you are so
tired of killing yourself and depriving your
body that you quit exercising completely,
and your body returns to its old shape even
faster. Josh’s Bio
• Realize that if you want to look and feel
your best, you have to consider exercise like Josh Rogers is the
food; it is just a necessary part of each day. founder and owner
You know your body better than anyone— of ENERGY
figure out what works best for you and FITNESS by josh,
stick to it! a personal fitness
company located
in Music City
• The most important thing to remember
USA - Nashville,
is that it is not realistic to be in “competi-
Tennessee.
tion shape” year round. That is why it is
important to stay in “good shape” most of
the year; therefore, you can fine tune and He is a Cum
get in GREAT shape without killing your- Laude graduate of
self when competition time draws near. Western Kentucky
University with a Bachelor of Science degree
in Exercise Science. Josh holds a Certified
• When preparing for a pageant physically,
Personal Training license and a Performance
you have to consider
Enhancement Specialist certification from the
it like you are prepar-
National Academy of Sports Medicine.
ing for a sport or job.
A marathon runner
wouldn’t go run a He trains an elite clientele, which includes
marathon without music entertainers and executives, movie stars,
preparing, nor would TV personalities, pageant contestants, and
a lawyer go to court many other note-able personalities. Josh is the
without preparing for fitness and nutrition coach for the nationally
his/her trial. recognized Boot Camp for Beauty Queens,
which aired on the Travel Channel in the
spring of 2007. He is also the official trainer
• Most fitness pro-
for the Miss Tennessee USA and Teen USA
grams are efficient for
pageants; Miss Georgia USA and Teen USA
developing and main-
pageants; Miss Nevada USA and Teen USA
taining general health
pageants; Miss Kentucky USA and Teen USA
and fitness levels;
pageants; Mrs. Tennessee America pageant; and
however, they aren’t quite effective enough
Mrs. Mississippi America pageant.
for maximizing results for “competition
shape.” Body sculpting, which focuses
on overall muscle balance, symmetry, and Rogers has an extensive modeling background,
illusion helps create a more appropriate and which includes fitness, print, runway, music
appealing look for the stage. videos, commercials, and promotional events.
Josh’s expertise has been featured in many
national publications. He is also the star and
• When beginning to prepare for a pag-
producer of a new workout DVD entitled,
eant, you should start at least 4-6 months
“NO EXCUSES!!!”
out, depending on how much you have to
accomplish. Begin by setting goals—be
honest with yourself about what you can Check it out @ www.energyfitnessbyjosh.com.
and can’t do. Don’t expect to change over-
night; we had to learn to crawl before we
could walk, right? (continued on next page)
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
 The “SKINNY” on the Importance of a “Fit Body” for Pageant Success - Continued
• Be willing to make sacrifices, but not so many that you get frustrated and quit or burn
out. Remember, you know yourself and your body better than anyone.

There are five components to a safe and effective fitness program. They include:
1. Nutrition
2. Aerobic Training
3. Resistance Training
4. Supplementation
5. Personal Assistance

I will discuss these components in detail in future articles. Stay tuned and until then…

“COMMIT 2 BE FIT!!!”

Inner Thigh Ball Squeeze

Muscles Targeted:
Inner Thighs and
Adductor Muscles
Equipment Needed:
35-55 cm Exercise Ball
Description:
1. Lie on your back with legs in the air and place
exercise ball between thighs.
2. Using your inner thighs—squeeze and release
the ball (holding the contraction for 3-5 seconds).
3. Perform 15-25 reps.

Ball Wall Squats

Muscles Targeted:
Quadriceps and Glutes
Equipment Needed:
35-55 cm Exercise Ball
Description:
1. Place exercise ball in the lower part of your back
against a wall.
2. Push your hips back against the ball/legs hip
width apart.
3. Keeping your weight on your heels, squat down
90 degrees (keep your knees behind your toes)...
Perform 15-20 reps.

Kickbacks on the ball

Description:
Muscles Targeted: 1. Lie on exercise ball on your stomach in a push-up posi-
Glutes tion.
2. Roll up on the ball until your feet are off the ground
(keep your arms shoulder width apart and extended).
Equipment Needed:
3. Keeping your legs straight and locked out, extended
35-55 cm Exercise Ball your legs up and down (squeezing your gluets)..Perform
15-25 reps.

Order your copy of Josh’s “NO EXCUSES” DVD @ www.energyfitnessbyjosh.com

WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 23

 Friends
For more information visit www.plusteenusa.com
mom encouraged me to audition to become a
Introducing... How I came up plus size model for a designer,
with the idea and Nayda’s of San Francisco.
why I’m doing it From that audition, both my
self-esteem and my plus size
Plus Teen USA Pag- modeling career escalated.
eant and Conference was I later attended Barbizon of
birthed from my low self- San Francisco, became their
esteem and desire to model demo model, won the award
Founded by the multi-talented,
and compete in a pageant for “Best Runway,” and was
plus size model, modeling in-
as a plus size teen, and my hired as an Instructor for
structor, actress, vocalist, cho-
dream of empowering and their teen and plus size divi-
reographer, and pageant winner:
fulfilling the dreams of sion prior to even complet-
Jacqueline Lawrence. Plus Teen
plus size teens in today’s ing my classes and graduat-
USA exemplifies its creator’s
vain society where thin is ing. At the beginning of the new millennium,
passion for modeling, pageantry,
in, and fat is out. Growing I began participating in plus size pageantry
teaching, and encouraging.
up as a plus size teen, the and won and placed in numerous pageants

only full-figured models for plus size women.
Being a plus size teen and adult,
I saw were three African Later, after competing in pageants for
Jacqueline is all too familiar
American women on the women and realizing that as a plus size teen,
with the struggles associated
package of my mom’s “Big how much I wished I could have partici-
with having low self-esteem
Mama” pantyhose. I never pated in modeling and pageantry, I realized
and with not “fitting in” with the
saw plus size women in there must be other teens who would love
look that society deems “accept-
beauty pageants. A slender to model, compete in a pageant exclusively
able.” Even though she was a heavy teenager,
friend of mine in junior high school par- for plus size teens, and participate in a
however, Jacqueline had always been very ac-
ticipated in modeling and pageantry and self-esteem building conference. Thus, Plus
tively involved in gymnastics, drill team, track,
would come to school and teach me the Teen USA Pageant and Conference was
softball, choir, and drama. She even won the
moves she learned. I thought, “I could conceived.
award in her junior high school for “Most Phys-
do this!” Inasmuch as I dreamed of par-
ically Fit.” Therefore, be-
ticipating in modeling and pageantry,
cause few could compete Introducing Plus Teen USA
my size inhibited me from doing so, and
with her athletically, she
I felt unworthy and unaccepted. These During the weekend of October 23-25,
had never been teased by
feelings of unworthiness and unaccep- 2009, Dallas/Ft. Worth will play host to the
her peers for being over-
weight. However, be-
tance perpetuated my bad habits of poor Plus Teen USA 2009
nutrition and overeating, and as a result, Pageant and Conference.
cause of her larger frame,
I became larger and larger as time pro- Young ladies ages 13-19
she constantly put herself
gressed. who wear size 12 and
down and became her own
Years later, in the early eighties, my
bully. up (junior size 13 and
up), will gather together
from all over the United

Their Recognizing the fact that many of our plus size teens struggle with
poor self images and low self-esteem, and are turning to negative
States for fun, friend-
ship, education, and in-
spiration to celebrate
Vision influences such as promiscuity, drugs, alcohol, immodest dressing,
eating disorders, hatred, gangs, violence, and the like, during our themselves in the
Conference, expert speakers will utilize candid approaches to address skin they’re in, while
these, and other issues and concerns of our contestants, in hopes that discovering their full
they will recognize and embrace their inner beauty and be propelled to fulfill their potential from the
destiny. Our aim is to encourage each of our contestants to accept themselves in the inside, out.
skin they are in, so that they can become the best that they can be- fit and fantastic
from the inside, out, showing the world that big girls, like their thinner counterparts,
are an integral part of God’s beautiful creation.

AMERICA’S EXCLUSIVE PAGEANT AND CONFERENCE FOR PLUS SIZE TEENS

“Promoting Inner Beauty, Self-Acceptance, and Confidence ThatWWW.TIARA
24 TIARA MAGAZINE Permeates Outwardly”
MAGAZINE.COM
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WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM TIARA MAGAZINE 25

Friday, November 28th
At rehearsal last night they threw in
another early morning rehearsal. I
want to sleep in! But we had to be
up at rehearsal and downstairs at
8:00 AM. There was a reception to
meet the National Director. I found
some good cookies and visited with
my friend Reagan from Florida.
We were welcomed to say our
introduction to the National Direc-
tor. I didn’t want to but my mom
watched how the others did. And
then she started freaking out. She
noticed that the other girls were
waving their hands around and re-
ally getting into their introductions.
So Mom set out to talk to other
mothers about whether or not we
should add any hand motions. I
had practiced just to stand tall with
my hands at my side. We were told
first to add the hand motions and
then the next person would recom-
mend not using motions. My mom
was trying to figure out if the rec-
ommendations coming from “Pag-
eant Moms” were telling us the
wrong thing to do to mess me up
with my introduction. Our pageant
coach recommended adding some
hand movements only if it looked
natural. We practiced adding a few
hand jesters. I did get a nap and
had time to relax and watch some
TV in the afternoon as my inter-
view time was in the late afternoon.
4:30 finally came. The judges were
running behind so we waited a long
time. It was time for the interview
and personal introduction. As we
waited our turn, we were playing
telephone. (Meanwhile Mom was
26 TIARA MAGAZINE
26 TIARA MAGAZINE
o e d
he C
T
visiting with other mothers in the
next room still trying to find out if
I should add the hand motions, or
not. Different mothers were telling
her first yes and then no.) Just as
5 of us were walking down the hall
with the 2007 Sweetheart, Bailee, I
saw my Mom and she told me not
to use my hands and to do has we
had originally practiced. I had fun
with Bailee and she joked around
and made us all at ease. It was time
to walk in the judge’s room and I
was confident and relaxed. I was
the 4th to give my speech. The
first 3 did a good job and as it got
closer to my turn I started getting
nervous. “What am I supposed to
say??” But I remembered and felt
I had done my best. Then it was
time to step forward for my pivot
turn and I aced it.
Then it was one-on-one with the 5
judges. One of my questions was
“What was my favorite part of the
pageant?” That was easy – I love
my orange evening gown so I told
him about my dress and how it was
a size 2 for a teenager and we had
it altered to my size 12. Another
question was “Who is my favorite
family member and why?” and that
was easy – I told the judge about
my new little cousin, Madison, and
how I hope she grows up just like
me. Another judge asked me “Do
you have to have a crown on your
head to influence other people?”
Oh no, what do I say? I was not
sure what she meant. So I an-
swered, “Yes, I could travel all over
with a crown on my head.” And
then she explained the question to
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
r i e s
Dia
me a little more and I changed my
answer to, “No, the crown on your
head is not as important as what
is inside.” Another question was
“What is your favorite color?” I
answered “My favorite color is
blue because it’s the color of the
pretty sky and the ocean and I just
got to see and swim in the ocean on
my way to the pageant.” As I left
the interview, I was upset because
the one question threw me and
I don’t think I answered it right.
Now the interview, introduction
and evening wear is over. I feel like
I have done my best but still wor-
ried about the one question that I
stumbled over. The Top 5 optional
winners are performing tonight.
We did one of our production
numbers to open the evening. Then
it was time to head to the pool for
the last time before we check out
tomorrow.
Saturday, November 29th
Today is the day to find out who
the next National Sweetheart will
be! I want it to be me!! Time to
fix hair and I am sooo glad this is
the last day Mom has to do this.
I went down early to practice our
opening production number and
hang out with the girls. We open
the Final pageant with our produc-
tion number. It was a fun dance.
I changed into my dress as the
Page designed by Jenny Lezan
winners of all the optional contests
performed one last time. They
gave out some other awards. I
won the Most Recommendations
Award. And then the top 15 were
announced. But I was not one of
them. I am really disappointed
WWW.TIARA MAGAZINE.COM
 The Coed Diaries
Written by: Ali Nicole Browning
Photos provided by: Susan Browning

but I realize that my interview did

not go as well as I wanted. Two
of my new friends I had made this
week made the top 15, Reagan and B I O Helping Pageant Dreams come True!

Sarah, and I was glad for them and

cheering for them to win. Several Ali Nicole
of the girls around me were really
upset and crying when they did not
is a 10 year old
make the top 15. But I knew I had from Southern Il.
tried my best. All of the contes-
tants gave one final walk across
and is Miss IL.
the stage before the winners were Coed Sweetheart
announced. Hailey Stubenhofer
from Pennsylvania Won! She is a
2008
cute and fun girl! We had a good
time playing in the pool earlier in
the week. Help
YOUR
pageant
The pageant was over and it was time to say good bye to all my new dreams
friends as we checked out of the hotel. We exchanged addresses and SUBSCRIBE
come true. TODAY!!!
phone numbers and said good bye with big hugs. I wonder where our Next
paths will cross again. After we checked out of the hotel and moved issues: $36 One Year
down the street we drove back to watch my sister queens compete. Syd- Makeup
ney, Lynzi and I went to watch Mel in the Miss Teen Pageant. We were and
fashion
curious to see if Mel would make the top 15 in the Miss Teen Pageant,
she is so awesome! Waiting for the announcement with my other sister ---------------------
queens, we went wild with screams as her name was called! That eve-
ning Mel’s family, Sydney’s family, and Mom and I enjoyed the evening Name
at Epcot. We have had so much fun all week and I am really going to
miss my sister queens! Address

E-Mail
Page designed by Jenny Lezan

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 R IBE
SC !
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e Ye ar
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Helping Pageant Dreams Come True!
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Helping Pageant Dreams

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An Interview with E-MAIL:____________________________________

Ali Nicole Browning
Miss Illinois Coed Sweetheart
2008 PAYMENT OPTIONS: PAYPAL CHECK
...and her diary from the Coed National Pageant!

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 American Beauty
Production
“Celebrating 5 years of fun, honest pageantry!”

October 24th & 25th, 2009

director@abproductions.org
National office: (847) 740-8895
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 Tiara Spotlight
Hi! My name is Lily Roman and I’m 12 years
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Photo provided by: Candace Roman

You Can Be In The Tiara Spotlight!

Prizes:
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EMAIL: editor@tiaramagazine.com
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Age divisions:
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Page Design by Daisy Garcia

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Child Essence Photography
An Image To Remember for A Lifetime

Alexi resides in Chicago with her loving husband and twin

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