PAGEANTS
THE MAGAZINE EXCLUSIVELY HIGHLIGHTING PAGEANTRY IN IDAHO, OREGON & WASHINGTON
PACIFIC
www.pacificpageants.com
March/April 2012
Power Launch Edition
Chief Editor Latasha Raines
The Mission behind the Mag
101
Page 5
Interview
PACIFIC SPOTLIGHT! Page 12-25
Page 26
Fitness with Bekah Baker Page 56
Winning Wardrobe 10-Page fashion spread
Lina Kay
Talks NAM USA & More!
Compete in the system created exclusively for America’s Curvy majority! Providing opportunities for women and teens As-is and right now! REAL Women ∙ REAL Bodies ∙ Making a REAL Difference
www.waplusamerica.com www.orplusamerica.com SAVE THE DATE 2 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
FEBRUARY 13-17, 2013
PAGEANTS
PACIFIC
Contents
Magazine 5 The Mission behind the Magazine Editor’s Notes Latasha Raines
6 Up close with former Miss Washington USA, Lina Kay Cover Story
12 Pacific Spotlight 26 Interview 101 Tom Lamoureux
31 Winning Wardrobe 56 BUILDING your body BETTER Health & Fitness Bekah Baker
60 Ask Laura Laura Hunter
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Credits
Magazine Editor In Chief Latasha Raines www.latashamae.com
Interview 101 Editor Tom Lamoureux
Health & Fitness Editor Bekah Baker www.bekahbaker.com
Ask Laura
Laura Hunter www.beyondphotography.net
Magazine & Website Design B7 Designs www.b7designs.com
Winning Wardrobe
Christella’s Wonderful World of Dresses 606 SE Madison Street, Portland, OR 97214 www.christellas.com
Winning Wardrobe Photography, Hair & Makeup Terry Wright Photography & Judy Wright www.terrywrightphotography.com
Winning Wardrobe Venue
The Benson Hotel 309 Southwest Broadway Portland, OR 97205 (503) 228-2000 Become a PPM Model models@pacificpageants.com Get Spotlighted spotlight@pacificpageants.com Work at PPM editorinchief@pacificpageants.com Advertise ad_sales@pacificpageants.com Tips? tips@pacificpageants.com Ask Laura editorinchief@pacificpageants.com General Info info@pacificpageants.com 4 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
PACIFIC
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Magazine
Editor’s Notes
Latasha Raines
The Mission behind the Magazine
I started PACIFICPageants because pageantry has enhanced my life in a way no other industry could. I have been involved in the modeling and entertainment industries and pageantry’s influence superseded the others. Pageantry gives girls, teens and women a “voice” and requires that you think of others and serve. My experience has shown me that pageantry is not just about the garment, but the person wearing the garment. It’s about building and equipping confident leaders and opening doors for them to use what they have learned. In my short five years within this industry I have been exposed to every aspect of it! From judging, volunteering, competing, losing, winning, being an emcee, coordinating to now directing I have found that I don’t just like pageantry, I LOVE it!
The mission of PACIFICPageants is to make pageantry BIG in the northwest and to put pageantry in our region on the map. Our magazine will exclusively highlight every aspect of the pageant industry within the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. We seek to create a resource for those considering and are already immersed in this industry as well as a hot spot for the latest fashions, tips and news that only reflects pageant impacting businesses within OUR own states! Why should you have to win a national title before you are recognized or seen in a quality publication? Why should a young lady competing in Oregon have to look on the east coast for her perfect gown when we have designers and retailers right here?! Our hope is that we begin to make pageantry on the local and regional level a big deal and boost the pageant economy right at home. PACIFICPageants is YOU. PACIFICPageants is me. PACIFICPageants is US.
Join me in making pageantry BIG in the northwest!
Latasha Raines Latasha was introduced to pageantry by the National American Miss Pageant system in 2007 when she was asked to judge. From the moment the first contestant graced the stage she knew that she was meant for the Pageant Industry. As a 27 year old, full-figured, single-mom of two, options to compete in Washington State were non-existent, but she found the Miss Plus America system. She competed three consecutive years at the National pageant as an at-large delegate for Washington before being crowned the 8th Miss Plus America! Following her historic reign she launched the Washington and Oregon Plus America pageants, official preliminaries to the national Miss Plus America Pageant. She has received numerous awards: Miss Plus America 2010 National Photogenic, SKORCH Magazine Cover Model, Plus Model Magazine Headshot Winner, Ms Personality at the 2009 Ms America Pageant and the Cherish A Jewel Life-Line Award to name a few. Latasha is currently a happy newlywed, mother, pageant director and TV Host for weekly community program. She lives her life by these two principles: Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing and The Best Is Yet to come! PACIFICPageants Magazine | 5
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March/April 2012 Cover Story
Up close with former Miss Washington USA, Lina Kay
PPM: So Lina how did you get started in pageantry? Lina Kay: I was always interested in the performing arts, and back in Ukraine, I was dancing, singing, and performing at various school events throughout my childhood. When I came to the United States though, at the age of twelve, I became very insecure because of the dramatic change in culture and language. It took me a few years before I even thought about going back up on the stage, and I don’t think I even would, had I not received an invitation, back in 2004, to participate in the National American Miss Washington pageant. I talked it over with my mom, and decided to give it a try the following year. PPM: Are your family and friends supportive of your pageant career?
Lina Kay: My mom, more than anyone, is extremely supportive of my pageant endeavors. She’s not a “pageant mom” by any means, but she supported me through the years because… well, she understands how important it is to be the support system for her children no matter what their interests are. The rest of my family and friends, while always being there for me to cheer me on, sometimes probably wonder if my love for pageants will ever go away. I’m officially done with competitions, but I can’t withdraw myself from the pageant world just yet. PPM: What was the first pageant you competed in and what was your experience?
Lina Kay: The very first time I competed was in 2005, in the National American Miss Jr. Teen pageant, in a group of 165(!) girls. Needless to say I got “lost” on stage. Didn’t make the semifinals in the optional or the overall categories, but I was, for some reason, giggling on stage as the non-finalists were doing their “good-bye” wave. Maybe it was because I was embarrassed to stand in front of hundreds of people, or maybe it was because I realized that this is exactly what I was looking for since I came to the USA. When I got the pageant DVD a few weeks later, I kept replaying it over and over again, to the point where I knew the names of all of the 165 girls; I studied all the little details, everything the NAM queens did and said, and practiced at imitating their behavior, all of which lead me to the top 15 the following year.
Lina Kay
Miss Washington
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n USA 2011 PACIFICPageants Magazine | 7
PPM: National American Miss (NAM) is an intense pageant system. How many times did you compete in NAM before you won and what was it like? Lina Kay: Three; I competed 2005 through 2008, skipping 2007. The third time I was competing I had very mixed emotions. I was glad to be back at the pageant, but at the same time I was a little upset because it was the last year that I could compete before aging out of the Teen division. I made top five in three different optional competitions, and felt very confident in my overall performance, but throughout the entire final pageant, I couldn’t get myself to get excited. Of course none of it showed on stage, because we all learn to fake our smiles at one point or another, but I felt very down on the inside. To be honest, when it came down to announcing the runner-ups and the eventual winner, I wasn’t even nervous. Not because I thought I had it in the bag, but because I think I just shut down emotionally. I didn’t even hit me till hours later when I was driving back home, while wearing my sash of course, that I realized what happened. I began crying like a little girl, because something that I wanted to have for so long was finally mine. PPM: What would your advice be to anyone considering competing in NAM pageant system?
Lina Kay: Take it as a learning experience, this is a time to grow and explore your abilities. What I like about NAM the most is that it offers opportunities to see yourself from different angles and really let you realize what you’re good at. I never knew I would enjoy public speaking as much till I entered the Spokesmodel competition. I also tried my skills in the talent competition … which only reinforced my stance on me being better at public speaking. Try all of the competitions they have to offer, because you would be surprised what you’re going to discover about yourself. Don’t be afraid of “failing,” you only fail when you fail to try. PPM: Why did you choose to compete in the Washington USA system?
Lina Kay: The reason why I actually decided to compete in the NAM program was so that it would prepare me for the Miss USA pageant. Ever since I saw Chelsea
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Cooley getting crowned in 2005, I knew that someday I would be one of those girls competing for that title. It was never a question of “if”, it was always a “when.” So I guess it would be safe to say that my plan all along was to go to Miss USA, but since I was too young to even enter to compete for the USA state title, I used NAM as an opportunity to get myself ready. PPM: How was competing in the USA system different from competing in NAM?
Lina Kay: The most obvious difference between the two pageants would be that of an inclusion of a swimsuit portion in the competition - you have to be very healthy and very fit to qualify for the Miss USA title. So of course much of my preparations for state and national pageant included workouts and sticking to a proper diet. But beyond that, Miss USA pageant is a competition of an international significance, and with over 90 countries watching worldwide, you have to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for all sorts of audiences. Unlike NAM, there’s no room for error at the Miss USA pageant. You’re there to show who you are and why you’re worthy of the crown. You only get one chance to do that, so naturally all of your life interests start to gravitate around the Miss USA competition. PPM: What would your advice be to anyone considering competing in the WA USA pageant system?
Lina Kay: Start preparing early. Whether it’s your body that you need to work on, or your wardrobe, or public speaking skills, you can never be too prepared for the competition. The last thing that you want to do is walk into the pageant knowing that you could have done a little more. Just like the Miss USA, Miss Washington USA is a competition of a different caliber, and you’re there to show the best of you, not the “we’ll see what happens” you. PPM: When you were announced Miss Washington USA, what was the first thought through your mind?
Lina Kay: As I was walking towards Tracy to be crowned, I vividly remember looking out, and seeing the lights and thinking, “I AM going to Miss WA USA!!” I’ve been dreaming of that moment for nearly five years, and for it to come true, especially in my first year competing in the USA system, was beyond belief. Just like at NAM, I didn’t really cry on stage during
Being crowned National American Miss Washington Teen - 2008
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Lina being crowned Miss Washington USA - 2011
crowning because I didn’t sink in right away. But the next day when I was driving to the photo-shoot for the new titleholders, I drove for about fifteen minutes, then looked over to the sash lying on the passenger’s seat, and started crying uncontrollably, kind of dangerous when you’re out on the road, but I couldn’t help myself. PPM: What did you have to do in preparation for Miss USA?
Lina Kay: Preparing for Miss USA, aside from Miss Universe, has got to be the most intense preparation you have to go through. No plastic surgeries or anything of that nature, but I did have to get my body in a nearly ideal shape, along with my skin, hair, nails, teeth, and basically anything else you can think of; it is a beauty competition after all. But that wasn’t as bad for me as the finding the appropriate wardrobe for a full three weeks! I arrived a few days early for the CHI photoshoot, and left a day after the pageant. The average number of pairs of shoes girls brought with them was about fifteen, with two times the number of outfits. So styling was more of a headache for me than workouts. And then of course the actual competitions – numerous hours of walking, turning, smiling, turning again, and walking some more were a significant part of my preparations. Then you turn into a little journalist and begin following all of the current events and establishing an opinion on them; you are dealing with a very diverse and a very opinionated audience at Miss USA. Basically, everything you do is done only because it will prepare you for Miss USA. Between appearances, preparations and everyday hassles, there was practically no time for friends or anything else. I felt like the amount of work I put into NAM competitions was about ten percent of what was needed for Miss USA.
PPM: What was your experience like in Las Vegas during the Miss USA Competition? Lina Kay: Three- four hours of sleep a night, constant traveling to different events, hours of walking in heels, all while always being camera ready. Sometimes when I watch the show ANTM, I think to myself that if those girls are models with their appearance, then USA girls must be supermodels with how polished they look any time of the day. It was an intense three weeks, a “beauty boot camp” as some have called it. We would have events as early as eight in the morning till as late at one o’clock, at night. Being able to take cat naps was what saved a lot of us. But as challenging and as exhausting it may have felt sometimes, I’m sure many of us would do it all over again had we been given the chance. PPM: Do you believe that pageantry has enhanced your life?
Lina Kay: Absolutely! For one, I am more confident in myself now. I can walk into any room, or any event, and be sure that I will be one of the most disciplined, polished and engaging ladies. I’ve learned to communicate my opinions clearly, yet in a very diplomatic way. I’m not afraid to approach others first, no matter who they may be, celebrities or not, and establish relationships on a personal and professional levels. And most of all, I’m proud of the fact that I’ve come to realize that no matter how seemingly unattainable a goal may be, no matter how challenging achieving it may seem, with enough dedication, drive and effort, it’s quite possible. PPM: What are you doing now?
Lina Kay: As of right now I am a full time student at Washington State University-Vancouver where I’m double majoring in Psychology and Spanish. I am planning on
studying abroad in the summer to better my Spanish speaking skills, and to explore a little more, once again. PPM: If you were to share your number one reason for young women to consider competing in a pageant, what would you tell them?
Lina Kay: Winning a pageant may not be for everyone, but competing in one certainly may. Year after year, when you ask girls what is the best part of the entire experience, almost everyone will say the friendships and relationships that you gain. And the same goes for me – some of the best people I’ve met in my life have come from the pageant world. After years of being a part of this environment, I can say that I know at least one person in each state, and at least one person in any professional field, be it law, medicine, or the performing arts. Pageants are one of the best ways to network and find the “right people” to help you achieve your goals. Winning a crown should never be the only reason for participating in a pageant, after all, there’s only one girl who wins it; it’s a waste of opportunity when you focus only on the destination instead of the journey. PPM: Where can we find you? Do you have a public website, Twitter or Facebook page?
Lina Kay: Yes, I have both Twitter and Facebook pages, as well as my blog that I’ve launched this summer. www.twitter.com/MissLinaKay www.facebook.com/AngelinaKayyalaynen www.linakay.blogspot.com
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Alex Carlson-Helo
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? I first started competing in the National American Miss(NAM) pageant when I was 13 years old. I fell in love with the feeling I got when I was up on the stage and felt like a princess in my gown. I decided to compete again the next year. I never won a NAM title but, I placed in the top 15 both years. I did well also in the talent and placed in the top 5, and won the modeling optional my first year. I took two years off, and then I decided to compete in a pageant again. I looked up different systems and found that the USA system fit me the best. So, I decided to compete for the title of Miss Washington Teen USA. PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? Standing up on that stage, with the bright lights I was MORE than nervous!! I had “visualized” for months what it would be like at the pageant and pretended that I was being crowned. How funny is that? But when the real time came and reality set in, I was a mess! Being called into top 10 released some stress, and then being announced into top 5 took a huge weight off my shoulders. But, I never thought I would be standing in the final two, waiting for the winner to be announced. I honestly don›t remember my crowning moment! I remember my first thought was “I DID IT!! YES, YES, YES!!!!» and the rest was kind of a blur. I am so thankful my Mom bought the video! I have to say, I look pretty amazed when I was being crowned! PPM: What is your Platform? The USA system doesn’t really require a defined platform, but I have a message that I want to get out to all the young 12 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight Miss Washington Teen USA
people! I work a lot with antiharassment issues and I was a victim of harassment. I was harassed by a student for over two years and it finally ended with police enforcement and several court cases. So, I started my own website called www.nofearjustfriends.com , which is a place where victims of harassment can seek advice and ask questions. It is also a place for kids that would like to make a difference to know how to help stop harassment. I received an email from a boy that had been harassed and was thanking me for my stand against bullies. That is incredibly exciting for me. I am currently working with my school district to start a club in the middle schools to pair up buddies with kids who are having issues at school. My passion for this issue is very personal and I hope during my year that I am able to reach out to as many kids that I can and spread my message of compassion and hope PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing at Miss Teen USA! The most exciting part so far was recently going to New York City!! I toured the Miss Universe Organization office and was thrilled to meet the staff. The pictures of past Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA were so fun to look at. While there, I was honored to model for Sherri Hill (I›m a HUGE fan) and had a photo shoot with Fadil Berisha. I›m working hard for Nationals and feel like this is a dream come true. Every day I want to pinch myself to make sure it is real. PPM: How can we find you? Follow me on twitter! @RealMissWAteen, like me facebook: www.facebook.com/MissWashingtonTeenUSA and check out my website: www.nofearjustfriends.blogspot.com
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Pacific Spotlight
Priya Gopal-Walker
NES NW Ultimate Grand Supreme
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant?
ing! I look forward to competing again next year and many years to come!
My first was in 2002, I was 4 years old.
PPM: How can we find you?
PPM: What is your Platform?
Find me on Facebook: Priya Gopal-Walker OR Google me: Priya Gopal-Walker
I founded a non-profit organization in 2010 called “DANCING DOE”. We support needy Native American families and children in the Pacific Northwest. In the first six months we raised $5,253.35 and had several very successful food and clothing drives that helped two amazing families. PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing at Nationals! The most exciting part about competing in NES State and Nationals was meeting so many supportive people and exceptional fellow contestants, whom I am so proud to call my dear friends. I now have some of the most amazing friends from, Alaska, Oregon, Utah, Connecticut, California, Washington D.C, and many more places throughout the U.S. We are all part of the NES sisterhood and regardless of who wins we are all extremely happy and supportive for each other. A few valuable life lessons I take away from from my pageant experiences, are that it enables me and all young girls from all walks of life and backgrounds the chance to gain exuberant amounts of self-confidence, as well as being a positive role model to other girls. We have numerous opportunities to show our maturity by working in our communities with various charitable organizations and special events. Everyone is always so positive and welcom-
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PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? My first pageant was National American Miss in 2007 when I was 7 years old. PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? I was so surprised when they called my name because I was one of the youngest in the preteen division. It took me a second to walk over to the reigning queen because I was still in shock. PPM: What is your Platform? My platform is gorilla conservation. I have partnered with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to raise awareness and money in hopes of continuing to keep the mountain gorillas safe from extinction. PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing at Nationals! The most exciting part of my journey has been all of the great opportunities I have been given. Seeing my idea for a fundraiser to raise money for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund become a successful reality, getting the opportunity to volunteer in my own community, and placing 2nd runner up in the national Volunteer Service for my efforts was so incredible. 14 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight Madeline Monlux
National American Miss Oregon Preteen
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Pacific Spotlight
Macy Berg
Queens for a Cure Jr. Teen
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? My first time competing in a pageant was when I was nine years old. It the Miss Aquafest Pageant in Lake Stevens and I actually had won it. After only seeing Toddlers and Tiaras this got my mom and I thinking, “Wow, this really isn’t all that bad.” But my first time competing in a big pageant was when I was 11 at All American Girl State. I must admit, I had no clue what I was doing; I just came to have fun (which I did). But after meeting many moms and daughters willing to help us, within a short time, I was at my AGame, and still am going strong. PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? My first thought was, “Finally!” In every pageant for the last year I have competed in I was 1st runner up. I had just been waiting for my special moment that every girl is bound to have. But when they called my name as Queens for a Cure Jr. Teen, I realized that was my moment. I’ll never forget all of the moms and daughters in the auditorium screaming their lungs out because they knew how bad I wanted this PPM: What is your Platform? My platform is cancer awareness in the most important cause in our lives because it doesn’t only affect us, but the people around us too. PPM: How can we find you? Facebook me at: www.facebook.com/MacyBerg
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PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? I was ten years old. It was a Junior America Pageant. I made it to the semi-finals, but had to give it up because of the expense to my family. I told myself that someday I would be back to compete at a national level. It only took 20 years!
PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? Thank you Jesus! This had been such a prayer of mine for so many years now, it was amazing for the Lord to reveal himself to me in this way by allowing me the crown this year. He really does hear your prayers and answer them in His time.
PPM: What is your Platform? My platform is called «Massage on a Mission» I educate people about the many benefits to massage therapy as an alternative to pain medication or other medicines that can be harmful to you. I also donate chair massage to various non-profit organizations and charities to help them raise funds.
PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing in the Mrs. America pageant! I was just crowned in November, but so far I would have to say riding the Zamboni at an Everett Silver Tips hockey 16 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight Jessica Riggs
Mrs. Washington America
game. I so enjoyed seeing so many of my friends and people in my community at Comcast Arena. Also, I loved traveling to Orlando to watch the Mrs. World competition. It was so inspiring to see April Luifru win the title of Mrs. World. It made me want to work even harder this year to do well at nationals. There are some big shoes to fill that’s for sure!
PPM: How can we find you? You can contact me at www.jessicariggsmrswa.com
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Pacific Spotlight
Gabbriella Sturgill Miss Idaho High America
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? My first pageant ever was when I was 10 and it was NAM Washington state. I heard about it two weeks in advance and asked my mom if I could do it, and she said no. So I of course did what any girl would do I asked my daddy, and he said yes. That was the start of me doing pageants, but of course my mom now supports me in pageants and helps me along the way.
PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? Well I actually competed in the Washington High school pageant, and I was honored with first runner- up. Upon receiving that I was presented with the opportunity to compete at the national pageant as Miss Idaho High School.
PPM: What is your Platform? My platform is helping kids reach their full potential, by giving them a normal childhood. I work closely with Seattle’s Union Gospel mission by teaching a dance class bi weekly, running a bible study, and tutoring the children. It is a great amount of fun and I love all the kids I am blessed to work with.
PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing at Miss High school!
The most exciting part is the fact that I get to travel to Texas with my mommy; it will be a fun girls week and both of our first times traveling to Texas.
PPM: How can we find you? You can find me on Facebook: Gabby Sturgill, I also have a website sturgillsisters.com to help promote my community service, and feel free to email me at gsturgill52@gmail. com!
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PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? This is my first time competing in a pageant ever. I am a model/Producer and Spokes Person for Soles4Souls and wanted to find another avenue to give back to my community. I have produced fashion shows to raise money for nonprofit like the American Foundation for children with Aids. PPM: What is your Platform? Soles4Souls.org - Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based charity that collects shoes from the warehouses of footwear companies and the closets of people like you. The charity distributes these shoes to people in need, regardless of race, religion, class, or any other criteria. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has delivered over 16 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes. I am also their Spokes Person! Follow the link: www.soles4souls.org/friends/spokespersons/ lewis_nicola.html and you can see my bio on their website! PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing at Mrs. OR International!
The most exciting part of my journey is the opportunity to give back! I feel very passionate about Soles4Souls and challenge myself new ways to promote their cause. So weather I’m speaking at an event on their behalf or producing one myself, I use the pageant as a vessel to get the word out. My deepest intention is to use my beauty as a gateway to give back. With Sponsors like Pearl MedSpa, Marie Saturn with Saturn Style Studios, Brent Barnett with OSI photography, Sophie Chang Bridal and Lianas 18 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight
Nicola Lewis
Mrs. Tulatin International
Boutique I feel blessed. I have immense support from both family and friends! How can one not be excited:) PPM: How can we find you? Below you will find the links to facebook & my blog: Facebook: Nicola Lewis Nicolalewis.blogspot.com
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PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? At the age of four a modeling and talent agency signed me and I started acting and modeling. I absolutely loved being on stage and performing so my parents looked for more opportunities for me to perform. We watched Miss America on TV and I told my mom I wanted to be Miss America and asked her if Miss America could be 4 years! She looked for children pageants and we went and watched one. After that I begged my mom to let me compete too! When I was little I competed in some semi glitz pageants and then we found natural pageants and I’ve been competing in natural and scholarship pageants since. PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? I was nervous and excited waiting to find out who won the Overall Miss Raindrop title. I so wanted it to be me but I had a lot of doubt since I had came in 1st runner up in the last few pageants I had entered! When Shawna called my name I was shocked, excited, thankful, happy, ecstatic and a bit sad too! Some of my very wonderful pageant sisters were competing too and I felt sad for them. When I entered the Raindrop Pageant, one of the requirements was to make a movie telling a little about me. I shared my passion of dance and that I am an 8th generation Oregonian, I have rain in my veins! So I am very proud to be Miss Raindrop! PPM: What is your platform? My platforms are Turning Disabilities into Abilities and B.I.D. - Believe in Differences. Overcoming the challenges
Pacific Spotlight Alaina McKinnon
Miss Raindrop
of Dyslexia and having an older brother with Autism has given me the passion to become an advocate and mentor. I want to encourage people to discard labels and the idea that people with differences are disabled. Some of this world’s most influential and memorable people would now be and are labeled disabled and yet they have contributed priceless treasures of art, entertainment, and life changing inventions! Their differences were nurtured and they were allowed to blossom. Just imagine the possibilities if instead of limiting people by labeling we encouraged, fostered and nurtured their talents, gifts and abilities!? PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing? I’ve had a wonderful year so far! Right after I won we went to Seaside, Oregon to be in their Queens Parade and watch the Miss Oregon and Oregon’s Outstanding Teen pageants. Raindrop’s royalty and I have had a great time getting to know each other at several other parades, we even won a blue ribbon! I have been working with the local food bank and am currently helping collect toys and food for Christmas boxes. In February I will start recruiting pageant sisters, friends and family to walk with me and raise funds and awareness for the Portland Autism walk! I’m really looking forward to the regional pageants that we are going to have! I can’t wait to have more pageant sisters and making new friends! PPM: How can we find you? Facebook? Twitter? Website? http://raindroppageantsnw.webs.com Raindroppageantsnw on Facebook
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PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? I have competed in pageants since the age of 14. My first pageant was for a modeling group called “Pacesetter” and for a year we modeled in the local Montgomery Ward Store. Then I went on to Miss Teen World where I placed Top 10 out of 120. At the age of 24 I competed for Miss Oregon USA and was selected Miss Congeniality (they called it Miss Amity and the funny thing was that there is a City in Oregon called Amity so people thought I was from there). In 1996 I decided to return to pageants as a married woman so I entered the Mrs. Oregon International pageant, I placed 3rd runner up. I entered to meet other ladies that had children and chose to stay home. It was amazing because I made some great lifelong friends that I still have today! In 1997 and 1998 I tried again but my top placement in ’98 was 2nd runner up. I felt it was time to move to another system and went on to Mrs. Globe and placed in the Top 12 winning the Philanthropy and Congeniality awards as well. In the meantime I began coaching with much success. I began to feel that coaching was my gift; I continue to coach today. I competed at Mrs. United States in 2001 and won the National Community Service award for my work with the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation. I was entered in the Mrs. Oregon America Pageant in 2003 but was told there wasn’t going to be a pageant. With much prayer and consideration I moved on to direct for Mrs. America Pageant as the Oregon director for 10 years. In November of 2010 I retired from directing so that I could fulfill my dream of becoming Mrs. Oregon America. I went back to compete this year, after losing 30 lbs, competing 20 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight Libby Crawford
Ms Oregon America
for Mrs. Oregon America 2012 where I placed 1st runner up and won the best dressed, most years married and community service awards. I also place 1st in Interview and Evening Gown and 2nd in Swimsuit (an accomplishment all on its own as I am 47 and 6 of the 8 were under 30). Currently I have accepted the title of Ms Oregon America 2012 and will compete for the National Competition in March of 2012 in Anaheim California an opportunity to continue my advocacy for children with special needs and the hungry in our community. I also work to improve my online gown shop for new and gently worn attire and accessories at www.gowncloset.com giving ladies and opportunity to purchase directly from the seller with not middle entity. PPM: What is your Platform and how do plan to use your title to support it? My family and I have been serving the Oregon Food Bank since 2002. While I was directing the Mrs. Oregon Pageant I really felt it necessary to give back. We have been honored with the highest award for volunteerism, the Stone Soup Award, in 2009 by the Oregon Food Bank. Today I am on their speakers bureau and speak about the need for Food, Money, Time, and Voice to help end hunger here in our state. My goal is to win the national title and give myself an opportunity to work with Feeding America and bringing the attention to the importance of battling hunger in our country, a country of plenty! I also advocate for children with Learning Differences. My daughter suffered a hearing lose as an infant. It wasn’t until I insisted ...continued on next page
PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
Pacific Spotlight
Nicole Renard
Miss Washington Outstanding Teen
...continued from previous page
that she be tested, 4 years old, that it was discovered. The hearing was corrected but it caused a significant learning delay. In order for her to be helped with an individual education plan we had to label her Mentally Retarded. I was devastated by this term and made it my mission to make a change. Along with my daughter, who is now 16, we were able to find a Senator to sponsor a bill, drafted after a similar Law Rosa’s Law, and help us through the process of making it Law. I am proud to say this 10 month journey ended in July of 2011 with Katey’s Law making a significant change in the way children are labeled. No longer can they use the words Mentally Retarded when placing a child on an IEP (Individual Education Plan) it now is referred to as Intellectual Disability. PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your journey to competing at Ms America! Have you seen that crown? WOW! Really, the most exciting part to me isn’t the crown or banner, it is the opportunity to continue to bring light to the need for taking care of our own children in America that are hungry each and every day. Oregon is #1 in food insecurity among children, that is not something to be proud of but we can make a change. My husband and I tear up to think that a parent has to tuck a hungry child into bed at night; no parent wants to make that choice! I believe as Libby Crawford I can do, and have proven I can, anything I put my mind to, but this opportunity to win this title will bring the awareness to a larger audience. Just as your magazine with do for many titleholders to come.
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? My very first pageant was when I was in the 5th grade. I competed as a Jr. Pre-teen in National American Miss.
PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? It was a mix of, “Did this really just happen?!” “My sister is crowning me!” “I’m going to Florida!” and “God is so good!”
PPM: What is your Platform? My platform is “Hope For a Cure: Teens Against Cancer”. I chose this platform in honor of my 13 year old cousin MaKenna who recently passed away from AML leukemia. I have been spreading awareness of the importance of cancer research to many teens my age.
PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your
journey to competing at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen? I think the most exciting part was the learning process. I look back on pictures and videos from when I first started to compete in the Outstanding Teen program and the growth I see is tremendous! I have benefited in so many other aspects of my life because of this program and met so many people that will stay in my life forever!
PPM: How can we find you?
PPM: How can we find you?
My Facebook page is Ms Oregon America where you can keep track of my journey. I have a blog for my coaching at mrsoregonpageant@blogspot.com also my Twitter account name is LibbycOregon.
I do have a Facebook “Miss Washington’s Outstanding Teen Organization” page. You can keep up with what I am doing and where I’m at on my blog http://mwot2011. wordpress.com/! PACIFICPageants Magazine | 21
PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant? My very first time doing a pageant was 2009, for the National American Miss Pageant.
PPM: What was your first thought when you heard you won? I was so excited and overwhelmed that the only thing that really hit me at the time was my name being called. I couldn’t believe that I was the next Miss Oregon Teen for the All American Girl system. It wasn’t until dinner then it sank it and I was so trilled I couldn’t sit still.
PPM: What is your Platform? My Platform is Operation Movie Drop an organization I created. My mission is to send new or used DVD’s with note of encouragement to soldiers overseas. These little bits of entertainment take their minds off their jobs for a little while and help improve their morale. Their well being is near and dear to my heart, I understand from my own experience with my family how important these movies can be. When I was first getting started with my foundation, Major Doyle, of Beaverton, helped mentor me in the organization in my foundation resulting in his endorse22 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight
Tabetha Schulz
All American Girl, Oregon Miss Teen Queen
ment on my project, as well as support from Representative Shawn Lindsay. Both have inquired about hosting a drop box, one for city hall, and one for the state capital. I organize notes of encouragement to be written by members of our community. I encourage my peers to show their gratitude by getting involved. Being able to give back with something as little as a movie means so much to me. Just being able to help in some way gives me such a great feeling and sense of pride.
PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your competition journey! Everything of course! But, my favorite thing would have to be the simple things. Such as volunteering, I love to see people’s faces light up when I do something as simple as donate a can for a can food drive. Seeing how I can positively affect others is priceless and something I will carry with me forever.
PPM: How can we find you? You can find me on Facebook. I have a page called Tabetha’s Talk, it is all about my journeys and adventures through my year as Miss Oregon. And it also has opportunities for people all over to volunteer for local organizations.
PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
Pacific Spotlight
PPM: When was your first time competing in a pageant?
The Mrs. Washington International 2012 Pageant will be my first competition. And I was solely, inspired to enter for my platform. I am a Fibromyalgia Warrior! Because of this, I am raising awareness as an Advocate for Fibromyalgia Awareness, Research & Funding.
PPM: What is your Platform? Fibromyalgia’s definition is as follows: chronic widespread pain, multiple tender points, abnormal pain processing, sleep disturbances, fatigue and often psychological distress. For those with severe symptoms, fibromyalgia can be extremely debilitating and even interfere with life’s basic daily activities. Fibromyalgia is one of the most common chronic pain conditions in the world. Unfortunately, an estimated 3-6% of the world’s population and 10 million Americans alone are diagnosed by this disorder. Even though it is most common in women (about 90%), people of all ages and ethnic groups suffer from this condition which has no cure. Traumatic events have been known to trigger Fibromyalgia. But then, often times we see this disorder in families, among siblings, mothers and their children. Which is my situation, and why I chose to go way beyond my comfort zone, enter this pageant and hopefully inspire others. My grandma, mom, sister and I all have Fibromyalgia.
Desiree Quinn
Mrs. Clark County International
system. However, since then I have learned pageants are an amazing opportunity for developing confidence, poise and speaking skills. I have had to also learn how to market myself as an individual. I have had to dig deep to find myself worth while trying to gain sponsorships, media coverage and support for my cause. I have always been someone who has not wanted to ask others for help, but when you are dealing with charity work and advocacy, that is not the way it works! Connect with Desiree! Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/pages/MrsClark-County-International/176741459069572 Twitter- @desireequinn
Website- Mrs. Washington International Pageant- http:// www.orpageants.com/
PPM: Tell us the most exciting part about your competition journey!
I would have to say the most exciting thing about my journey to compete in the Mrs. Washington International Pageant is that when I joined this competition, I only wanted one thing, and that was to advocate for Fibromyalgia Awareness, Research & Funding. I just wanted to spread my message and this gave me a vehicle, because International Pageants, Inc. is such a platform based pageant PACIFICPageants Magazine | 23
PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
PPM: What led you to start your system? I wanted a system that girls and woman can be themselves and show personality and wear clothes that are trendy and fun and still the natural element just with more sparkle and personality then the typical natural systems.
PPM: What are the details of your system: areas of competition, age divisions etc. Regal Majesty has prelim all over the NW and at the prelim levels we do beauty , fun fashion and onstage question and introduction, at the finals in march the girls will do the same categories but will have to do interview ,plus lots of fun optionals like theme wear , modeling,mom and me ect. our age divisions are 0-2 3-4 5-6 7-9 10 -12 13-15 16-18 and 19 plus (no age limit)
PPM: What is the mission behind Regal Majesty? Regal Majesty believes everyone is royalty , everyone nor just the high point winners and queens are special and I as the director take a active role and try to get to know each family, My goal this March during my Royal finals ,I 24 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Pacific Spotlight
Regal Magesty Pageant System
want each girl to have a wonderful time and walk saying I had the best time ever, I love my crown ,sash ,gifts more gifts and realize that pageantry can be a great builder of friendships and self esteem.
PPM: What is the pageant Platform or supported charities? Regal Majesty believes in doing community service and , the very 1st Regal Majesty prelim in Mount Vernon was in honor of Domestic Violence services ,I gave 100% of all proceeds to DVS after the pageant. Our prelims always have a community service aspect like toys for tots , Food for lane County, Local food banks, back to school supplies for schools in need etc.
PPM: Tell us what a girl can look forward to in your specific system! Besides the huge crowns, and rhinestone sashes, rhinestone tee shirts, HUGE crowns, trophies, gifts and special surprises, amazing party planned for finals, the list goes on and on, I plan to pull out all the stops, hope to see you there!.
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PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
Interview 101 Tom Lamoureux
Introducing “Interview 101”
A common question everyone always seems to ask. “Oh my gosh, interview, what am I going to wear?”
Of course a great question, and yes one you should spend time on planning, trying on, making sure you look your best. Now, not being a fashion guru I cannot say as to the best colors, styles, blends, and anything else that goes into deciding wardrobe for you. But there are great people out there who can and will help. Clerks at your favorite clothing stores are great helpers, family and friends too. But insist they be honest with you, and you must be clear explaining exactly what you are looking for and why. So let’s say you have studied the rules for your particular system, and know they have recommended a certain “air” of dressing for the interview. Weather it is business, business casual, non -busi ness but sunny, fun, flirty, conversational, or anything else, you need to know and follow the rules. You may know from previous experience that the interviews will be one on one, or panel, or a number of contestant’s at the same time. It is also important to know if you will be standing or sitting. And if standing, will you be behind a podium, or in the
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open? And if sitting, will you be sitting at a table, or at a chair in the middle of the room?
So, back to what to wear? In judging a number of systems over the years, the director usually has some useful knowledge to share with the judges as to the rules and regulations in which they are governed. Interview can be a large part of your overall score so you really want to “get it right.” Depending on your age, I’d say dress “following the rules,” of course as you would for a job interview. For the younger girls, dress in something you would wear out to a fancy dinner with family, or to a special day at church. In interview you will be as close physically, to the judges as you will be throughout the pageant. So what you wear will say a lot about you, should compliment you, and should excite the judge’s curiosity in getting to know more about you. Follow these few simple ground rules and you will be amazing!
Does this fit me? Remember the old adage, dress for success? The fit should be ideal, both in sitting and or standing. Nothing too tight or revealing in any areas. If you are borrowing something ask if it’s ok to have altered. If not, and it hangs loose, or does not fit right do not wear it.
Be modest: Enough said.
Colors: Colors are great, white and black work when accentuated with other colors. Have fun with the outfit. Remember this is an interview, not a rock concert.
Shoes: Should always compliment the outfit. Closed toe, open toe, again, know the rules keeping in mind the look you really want. Look at the shoes, look at the outfit and ask yourself, would I wear this to a job interview? Accessories: Jewelry is usually fine, but be careful overdoing it or wearing that which clinks together making noise, or items that temp you to want to play or fidget with them.
Makeup: Less is better, and always age appropriate. You know yourself and your face. Remember you will be in close proximity to the judges. This is not a photo-shoot, don’t overcompensate. And please tone down the perfume, or wear none. We know you will smell great, but let’s not have your perfume arrive before you. The Overall Look: Model your choice for friends, and family. Have photos taken of you in the outfit from the front, back and sides, both sitting and standing. Then compare all the photos. You will know immediately if this is the outfit for you! And finally, have fun with the outfit. You probably have that outfit in your closet already just waiting for you. Be comfortable in the outfit, making sure it fits in all the right places. Make sure it’s “age appropriate.” Don’t tailor it down, or glitz it up, unless for the right reasons. Go for your own look. Be proud, be confident, and remember, “You are what you wear.” -Tom
Tom Lamoureux has lived in the Northwest since 1970 and was introduced to the world of pageantry in 1982 when working with the Everett Chamber of Commerce. A local pageant, part of a national system came to Everett and requested local judge recommendations from the Chamber. Tom recruited some friends and they agreed to judge if he would. So the rest is history. He loved the judging aspect and seeing the difference a weekend would make with the girls. “It is just amazing, and I see that to this day, their entire personas can change in a day, or weekend.” At the time he was
also teaching JA “Junior Achievement” in a local middle school, and most of the things the kids were learning about setting goals, planning, being your best, staying positive, working hard, making friends, smiling, walking, caring, dressing for success, etc. all seemed to blend together, and he realized that there really was something to this strange pageant world. He then began travelling to other states to judge, judging a number of different systems, and becoming a judge’s coordinator. Later he became a pageant state director, and still helps other directors whenever he can.
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...imagine the
possibilities!
www.b7designs.com
| Web | Print | Media | & | Marketing Services | 28 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
PACIFICPageants Magazine | 29
Presents Winning Wardrobe A fashion spread reflecting winning style gowns for all ages and body types. Christella’s has your choice gown from glitz to natural, from youth to Mrs., from sizes 0-26. The Christella’s team has a sterling record of wardrobing any body type including alterations to make sure you have that perfect fit to walk the stage in confidence.
Each issue, Winning Wardrobe will reflect a different designer or retailer based in our region showing diverse aspects of the pageantry wardrobe! We will also use models of all ethnicities, ages and body types including titleholders you will know! It’s important to PACIFICPageants that YOU can see yourself in these fashions and invest in the amazing options we have right here in the Pacific Northwest!
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Winning Wardrobe
PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
Terry & Judy Wright
Pageantry’s Dynamic Duo & the Team Behind “Winning Wardrobe”
PPM: What inspired you to do pageant photography, Hair and Makeup? We have been involved in pageants for over 30 years in one facet or another. It eventually led us to starting our own full time business. With Judy working as a professional makeup artist and Terry a freelance photographer, we eventually merged our talents as we saw a need to provide all aspects of pageant services and preparation such as head shots, official crown and banner shots, autograph cards, hair, makeup, spray tanning, coaching, etc. PPM: What was the first pageant you did and what was your experience? Miss Universe 1996 in Las Vegas, NV. With Terry being a former police officer, he was asked to set down his camera and work security for the three weeks of Miss Universe personally escorting judges, etc. so we both worked behind the scenes. PPM: Tell us your history in Las Vegas and what brought you to Seattle? Las Vegas is home to various National Pageant competitions such as Miss USA, Miss America and Mrs. United States to name a few. While we enjoyed our time there, we felt there was more opportunity here in the northwest for pageant opportunities as well as family ties. PPM: What makes you stand out against the others in the industry?
Our combined years of pageant experience and that we have been married for 27 years. The ‘husband and wife’ aspect gives us an edge as we work together very well. We also have four children and so we are comfortable working with clients of all ages. We know what the other is thinking and looking for. This enables us to bring out the individuality of each client making their photos unique. PPM: What other pageant winners and systems have you been a part of? Some of the pageant systems we have worked with are Mrs. United States, Miss America, Miss USA, Mrs., Miss & Teen California International, Mrs. Nevada International, Miss Nevada High School America, Mrs. Nevada-America and the Teen Nevada Princess pageants to name a few. Some of our clients and/or winners include: Mrs. International 2007, Miss Oregon 2010, Mrs. Nevada-America 2010, Mrs. Louisiana International 2010, Mrs. Cuba International 2010, Mrs. California International 2012, Miss Nevada Jr. High School America 2011, Miss Nevada High School America 2011, etc. We were awarded the cover of the Mrs. Nevada-America 2011 Program Book with our photo of Mrs. Nevada-America 2010. PPM: How can we find you? Our website is: www.terrywrightphotography.com
Email us at: terryzmail@gmail.com or judysmakeup@
gmail.com
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Night Moves * 6403 * black, turquoise * size 2-26 32 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Party Time Prima Donna * 5611 * red or white * 0-14
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(L) Party Time Prom & Plus * 6821 * platinum, pink or yellow multi * 2-26 (C) Party Time Perfect Angels * 1432 * white, pink, ocean blue * 2-14 girls (R) Evenings by Allure * A506 * jersey black or purple * 0-32 PACIFICPageants Magazine | 35
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(L) Party Time Perfect Angels * 1410 * pink, white, aqua * 2-14 girls (C) Night Moves Plus * 6506W * Emerald, Yellow * 14w-32w (R) Night Moves Plus * 6516w * coral or navy * 14w-32w PACIFICPageants Magazine | 37
(L) Night Moves * 6496 * as shown * 0-32 (R) Party Time Perfect Angels * 1423 * pink or aqua * 2-14 girls 38 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
(L) Riva * 7462 * Purple or white * 14w-26w (R) Evenings by Allure * A536 * black or white * 0-32
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Party Time Prima Donna * 5587 * turquoise or black * 0-14
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(L) Party Time Perfect Angels * 1408 * fuchsia/pink or turquoise/aqua * 2-14 girls (R) Night Moves * 6400 * yellow, turquoise or fuchsia * 2-26
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L--->R Party Time Pre Teen * 1448 * fuchsia/orange or turquoise/purple * 6-16 girls Party Time Pre Teen * 1439 * royal or fuchsia * 6-16 girls Night Moves * 6491 * blk, fuchsia, yellow or white * 0-32 Party Time Perfect Angels * 1405 * ocean/turquoise or fuchsia/pink * 2-14 girls 42 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
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Night Moves 6405 * red. black or print * 0-32 44 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
Party Time Prima Donna * 5617 * white or deep turquoise * 0-14
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L ---->R Scala * 47325 * pink * 0-16 Party Time regular & plus size * 6813 * black/white or white/white * 2-26 Party Time Pre Teen * 1440 * pink or turquoise * 6-16 girls Party Time Exclusive * Rainbow Cheetah * 0-14 Scala * 47252 * Led * 0-16
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(L) Dana Mathers * Cassie* fuchsia, blue, white, yellow, white, black, turquoise, purple or coral blush * 2-16 (C) Party Time Prima Donna * 5599 * black or red (R) Party Time Plus * 6528 * red or emerald * 14w-30w PACIFICPageants Magazine | 49
L --->R Night Moves * 6432 * blue or pink * 0-32 Night Moves * 6454 * black, turquoise or charcoal * 0-32 Party Time * 6711 * hot pink or turquoise * 0-20 Party Time * 6741 * black or platinum * 0-16 Night Moves * emerald or turquoise * 0-32 50 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
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Front Party Time Pre Teen * white/blk or red * 6-16 girls (L) Blush * 0234 * fuchsia * 0-32 Back * Scala * Q4144 * Blk/silver, turq/blue * 0-16 (R) Night Moves * 6439 * sky, pink or white * 0-32 52 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
(L front) Night Moves * 6460 * orange, yellow, watermelon, white, blue, print or purple print * 0-32 (L top) Party Time * 6802 * midnight/silver or purple/silver * 0-20 (R top) Party Time Plus * 6551 * ocean or fuchsia * 14w-26w (R front) custom Sherri Hill Little Girls PACIFICPageants Magazine | 53
L ---->R Party Time * 6741 * black or platinum * 0-16 Party Time Perfect Angels * 1423 * pink or aqua * 2-14 girls Night Moves * 6457 * emerald or turquoise * 0-32 Scala* E01015 * Led * 0-16 54 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
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PAGEANTS
PACIFIC
Health & Fitness
Magazine
Bekah Baker
BUILDING your body BETTER with BEKAH!
MY BODY BETTER?
Yep, that’s right… YOUR body better.
FEELING better, WORKING better & last but not least LOOKING better too!
“Well I like my body just fine!” I’m glad to hear it! But be honest with yourself. Maybe you love how you LOOK, but do you LOVE how you feel? Would it be nice to have a little more energy? Be stronger? Or maybe like me, you’ve had a kid or two (or four) & don’t love how you look OR feel & you’re sick & tired of being sick & tired & READY FOR A CHANGE!
A close friend of mine said the other day “Bekah, I just want to know what life would like if I was FINE! You know? Not skinny. Just healthy, energetic & FEELIN’ FABULOUS!”
So how do we find OUR best bodies? That was my question about a year ago & the answers I discovered I will be sharing with you every month! Do I have all the answers? Nope! (But don’t tell my kids that!) What I DO have is my journey & ALL the lessons I’ve picked up & learned the HARD way!
This isn’t about being a certain size or even a certain weight. No, THIS is about being HEALTHY, STRONG & 56 | PACIFICPageants Magazine
generally FABULOUS! Filled with energy & ready to live your BEST life in YOUR best body… inside & out!
possible… It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey!
S * E * X * Y!
NEXT MONTH:
It’s about being sexy baby! Yea I said it! SWAG
ENERGY
X-FACTOR YOUTH
We’ll cover more of what these words mean & the POWER in figuring out how to practically apply them to YOUR life! People like to separate how you look with how you feel but we know better! NO MATTER what SIZE you are when you FEEL good ROCK it! I hope every month to encourage, inspire, motive & equip you to discover how to build the BEST version of YOU BREAKFAST OMELET
1/2 cup red onion 1/2 cup chopped green pepper 5 egg whites 2 eggs
In Strength & Love, Bekah
Exercise SMARTER not HARDER!
QUICK TIP:
Always have protein with every meal!
Protein helps you keep your muscle mass and encourages fat burning while keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Protein sources:
fish, chicken breast, turkey breast, lean red meat, skim milk, Greek yogurt, eggs and egg substitutes, tofu, beans/lentils READY IN MINUTES MEALS 6oz of chicken or turkey sausage 1/2 cup favorite salsa 2T feta cheese
Spray pan with non-stick spray. Sautee onions & peppers until lightly browned. Set aside. Sautee sausage until cooked through. Add onions & peppers. Mix. Set all aside. Lower heat.
Spray pan w/ nonstick spray & pour egg white/eggs into pan. Cover & let set for 2-3min. Add 1T of Feta cheese to one side of egg. Add meat/veggies on top. Top off with remaining Feta cheese. Fold empty egg half over the meat/cheese. Take pan off heat & cover for 3-5min. Enjoy!
Dear Bekah,
How do you deal with friends & family that are not only unsupportive of living a healthy lifestyle, but negative & discouraging? Sometimes I feel so isolated trying to eat healthy while Aunt or Cousin So & So is telling me to stop being vain & eat something fried, battered or glazed! *Still want to be normal*
Dear Still want to be normal,
Boy do I understand where you’re coming from! I think the first thing to remember is that this that this is YOUR PERSONAL journey. What I have found is people who are unsatisfied with their lives will try to discourage those of us who are actively making ours better! The whole “crabs in the pot” mentality. People don›t like to be reminded that we all have a choice. Life doesn’t just happen to us. My choice is to eat the healthier option & FEEL better. Auntie›s choice might be different. That’s okay.
If you want different results you have to make different choices! You job isn’t to make others feel better about THEIR choices but to always make the BEST choices for YOURSELF!
About Bekah Baker:
Bekah resides in Bellevue WA with Keith her husband of 13 years & their 4 kids. In 2010 Bekah found herself unhappy with how she looked and sick and tired of being sick and tired. So she set out on a quest to get her body back! Along the way she discovered she not only found a body way better than the one she lost but also found her authentic self. She has stopped apologizing and started embracing and walking boldly in the destiny God is showing her. Bekah started a blog called “A Mama Bringing Sexy Back” to share with others a no-holds-barred perspective of her journey. She is now co-owner of Pro Body Supplements, a National NPC Bikini Competitor, & Fitness & Commercial Model among other things! For more info about Bekah go to
www.BekahBaker.com or www.ProBodySupplements.com
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Www.BEKAH BAKER.COM "A Mama Bringing Sexy Back!"
NATIONAL NPC BIKINI COMPETITOR… CO-OWNER OF PRO BODY SUPPLEMENTS… HEALTH & FITNESS EDITOR… MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER… FITNESS/COMMERCIAL MODEL & SPOKESMODEL…
Mom of 4 kids!
FIND ME ON FACEBOOK!
BEKAH BAKER
To book Bekah for Modeling or Motivational Speaking please contact her at www.BekahBaker.com
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PACIFIC
PAGEANTS
Magazine
Ask Laura Laura Hunter
Introducing “Ask Laura”
When I was asked to write this column I was told to choose a question that I am commonly asked to kick off my first assignment. There are so many choices from preparation to costuming to exercise and hair and make-up. However, there is one question that I seem to hear over and over again. That is, “How do I curl my hair?” I know, it doesn’t seem as important as how to ace an interview or write the perfect pageant resume but almost every contestant needs to curl her hair and very few know how to achieve beautiful curls. After all, rolling your hair is the first step to having a beautiful pageant hair style. This guide will help you create a great foundation for your next winning hair do. First you will need a set of hot rollers. Do not use sponge rollers because the curl will be too tight. If your hair is thicker than average or longer then the bottom of your shoulder blades you’ll need 2 sets of curlers. My favorite is Remington Tightcurls (all blue rollers). They work well because all of the rollers are the same size and they heat well. Larger rollers will make hair wavier while smaller curlers create curls or ringlets. Next you will need a set of roller clips. They can be purchased at most drug stores and beauty supply stores. You will need the same
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number of clips as you have curlers. You will also need a comb or brush and a bottle of Nexxus Heat Protexx Heat Protection Styling Spray. Many sources recommend Redkin Hot Sets. I prefer Nexxus because it leaves the curls soft and manageable while the Redkin product leaves the hair very crunchy. 1: Plug in hot rollers. Leave the lid on for hotter rollers.
2: Blow-dry clean hair or brush through slightly dirty hair. Slightly dirty hair tends to style well as long as you do not have greasy hair. If your hair runs toward greasy on the second day you’ll need to wash it before curling. 3: Separate hair into three sections, left, middle and right, and clip two sections up.
4: Start at the front of the middle section and use a comb to select a 2-inch long by ½ inch wide section from the top of the unclipped
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hair. Comb it a few times to release any knots or tangles. Spray the section with Nexxus Heat Protexx Heat Protection Styling Spray. Do not saturate the hair but do spray enough to cover the hair on both sides.
5: Place the roller 2 inches above the end of the separated section, and wrap the bottom of the strand around the roller. Be careful not to bend the hair at the bottom. This creates the look of fish hooks in the bottom of the hair. 6: Roll back toward the scalp so that the entire section of hair is wrapped around the roller tightly.
7: Secure the roller with a clip unless it is in the front. If the curl is in the front use 2 roller pins, on the sides, to avoid making dents in the hair. Repeat with each section, curling from front to back, until your entire head is in curlers. 8: Let the curlers set at least 20 minutes or until your head is cool.
10: Spray lightly with hairspray to set the curls before styling.
Ask Laura is written by Laura Hunter. Laura has been involved in pageantry as a photographer, hair and make-up artist, contestant and coach for over 15 years. She has held numerous state and national titles and currently holds the title of Mrs. Washington International.
-Laura
A successful actress and model, Laura has appeared in television commercials and print ads for many companies. She has been featured in national ad campaigns
9: Remove curlers carefully by twirling them out of the hair to keep the ringlet
These steps can also be used to curl any human hair wig, extension, fall or wiglet. Do not use hot rollers on synthetic hair. It can melt. When you put rollers on your hair pieces the best way to stabilize your hair is to use a mannequin head with a clamp. The set can be purchased at Sally’s Beauty Supply for under $10. Use wig pins to pin the hair to the mannequin head and clamp it to a table or counter. This method is also convenient for styling your hair pieces prior to wearing them.
Laura is a successful photographer and has owned her business, Beyond Photography, for the past 17 years. Her work has won countless awards, been featured by nearly all of the major pageant systems in the US and appeared in many magazines. Laura is also a contributing author and photographer published by Forbes Magazine.
including Bissel, Microsoft, Avery Labels, Toyota, Disney and many others.
Laura also enjoys volunteerism and serving others through philanthropy, she has worked with The Red Cross, The Boys and Girls Club, Women in Business, Relay for Life, the Susan G. Komen Fund and other charities. Laura is the co-founder of a non-profit charity cheerleading team, the Pacific Panthers. She was recently awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award for donating over 350 hours of her time to charity in the past 12 months. Laura is married to Jeremy Hunter, an aerospace engineering program manager at Greenpoint Technologies. They have two beautiful girls, eight year old Isabelle and two year old Victoria.
PACIFICPageants Magazine | 61
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