Photographer: Greg Harbaugh
Behind the Scenes at the
Miss USA T
his year more than 5.5 million viewers watched the three-hour live telecast of Miss USA on NBC until the big moment when Miss Nevada, Nia Sanchez tightly held hands with first runner-up Miss North Dakota, Audra Mari and learned that she would be crowned Miss USA 2014. Donald Trump and NBC Universal co-sponsored the national beauty contest, featuring interview, swimsuit, and evening gown competitions. Following the pageant, an elated Sanchez expressed excitement at the immediate prospect of moving to New York City where she said she looked
Pageant By Michelle Leigh Smith
forward to seeing the sites, especially the Statue of Liberty. Most of all this year the new Miss USA said she looked forward to representing the United States at the Miss Universe Pageant. Sanchez, 24 who is in a relationship with handsome actor Daniel Booko will enjoy an abundant Miss USA prize package. Consider these: Luxury accommodations in a New York City apartment, living expenses and a salary, gifts from the official sponsors, consultations with a professional stylist and access to a personal appearance wardrobe, a one-year scholarship from the New York
10 ciaobellamagazine.com | August 2014
Film Academy, professional skin, hair care and fitness services, representation by the Miss Universe Organization and Rubenstein Public Relations, a modeling portfolio by leading fashion photographer, Fadil Berisha, and the chance to travel the world as a goodwill ambassador and spokeswoman for charitable causes.
More Than Skin Deep
“I know there are some who think beauty pageants are trivial,� said Miss Oregon, Emma Pelett, "but to me, this is the gift of a lifetime. It has helped me overcome my