content
03
Letter from the Executive Director Preparing for the Stage and Beyond Prepare Great Women for the World Prepare the World for Great World
Welcome to the Miss Southlake Organization
23
31
Miss America Centennial Review Miss Southlake 2022: Legacy How to Register to Compete Miss & Teen Scoring Guide
Ad Page Sales & Submission Miss Wardrobe Miss Competition Checklist Teen Wardrobe Teen Competition Checklist
Celebrating 100 Years of MAO
QUESTIONS? 1 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
2022 Competition Logistics
For more information, contact DaNae Couch at:
danae@misssouthlake.org
05
07
Miss Southlake Gracie Anderson Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen Laurel Jones The Job 101
Miss Southlake 2022 Competition Miss Southlake Goes Virtual The Reign Launch Introducing Gracie Anderson There She Graduates Mental Health Book Drive With Heart and Voice Launch Miss Texas & Outstanding Teen
Meet the Current Titleholders
Years in Review
35
Southlake Princess Experience About the Southlake Princess Program How to Get Involved Participation Packages
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 2
Letter from Executive Director Welcome to the Miss Southlake Organization I am a beneficiary of the outstanding legacy of the Miss Texas and Miss America Organizations. As a local titleholder, I competed four times with four different organizations before I was selected to serve as Miss Texas 2012. Each of my local directors and boards gave countless time, energy, talents, and resources to help shape me into who I am today. Although several years have passed since I served as Miss Texas, my heart has never left this organization. The life skills that you learn through competing and serving as a titleholder aid you in every area of your life. That is ultimately why I decided to come back as a local director. I am excited to hit the ground running with innovative ideas to enrich the legacy of this program.
Preparing Women for the Stage and Beyond A major component of Miss Texas and Miss America is the competition. I have spent a majority of my life in different types of competitions. I began my competitive years in twirling, transitioned to the Miss America local, state, and national stage, and now compete in the courtroom. I know about the persistence and drive that it takes to train like a champion. We have assembled an exciting team of talented people who also know what it takes to reach the next level.
Prepare Great Women for the World As the largest scholarship provider for women, Miss America funds the academic dreams of its participants. Thanks in part to my scholarships from local competitions, Miss Texas, and Miss America, I graduated debt-free. As Malala Yousafzai said, “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” We are striving to increase the amount of scholarship assistance we can provide to our representatives and all of our candidates.
Prepare the World for Great Women Women’s voices are being heard like never before. We want to build on that movement by developing our representative’s advocacy skills and providing opportunities for her to advocate for her causes. By partnering with the Southlake local government and other local organizations, we can show our community the power of our program and our women. We are so excited that you have chosen to participate in our organization! We are going to have a phenomenal year. 3 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
DaNae Couch Lowe, Miss Texas 2012 MISS SOUTHLAKE | 4
meet the titleholders
GRACIE ANDERSON
LAUREL JONES
Miss Southlake Gracie Anderson is an advocate for her personal social impact initiative, With Heart and Voice: A Leadership Initiative, providing developmental resources to Texas schools and fostering valuable leadership skills in all age demographics. Outside of the Miss America Organization, Gracie is pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Texas. Additionally, Gracie is a multi-talented performer. In competition, Gracie performed “Reflection” from Disney’s Mulan. This Fall you can find Gracie playing flute and piccolo as a member of the Longhorn Band. Hook ‘em!
Motivated to #EndTheStigma, Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen Laurel Jones advocates for Behind the SASH: Suicide, Anxiety, and Self-Harm. When speaking to students across the Lone Star State, Laurel encourages her audience to Speak Up for Their Needs, Find an Active Support System, Spend Time with a Passion, and Help Others. Outside of her personal advocacy, Laurel Jones is a decorated vocalist and cheerleader. In fact, recently, Laurel was selected as a member of the National Cheer Association Staff. This Fall you can find Laurel Jones performing as an inaugural member of TWU Stunt.
5 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
the job 101 Miss Southlake and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen are the most visible external facing representative of the mission of the Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization (“MSSO”) program to the public. As a member of the MSSO team, she is responsible for positively advancing the goals and objectives of MSSO as well as her own Social Impact Initiative. Miss Southlake and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen will work with the MSSO team to develop goals and execute on tactics to advance her chosen Social Impact Initiative, setting metrics and developing partnerships which will show positive results at the end of her year. In addition, Miss Southlake and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen serve as advocates for the Miss America Foundation, raising funds to create educational opportunities for young women nationwide. Locally, the titleholders support Miss Texas Scholarship, Inc. and Texas Cares for Children. As such, public speaking is an essential role of Miss Southlake. She researches and prepares speeches and presentations to deliver to audiences of all sizes. She is a representative of MSSO with sponsors, students, and the Southlake community. A first step to continuing her education and career, the job of Miss Southlake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that carries with it service above self.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 6
2019-2021
YEAR IN
REVIEW 7 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization has been incredibly active since the 2019 Competition. Miss Southlake 2020 Bryton Bonacquisti, Miss Southlake 2021 Gracie Anderson, and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen 2020–2021 Laurel Jones represented Southlake at nearly 200 in-person and virtual events.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 8
FALL 2019 ABOVE (LEFT TO RIGHT): DaNae Couch Lowe, Miss Southlake Executive Director, poses with Miss Texas 2019 Chandler Foreman and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen 2019 Dana Friend at the August 13 Kendra Gives Back. RIGHT: DaNae Couch Lowe, Miss Texas 2019 Chandler Foreman, and Dana Friend Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen pose with staff at Kendra Scott - Southlake.
9 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
SCHOLARSHIP
KENDRA
Gives
BACK
Kendra Scott - Southlake hosted on August 13 a Kendra Gives Back party, donating $1,200 to the Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization. The party featured Miss Texas 2019, Chandler Foreman, and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen 2019, Dana Friend. Kendra Scott - Southlake also donated a piece of jewelry to every candidate that entered the 2020 Competition. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization is incredibly grateful for Kendra Scott Southlake’s continued generosity and support!
2020 COMPETITION
Wonder of Women The Hilton Southlake Town Square hosted the Miss Southlake 2020: Wonder of Women Competition on August 17, 2019. This marked the final appearance of Taylor Kilpatrick, Miss Southlake 2019, and Dana Friend, Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen 2019. Bryton Bonacquisti won the title of Miss Southlake 2020 as well as overall talent for her ventriloquism. Laurel Jones won the title of Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen 2020, winning the awards for congeniality, Evening Wear and On-Stage Question, and Talent. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization also welcomed 17 young girls as participants in the Southlake Princess Experience. Our Princesses participated in a party with Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen 2019, performed during the on-stage competition, and were featured in the Evening Wear phases of competition. Truluck’s Southlake hosted our newly crowned titleholders for their first official appearance as Miss Southlake and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen 2020 at a reception following the competition.
ABOVE: Miss Southlake 2020: Wonder of Women promotional art designed by Bryce Couch and Caitlin Stephens. This piece was used for social media promotion and the official program book, available on Issuu. RIGHT: Laurel Jones (Left) and Bryton Bonacquisti (Center) react to being crowned Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen and Miss Southlake, respectively, at Miss Southlake 2020: Wonder of Women.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 10
ADVOCACY
Confronting Stigma, Raising Suicide Awareness Did you know that September is National Suicide Prevention Month? Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. It is the second leading cause of death for Texans aged 15-34. There is no one single cause or predictor for suicide. However, research indicates that most suicides are preceded by certain warning signs, such as changes in talking, behavior, and mood. Although only 1 in 25 suicide attempts result in death, it is vital that friends and family are capable of recognizing the signs. In September, the Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization launched an advocacy campaign to raise awareness, to educate about warning signs, and to encourage support. Miss Southlake strives to Break The Silence and End The Stigma. SERVICE
Behind the SASH: Suicide, Anxiety, and Self-Harm According to Pew Research Center, anxiety and depression are on the rise among American youth. Seven-in-ten teens identify it as a major problem amongst their peers. When speaking to kids, Laurel Jones encourages her audience to: Speak Up for Their Needs; Find an Active Support System; Spend Time with a Passion; and, Help Others. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization would like to challenge you: to #TAKETHECHALLENGE by reminding yourself daily to ask for help and be there for your friends and family; and, to focus on the #REALREEL by staying true to your authentic self rather than comparing yourself to other people’s highlight reel. MISS TEXAS
Embracing Sisterhood Bryton and Laurel celebrated other local organizations at each respective competition. Thank you to the outgoing candidates on their years of service! Congratulations to all of the new members of the Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Class of 2020/21! 11 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
TEXAS TRADITIONS
Celebrating Texas Creativity at the State Fair The Fall celebrates the State Fair of Texas. Bryton and Laurel were honored to be a part of the nightly parade, representing the Southlake community and spotlighting various aspects of Texas. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization represented various facets of the State Fair, including topics ranging from the Big Tex Scholarship, Big Tex Choice Awards, Texas Agriculture, and Texas Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Scholarship is an integral part of the State Fair of Texas, just as it is integral to the Miss America Organization. Bryton rode on the Big Tex Scholarship Float in the Opening Night Parade on September 27. To date the Big Tex Scholarship has awarded more than $12.5 million to over 2,500 students. Education is also central to the State Fair’s mission. In fact, the State Fair of Texas promotes its own educational curriculum. In partnership with Big Thought, the State Fair expanded its educational initiatives to the classroom with a new TEKS-aligned curriculum that emphasizes the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). On October 13, Laurel rode atop
the Science and Technology float, representing the importance of STEM and the contributions of Texans to the development of these fields. The State Fair and great food go hand in hand. On October 13, Bryton rode in the parade atop the float celebrating the iconic food of the State Fair. The Big Tex Choice Awards offers concessionaires the opportunity to concoct creative savory and sweet visions and to compete for a chance to become a finalist features at the State Fair. The 2019 State Fair of Texas’ theme was Celebrating Texas Creativity. We are grateful for the people that make the Fair’s creativity possible. To honor these hidden faces behind the State Fair, Bryton debuted her new buddy, Lil Tex. To view the full performance with Lil Tex, follow Bryton (@miss. southlake) and Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization (@misssouthlaketx) on Instagram and Facebook! MISS SOUTHLAKE | 12
TIS THE SERVICE
(Butter)Fly Away! Bryton and Laurel volunteered with the Northeast Tarrant County Kiwanis Butterfly Festival in Southlake Town Square, benefiting Children’s Miracle Network. Bryton and Laurel helped kids catch butterflies and took photos with their families. COMMUNITY
Willkommen zum Oktoberfest Welcome to Oktoberfest in Southlake Town Square, an October tradition in Southlake. Miss Southlake Bryton Bonacquisti worked the Wiener Dog Costume Contest and Race on October 5. Congratulations to Bindi, the fabulous pup dressed as the house from Up, and Pete, a two-time race winner! SPORTS
Friday Night Lights Kickoff Although it is not the official state sport of Texas, High School Football holds a special place in the hearts of Texans. Miss Southlake Bryton Bonacquisti joined Miss Grapevine Jaelene Luper at the Keller football game to help the Miss Keller Scholarship Organization promote the Miss America program. Did you know that Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen Laurel Jones is a member of her varsity cheer team? In Spring 2020, Laurel was named Varsity Cheer Captain! BluDoor Studios sponsored the official Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization’s seasonal photoshoot.
13 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
SEASON(S) FUNDRAISING
Striving to End the Stigma on World AIDS Day December 1 marks World AIDS Day, an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for those living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have passed away from an AIDS-related illness. While scientific and medical advances have improved HIV treatment, World AIDS Day is a remembrance of what has been done, a reminder of what is left to do, and an important call to end the HIV stigma. To commemorate World AIDS Day, Bryton joined Miss Carrollton Natalie Merrell and Miss Richardson Kendra Land at the Resource Center’s Red Ribbon Bash. At the event, the titleholders sold ornaments made by the teenagers benefiting from the program. HOLIDAY EVENTS
Holi-sleigh Extravaganzas From Bryton emceeing the Jingle Bell Run to Laurel attending a fundraiser benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospitals, December allowed the girls to give back to the community. Bryton and Laurel emceed and performed on the Main Stage at Southlake’s Home for the Holidays Tree Lighting Celebration, kicking off the Holiday Season in Southlake Town Square. They had the opportunity to perform along with other titleholders, Miss Texas Chandler Foreman, and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Allie Graves at Mama’s Party - Texas Royalty Society. Bryton performed with Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen, Allie Graves, at a Christmas Party. Bryton also performed at a private party at the historic Southfork Ranch. Laurel performed three sets with her sister and Lone Star Princess Ella at Six Flags’ Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas in Addison, Texas.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 14
NATIONAL COMPETITION
There She Is . . . Camille Schrier, Miss America 2020
PERSPECTIVE: LAUREL JONES
Bryton and Laurel both attended Miss America 2020 at the Mohegan Sun in Unscaville, Connecticut, in December. On December 19, Camille Schrier of Virginia was named Miss America. The Miss Southlake Organization was thrilled to support Miss Texas Chandler Foreman, a Miss America 2020 Finalist.
Favorite part of Miss America? Why?
What did you learn from Miss America?
I loved seeing everything behind the scenes: the teleprompter, the set crew, the parents getting moved into seats when their daughters were announced. It is an amazing perspective! I also loved getting to be a part of the moment. Attending Miss America has been a dream of mine!
My biggest takeaways are: stay authentic to yourself and your beliefs; set goals and work hard to achieve them; and at the end of the day, let God work through you to be the best version of yourself as possible, in order to share your message with as many as possible.
Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen Laurel Jones and Miss Southlake Bryton Bonacquisti pose together with their mothers, Heather Jones and Lynette Bonacquisti, at the Miss America 2020 Competition.
15 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
Mallory Lorant, Taylor Kilpatrick, Jaelene Lüper, Bryton Bonacquisti, and Averie Bishop attend luncheon.
ADVOCACY
Go Red for Women Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States? Although heart disease causes 1 in 3 women’s deaths per year, only 1 in 5 women view heart disease as their greatest health threat. In February, Bryton and other local titleholders volunteered at the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women luncheon in Dallas and learned about the early signs of heart disease onset, prevention, and treatment. The luncheon successfully raised $500,000 thanks to the generosity of American Heart Association supporters.
WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT
Celebrating #GenerationEquality On International Women’s Day, the Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization joined #GenerationEquality, envisioning a world in which every woman and girl is free from discrimination and every person can enjoy their human rights more fully and equally. To celebrate, the MSSO spotlighted the powerful women of the Miss Texas Organization who are everyday advocates for change within their communities.
The Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Classes of 2020/2021 pose at Winter Meeting with Miss Texas 2019 Chandler Foreman and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen 2019 Allie Graves in February.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 16
SERVICE
Miss Southlake Goes Virtual In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization developed virtual ways to engage with our community, including social media spirit weeks. On Wellness Wednesdays, we wrote messages of encouragement to others during quarantine and gratitude for our healthcare heroes. On April 3, our Organization hosted our first Virtual Princess Party, emceed by Bryton and Laurel. Twenty-five members of the Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Classes of 2020/2021 contributed to the talent showcase. We welcomed Payton May, the reigning Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, as well as our fabulous state queens Miss Texas Chandler Foreman and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Allie Graves. The event welcomed 151 unique, participant computers, many of which were shared by multiple viewers. Special thanks are owed to Alanna Sarabia with Good Morning Texas for covering the event as well as Sweet & Sassy - Southlake for sponsoring party packages for our participating local Texas princesses. On April 10, Bryton and Laurel hosted virtual Easter Egg Decorating with some of our Southlake Princesses via Zoom. Bryton and Laurel also shared their competition talents for Ventriloquism and Singing by creating digital shows and competing in the virtual Southlake’s Got Talent Competition. To view these performances or the Virtual Princess Party, follow Miss Southlake on social media. 17 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
FOUR POINTS OF THE CROWN
the reign launch The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization launched the Reign in Fall 2019 as a newsletter to keep our supporters and community involved in our outreach efforts. Our goal from the beginning has been to celebrate and highlight the attributes that make women unique: the Wonder of Women. COVID-19 forced the MSSO, like so many others, to adapt. As a result, our internal team began developing the Reign as a magazine focused on the four points of the crown: Style, Service, Scholarship, and Success. The magazine provided titleholders, formers, volunteers, and community leaders nationwide a platform to spotlight their advocacy and engage in dialogue about critical issues within our communities. August 2020 represented the centennial celebration of women securing the right to vote. September 2021 represents the centennial celebration of the Miss America Organization. These anniversaries not only remind us of where we have been but where we still must go. To read the issue, visit MSSO on Issuu. SERVICE
Introducing Gracie Anderson Bryton Bonacquisti completed her term as Miss Southlake 2020 in December 2020. During her extended year of service, Bonacquisti completed 72 inperson and virtual appearances while advocating for her social impact initiative Bryton The Day. Gracie Anderson assumed the job of Miss Southlake effective immediately on January 1, 2021. Gracie Anderson is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Texas at Austin, where she has further developed her flutist skills as a member of the Longhorn Band. During her year of service, Anderson promoted her social impact initiative by fostering youth leadership. “I am so grateful to get this chance to work with such a dynamic organization,” Anderson exclaimed upon assuming the job of Miss Southlake. She continued, “I look forward to working hard to be a great representative of the Southlake community and [the Miss Southlake Scholarship] Organization.”
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 18
ADVOCACY
Behind the SASH: Mental Health Book Drive Throughout her years of service, Laurel continued to advocate for her social impact initiative, Behind the SASH: Suicide, Anxiety, and Self-Harm. As Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen, Laurel’s goal is twofold. First, she aimed to Break The Silence and End The Stigma. Second, she aimed to provide both adolescents and adults access to mental health resources. To accomplish these goals, Laurel conducted a Mental Health book drive throughout Spring 2021. In doing so, she fundraised for a wide array of psychological and behavioral books. After meeting her goal, Laurel donated the materials to LOSS Team of Denton County and the Denton County MHMR Center. We are so proud of Laurel’s continued advocacy! SERVICE
The Return of In-Person Community Events With increased access to the COVID-19 pandemic, Miss Southlake and Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen returned to inperson events in the Spring. On April 10, Gracie and Laurel helped the Carroll Education Foundation at their annual Thank You Drive-Thru event. Later, Laurel appeared at a local air show. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization is thrilled to return to in-person events and to have the opportunity to give back to the Southlake community. To that end, for booking inquiries, please contact DaNae Couch Lowe at danae@misssouthlake.org. SCHOLARSHIP
There She Graduates Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen Laurel Jones graduated from The Colony High School in May 2021. We are so proud of Laurel’s accomplishments and were thrilled to hear her speech to the graduating class. Additionally, Texas Woman’s University recruited Laurel to be an inaugural member of the Pioneer Stunt Team. We cannot wait to see her pursue this passion at TWU this fall. 19 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
LEFT: The Miss Texas Organization hosted the 2020-2021 Miss Texas & Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Class for Spring Seminar at the Renaissance Hotel in Richardson, TX, in April 2021. This was an exciting opportunity to connect with titleholders and volunteers while looking forward to the June 2021 Competition.
SOCIAL IMPACT INITIATIVE
With Heart and Voice: A Leadership Initiative In May, Miss Southlake Gracie Anderson premiered the Spring Symposium aligned with her Social Impact Initiative, With Heart and Voice: A Leadership Initiative. Gracie is a student at the University of Texas, studying Neuroscience and a member of the Longhorn Band. During her year of service, Gracie advocates for and encourages youth development. As a woman in STEM, Gracie is passionate about creating access to professional development resources to those pursuing traditionally male-dominated fields. In July, Gracie built on this project by launching a video interviewing current students about their academic endeavors. To commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Gracie joined with Miss Marin County Katie Tessier to discuss their adoption stories from China and how their adoption shaped their identities.
The Symposium features Miss America Camille Schrier and Miss Texas Caroline Carothers. To view the Virtual Symposium, visit Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization on YouTube.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 20
2021 COMPETITION
Miss Texas & Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen The Miss Texas Organization hosted the Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Competitions in the Charles W. Eisemann Performing Arts Center in Richardson, TX, from June 19–26. There, Miss Texas Chandler Foreman and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Allie Graves were celebrated for their tremendous accomplishments and years of service. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization was thrilled to support both Gracie Anderson and Laurel Jones throughout the week. In competition, Gracie dazzled the audience in Red Carpet, inspired the audience with a version of “Reflection” from Mulan, and advocated for leadership development. In the teen competition, Laurel spoke to the importance of recognizing the signs of mental health challenges, showed the audience her physical fitness, and channeled Elle Woods for a performance of “So Much Better” from Legally Blonde The Musical. During the week, both Gracie and Laurel were recognized for their tremendous achievements outside of the Miss America program. Gracie was recognized for her academic achievements and as a woman in STEM; Laurel was recognized for her community service and received the Random Acts of Kindness scholarship.
21 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 22
23 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
LEFT: Representing the District of Columbia, Margaret Gorman became the first Miss America in September 1921.
BELOW: In December 2019, Camille Schrier, representing Virginia, became the first titleholder to perform a science demonstration as a talent to earn the job of Miss America 2020.
I
n September 1921, Margaret Gorman, Miss District of Columbia, won the title of Miss America on the boardwalk of Atlantic City, New Jersey. An American icon—Miss America—was officially born. Miss America’s emergence coincided with the outflow of women’s rights and liberalization in the aftermath of the Nineteenth Amendment. The Miss America Organization for 100 years has been one of the most recognizable household names throughout the United States. As one of the single largest providers of scholarship to young women, the Miss America Organization has provided a launching pad for women’s educational and charitable endeavors. Since its founding, the Organization accumulated its own decorated history of milestones. Norma Smallwood became the first Miss America of Native American heritage in 1926. Fourteen years after Miss Iowa Cheryl Adrienne Brown became the first Black candidate for Miss America in 1970, Vanessa Williams became the first Black Miss America in 1984. Miss Hawaii Angela Perez Baraquio became the first Asian-American Miss America in 2001. Miss America 2014 Nina Davuluri made history as
the first Indian-American to win the title. The competition format has also noticeably changed since its founding. In the 1930s, Miss America implemented the talent portion of competition, welcoming talents ranging from dance, vocal performance, twirling, and ventriloquism. Camille Shrier made history in December 2019 as the first Miss America to win performing a scientific demonstration, redefining what society views as a talent. In the 1990s, Miss America candidates were required to adopt a social impact issue to raise public awareness during year-long speaking tours. In 2018, the Miss America Organization removed the swimsuit portion of competition. On the eve of Miss America’s Centennial Celebration, the Organization continues to progress, constantly looking forward. The Miss America Organization, more than ever before, amplifies the voices of its participants. Candidates are at the forefront of community improvement, social awareness, and issue-based advocacy. The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization is proud to celebrate the historic legacy of the Miss America Organization at the centennial celebration at the Mohegan Sun in December 2021. MISS SOUTHLAKE | 24
so you want to
compete
1
If you are an interested Miss or Teen Candidate, you must first complete the one-time 2022 Competition Registration ($35.00) on the Miss America Website. For your convenience, you can scan the QR Code on the right to be taken directly to the registration.
Did you know that by registering, an individual gains access to exclusive benefits and the possibility of winning a $1,000 scholarship? 2
After completing the registration, both the candidate and Miss Texas Executive Director Jan Mitchell will receive a confirmation. 3
Upon this receipt, Jan Mitchell will send an interested candidate a Welcome Letter that includes a link to register for local competitions. You MUST complete this registration to compete at Miss Southlake. 4
The Local Competition Registration will prompt an interested candidate to pay a $75.00 registration fee. Only Miss Candidates pay this fee. Teen Candidates instead should use the discount code TEENLOCAL. For the avoidance of doubt, please send DaNae Couch Lowe proof of registration at danae@misssouthlake.org. 5
Once DaNae receives proof of registration, she will send the interested candidate the MAO State & Local Candidate Agreement. This Agreement is part of the required paperwork to compete at Miss Southlake.
Questions about Registration? Contact DaNae Couch Lowe for help! MISS SOUTHLAKE | 26
MISS COMPETITION
PRIVATE INTERVIEW The ten-minute interview provides insight into the candidate’s ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the Miss Southlake job description and contract. It gives the judges the opportunity to learn about your unique qualities, commitment to advance your social impact initiative, accomplishments beyond your resume, and your own personal beliefs.
TALENT The ninety-second talent portion of the competition allows insight into the candidate’s preparatory and performance skills. The talent presentation, overall performance, and technical ability and skill are taken into consideration.
RED CARPET Each candidate will compete in Red Carpet, a stand alone category, in the evening wear of her selection. Candidates should select their wardrobe based on what they would wear to a red carpet event. Note: Neither the attire itself nor the estimated cost of the wardrobe will be considered in scoring.
SOCIAL IMPACT PITCH & ON-STAGE INTERVIEW This phase of competitions brings the private interview to the stage. It allows the audience to get to know the candidate as they showcase their intelligence, personality, charisma, and aptitude for the job of Miss Southlake. Candidates will have 30 seconds to deliver a Social Impact Pitch, highlighting its topical importance, her work, and her plans for the initiative as Miss Southlake.
27 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 28
29 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
The six-minute interview provides insight into the candidate’s ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen description. It gives the judges the opportunity to learn about your unique qualities, commitment to advance your social impact initiative, accomplishments beyond your resume, and your own personal beliefs.
TALENT The ninety-second talent portion of the competition allows insight into the candidate’s preparatory and performance skills. The talent presentation, overall performance, and technical ability and skill are taken into consideration.
EVENING GOWN & QUESTION This phase of competition is designed to assess the candidate’s beauty, poise, grace, and commanding stage presence as well as her ability to answer a question with eloquence and intelligence in front of the audience.
LIFESTYLE & FITNESS This phase of competition is designed to see how well the candidate maintains a lifestyle of good physical health and the candidate’s ability to exude confidence and self-assurance. Candidates will wear aerobic or active-wear clothing, NOT a swimsuit.
TEEN COMPETITION
PRIVATE INTERVIEW
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 30
WARDROBE REHEARSALS
Comfortable, Active Wear
OPENING NUMBER
Black Cocktail Attire - Candidate’s Choice
PRIVATE INTERVIEW
Interview Attire - Candidate’s Choice
TALENT
Costume - Candidate’s Choice
RED CARPET
Red Carpet - Candidate’s Choice
SOCIAL IMPACT PITCH & ON-STAGE INTERVIEW
Interview Attire - Candidate’s Choice
AD PAGES & SUBMISSION PRICING INFORMATION
SUBMISSION DETAILS Submit to danae@misssouthlake.org
1/4 Page Ad
$25
1/2 Page Ad
$50
Attach Ad as JPG
Full Page Ad
$100
Make design requests in email body
All Ads Printed in Color
Subject: AD PAGE - Candidate Name
Deadline: August 22, 2021
Questions about Ad Pages? Contact Bryce Couch at bcouch2019@gmail.com
31 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
MISS COMPETITION CHECKLIST Complete Local Contract including, but not limited to, the following attachments: A copy of your birth certificate A copy of your Driver’s License or other government issued ID FRONT/BACK copy of your medical, dental, and prescription cards, if applicable An Official Transcript from your Current School or the School from which you have graduated Tips for Filling Out the Contract: a. When filling in the blanks for the organization or the title, please type ‘Southlake’ in the blank, not Texas. b. Please make sure to initial and date the bottom right hand corner of EACH page of the contract, even if there is not a line for it. c. If you have competed in a local in the 2022 Competition cycle, these rules may vary. Contact us for further information.
Submit Headshot in .jpg or .pdf format and preferably sized for 8x10. No cropped pictures will be accepted. Deadline Sunday, August 22, 2021. Submit Judges’ Resume - 8 Copies. Submit Social Impact Statement, Signed and Dated - 8 Copies. Do not exceed one page. Submit 90-Second Talent Music. Submit Confirmation of both $35 Miss America 2022 Competition Registration & $75 Local Registration to danae@misssouthlake.org.
Ad Page Purchase Form(s), if applicable. See specific Ad Page Submission Instructions. Deadline August 22, 2021.
All paperwork, ad sales, headshots, and talent music should be submitted via email, mail or in person by no later than Sunday, August 22, 2021, our entry deadline. If any missing items are discovered, those items must be turned in by no later than Thursday, August 26, 2021. Items can be emailed to danae@misssouthlake.org or mailed to: Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization 1905 Lantana Lane Irving, Texas 75063 MISS SOUTHLAKE | 32
ENTRANCE PACKAGES OPTION A
OPTION B
Entrance Fee
Entrance Fee Full Page Ad
$150
$200
WARDROBE REHEARSALS
Comfortable, Active Wear
OPENING NUMBER
Black Cocktail Attire - Candidate’s Choice
PRIVATE INTERVIEW
Interview Attire - Candidate’s Choice
TALENT
Costume - Candidate’s Choice
EVENING WEAR & ON-STAGE QUESTION
Evening Wear - Candidate’s Choice
LIFESTYLE & FITNESS
Active Wear - Candidate’s Choice
AD PAGES & SUBMISSION PRICING INFORMATION
SUBMISSION DETAILS Submit to danae@misssouthlake.org
1/4 Page Ad
$25
1/2 Page Ad
$50
Attach Ad as JPG
Full Page Ad
$100
Make design requests in email body
All Ads Printed in Color
Subject: AD PAGE - Candidate Name
Deadline: August 22, 2021
Questions about Ad Pages? Contact Bryce Couch at bcouch2019@gmail.com 33 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
TEEN COMPETITION CHECKLIST Complete Local Contract including, but not limited to, the following attachments: A copy of your birth certificate A copy of your Driver’s License or other government issued ID FRONT/BACK copy of your medical, dental, and prescription cards, if applicable An Official Transcript from your Current School or the School from which you have graduated Tips for Filling Out the Contract: a. When filling in the blanks for the organization or the title, please type ‘Southlake’ in the blank, not Texas. b. Please make sure to initial and date the bottom right hand corner of EACH page of the contract, even if there is not a line for it. c. If you have competed in a local in the 2022 Competition cycle, these rules may vary. Contact us for further information.
Submit Headshot in .jpg or .pdf format and preferably sized for 8x10. No cropped pictures will be accepted. Deadline Sunday, August 22, 2021. Submit Judges’ Resume - 8 Copies. Submit Social Impact Statement, Signed and Dated - 8 Copies. Do not exceed one page. Submit 90-Second Talent Music. Ad Page Purchase Form(s), if applicable. See specific Ad Page Submission Instructions. Deadline August 22, 2021. All paperwork, ad sales, headshots, and talent music should be submitted via email, mail or in person by no later than Sunday, August 22, 2021, our entry deadline. If any missing items are discovered, those items must be turned in by no later than Thursday, August 26, 2021. Items can be emailed to danae@misssouthlake.org or mailed to: Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization 1905 Lantana Lane Irving, Texas 75063
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 34
The Princess Program The Princess Program is designed to promote early involvement in the Miss America program. It is a mentoring program and gives young girls a chance to learn more about what being a local or state titleholder involves. Young ladies must be 6–12 years and cannot be older than 12 years by the date of the Miss Texas Competition in June 2022.
Why Should I Join the Miss Southlake Princess Program? The Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization is committed to investing in the Princess Program. Our goal goes beyond simply creating a memorable experience for the girls involved. We hope to create lasting mentorship relationships that exist beyond the stage. To that end, opportunities for Princesses are year-round rather than confined to the Competition date. On April 3, 2020, the Miss Southlake Scholarship Organization hosted a Virtual Princess Party. Twenty-five members of the Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Classes of 2020/2021 contributed to the talent showcase. We welcomed Payton May, the reigning Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, as well as our fabulous state queens Miss Texas Chandler Foreman and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Allie Graves. The event welcomed 151 unique, participant computers, many of which were shared by multiple viewers. We also coordinate holiday events. The Organization hosted an in-person Christmas party in 2019. The titleholders hosted virtual Easter Egg Decorating hosted via Zoom in April 2020. Laurel Jones hosted a Christmas Celebration via Zoom in December 2020. And, Laurel Jones hosted a Virtual Tea Time in the Spring 2021. We look forward to the return of in-person Princess events. 35 | MISS SOUTHLAKE
Southlake Princess Experience The standard fee to be a Southlake Princess is $50. Additional participation packages are available and outlined below. At the Miss Southlake Competition, Southlake Princesses will participate in planned programming with Miss Texas Mallory Fuller and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Katherine Omo-Osagie. Princesses will participate on stage during the Miss and Teen Evening Wear portions of the competition on Saturday, August 28. During the Evening Wear Competition, they will walk out, interact with their candidate, and escort her off the stage. After the Evening Wear Competitions have concluded, they will be announced individually on stage. Once you have chosen your Princess, please notify us and provide us with their contact information. We will send them registration paperwork that they will need to send with their payment, and we will coordinate the competition details with them. If you need help finding a princess, please let us know. It really does make the experience fun, though, if you choose a princess with which you have a personal relationship. Southlake Princess Registration Paperwork and Payments are due by no later than Sunday, August 22, 2021. For additional information, contact danae@misssouthlake.org.
All Southlake Princesses will have the option of being your Lone Star Princess for the year and participating at the Miss Texas and Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen Competitions in June 2022. If a princess chooses to become a Lone Star Princess, she should visit the Miss Texas website for additional information. For more information on the Lone Star Princess Program, please visit http://www.misstexas.org/lone-star-princess.html.
PARTICIPATION PACKAGES STANDARD
PREMIERE
Participation Fee 1 Princess Ticket 1 Adult Ticket
Participation Fee 1 Princess Ticket 1 Adult Ticket Southlake Princess T-Shirt 1/2 Page Ad
$75
$125
ABOVE: Miss Southlake’s Outstanding Teen Laurel Jones with the Southlake Lone Star Princesses at the Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen in June 2021.
MISS SOUTHLAKE | 36