Miss Ohio 2014 Program Book

Miss Heather2013OhioWells

Class Of 2013

And The AwArd Goes To

FinAlisTs

From leFT To riGhT:

• 3RD RUNNER UP

Cayla Hellwarth, Miss Miami Valley

• 1ST RUNNER UP

Cecili Weber, Miss Capital City

• MISS OHIO 2013

Heather Wells

• 2ND RUNNER UP

Alissa Brumbaugh, Miss Mansfield

• 4TH RUNNER UP

Meggie Wittman, Miss Greater Cleveland

semiFinAlisTs

Justin O’Flaherty Miss Mohican Valley Kara Mitchell Miss Cuyahoga County

Mahogany Fleming Miss Fallen Timbers

Layne Schneider Miss Crystal Lake Lindsay Hanson Miss Heart of Ohio

Heather Wells Miss Montgomery County Swimsuit

Cayla Hellwarth Miss Miami Valley Talent

Cayla Hellwarth Miss Miami Valley Swimsuit

Heather Wells Miss Montgomery County Talent

Photo Credits: Sylvart Studios

Award Winners

Miss Ohio Special Awards

The 2013 Miss Ohio contestants shared $42,950 in scholarship awards. The program salutes the individual and corporate sponsors of these awards for the 24 contestants. Pageant officials are proud to proclaim that winners aren’t the only ones who come away with the scholarships from the competition. Thousands of dollars are awarded on the preliminary and state levels to the young women who vie for the title of Miss Ohio each year.

Our semifinalist awards were generously donated

Heather Wells Miss Ohio 2013

by The family of Mary Jo Anthony Van Meter, Dan & Lois Robertson, Taylor Metal Products, Blevins Fabrication Corp, Century Link and Graham Chevrolet.

Each non-finalist received a scholarship for participating in the 2013 Miss Ohio Scholarship Program courtesy of ArcelorMittal, The Waterford, Network Polymers, Mansfield Motor Group, Dr. TL Sanzdanoff, First Merit Bank, Family of Kathy Bradshaw and the Miss Ohio Program. The Anthony Family also donated the official crown and crown box.

Heather Wells Becomes Miss Ohio 2013

Heather Wells, Miss Montgomery County was crowned Miss Ohio 2013 and won a $10,000 Newman Technology Scholarship. Heather also won a $500 Preliminary Swimsuit Award, $500 Preliminary Talent Award, $750 Semifinalist Interview Award, $500 Grand Talent of Distinction Award and a $250 Highest Scored Dancer Award. Heather walked away with a total of $12,500 in scholarships.

The partnership between the Miss America Organization and the Children’s Miracle Network has resulted in more than 4.5 million dollars being raised for CMN. Miss Ohio has chosen to recognize Miss Miami Valley, Cayla Hellwarth with the for her Outstanding Fundraising efforts here in Ohio courtesy of The Couts Family.

The Interview is one of the most important phases of competition. The Interview Award of Distinction, sponsored by The Perry Hall Memorial Fund was presented to two recipients. A $750 scholarship went to semifinalist Heather Wells, Miss Montgomery County. The $250 non-semifinalist winner was Mackenzie Bart, Miss Clayland.

Photo Credits: Sylvart Studios

Heather Wells

Cayla Hellwarth

Award Winners

Americanism Scholarships

Non-Semifianlist Talent Winners

Two participants on the Miss Ohio Stage, Miss Buckeye State, Jenna Fowls and Miss Ohio River, Allison Vance, each received a $500 scholarship for the non-Semifinalists talent awards. These awards were possible because of the generosity of Gretchen Hicock.

Herlihy Award Honors Two Contestants

The Miss Ohio Program honors two young ladies each year since the passing of one of the most important people involved in the program, Paul Herlihy. Two $500 scholarships are awarded. The new contestant was Miss Indian Trail, Kirsten Fennig. The returning contestant was Miss Lake Festival, Samantha Hartings. The Paul Herlihy Memorial Contribution Fund was established in his name to remember his dedication and love for the program. Sharon, Paul’s wife and his daughter Terri will continue to honor his memory by supporting the program that they also love.

Miss Northwestern, Allison Goodwin and Miss Ohio River, Allison Vance became the winner of an Americanism Essay Award for a $250 scholarship to further their education.

Marlene Bisel, Jennifer and Macy Tetrick graciously provided our Americanism Awards.

Grand Talent Award

The Grand Talent Award, sponsored by ADA Architects, Inc., is a $500 scholarship presented each year to the contestant with highest scored talent. This scholarship went to Miss Montgomery County, Heather Wells.

Mina O’Guinn Award

The Tim O’Guinn Family awards a $500 scholarship in memory and spirit of Mina O’Guinn, a long time pageant director and friend from Marion, Ohio. This scholarship went to Miss Lake Festival, Samantha Hartings.

Betty Estep Memorial Award

The Betty & Jim Estep Award for Outstanding Classical Performance is a scholarship in the amount of $500. It was presented to Cayla Hellwarth, Miss Miami Valley.

Allison Goodwin

Samantha Hartings

Heather Wells

Allison Vance

Jenna Fowls

Cayla Hellwarth

Kirsten Fennig

Samantha Hartings

Photo Credits: Sylvart Studios

Allison Vance

Award Winners

Community Service Honored

Mackenzie Bart, Miss Clayland and Lindsay Hanson, Miss Heart of Ohio, each won a $250 scholarship for a Community Service Essay award from the Mansfield Kiwanis Club.

Miss America Awards Two Ohio Contestants

The Miss America Organization provides a $1,000 scholarship to one Ohio contestant for her community service activities and one Ohio contestant for her academics. The Community Service $1,000 scholarship went to Mackenzie Bart, Miss Clayland. The Academic $1,000 scholarship went to Jenna DePizzo, Miss Maple City.

Preliminary Award Winners

Thanks to the generous donation from Richland Bank, each of our preliminary winners received scholarship dollars. Our preliminary swimsuit winners each received a $500 scholarship. The preliminary swimsuit winners were Heather Wells and Cayla Hellwarth. Our preliminary talent winners each received a $500 scholarship. The preliminary talent winners were Heather Wells and Cayla Hellwarth.

Style, Personality, Positive Attitude

The YaYa Sisters have awarded a $600 scholarship to a contestant based on their style, personality and overall positive attitude. They chose Miss Miami Valley, Cayla Hellwarth. This award was donated by the YaYa Sisters, Kay Hall, Jo’D Rice, Theresa Johnson, Kelly Carpenter and Sherri Hoselton.

Theresa Ann Wagner Commitment to Excellence

The Family of Theresa Ann has donated scholarships in her name since her untimely passing in 1992. Theresa, a former Miss Ohio contestant, defined the meaning of love, beauty, spirit and commitment. This year’s award went to Cecili Weber, Miss Capital City donated by Jim & Drena McCurdy, Stephanie, Mike, Theresa-Ann and Isabelle’ Jedra and family.

Poise & Elegance Award

This award, generously donated by the Warholic Family went to Miss Capital City, Cecili Weber.

Finalist Scholarships Awarded

In addition to the scholarship provided to the new Miss Ohio, our four finalists earned a total of $9,500 in scholarship dollars. First runner-up Cecili Weber received a $3,500 scholarship sponsored by Primrose Retirement Community , Steve & Roberta (Camp) Albert, Constance Care Home Health and Miss Ohio. Alissa Brumbaugh, second runner-up, received a $2,500 scholarship provided by the Mansfield Noon Optimists. Third runner-up Cayla Hellwarth received a $2,000 scholarship sponsored by the Mansfield Elks and Miss Ohio, and fourth runner-up, Meggie Wittman, received a $1,500 scholarship provided by McDonalds and Miss Ohio.

Photo Credits: Sylvart Studios

Cayla Hellwarth

Mackenzie Bart

Cecili Weber

Lindsay Hanson

Cecili Weber, Alissa Brumbaugh Cayla Hellwarth, Meggie Wittman

Cecili Weber

B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S

Jay Jesensky Executive Director

Kathleen Roesler-Coy Second Vice-President Marketing Chairperson

Drena McCurdy Outstanding Teen Executive Director

Kathy Clevenger

Gloria Buwala President Sweeps Chairperson

Sue Swinehart Secretary

Kay Hall Judges’ Chairperson

Rick Dinan First Vice-President

Steven Oliveri Treasurer

Holly Campbell-Bradley Booking Chairperson

Jeff Angelini

Sherri Hoselton

The goal of our effort is to find the best Miss Ohio and potential Miss America. This responsibility rests solely in the hands or our distinguished judges. When the contestants appear before them in the various competitions these judges will consider their attributes and their ability to represent the ideal American woman. A woman with dignity, poise, charm and beauty, as well as the necessary intellect, education and talent to carry Ohio’s hopes to the coveted Crown of Miss America.

The Miss America Pageant is not looking for a beauty queen; there are dozens in every state. We are seeking a woman capable of symbolizing American ideals and standards while carrying out this responsibility in the interest of her country.

Kay Hall Judges’ Chairperson

Jo’D Herron Rice Judges Committe

Sherri Hoselton Judges Committe

Mike Arter Auditor

Susan Harry Auditor

Jodi Frey Auditor

J U D G E S’ C O M M I T T E E

J U D G E S

Robyn (Hancock) Wenzke

Robyn, who was Miss Ohio 1996 and a Bert Parks talent winner at Miss America in Atlantic City for her performance of “The Sugar Plum Fairy” from “The Nutcracker,” has been involved in dance since the age of four. She was a professional dancer and soloist with the Toledo Ballet Company, studied with Joffery Ballet in New York City, and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance from the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. She also has a Master of Business Administration degree from Capital University. Her professional background includes three summers in New York City modeling primarily print work for the Ford Modeling Agency, appearing in national and local TV commercials, and she has also enjoyed runway modeling.

Other career experience includes Marketing Manager with Merrill – Lynch in Chicago, Public Relations for the Speaker of The Ohio House of Representatives in Columbus, and Marketing Manager for Squire, Sanders & Dempsey Law Firm in Columbus and Cincinnati. She has always been an enthusiastic supporter of the Miss America Scholarship Program and has judged at numerous local programs.

Currently, she and her husband, Dr. David Wenzke, and their three sons live in Dublin, Ohio. Along with volunteering for various charitable organizations and her sons’ school, she serves on the Marketing Board of the BalletMet Company of Columbus.

Susan Moore

Susan Moore is an educator with 34 years’ experience teaching English and Social Studies in a variety of settings, including a vocational center, a private international school in Germany, and in a public high school. A proud graduate of Penn State University with a degree in history and political science, Moore pursued graduate studies in Fine Arts at Villanova University, studies in Arthurian Literature at Wayne State University and Oxford University in England, and earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership at the University of Cincinnati. Moore has been a member of the faculty at Willard High School in Willard, Ohio for 29 years. Throughout her career, she has served as an adviser to numerous student organizations, as an assistant theatre director, as department head, and as a member of numerous faculty and district committees. She has judged a number of local pageants in the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program and has previously served as a contestant mentor for MOSP. Her late husband, Timothy Moore, was one of the founders of the Miss Ohio Radio Network that broadcasted the Miss Ohio Pageant from the Renaissance Theatre to stations all over Ohio during the 1990’s. Moore is the mother of two beautiful daughters, Katharine and Elizabeth.

Michael Maher

Mike Maher serves as a Director of Performance Technologies for The Advisory Board Company, through which he supports hospital and health system executives throughout the country in their marketing and business development objectives. Mike has been involved in pageants at various levels including: judging local pageants in Florida, assisting the production staff of the Miss South Carolina pageant and attending several Miss America crownings in both Atlantic City and Las Vegas.

Mike is a resident of Austin Texas where he volunteers with a variety of non-profit organizations but focuses on supporting local charter schools. In his free time he enjoys all types of live music, anything outdoors and his motorcycle. Mike has a BS in Healthcare administration from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s Degree in Health Services Administration from the University of South Florida.

Jack Joseph

A native of Zanesville, Ohio, Jack graduated from Drake University with a BS in business administration. He served 6 years in the 342nd Military Police Company of the Army Reserve. Jack has spent his entire career working at Muskingum Iron & Metal Company, his family business in Zanesville, currently serving as president. He has served on the national board of directors of the Institute of Scrap Iron & Steel and was president of the National Association Supply Cooperative.

In Zanesville, he has served on the boards of United Way, Bethesda Hospital Foundation, The Zanesville Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce, Muskingum County Community Foundation and the Beth Abraham Synagogue.

Jack has been married to his wife Bonnie for 43 years. They enjoy dining out, golfing, spending time with their friends, three children, their spouses, and six grandchildren.

Mark Ellis

A solo tap dance on a children’s television show more than fifty years ago was Mark Ellis’ first public performance. In the years following that modest beginning, Mark has been a featured performer on voice, trumpet, flute, and bass in ensembles ranging in style from country to classical. He also has conducted various bands and orchestras, most recently leading the orchestra in the Mansfield Symphony–Ashland Regional Ballet production of the Nutcracker at the Renaissance Theatre. For more than 30 years, Mark has enjoyed the privilege of adjudicating music performances (classical, jazz, educational) throughout the Midwest.

In the academic world, Mark is Professor Emeritus at The Ohio State University where he has taught classes in music from 1986 to the present. He also has served as assistant dean and as honors director of the Mansfield campus. As a researcher, Mark has published numerous studies in the leading journals of music research including investigations into the adjudication of musical performances. He was the winner of the Excellence in Scholarship award on the Mansfield campus in 1992 and received the campus Outstanding Teaching award in 1998. In recognition of his work as chair of the University’s Council on Academic Affairs, Senate Steering Committee, and Athletic Council, he received the University’s Faculty Distinguished Service Award in 2005.

Before coming to OSU, Dr. Ellis performed in the US Military Academy Band (West Point) and served as director of bands at Price Laboratory School at the University of Northern Iowa. He earned the Ph.D. degree in music at the University of Iowa.

Kelly Holdren-Pillow

Kelly Holdren-Pillow is a 29 year veteran flight attendant with Delta Airlines. She received her bachelor’s from Morehead State University with a degree in Clothing and Textiles. She is not stranger to the pageant scene. She has judged numerous pageants from local festivals to Ohio Fair queen. She has also captured a few crowns from being Morehead State University’s homecoming queen to Kentucky’s Mountain Laurel Queen. She is very active in many social organizations from the Elks to being president of the PTO. She is a strong advocate for the Morris Dees Foundation and DKMS/Delete Blood Cancer. She is currently waiting to donate her marrow to an 11 year old little girl. She is an avid runner and has been known to grace the stage in the local civic theater. She resides in Chillicothe with 22 year old daughter Ali whom is a senior at Ohio University and her 15 year old son Darby.

J U D G E S

O C A L D I R E C T O R S

Local Programs are the backbone of the Miss America System!

Jacky Johnson Oxford

Susan Short

Apple Blossom, Crystal Lake & West Central Ohio

Rian Valentine

Buckeye State & Mohican Valley (Mentor)

Tonia & Katie Camp

Capital City & Heart of Ohio (Mentors)

Amy Shaw & Randy Schroeder

Northwestern Ohio

Kathy & Larry Wise

Ohio River (Mentors)

JoAnne Healey

Indian Trail (Mentor)

Melissa Hoying & Jerry Deitsch

Lake Festival

Laura Russell Mansfield & North Central Ohio

Every

Miss America starts out as a local titleholder!

L O C A L D I R E C T O R S

Amber Geiser & Hillary Powers

Hilliard

Sylvia & Harvey Jensen

Greater Cleveland & Cuyahoga County

Martha Campbell

Clayland

Jacquelyn Mayer

Vacationland

Regina Speas

Portsmouth & Shawnee

Jan & Don Moll

North Coast

Ronda Morris

Miami Valley & Montgomery County

Dolly Ruffing & Wil Vickery

Maple City

A dancer from Canfield, OH Ohio Northern University

ANGELA BOUCH

APPLE BLOSSOM

Hometown: Canfield, OH

Age: 22

Education: Ohio Northern University

Platform Issue: Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse Talent: Tap Dance

Favorite TV Show: King of Queens

The one thing I can’t live without: Working Out

Secret Dream or Wish: My dream is to be a sportscaster… Erin Andrews is one of my idols!

Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug abuse is now an epidemic. Education about abuse prevention mechanisms, the dangers of drug misuses, and methods of counseling is increasingly important.

A vocalist from Wheelersburg, OH

Northern Kentucky University

KARA WAGNER

BUCKEYE STATE

Hometown: Wheelersburg, OH

Age: 21 Education: Northern Kentucky University

Platform Issue: G.I.V.E. (Get Involved Volunteer Everyone)

Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: The Vampire Diaries

G.I.V.E.

(Get Involved Volunteer Everyone)

In order for America to remain “a blessed nation”, we must all give back on a local, state or national level. Get Involved Volunteer Everyone!

The one thing I can’t live without: My teasing comb and diet Dew

Secret Dream or Wish:

To be a Broadway star and then to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef

A pianist from New Bremen, OH University of Cincinnati

ALEXIS RICHTER

CAPITAL CITY

Hometown: New Bremen, OH

Age: 20

Education: University of Cincinnati

Platform Issue: Standing Tall on Prevention

Talent: Classical Piano

Favorite TV Show: American Horror Story

The one thing I can’t live without: Chocolate

Secret Dream or Wish: I wish I could be a mermaid so I can swim all day and have beautiful long flowing hair like all of the Disney princesses

Standing Tall on Prevention

“S.T.O.P. (Standing Tall On Prevention) Breast Cancer”, focuses on early prevention and detection tips that every woman, young or old, should be aware of.

A vocalist from Dayton, OH Lee University

LINDSAY HANSON

CLAYLAND

Seize Hope: Epilepsy Awareness

Through education, art therapy, and involvement with The Epilepsy Foundation, we work to help individuals seize hope and break free of the stigmas of epilepsy.

Hometown: Dayton, OH

Age: 23

Education: Lee University

Platform Issue: Seize Hope: Epilepsy Awareness

Talent: Contemporary Dance

Favorite TV Show: How I Met Your Mother

The one thing I can’t live without: Music

Secret Dream or Wish: To own a bakery

A dancer from Coldwater, OH Ohio Northern University

SAMANTHA HARTINGS

CRYSTAL LAKE

Hometown: Coldwater, OH

Age: 22

Education: Ohio Northern University

Platform Issue: Readers Are Leaders

Talent: Jazz Dance

Favorite TV Show: Game Show Lingo

The one thing I can’t live without: Goldfish Crackers

Secret Dream or Wish: I wish I could have met my Grandma who passed away from leukemia before I was born.

Readers Are Leaders

After having surmounted reading difficulties as a child I support literacy by sharing my experiences and therefore promoting the value of overcoming adversity.

A vocalist from Mount Gilead, OH

Kent State University

ALLISON VANCE

CUYAHOGA COUNTY

Hometown: Mount Gilead, OH

Age: 22

Education:

Kent State University

Platform Issue: Operation: Hand to Hand Kindness

Talent: Opera

Favorite TV Show: Full House

Operation: Hand to Hand Kindness

To promote, facilitate, and educate individuals on the importance of acts of kindness and community service between military personnel and the general.

The one thing I can’t live without:

Grilled Chicken

Secret Dream or Wish: To compete in a bodybuilding competition

Hometown:

Broadview Heights, OH

Age: 22

Education: Cleveland State University

Platform Issue: Live Healthy America

Talent: Dance

Favorite TV Show: The Big Bang Theory

The one thing I can’t live without:

Bath and Body Works candles

Secret Dream or Wish:

To be on Cake Boss and have Buddy make me a cake

A dancer from Broadview Hts., OH Cleveland State University

ALLISON GOODWIN

GREATER CLEVELAND

Live Healthy America

Teaching children and families to eat healthy, exercise, involve the whole family, and have annual checkups to maintain fitness, avoid disease, and live healthy lifestyles.

A vocalist from Wooster, OH

The Ohio State University

JUSTIN O’FLAHERTY

HEART OF OHIO

Reality Check: Life with Diabetes

As a survivor my mission is to find a cure and educate Americans about this life threatening disease through awareness, youth education, and advocacy.

Hometown: Wooster, OH

Age: 23

Education:

The Ohio State University

Platform Issue: Reality Check: Life with Diabetes Talent: Broadway Vocal Favorite TV Show: Saturday Night Live

The one thing I can’t live without: My Animals!

Secret Dream or Wish: To be able to salsa dance

CECILI WEBER

HILLIARD

Hometown: Ironton, OH

Age: 19

Education: Hollins University

Platform Issue: H.E.A.R.T.

Talent: Dance

Favorite TV Show: Interior Therapy with Jeff Lewis

The one thing I can’t live without: Music

Secret Dream or Wish:

To be styled for a Red Carpet event by Brad Goreski

H.E.A.R.T.

The program H.E.A.R.T. encourages arts participation by helping, expressing, achieving, reaching, and teaching our youth and school systems about the importance of arts education.

A dancer from Ironton, OH Hollins University

A flutist from Medina, OH

Eastern Kentucky University

KRISTEN SCHREIBER

INDIAN TRAIL

Hometown: Medina, OH

Age: 23

Education: Eastern Kentucky University

Platform Issue: Learning to Play: The Importance of Early Childhood Education

Talent: Flute

Learning to Play: The Importance of Early Childhood Education

Promoting the importance of enrolling children into quality early childhood education programs now to better their chance of success in the future.

Favorite TV Show: Revenge

The one thing I can’t live without: Books

Secret Dream or Wish: To be able to lift one eyebrow

A vocalist from Saint Henry, OH The Ohio State University

GRACE STAMMEN

LAKE FESTIVAL

Hometown: Saint Henry, OH

Age: 19

Education: The Ohio State University

Platform Issue: Power of Facta Non Verba, Deeds Not Words

Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: Friends

The one thing I can’t live without: My poster of the periodic table of elements.

Secret Dream or Wish: To star as the headline in a country music world tour

Power of Facta Non Verba, Deeds Not Words

I hope to instill on our young generation the importance of Phi Delta Epsilon International Medical Fraternity’s guiding principles of philanthropy, deity, and education.

ERIN CURRY

MANSFIELD

Hometown: Zanesville, OH

Age: 19

Education: Ohio University Zanesville

Platform Issue: Leaving a Legacy Through Time, Talent, and Treasure

Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: Friends

Leaving a Legacy Through Time, Talent, and Treasure

While we may not have financial resources to write lofty checks, by donating our Time & Talent, the Treasures come…as do the life lessons & rewards.

The one thing I can’t live without: My phone!

Secret Dream or Wish: To be a cruise boat entertainer or to live on a warm, tropical island

Hometown: Louisville, OH

Age: 19

Education:

The Ohio State University

Platform Issue: S.O.A.R. Above Sexual Abuse

Talent: Lyrical Dance

Favorite TV Show: Scandal

The one thing I can’t live without: Coffee

Secret Dream or Wish:

To learn how to drive a stick shift car…correctly

A dancer from Louisville, OH The Ohio State University

SARAH CLAPPER

MAPLE CITY

S.O.A.R. Above Sexual Abuse

Shattering the silence, Overcoming lies, Accepting freedom from abuse, and Reaching out to educate parents and children on sexual abuse.

ALISSA BRUMBAUGH

MIAMI VALLEY

Hometown: Louisville, OH

Age: 23

Education:

The University of Akron Platform Issue: Life Skills: Educate, Enrich, Empower Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: True Detective

Life Skills: Educate, Enrich, Empower

Promotes the development of like skills in students, adults, and families in order to create successful individuals, healthy families, and sustainable communities.

The one thing I can’t live without: My 1970’s vintage KitchenAid mixer.

Secret Dream or Wish: I have dreamed of raising alpacas!

CHELSI

HOWMAN

MOHICAN VALLEY

Hometown: Ashland, OH

Age: 21

Education: Ashland University

Platform Issue: Stop Bullying Now: Take a Stand! Lend a Hand!

Talent: Banjo

Favorite TV Show: Chicago Fire

The one thing I can’t live without: My family’s love and support

Secret Dream or Wish:

To play on the Grand Ole Opery Stage with Cia Cherryholmes

Stop Bullying Now: Take a Stand! Lend a Hand!

My platform focuses on bullying awareness and prevention. I am working to end this awful epidemic that has negatively affected so many lives.

A banjo player from Ashland, OH Ashland University

MACKENZIE BART

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Universal Newborn Screening: Saving Babies’ Lives; One Heel Prick at a Time

Advocating for the quality and quantity of newborn screens to identify serious, physical and mental disabilities regardless where babies are born.

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Age: 22

Education: The Ohio State University Platform Issue: Universal Newborn Screening: Saving Babies’ Lives; One Heel Prick at a Time

Talent: Ventriloquist Vocal

Favorite TV Show: Law & Order: SVU

The one thing I can’t live without: Brussel Sprouts

Secret Dream or Wish: Be the “weather girl” to replace Al Roker on the Today Show

A ventriloquist from Columbus, OH The Ohio State University

A vocalist from Cortland, OH Slippery Rock University

JENNA

DEPIZZO

NORTH CENTRAL

Hometown: Cortland, OH

Age: 22

Education: Slippery Rock University

Platform Issue: Inclusion in America: Our Duty to the Future

Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: Friends

The one thing I can’t live without: My baby sister’s jokes

Secret Dream or Wish: To perform on stage as Les Miserables’ “Enjorlras”

Inclusion in America: Our Duty to the Future

My platform brings equality to the classroom by encouraging the inclusion of special needs students in the general education classroom through the EMBRACE.

VERONICA WENDE

NORTH COAST

Hometown: Lima, OH

Favorite TV Show: Duck Dynasty

A dancer from Columbus, OH Ball State University

KARA MITCHELL

NORTHWESTERN OHIO

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Age: 24

Education: Ball State University

Platform Issue: Just Ask Me: Testimony for a Change

Talent: Contemporary Jazz Dance

Favorite TV Show: Jeopardy

The one thing I can’t live without:

Diet Coke with Lime

Secret Dream or Wish:

To dance backup for Janet Jackson in prime

Just Ask Me: Testimony for a Change

Advocating for and supporting the LGBT youth by using my personal story.

CAMILLE DYQUIANGCO

OHIO RIVER

Body Image

Promoting positive self-image through a healthier lifestyle.

Hometown: Dublin, CA

Age: 22

Education: Case Western Reserve University Platform Issue: Body Image Talent: Tap Dance

Favorite TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy

The one thing I can’t live without: Chocolate Secret Dream or Wish: To have the superpower of teleportation

A vocalist from Fostoria, OH Miami University

KRISTY

RESSLER

Hometown: Fostoria, OH

Age: 21

Education: Miami University

Platform Issue: Supporting Adoption: Shedding Light on the Option

Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: Criminal Minds

The one thing I can’t live without:

Strawberries Secret Dream or Wish: To travel the world

Supporting Adoption: Shedding Light on the Option

It is an effort to make adoption a more prevalent choice among those building a family or women who are pregnant.

A dancer from Hinckley, OH

Cuyahoga Community College

ELISE BUDOWANEC

PORTSMOUTH

A Community For Everyone, Community College

“A Community For Everyone” promotes the value of community college for students of all backgrounds and academic levels.

Hometown: Hinckley, OH

Age: 22

Education:

Cuyahoga Community College

Platform Issue: A Community For Everyone, Community College Talent: Jazz Dance

Favorite TV Show: The Soup on E!

The one thing I can’t live without: My Iphone!

Secret Dream or Wish:

To star in a Broadway Musical, even though I cannot sing

A dancer from Dover, OH The Ohio State University

GABBY BAILEY

SHAWNEE

Hometown: Dover, OH

Age: 20

Education:

The Ohio State University

Platform Issue: Girls Grow Strong

Talent: Contemporary Dance

Favorite TV Show: How I Met Your Mother

The one thing I can’t live without: Coffee drinks

Secret Dream or Wish: To become a Disney Princess at Walt Disney World

Girls Grow Strong

Establishes confidence in women to grow strong and to transform into a happier, healthier, more satisfied version of themselves.

A vocalist from Berea, OH

Baldwin Wallace University

HANNAH

- JO WEISBERG

VACATIONLAND

Dating Beyond Control: Interactive Education on Dating Violence

Teaches the warning signs of abusive relationships and how to get yourself out of one safely through “Demi’s Story” and an interactive play.

Hometown: Berea, OH

Age: 20 Education: Baldwin Wallace University

Platform Issue: Dating Beyond Control: Interactive Education on Dating Violence

Talent: Vocal

Favorite TV Show: American Horror Story

The one thing I can’t live without: Music

Secret Dream or Wish:

To have my own interior design show on HGTV

A pianist from Celina, OH The Ohio State University

KIRSTEN FENNIG

WEST CENTRAL OHIO

Hometown: Celina, OH

Age: 21

Education:

The Ohio State University Platform Issue: Be the Victor, Not the Victim

Talent: Piano Solo

Favorite TV Show: Greek

The one thing I can’t live without: Buckeye Nation

Secret Dream or Wish: To meet Scotty McCreery!

Be the

Victor, Not the Victim

Every two minutes someone is sexually abused. I hope to spread awareness and show that you can rise up and become the victor.

Many talented, intelligent, attractive young women have competed for the coveted title and crown of Miss Ohio and Miss America. In addition, they have been awarded many dollars through the Scholarship Program. Ambassadors throughout the state have already captured over $45 million from the Miss America Scholarship Foundation. The Miss Ohio Scholarship Program is proud to be part of the largest scholarship program for young women in the world!

The following is a list of the Miss Ohio’s who have benefited from the Scholarship Program with the Local they Represented:

1947 - Nancy Nesbit Cleveland

1948 - Maxine Waack Fairview

1949 - Florence Bondi Cleveland

1950 - Irene Farren Grand River

1951 - Ruth Howell Apple Creek

1952 - Carol Koontz Bolivar

1953 - Martha Zimmerman Salem

1954 - Barbara Quinlin Alliance

1955 - Marguerite Garr Cincinnati

1956 - Roberta Palmer Cleveland

1957 - Linda Hattman Cleveland

1958 - Margaret Putman Ada

1959 - Carole Weiler Circleville

1960 - Alice McClain Marion

1961 - Darlene Depasquale Dayton

1962 - Jacquelyn Mayer * * * * * * * Sandusky

1962 - Bonne Gawronski Toledo

1963 - Peggy Emerson Akron

1964 - Diane Courtwright.......................... Columbus

1965 - Valerie Lavin .......................................Canton

1966 - Sharon Phillian * * * * * ( * ) ............ Delaware

1967 - Pamela Robinson Dayton

1968 - Leslyn Hiple Canton

1969 - Kathy Baumann

* * * ( * ).Bowling Green

1970 - Grace Bird Aliance

1971 - Laurie Lea Schaefer * * * * * * * ( * )....Bexley

1971 - Judy Jones Miami University

1972 - Karen Sparka * * Bowling Green

1973 - Cheryl Youkvitch ( * ) Lorain

1974 - Lorrie Kapsta ( * ) Franklin County

1975 - Susan Kay Banks * * * * Warren

1976 - Janice Elaine Cooley ( * ) Ohio Valley

1977 - Susan Perkins * * * * * * * ( * )..........Clayland

1977 - Joan Gilger Bowling Green

1978 - Sher Patrick * * * * South Central

1979 - Tana Carli * * * * * * ( * ) Willard

1980 - Kathy Vernon * * North Central

1981 - Juliana Zilba ( * ) North Central

We are a Scholarship Program

1982 - Debra Gombert.........................North Central

1983 - Pamela Rigas * * * ........... Cuyahoga Co. Fair

1984 - Melissa Bradley * * * * * * Clayland

1985 - Suellen Cochran * * ( * ) Southeastern

1986 - Mary Zilba ( * ) Greater Toledo

1987 - Susan Kay Johnson ( * ) Canton

1988 - Sarah Ann Evans ( * )..Pickerington-America

1989 - Kristin Huffman * * * ( * )Pickerington-America

1990 - Kristi Cooke Willard

1991 - Renee Autherson Central Ohio

1992 - Robin Meade * * Mansfield

1993 - Titilayo Adedokun * * * * * ( * ).......Americana

1994 - Lea Mack * *................Pickerington-America

1995 - Ellen Pasturzak Portsmouth

1996 - Robyn Hancock ( * ) Crestline

1997 - Kelly Creager Conneaut

1998 - Cheya Watkins Southeastern

1999 - Tiffany Baumann Greater Cleveland

2000 - Stephanie Meisberger North Coast

2001 - Natalie Witwer Ashland

2002 - Tiffany Haas ( * * ) Heart of it All

2003 - Janelle Couts Medina County

2004 - Amanda Beagle ( * ) ....................... Lake Erie

2005 - Marlia Fontaine............................... Lake Erie

2006 - Melanie Murphy ......................... Miami Valley

2007 - Roberta Camp Maple City

2008 - Karissa Martin Clayland

2009 - Erica Gelhaus Clayland

2010 - Becky Minger All American City

2011 - Ellen Bryan ( * * ) Clayland

2012 - Elissa McCracken West Central Ohio

2013 - Heather Wells Montgomery County

Captured the crown of Miss America

First Runner-up

Second Runner-up

Third Runner-up

Fourth Runner-up

Finalist

Received a Talent Award

) Quality of Life Finalist

The ten contestants with the highest preliminary totals will advance to Saturday Night’s final competition. Each of the ten contestants will begin with a Composit Attribute Score that accounts for 30% of her total. The Composite Attribute along with the final On-Stage competitions will determine the top five finalists. Judges will then rank the top five contestants, Winner, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th runnerup to decide the next Miss Ohio.

CONTESTANTS ARE SCORED AS FOLLOWS:

(* Final competition scores range from 6 to 10)

TALENT

Contestants should be judged on interpretive ability, technical skill level, stage presence, personality and integration of elements (costume, choreography, music, etc.)

EVENING WEAR

Contestants should be judged on overall “first impression”, overall appearance, walk, posture, carriage and grace.

ON-STAGE INTERVIEW

Extemporaneous response to on-stage question and personality (preliminary nights only).

SWIMSUIT

Contestants should be judged on overall “first impression”, overall proportion of figure (pleasing in relation to her height, weight and bone structure), health, beauty of face and figure, posture, poise and grace.

Judges score contestants from 1 to 10, using whole numbers during preliminary competitions and 6 to 10 using whole numbers during the final night of competition.

Miss Ohio Competition Flights

Lindsay Hanson

Kristy Ressler

Angela Bouch

Kirsten Fennig

Elise Budowanec

Gabby Bailey

Alexis Richter

Alissa Brumbaugh

Sarah Clapper Allison

Chelsi Howman

2013 Show

2013 Show

Heather Wells Miss Ohio 2013

Heather Wells, Miss Ohio 2013, is a graduate of Kent State University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Throughout her six years of competing in the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program, Heather has accrued over $30,000 in scholarships to help fund her education. Her experience at Miss America, in Atlantic City, was unforgettable and she was acknowledged for her work with the Duke of Edinburgh. During her undergraduate studies, Heather was a member of the Undergraduate Student Government working on the Allocations Committee, a news anchor for TV2-KSU news and student choreographer for the Student Dance Festival.

Throughout this past year Heather has used her title as Miss Ohio to accomplish many of her life-long, personal goals. She was recently recognized as one of Trumbull County’s 2014 Community Stars for her outstanding volunteerism and service. She addressed the Ohio Senate at the State House, and has been a spokesperson for Children’s Miracle Network. Heather has also worked with thousands of children across the state, having a real discussion about divorce. Heather’s personal platform is Divorce Recovery for Youth, a program designed to help children better understand a parent’s divorce. Heather struggled as a child and teenager with divorce, so she created a program to help kids understand what divorce means for a family and that it is an adult problem.

When Heather can find spare time, she enjoys distance running, snowboarding and spending time with her friends, family and three cats. Heather is looking forward to a career in public and media relations. E M C E E S

Tana Carli Dimino

Tana Carli Dimino is our Miss Ohio 1980. Her lively accordian presentation and sharp interview skills translated into success in Atlantic City, where she was 1st runner-up to Miss America and a grand talent winner. During her reign, the magna cum laude graduate of the University of Akron landed a job as a consumer reporter for WJKW-TV8. Tana became Cleveland’s first female 6 & 11 news anchor, helping that CBS affiliate’s news climb to number 1 in the market.

In 1983, she and her husband, Joseph, former President of Storer Communications Television, moved to Miami. There she continued her journalism career at ABC’s WPLG-TV10, anchoring the city’s first 6 a.m. hour-format news and the Noon News. Her talents would also take her to Hollywood, where she appeared in numerous episodes of HBO’s football drama, “First & Ten”, starring Delta Burke and O.J. Simpson.

Tana has been inducted into Ohio’s Radio and Television Broadcasters Hall of Fame for her pioneering achievements in the broadcast industry. Currently a member of the Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, she and her husband reside in Bucks County, Pennsylvania where she is active in the Catholic Church. In April of this year, Tana entered a new realm of competition, joining 15,000 runners, including her daughter, Carli, in DC’s Nike Women’s Half Marathon (13.1 miles!) which celebrates female athletes and benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Tana finished the race, despite suffering a femoral stress fracture at mile 8.

Kelsey Barrett, of Wapakoneta, OH has had a lifelong love of singing and has been performing in a variety of venues from a very young age. She was a top ten finalist in the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program in 2013, and was Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2011 (top 15 finalist at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen). She has been asked to perform the National Anthem at state basketball tournaments, the Komen Race in Columbus and at many local events. Kelsey has just recently returned from a study abroad program at the University of Salford in Manchester England where she studied music. She will begin her Jr year this fall at Belmont University in Nashville, TN in their music program. While at Ohio Northern University, Kelsey had roles as Coco in Zombie Prom and Maria in Nine as well as being in the Ensemble in Reefer Madness her freshman year. Kelsey was also cast in the ONU Holiday Spectacular both years, performing a solo in her sophomore year.

Vince Stroud Music and performing has always been in his blood. His first actual performance was in kindergarten when he pantomimed Sammie Davis’ hit song, “Gingerbread Man” for the entire school, he has been singing and performing in various choirs and singing groups ever since. Vince sang with Grammy Award winning gospel group “Charles Fold and the Charles Fold Singers” from 1994-1999 and was on 3 CD recordings. Vince’s passion for performing and entertaining intensified when he won the 2004 singing competition called “P&G Idol” at Procter & Gamble in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 2006, Vince entered a competition for singers and comedians titled “Ageless Entertainers and he won the Best Overall Vocalist category. Since 2007, he has been the lead male vocalist in the Jazz/R&B band touted as ‘Cincinnati’s Premier R&B Band’, “2nd Wind”. In 2009, he won the singing contest called “Cincinnati Idol”. That same year, he started singing in a band of his own, “Just Vince and The Fellas”. He was asked to perform with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in December 2010. During the last several years, Vince “Just Vince” Stroud has had the opportunity to share the stage with national recording artists such as; Mint Condition, ConFunkShun, Eric Benet, The Whispers, Fantasia, Charlie Wilson, John Legend, Klymaxx, Lakeside, Tom Browne, Al B. Sure, Marion Meadows and more.

Corey Turpin is a recent graduate of Ashland High School. This is his second year participating as a vocalist for Miss Ohio Scholarship Program. He will be attending Ashland University for Chemistry and Music Education with Voice being the concentration. Corey is a director of Ashland High School’s chamber ensemble, ArrowDynamics, and pop ensemble, Eight and the Beats; he also is a composer and an arranger for the two groups. This past year he has participated in seven ensembles: four at the high school and 3 at the Ashland University.

Shawna Corder has opened for national acts such as Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Luke Bryan and the Eli Young Band. Her song writing and powerful vocal style have been featured as fairs, festivals, conventions, corporate and political functions and other venues in Ohio and different states.

Shawna is committed to helping others achieve their dreams. She is the owner of Corder Entertainment’s Shining Stars. Serving the community is an important part of Shawna’s life. She volunteers her time among various civic organizations among the community such as the American Cancer Society, Hospice of Central Ohio and she is a Junior Achievement of Licking County Board Member. She earned a Bachelor of Science from the Ohio State University and a Master of Business Administration from Ohio Dominican University.

Mahogany Fleming grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio showing a love for the arts at a young age. She has been singing on stage since the age of eleven. She received her musical arts training at Cincinnati School for Performing Arts, where she was involved in several productions. She also performed several years with Cincinnati Children Theatre Company. Her involvement with the Miss Ohio Miss America Scholarship Program has given her state-wide recognition. She captivated the audience with a heart felt musical tribute to the late Whitney Houston. She was awarded 2012 Miss Ohio Talent Winner and Fourth Runner –up Finalist. Mahogany Fleming is now focusing on her performance group “Proof of Life” and writing her own music.

E N T E R T A I N E R S

E N T E R

ATI N E R S

Heather Wells - Choreographer Heather has been dancing since the age of three and was a competitive dancer for 13 years. She graduated from Kent State University with a minor in dance. Heather has performed in various locations across the country, such as Boston, Atlantic City and Walt Disney World. She has won various awards recognizing her dance and choreographic abilities from a young age. Heather received the title “Dancer of the Year,” in 2007. She was a casted performer in KSU’s Dance 2011: Parallel and Intersect and a choreographer for the Student Dance Festival 2012. Throughout her time as a competitor in the Miss America Organization, Heather personally choreographed all of her talent routines. In 2013, Heather won the Marvin Hamlisch Grand Talent Award and took her award winning dance to the Miss America stage. She is excited to be the choreographer for this year’s Miss Ohio Production. Heather is the first reigning Miss Ohio to choreograph the show.

Justice Stanford - Dance Captain Even though Justice is only 16 years old, she has been dancing for more than half of her life. She began studying dance at the age of seven when she started taking dance instruction at Marjorie’s and Butch’s School of Dance in Zanesville. Since then, she has not only expanded her study of dance by taking ballet, hip hop, and tap, but has also helped instruct dance to young students. In addition to dance, Justice has an interest in gymnastics, and has been an instructor at Champion Gymnastics where she will begin instructing hip hop this year. Justice is also student at Zanesville High School where she is captain of the junior varsity cheerleaders. Last year, she cheered her brother Dar Stanford, wide receiver for the Zanesville Blue Devils, all the way to the final four. Justice has also performed on many stages throughout the state, including the Miss Ohio stage for the past seven years.

Danielle King -Danielle King (21), originally from Zanesville, Ohio, received her early training from Vickie Lewis Dance Company starting at the age of 3. Danielle graduates from Zane State College in the summer of 2014 with an associate in Early Childhood Education. Aspiring to open a dance teacher in her own dance studio. Upon graduation, she will be moving on to Muskingum University where she will earn a bachelors in Intervention Specialist. While growing up she has performed and worked with up to eight studios such as Melissa Marie School of Dance, Vickie Lewis Dance Studio, and Center Stage. Danielle is a recipient of the Miss Congeniality Award also the 15 year Performance Award from the Vickie Lewis Dance Studio. She has taught dance workshops for children that are differently abled, and performed in many shows all over Zanesville. She has been dancing for 18 years. This is her second year performing on the Miss Ohio Stage.

Lauren Beard - Lauren Beard is a 15 year old freshman at Ontario High School. She has been dancing at Richland Academy for 8 years studying ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, tap, and hip hop, and is a member of the Richland Academy’s company dance team, “rade”. Lauren also a Student Council member and is on the all “A’s” Honor Roll. She has participated in the Adrenaline dance workshops and was a scholarship student at the BalletMet Summer Intensive in 2012. This past summer, Lauren has participated in summer intensives with the American Ballet Theater in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and with the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago. She is excited to be a part of the entertainment for this year’s pageant for her second time.

Mowava Six - Mowava Six started dancing at the age of three in Warren, Ohio. She grew up dancing at Donna Creans D.C Dancers studio, the same studio as 2013’s, Miss.Ohio, Heather Wells. Mowava trained in many genres of dance such as jazz, tap, lyrical, hip hop, gymnastics, tribal, contemporary and ballet. Mowava also completed five grades of checetti through the Checetti Council of America. Through her years of dancing Mowava studied under famous choreographers and dancers such as Mia Michaels, Nick Lazzarini, Jimmy Tate and Stepp Stewart. Mowava’s senior year she won Miss. Rising Star at a regional competition. Mowava attended Youngstown State University where she was also a penguin cheerleader. In 2010, Mowava relocated to Sevierville Tennessee. A little while later she became a mother to a beautiful boy Liam White. For the past three years Mowava has been a professional dancer at the Country Tonite Theatre located in the heart of Pigeon Forge Tennessee. Mowava always says “ Never speak the words that dreams don’t come true because she is living proof that they do!”

Dorse Brown began his dance career with hip-hop at the age of 7 in his hometown of Little Rock, AR. He began training at Parkview Arts/Science Magnet High school under Mentor Clarence Michael Tidwell, and continued his training at the University of Memphis (U of M) while receiving his Bachelors Degree in Music, concentrating in Recording Technology with a minor in Dance. While in college he has had the opportunity to choreograph for E.B.I.N. (hip-hop based dance group) at the U of M, various registered student organizations, and choreographed pieces for the U of M’s “New Voices” Dance Concert. Both choreographed pieces were chosen to go the American College Dance Festival. Brown also received a Young Artist Talent Scholarship to attend the American Dance Festival and has had the opportunity to appear on the 5th season of the TV show, “So You Think You Can Dance” (SYTYCD). Mr. Brown has performed works by, and studied with, so many influential people, such as the U of M’s faculty, Brenda Daniels, Ursula Payne, Abby Yager, Mia Michaels, Ray Mercer, Donald Byrd, Ronald Koresh, etc. He is so honored to have started Dayton Contemporary Dance Company in 2011 through DCDC2 and is current in his 2nd season with the first company. Giving honor to God and thanking his family and friends for their continuous support, he could not have done this without them. He is a firm believer that sustaining a love and passion for what you do and a peer-helping attitude are tools to inspire the next person to follow their dreams.

PJ Camargo - PJ Camargo is a self-taught dance inspiration and is in the final stages of acquiring his degree in Human Movement (Physical Education) at Kent State University. PJ is very active in the dance community and is constantly asked to choreograph for university philanthropic events and often shares his motivational story to underprivileged youth always speaking with a positive attitude and promoting a gratifying learning environment. He started his own Kent State University organization and is now the founder and president of The Authentik Movement. PJ’s mission is to expand, inspire, and help build a community around movement at a University level as well as through workshops, classes and community outreach programs. This organization is comprised of members with artistic abilities that want to share their creativity and passion for dance and fitness. PJ ensures a strong focus on fitness and appreciates movement of countless world environments. He is a sponsored athlete and movement coach with KB Endurance and uses the world as his gym. PJ stresses the importance of always growing. He continually educates himself with workshops and attends dance conventions such as Movement Lifestyle E N T E R T A I N E R S

John P. Kunkel III John has been working with the Miss America Scholarships Program for over 46 years, starting as a back stage helper and working my way up to producer. During the past 4 decades, he has served as Business Manager, Show Producer, Director of the Miss America Trade Show and Director, even taking on double duties as Producer and Director for 7 years. Over the years, He has gained an extensive knowledge of the program and worked to inspire the young women who have competed and worn the crown. In addition to his work with the Miss Ohio Program, John also has been working in the entertainment and promoting industries for more than 40 years. His experience includes managing a theater, promoting various performers, and helping an important cause that is dear to him by giving back to veterans through directing shows for veterans’ hospitals and special veterans’ events. He is extremely proud and thankful of the Production Team that he has assembled for this year’s Program. There are the best!

P R O D U C E R

R O D U C T I O N S T A F F

Executive Producer John P. Kunkel III

Co-Producer & Stage Manager .................................................................. Terri Herlihy

Lighting Director ................................................................................. Dale McFarland

Spot Operators ........................................................... Dylan McFarland, Wesley Lewis

Sound Design Dan Lowe, Becca Lowe

Vocal Director ...................................................................................... Mark Schnitkey

Choreographer ............................................................ Heather Wells, Miss Ohio 2013

Music Arranger ......................................................................................... Jeff Michaels

Assistant Stage Managers Jim Bishop, Kim Saunders

Set Construction ..........................Garry Smith, Terri Herlihy, Jim Bishop, Bryce Bishop

................................................Jeff Angelini, Jim Heydinger, Dave Miller, Dave Russell

Set Design & Layout ........................................ Dave Russell, Terri Herlihy, Jim Bishop

On Stage Contestant Coordinator Linda Eggan

Creative Scripting .................... Jennifer Manfrin, Holly Campbell-Bradley, Jeff Angelini

Stage Technicians ................... Terri Herlihy, Jim Bishop, Bryce Bishop, Jim Heydinger, ......................................................... Kevin Snyder, Pattie Hostettler, Stephanie Bailey, Terri Mitchell, Kim Saunders, Phil Zehms, Zach Barrett

Rail ........................................................................................................... Jordan Jasper

Video ............................................................................... Larry Mitchell, Dave Russell

Teleprompter ........................................................................................... Tim O’Guinn

Costumes Greg Peyton, Sue Swinehart

Hair & Make-up Production & Contestants ....................................... Rebecca Harris &

.................................................................................................. Stylists from Aristocats

Make-up Contestants ..................................................... Tiffany Tucker, Merle Norman

Assistant to Principals Sue Swinehart, Coni Dalhamer, Paige Bishop, Carla Wrasse

Alumni Coordinator ............................................................................. Jennifer Manfrin

Fashion Show Directors ........ Jennifer Manfrin, Holly Campbell-Bradley, Sue Swinehart

Taste of Mansfield Coordinators ........................................... John Kunkel, Jeff Angelini

DSL Provided by CenturyLink

Color Guard, Evening Wear Escorts ............................ 179th Airlift Wing Honor Guard

Production Meals .............................................. John Kunkel, Terri Herlihy, Jim Bishop

Contestant Coordinator, Host Homes & Chaperones coordinator, Contestant Meals..... Amber Cleland

Miss Ohio Staff Physician ...................................................................... Dr. Julie Beard

Production Assistants ...................... Juanita Green, Paige & Sandy Bishop, Mary Buhler

The production staff is dedicating this to a longtime volunteer, supporter and friend – Jim Southward – he will be missed by all! We love you “Forrest”

Contestant Chairperson - Amber Cleland

This is Amber’s 25th year involved with the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program. She began volunteering as a gopher and junior assistant to becoming a home hostess and chaperone. Amber was an assistant to Sharon Herlihy, the past contestant coordinator, for the past 10 years before taking over the position this year. She has served on the board of directors with a local program for the past 12 years and has been the director of the Miss Snowflake Pageant for girls up through age 12 for the last 5 years. Amber is responsible for acquiring home hostesses and chaperones for Miss Ohio week as well as contestant meals and coordinating their schedules.

Amber was a traveling chaperone for Miss Ohio 2006, Melanie Murphy Miller and is the chaperone for the reigning Miss Ohio 2013, Heather Wells. Amber also traveled to Miss America in Atlantic City and chaperoned Heather in the “Show Us Your Shoes” Parade. She works as an Insurance Biller for Women’s Care, Inc. in Mansfield, Ohio, and attended North Central Technical College. Amber resides in Lexington, Ohio. Amber is looking forward to continuing her work with the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program for many years to come.

To the volunteers, chaperones, home hostesses and junior assistants; thank you for extending your homes, your hearts and your time to this wonderful program. It’s because of you that we are able to continue to better the lives of the incredible young women that take part in this prestigious organization.

Chaperones

1st Row (Left to Right)

Dayna Sowers, Sue Cleland, Sue Konz and Phyliss Zahn

2nd Row (Left to Right)

Judy Wiparina, Ginny Brandt, Nanci Keinath, Betty Connolly and Monica Hubbard

3rd Row (Left to Right)

Jean Mayer, Susie Harlan, Linda Crockett and Julie Sliney

Miss Ohio 2013

Brenda McKinley

Heather Wells – Miss Ohio 2013

Amber Cleland

Thank you! Amber

Sub-Chaperones

1st Row (Left to Right)

Dinean Tacik, Carol Sgambellone, Barb Keiser, Janice Dickrede, Linda Snyder

Missing from photo: Brenda Smith, Ginny McGrath, Shirley Nasipak, Susan Husbands and Whitney Schroeder

1st Row (Left to Right)

Theresa Jakubick, Stephanie Jedra, Marlene Bisel and Margie Joyce

2nd Row (Left to Right)

Shelly Knapp, Terry Heringhaus, Lori Stephenson and Rebecca Bolin

3rd Row (Left to Right)

Sue Cleckner and Jan Distl

Missing from photo: Dr. Julie Beard and Elisabeth Morando

Home Hostesses

Junior Assistants

Haley Cochran, Rachel Coy, Alyssa Cleland, Alexa Hess, Kylie Keinath, Abby Knapp, Ally Knapp, Elizabeth VanMeter

2014 Miss Ohio Scholarship Awards

Miss

$10,000

First

$1,500

$500

$1,000

Second

$2,500

Third

$500

$1,500

$1,000

$1,000

$1,000

$1,000

$1,000

$1,000

$250 GB Rapid Services LTD. Two $250 Scholarship Awards

$500 Mansfield Kiwanis

CMN Miracle Maker Award

$250 Couts Family Trophy Miss America Organization

$500 Marlene Bisel, Jennifer & Macy Tetrick Two $250 Scholarship Awards

Theresa Ann Wagner Commitment to Excellence Award

$300 Jim & Drena McCurdy, Stephanie & Mike Jedra and Family

Mina R. O’Guinn Memorial Award

$500 Mina R. O’Guinn Family Ya Ya Sisters Style Award

$500 Ya Ya Sisters

Poise & Elegance Award

$250 Warholic Family

Semifinalist Awards

$500 Randy & Mary Schroeder Fourteen $400 Scholarships awarded to the Non-Semifinalists

Ohio Scholarship Program Two $500 Scholarship Awards $1,000 Gretchen Hickok

Manufacturing •Sluss Realty

Motor Group •Kissel & Associates

of Kathy Bradshaw

Paul Herlihy Spirit Awards

Two $500 Scholarship Awards Paul Herlihy Memorial Fund

Pageantry Spirit Award

Pageantry Magazine Plaque

Holly Campbell Bradley

2014 Miss Ohio Scholarship Awards

In-Kind Scholarships Available 2014 Miss America Organization Scholarships

Bluffton University

$15,000 scholarship to Miss Ohio 2014 or finalist. The actual award may be higher depending on scholastic achievement or financial aid needs.

Kenyon College

$15,000 Distinguished Academic Scholarship to Miss Ohio 2014. Award is renewable for four years and student must maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Muskingum University

$1,000 per year, renewable up to four years for Miss Ohio 2014. Student must be enrolled as a full time student.

Malone University

$10,000 to be awarded in $2,500 annual increments for a 4 year maximum to Miss Ohio 2014. Attendance must commence by September 2014.

Ohio Funeral Directors Association

$500 to $3,000 scholarship to any Miss Ohio 2014 contestant that enters Mortuary Science.

State Community Service Award

$1,000 scholarship to a Miss Ohio State Contestant

State Academic Award

$1,000 scholarship to a Miss Ohio State Contestant

National Community Service Award

$5,000 to One National Winner Quality of Life Awards

3 National Awards

$6,000; $4,000; $3,000

New

Local Scholarship

Four $500 Scholarships to new Miss Ohio Local Programs Miss Hilliard & Miss Portsmouth / Shawnee

Dale Carnegie Training Scholarship

Miss Ohio will receive a Tuition Free Dale Carnegie Course.

The following scholarships are available to contestants who compete at the Local, State or National Levels with a major in these specific areas:

• Eugenia Vellner-Fischer Performing Arts Scholarship

• Dr. & Mrs. David B. Allman Scholarship (Medical)

• Tiffany Phillips Scholar-Athlete Award

The Miss Ohio Scholarship Program is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. If you are interested in supporting this program by becoming a contributor, starting a local program, becoming a contestant or a volunteer, please contact us at 419-522-6677 or email jayj@missohio.org

• Jean Bartel Scholarship for Military Awareness

• International Air And Hospitality Academy (IAHA)

If you are a contestant or know someone who has competed within our system (award of title not required), they may be eligible for the awards above that are offered through the Miss America Organization. Please visit the website at www.missamerica.org for detailed information on how to apply for these scholarships.

2014 Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Scholarship Program & Princess Camp

Tuesday, June 17, 2014 7:00 p.m.

Renaissance Theater

National Anthem ..................... Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2013, Olivia Thoroughman

Opening Number......................... Olivia Thoroughman, Teen Contestants and Princesses

Judges Introductions ............. Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2013, Olivia Thoroughman

Lifestyle & Fitness in Sportswear Competition (10% of total score)...Teen Contestants

Entertainment Miss Ohio 2013, Heather Wells

Entertainment Princesses Camp Princesses

Talent Competition (35% of total score) Teen Contestants

Intermission ........................................................................................................................ (10 minutes)

Evening Wear & On-Stage Question Competitions (15% & 5% of total score) ....................................................................................................................................... Teen Contestants

Introduction and Crowning of Miss Ohio Princesses...... Miss Ohio 2013, Heather Wells

Entertainment........................... Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2013, Olivia Thoroughman

Entertainment................................................................................ Miss Ohio 2013, Heather Wells

Farewell Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2013, Olivia Thoroughman

Awards & Crowning of Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2014 ........... Tana Carli Dimino

Olivia Thoroughman MOOT 2013 and Family

Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Scholarship Program

On behalf of myself, the Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Scholarship Program and the Princess Camp, let me take this opportunity to welcome you here tonight.

We are a scholarship and service organization that promotes scholastic achievement, creative accomplishments, healthy living and community involvement for America’s teens.

Our purpose is to provide opportunities for outstanding teen girls across the USA who excel in their schools and communities to compete for college scholarships. We are the “Little Sister” of the Miss America Organization.

As for myself, I am extremely proud and honored to be a part of the Miss Ohio’s Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Scholarship Program and the Princess Camp.

Whether you are a contestant, program committee member, parent, judge, sponsor or a spectator in the audience, you are a vital component of this program and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your involvement and support.

God Bless.

With warm regards,

Drena McCurdy Executive Director

Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Scholarship Awards

Miss Ohio’s

$1,500 cash scholarship donated by: Outstanding Teen 2014 Constance Care Home Healthcare - Charles Bradley, Official Crown, Sash & Crown box, donated by: Ali Nance - MOOT 2005 & Family

Theresa-Ann’s Gift Certificate

1st Runner-Up

2nd Runner-Up

3rd Runner-Up

4th Runner-Up

Talent Winner

Interview Winner

Dancer With the

$500 cash scholarship donated by: Gretchen Hickok

$300 cash scholarship donated by: Pat Anthony & Family in memory and spirit of Mary Jo Van Meter & Kathy Bradshaw

$200 cash scholarship donated by: Kay Hall in memory of Perry Hall

$200 cash scholarship donated by: McDonald’s of Mansfield and Marlene Bisel, Jennifer and Macy Tetrick

$250 cash scholarship donated by: Tana Carli Dimino, Miss Ohio 1980 in memory of Roberta “Bert” Wolf

$200 cash scholarship donated by: Jim & Drena McCurdy in Memory and Spirit of their daughter Theresa Ann Wagner

$150 cash scholarship donated by: Highest Points Sarah Eash - MOOT 2012 and Family

A Special Thank You to the Following Businesses & Individuals for Supporting and Helping with the Miss Ohio Outstanding Teen Program. Please forgive us if we have omitted anyone:

Pat & Eric Anthony & Family

Doug & Mary Ann Braden

The MOOT Chaperones

Constance Care Home Healthcare – Charles Bradley

Donato’s Pizza – Chris Rose

Perry & Kay Hall

Mike & Stephanie Jedra

Miss Lexington Program

Dan Lowe

Jim & Drena McCurdy

McDonald’s

Dale McFarland

Miss Ohio Board and Staff

Olive Garden of Mansfield

Laura Pike

Parents & Family’s of the Princesses & Teens

Theresa Ann’s Bridal & Fine Clothing

The City of Mansfield

Gloria Buwala & Michelle Ketler

MOOT Judges

Burger King – Tony Merritt – Mansfield

John Kunkle

Jay Jesensky

Marlene Bisel, Jennifer and Macy Tetrick

Ali Nance – Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2005 & Family

Best Western – Josh Maurer

MOOT Stage Crew

MOOT Auditors

Phillip Weber

The Scholastic Judges

Forget-Me-Not Flowers

Kim Saunders

Lidija Wende

Jeff & Sherri Hoselton

The Eash Family

Miss Ohio 1980 – Tana Carli Dimino

Kathleen Coy – The Waterford

Brent Watkins – Sylvart Studios

Gretchen Hickok

Krogers

Jessica McCall

Elizabeth Van Meter

Christina Mansfield & Josh Davis, Staff of Holiday Inn

Isabelle’ & Theresa-Ann Jedra

Jessica Slusher & Suger Shack of Mansfield

Rachel Coy

Amber Cleland

Directors of the Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Programs

Diamondview Residential Care Center

Alexis Tackett

Olivia Thoroughman, Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen 2013

The Thoroughman Family

Alivia Eckard

Ally and Abby Witchey

Theresa Ann Wagner Commitment to Excellence Awards

Theresa Ann Wagner

The family of Theresa Ann Wagner, a former Miss Ohio contestant for three years, has donated scholarships on her name since her untimely passing in 1992. Her family honors her memory and spirit each year with scholarships they call “THE THERESA ANN WAGNER COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AWARDS”.

This award they feel is promoting the spirit that she lived enthusiastically everyday of her life. Theresa defined the meaning of love, beauty, spirit and commitment. Drena McCurdy, board member, the Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Executive Director, and an active volunteer in many aspects of the program, is the mother of Theresa Ann Wagner.

Ohio’s Princess Camp Contestants

Sarah Hahn

9 year old daughter of Allison and Joe Hahn of Mansfield, OH

Maya Kawa

8 year old daughter of Bozena and Bogdan Kawa of Columbia Station, OH

Gabriella Morando

12 year old daughter of Elisabeth and James Morando of Ontario, OH

Adrian Elise Allen

9 year old daughter of Laura and Tommy Allen of Mansfield, OH

Marina Denunzio

11 year old daughter of Mary and Robert Denunzio of Shaker Heights, OH

Karlee Lozier

9 year old daughter of Jeni and Tom Lozier of Clyde, OH

Madison Yuzwa

11 year old daughter of Michelle and Marty Yuzwa of Broadview Heights, OH

Tearia Lynncola Ross

11 year old daughter of Angel Ross-Taylor and the late Terri L. Ross of Mansfield, OH

Carly Thoroughman

8 year old daughter of Tanya and David Thoroughman of Portsmouth, OH

Congratulations

Ohio’s Princess Camp Contestants

Sydney Speas

12 year old daughter of Regina and Danny Speas of Wheelersburg, OH

Hailey Nicole Dyson

11 year old daughter of Kim and Dan Dyson of Broadview Heights, OH

Madison Farrar

5 year old daughter of Richele and Greg Farrar of Oak Hill, OH

Olivia Bitikofer

9 year old daughter of Melissa and Chris Bitikofer of Sagamore Hills, OH

Rilyn Renee Ashley

10 year old daughter of Danielle and Michael Ashley of Minford, OH

Lucy Piper

9 year old daughter of Jacci and Brad Piper of Celina, OH

Madison Bitikofer

12 year old daughter of Melissa and Chris Bitikofer of Sagamore Hills, OH

Paige Divelbiss

10 year old daughter of Amanda and Whitney Robertson and Vincent Divelbiss of Shelby, OH

Congratulations to all the Contestants!

Congratulations to our past Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teens!

• 2013

• 2012

• 2011

• 2010

Olivia Thoroughman Portsmouth, OH

Sarah Eash Lakewood, OH

Kelsey Barrett Wapakoneta, OH Top 15 at MAOT

Cecili Weber Ironton, OH Top 10 at MAOT/Prelim EG Winner

• 2009 Veronica Wende Lima, OH

• 2008

• 2007

• 2006

• 2005

Sarah Hider Wooster, OH

Ashley Miller-Horsley Patriot, OH

Kelsey Ballew Chillicothe, OH

Ali Nance Warren, OH Top 15 at MAOT

MAOT Troy University-Millennium Scholar’s Plus Award Valued at $100,000

Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Lineup-2014

#1

Makenzie Fennig

Miss Lake Festival’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old pianist from Celina, OH

“Sticks and Stones: The Importance of Words”

#3

Abbey Hitchens

Miss Maple City’s Outstanding Teen

A 16 year old pianist from Newark, OH

“Let’s Make It Straight” Scoliosis Awareness

#5

Victoria Knapke

Miss Hilliard’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old operatic vocalist from Celina, OH

“PEACE: Peer Encouragement And Community Enrichment”

#7

Shelby Fife

Miss Richland County’s Outstanding Teen

A 17 year old baton twirler from Mansfield, OH

“Building Self Esteem and Confidence in the Youth”

#2

Emily Krejci

Miss North Coast’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old vocalist from North Royalton, OH

“BEautiful YOU - Strengthening Self-Confidence in Children and Teens”

#4

Shayla Thomas

Miss Mansfield’s Outstanding Teen

A 15 year old jazz en pointe dancer from Tiffin, OH

“Taking a ‘Stand’ against Childhood Cancer”

#6

Sydney Shasky

Miss North Central’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old lyrical dancer from Mansfield, OH

“No Tolerance for Bullying”

#8

Kylie Homan

Miss West Central’s Outstanding Teen

A 12 year old dancer from Van Wert, OH

“The Better Bug Blanket Project”

Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Lineup-2014

#9

Olivia Anderson

Miss Portsmouth’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old harpist from Brunswick, OH

“Fill a Pantry, Feed a Belly”

#11

Courtney Storey

Miss Oxford’s Outstanding Teen

A 17 year old dancer from North Canton, OH

“Cyber Bullying, Texting & Sexting, Empowering Young People to Say No”

#13

Katie Hitchens

Miss Greater Bulter County’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old jazz dancer from Newark, OH

“T.A.D.D. Teens Against Distractive Driving”

#15

Emma Atkinson

Miss Shawnee’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old vocalist from Frazeysburg, OH

“Everyone Can S.P.A.R.K.L.E.”

#10

Madeline Foreman

Miss Muskingum Valley’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old lyrical dancer from Zanesville, OH “Handicapped Animals”

#12

Emily Tabar

Miss Cuyahoga County’s Outstanding Teen

A 16 year old vocalist from Parma Heights, OH

“No One Fights Alone - When Cancer Affect The Family”

#14

Rosie Westerbeck

Miss Apple Blossom’s Outstanding Teen

A 14 year old clogger from New Bremen, OH “Get Into Gear Volunteer”

OUTSTANDING TEEN JUDGES

James Grimes, Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen Judges Chair

James served as a volunteer with the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program from 1996 – 2009 and served as the Executive Director of the Miss Lake Erie, Miss Northern Ohio and Miss Lake Erie Outstanding Teen Scholarship Programs. During his time as Executive Director, two of his contestants were crowned Miss Ohio and his first teen contestant was crowned Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen. James served as a field director for the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program and as the Local Executive Director Representative to the Miss Ohio Board of Directors. In 2006, the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program awarded James its Paul Slaughter Volunteer of the Year Award. In the past, James has been an emcee, auditor, judge and featured entertainer for many local preliminaries within the Miss Ohio program. Besides Miss Ohio, James has served as a judge for Mrs. Ohio America and National American Miss pageants.

James has a B.S.S. in Vocal Performance and Acting from Ohio University where he was a member of the Singing Men of Ohio and Ohio University Opera Theatre. James is employed by Hyatt Legal Plans in downtown Cleveland and resides in Westlake.

Janet Risner Bolin

Janet Risner Bolin is a marketing executive who has worked in the automotive industry for over 15 years. She’s successfully launched multi-million dollar promotional campaigns and product lines, teaming up with celebrities from all walks of life. Currently, she works for NASCAR as their Senior Manager of Marketing for the Traditional Licensing & Retail Division. You can also catch her on TV as a host for Sprint Vision. She served as Mrs. North Carolina International in 2011 – a journey that lead her all the way to capturing the 2011 Mrs. International crown, and a platform to help further support The NASCAR Foundation. Much of her success is credited to growing up as a competitor in dance competitions and pageants for more than 20 years, learning the basic lessons of working hard to achieve your goals. In her spare time, Janet enjoys volunteering, traveling, baking and skeet shooting with her husband, Chip, who is equally as competitive. (Chip has a couple of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championships and Daytona 500 rings in his trophy room.) Together, they also support our military by hosting their VIP visits to race events as often as possible.

Rocky Graziano

Rocky hails from Boston, Massachusetts where he grew up. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts. By day he is a Corporate Sales Trainer at People’s United Bank, traveling all over New England and New York mentoring and teaching associates. His love of pageants began at an early age where he competed and won numerous titles. In 2009 he appeared on MTV’s hit show MADE, transforming a soccer jock from Wisconsin into a beauty queen. Currently he is on the Board of Directors for the Miss Boston Scholarship organization. In his spare time he enjoys running in adventure races like Tough Mudder and Spartan Race where combined he has completed over 8.

Mitch Chapman

Mitch has been affiliated with the Miss America Program for over 30 years. He has worked with several different local pageants in Southern Illinois in all capacities, including founder and Executive Director of the Miss Heartland Scholarship Pageant. Upon moving to Ohio, he also served as Executive Director of the Miss Greater Cincinnati Scholarship Pageant for one year. Since that time he has judged several local pageants in both Illinois and Ohio and assisted in readying several young women for the quest for the crown. He has been involved with fundraising efforts for many organizations, focsing mainly with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. A professional photographer for over 30 years, he now works in Human Resources for The Kroger Company...and his favorite past time is spending every minute possible with his six month old Grandson, Owen.

Scholastic Achievment Judges:

Kristin Szarell Hough

Dr. Eroica Poulakos-Hreha

Pine-Richland High School Spanish Teacher

Pine-Richland High School History Teacher

University of Pittsburgh standardized testing consultant

OUTSTANDING TEEN JUDGES

Nanciann Strosnider-Moschner

Nanciann Strosnider Moschner is no stranger to pageantry. As a competitor in the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program, Nanciann held the titles of Miss South Central, Miss Portsmouth, Miss Lake Erie, Miss Northern, Miss Mansfield and Miss Greater Butler County. During her trips to the Miss Ohio stage in Mansfield, she placed 4th Runner Up, 2nd Runner Up, Preliminary Swimsuit Winner and 2x Preliminary Talent Winner – earning over $20,000+ in scholarships. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Elon University in North Carolina where she was a double major in Music Theater and Broadcast Journalism. Nanciann currently spends her summers travel across the country as one of the state/national emcees and choreographers for National American Miss. Currently, she is a Senior Account Manager and Marketing Consultant for Cumulus Radio, serving many Cincinnati Tri-State and national brands. In September 2012, Nanciann received national recognition as “Sales Person of the Month” for her excellence in customer service, sales and creativity. In her spare time, she enjoys coaching, performing, traveling and running group. Nanciann currently resides in Cincinnati with her husband, Chris and their “four-legged daughter” yorkie-mix, Lina.

Leslie Pittenger

Leslie Pittenger is the Auditor for the City of Belpre, Ohio. She participated in the Miss Ohio program as the local Executive Director of the Miss Ohio River Scholarship Program from 2002 through 2006. Leslie currently serves as a national judge for America in Bloom, a program that promotes nationwide beautification through education and community involvement by encouraging the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements. Leslie is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in Hotel/Restaurant Management. She has worked in over 50 hotels on the East Coast and the US Virgin Islands. She is a volunteer for the United Way, local girl scout troops and is on the Board of Directors for the Belpre Area Community Development Foundation, Belpre Alumni Association and Belpre in Bloom. Her hobbies are gardening, volunteering and making a difference. She lives in Belpre with her dachshund, Izzy.

Marcia Busler

Marcia Busler holds a bachelor of science in English Education from the Ohio State University and is enrolled in a master’s program at Ashland University. She currently teaches English and directs the drama department at Watkins Memorial High School.

Marcia is also the co-founder and co-director of the Sterling Summer Youth Theater in Pataskala. She performs as well, having been involved in Weathervane Summer Theater in Newark and loves to travel the state of Ohio as an active member of the vocal ensemble, Voices of Ohio. While this is Marcia’s first time as a pageant judge, she competed in the Morrow County Junior Miss Pageant. She is the proud mom of Garrett, who serves in the United States Air Force. Marcia has been married to her husband Gary for twenty-eight years and resides in Pataskala.

LaTonyna Pou

Plus model LaTonyna Pou began her career when she was crowned Miss Ohio Big and Beautiful Woman 2007, a program that encourages and motivates plus-sized women. She has also won and participated in various runway and modeling competitions and has modeled for Catan’s Fashions, as well as numerous designers in Ohio and various states. She also works as a promotional model for various brands in the adult beverage industry. LaTonyna volunteers as a Redcoat at The Playhouse Square in downtown Cleveland and with Big Brothers and Big Sisters. She is a certified spin instructor and has taught at the YMCA of Greater Cleveland and is in the process of becoming a certified personal trainer. LaTonyna graduated from Cleveland State University majoring in Advertising and Public Relations and is also a certified Event Planner. LaTonyna resides in Cleveland and is employed with Healthspan, formerly Kaiser Permanente, in their Member Services Department and has her own event planning business “Leave it to La Events.”

Auditors: Theresa Jakubick

Nikki Williams

Scholastic Achievment Judges:

Dawn Herbst

Pine-Richland High School French Teacher

Meghan Wallace Pine-Richland High School Guidance Counselor

Tracey Hannan Hartranft Community College of Allegheny County Adjunct Professor of History

In memory ofour long time volunteers. . . . . .and friends who have passed away

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Jim Estep

Ken Hablitzel

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Young American’s Challenge

In January 2009, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Young American’s Challenge was introduced to the Miss America Program. First established in 1956 in the United Kingdom, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was developed for youth between the ages of 14-25 to realize that life is an adventure and provides wonderful opportunities for self-discovery. Currently the award program operates in over 132 countries throughout the world.

Some of the aims and objectives of this program include:

• Encourage participation versus competition

• Goals measured by person capabilities versus set standards

Miss Ohio 2011, Ellen Bryan, was one of only two Duke of Edinbugh’s Award Gold Medal Winners at Miss America this year. She was hon- ored by His Royal Highness, The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.

• Provide opportunities for all young people without discrimination

Recognized throughout the world as a prestigious honor, the program rewards participants for their commitment to service to their community, educational growth, teambuilding and self-discovery, much like the Miss America Program. Participants are challenged to learn more about themselves, each other and their surroundings. Each person in the program is able to set their own goals, develop plans to reach those goals and succeed in achieving their goals

The Miss Ohio Scholarship Program implemented the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Young American’s Challenge for all of our 2009 local titleholders. Each titleholder began working on reaching the goals set forth by the program. With pride, all of the 2009 Miss Ohio contestants earned the Bronze Award, becoming the first state in the Miss America system to achieve and receive their awards. We were honored to have Linda Amara, Director of Operations for the Young Americans’ Challenge, attend our program and present each contestant with their medal and certificate. The photo below highlights last year’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award winners.

The Miss Ohio Program would like to expand The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Young Americans’ Challenge throughout Ohio. To this extent, we encourage those that are interested to contact the Miss Ohio program to obtain information on how to begin their journey of self-discovery. We want to challenge young people throughout Ohio to recognize life is a journey, an adventurous journey!

For more information, visit www.usaward.org

Autographs