The #1 Resource for Everything Miss America & MAOTeen
Closing a Chapter in Our Book
Thursday, 16 January 2014 08:43After nine years of publishing the No. 1 resource for everything Miss America and MAOTeen, we’re closing a chapter in our book. The February/March 2014 issue will be the last and final fourpoints magazine. It’s a bittersweet ending for us, as we have a strong passion for the Miss America Organization and for the contestants, directors, and volunteers that make it so great.
While we’ve received tremendous support from state and local executive directors and volunteers, Serendipity Media—the publisher of fourpoints—is growing in other directions and must dedicate its time elsewhere. Since August 2005, fourpoints has been a labor of love; unfortunately, it must come to an end.
Our goal at the start of this journey was to provide valuable resources to our readers, and you gave us something in return. It’s been a pleasure to share the countless contestant journeys and stories from volunteers, coaches, and directors that came across our desks. Whether through heartwarming interviews or thousands of Crown Watch photos, we’ve enjoyed every single one.
The past nine years have been filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you, each and every one of you, for your encouragement, belief, and passion. We hope to have made an impact on your personal journey with the Miss America Organization, because you’ve definitely made an impact on all of us at fourpoints.
Cheers,
Kasie Smith
President/Publisher
What defines you?
Friday, 10 January 2014 08:19It’s that time of the year where most of us are focusing our energies on those unwanted holiday pounds, firming up before bathing suit season, and making better choices for a healthier lifestyle. While there’s nothing wrong with this—in fact I’m doing it myself—I do think that it’s important to keep things, in perspective.
I ran across the following TedEx video in my newsfeed. I can honestly say I don’t ever watch videos that are longer than a couple of minutes, let along a thirteen-minute video, but I couldn’t stop. I encourage you to watch this video and ask yourself what defines you.
I hope you find Lizzie’s story as inspiring as I have.
Kasie Smith is the president and publisher of West Michigan Woman magazine.
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Selflessness: A Fifth Point of the Crown?
Tuesday, 03 December 2013 10:13fourpoints magazine is excited to announce that our February issue will have a special theme: The Men of Miss America. This edition will highlight the work and dedication of male volunteers, executive directors, dads, mentors, and friends. We've talked with several people already who have expressed their gratitude for the men that have helped them along their pageant journey.
Click here to submit Crown Watch photos for this issue!
This week, I interviewed Miss Michigan Haley Williams. Haley was named the Quality of Life Award winner during the 2014 Miss America competition week for her platform, "Through a Child’s Eyes: Conquering Childhood Grief." When she was four years old, Haley's father died, and consequently she spent much of her childhood dealing with the grief that came with her loss. Haley's story of rebuilding her life and confidence through grief management is a perfect reflection for our Men of Miss America cover story. Even though her father isn't physically with her, Haley credits this man's influence to her platform success. Her life events inspired her work with other children experiencing loss.
But Haley is also doing some inspiring of her own. While the cover story is typically a place to highlight a contestant's successes in the four points of the crown, Haley requested her article be a little different. Before our interview, she wrote in an e-mail to me, "I am so touched to be recognized by your publication, however I am requesting to use this opportunity to focus deeper on the purpose of my platform and the needed societal awareness for the cause itself rather than my own success, actions, and accolades in regards to my efforts."
I hope that readers of the February issue will be as moved by Haley as I was. In seeking to share hope with grieving families instead of highlighting her own winning qualities, Haley reveals her true selflessness.
Don't miss out on the February issue! Click here to subscribe now!
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine's staff writer. Photo: Allen Dye
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Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Oh My!
Thursday, 14 November 2013 08:12My grandparents recently bought the new iPad Air, and I've been trying to teach them how to use the apps and features of their tablet. Needless to say, I don't know as much about the technology as I thought I did, and it was actually my ten-year-old sister who helped them the most.
In a recent company meeting, our team discussed the social media platforms we're using for our various products, including fourpoints. We're pretty well versed in Facebook and learning more about how to connect through Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. However, like the iPad, I'm finding I don't know nearly as much as I should about how to tap into social media to reach and engage with our audiences. So, help me out!
What social media channels do you use the most? What do you think of the way we're using Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram to share information with you? Are any of these channels irrelevant to you? Are there others we should be using?
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine's staff writer. If you really want to understand how far behind in technology she is, consider that she doesn't even have a texting plan, let alone a smartphone.
Take Off Your Mask
Thursday, 31 October 2013 11:49Halloween has come and gone, and costumes are put away to haunt and amuse another day. But did you put your mask away?
I am guilty of sometimes hiding my true opinions—it can be scary to be open to the point of vulnerability. At work, I'm often hesitant to say no to tasks or to express obstacles that come up in the midst of projects. At home, holding feelings inside instead of communicating them only makes situations worse.
Instead of keeping things to myself, I try to first determine the root of the problem, then figure out a way to coherently express it to those involved. If I'm late on deadline, I need to tell my editor. If I'm feeling overwhelmed with housework, I need to communicate that to my husband. Assuming my editor will know that sources are not getting back to me, or thinking my husband should just know to pick up a dish rag is unfair.
While I would rather keep on the mask of perfection, I know that I am not perfect, and I need to allow others to help me when I need it. But they'll never know I need help or how to best help me until I tell them.
Do you hold things inside? What helps you to be more open with your co-workers, friends, and family?
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine's staff writer. She'd like you to know, for the record, that fourpoints sources always get back to her on time, and her husband is very good at helping around the house.
Part Two: Social Media: How is it Affecting You?
Wednesday, 23 October 2013 09:26This is the second part in a social media blog series written by guest writer Sierra Minott Jones. Click here to read part one.
If we are going to be women who impact our communities and make a difference in the lives of those around us, we must learn to navigate the world of social media with wisdom, grace, and kindness. Here are a few tips that can help guide your social media choices.
1. Count your blessings. How many of you have ever felt a little less attractive after scrolling through your latest photo feed on Instagram? I have! Or perhaps you feel, like, totally lame? You realize that you are sitting on your couch looking at other people’s photos of vacation, graduation, their awesome date, or their brand-new purse, and all of a sudden your so-called wonderful life doesn’t seem all that great. Be careful how much time you spend watching other people live their lives. You could be missing out on living yours!
2. Post, don’t boast. What do your photos say about you? Do they show you in a way that others, especially guys, would respect you? Or have you sabotaged your self-worth by showing too much? You may think that you are just posting a pretty picture, but that guy you are hoping to attract is probably thinking about a lot more. If you flaunt your body online, guys will think that you are willing to give them access to what you are advertising.
3. It is NOT okay for a guy to pursue you exclusively through social media. If the guy you are dying to be with can’t get up enough courage to speak with you face-to-face, then he is not worth your time. God created you with delicate care and intricate detail. You are immeasurably beautiful and your heart is worth a valiant pursuit! Don’t be fooled by the lie that you have to catch the attention of a guy in order to be valuable. Don’t give yourself away to every guy who calls you “Baby” on Twitter Chat. Wait for a man who will honor you, love you, and respect you. And remember, the way you attract a guy is the way you will keep him. If you allow a guy to pursue you via text and Facebook chat, don’t be surprised when he drops you for the next girl who responds flirtatiously to his witty one-liners.
Ladies, don’t sell yourselves short. Take this opportunity to shape the history of your generation. After all, kindness, compassion, discipline, diligence, respect, and integrity are always trending.
Written by: Sierra Minott Jones, Miss Florida 2008 and fourth runner-up to Miss America 2009, was Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen 2005 and third runner-up in the inaugural Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, in 2006. Photo: Reagan Johnson. Sierra is available for speaking at teen girl events, emceeing, and judging pageants. Click here to e-mail her.
Social Media: How is it Affecting You?
Thursday, 17 October 2013 07:02
As I sit down to write, I am without Internet in my apartment. (Gasp!) My only connection to the outside world is my smartphone, whose 3G network is struggling to load anything within my lifetime. What’s a girl to do?
That got me thinking …Why are we so desperate for the Internet these days? I think one of the main reasons is because of social media. Social media has become the great novelty turned necessity of our day. People of all ages text, tweet, blog, post, “Like,” and “pin” as if these actions make up a major food group. But have you ever stopped to wonder why social media is so popular? The reason is inherent in the name of the game—social media. We desire relationships!
Think about your last text, tweet, pin, or post. We participate in social media because we like being connected with others. We feel a sense of belonging if we are in a “group,” become a “fan,” or have lots of “followers.” Girls especially like staying connected via social media. Research shows that girls send almost three times as many texts as guys!
We all desire acceptance, affection, and significance, but too often we look for these things in social media outlets. We base our self-worth on how many “Likes” we get on our Facebook status or how many “You’re gorgeous!” comments we get on Instagram. My fear is that we are trading our dignity for momentary affirmation. We are grasping for something tangible and lasting in a world that exists only on a screen. Call me crazy, but I believe we were created for more!
We must remember that social media is not the same thing as socializing. While constant communication via text or tweet can make you feel like BFFs with someone, nothing replaces face-to-face conversation. Emoticons are great, but they are no substitute for the energetic laugh of a friend jumping for joy! Can you imagine what it would be like if your next pageant interview was done solely through texting? The judges would totally miss out on your beautiful eyes, bright smile, warm demeanor, and quirky expressions! Don’t miss out on fully investing in a relationship by hiding behind a screen.
Come back next week for a few more social media tips!
Written by: Sierra Minott Jones, Miss Florida 2008 and fourth runner-up to Miss America 2009, was Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen 2005 and third runner-up in the inaugural Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, in 2006. Photo: Reagan Johnson. Sierra is available for speaking at teen girl events, emceeing, and judging pageants. Click here to e-mail her.
Sierra graduated Summa Cum Laude from Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2010, with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in musical theater. Sierra earned her degree debt-free, thanks to the $42,000 in scholarships she was awarded through the Miss America Organization. During her final year of college she served as an intern with the Student Ministry at First Baptist Church of West Palm Beach, where she led a weekly Bible Study for high school girls using curriculum she wrote and plans to publish. Sierra and her husband, Scott, currently reside in Wake Forest, North Carolina, where they are both pursuing master’s degrees in Christian ministry at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Sierra works as the A-List Coordinator at Chick-fil-A at Wake Forest and as the Devotional Blogger for Divine Debutantes, a nonprofit girls ministry whose mission is to raise up Godly, virtuous young women. She is also the resident “Princess of Purity” columnist for the Divine Debutantes Magazine, which was released nationally in spring 2011. Sierra’s passion is cultivating Godly femininity in young women. She loves coffee dates with her hubby, brightly colored jewelry, and a good pair of flats!
Acne Solutions
Friday, 11 October 2013 06:12I've been dealing with an unsavory complexion since I was a fledgling teenager. As I entered my twenties still strapped with breakouts, I realized I had to start calling my pimples "adult acne," which is almost as disheartening as waking up with a zit right between the eyes (or on your nose, or chin, or cheek, or forehead …). This stuff is not going away any time soon.
I've tried everything—Proactive, Equate, Neutrogena, Clean and Clear, Burt's Bees, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and prescription-strength creams and pills. I've scoured the Internet (and my facial skin) for home remedies. All procedures work for a while, until like a supercomputer or that kid that can complete a Rubik’s cube really fast, my skin outsmarts lab technicians and highly trained dermatologists.
I asked our Facebook followers what methods of facial care work best for them.
Kristen Tatil says: "Drink lots of water, don't eat junk food or fast food, remove makeup before bed (not wearing makeup at all is a big help, but I know girls hate the thought of going to school without it), workout, and St. Ives Apricot Scrub for blemish-prone skin was a blessing!"
Sam Hawkins says: "Honestly, nothing beats going to the dermatologist and just getting some prescription medication. In the end, it's a LOT more effective than over the counter stuff and will save you money."
Emy Houston @MWSOT2013 tweets: @fourpoints wet asprin, or ibuprofen applied right to the spot, resduces swelling. (:
(I also asked Miss America 2014 Nina Davuluri about her daily skin care regimen. Stay tuned for her answers in the December issue of fourpoints!)
After years of scrubbing, peeling, toning, and moisturizing, I may not have perfectly clear skin, but I have learned something. A girl is not defined by her acne. Although I'm sure to notice my most recent breakout when I look at my face in the mirror, the state of my skin is not the first thing others see, if they notice it at all. I've struggled with self-confidence as a direct result of my acne, but I know holding my head high and smiling will make a bigger impression on people than ducking my head in shame because of a few (or a LOT of) zits. Take it from a twenty-six-year-old who is willing to go to bed with toothpaste on her face, because Pinterest said so.
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine's staff writer.
Your Platform Needs You Every Day of the Year
Friday, 04 October 2013 04:23
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. fourpoints magazine's publisher, Serendipity Media, is hosting a gala this month to raise money for our local Susan G. Komen affiliate, and last weekend, a group of our staff members and families got together to run and walk the Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure (our wigs in the race photo are a shout out to the event we're hosting). It's safe to say that this month, our platform is breast cancer awareness!
But what about the rest of the year? Each contestant is required to dedicate her time and passion to a platform issue, and it's easy to make appearances, support fundraising efforts, and get fired up for something during a month that is specifically dedicated to it. But the fact is that no matter what your platform is, cyber bullying, cultural competency, health and wellness, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, etc., there are people affected by the issues your platform represents every single day of the year, and there is need you can help meet all the time.
What's your platform? What appearances do you have scheduled in the near future? How do you make sure you're living and breathing advocacy for your platform every day of the year?
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine's staff writer.
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Everyone's A Critic
Friday, 20 September 2013 05:06Soon after the 2014 Miss America Organization coronation last Sunday night, critics took to social media to share their opinions, somewhat rudely, about the judges' choice. In addition, TV and radio stations have recently questioned the relevancy of "beauty pageants" in general asking, "Why do we have pageants?" or "Should we ban pageants?"
In the fourpoints office, we are saddened by the fact that there will always be people out there who take a negative view no matter the situation or cause. Those involved with the Miss America Organization and with Miss America's Outstanding Teen understand that as long as education and community service are relevant, so shall be MAO and MAOTeen.
But what do we understand about diversity? Luckily for us, Miss America 2014 Nina Davuluri will spend the next year working to promote her platform cultivating cultural competency throughout the United States.
Following her crowning, Nina told members of a press conference, "I'm so proud to be the first Miss America of Indian descent. She isn't the Miss America of ten years ago and she's not going to be the same ten years down the road. I'm so thankful that children watching at home can relate to a new Miss America. They can look at me and see that they can break barriers, be who they are, and be successful despite their race or socio-economic status. I want to use this opportunity to encourage positive dialogue among all Americans about the ways in which we are all unique and how that makes us stronger as a country."
Would you like to get involved in this dialogue? MAO has the place for you! Send information using the hashtag #CirclesOfUnity on Twitter to @MissAmerica, Instagram to @missamericaorg, and to Facebook.com/MissAmericaOrganization.
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine's staff writer.
Where Are They Now: Forever Miss Americas Tell All
Thursday, 12 September 2013 12:08Former national titleholders and forever Miss Americas gathered together Thursday to reminisce and pass on the wisdom they learned during their year of service. “They represent through the decades all that is wonderful about our ninety-three-year-old program,” said Miss America Organization CEO and Chairman of the Board Sam Haskell. Here is a brief look at the lives these women lead now, thanks to the doors that were opened for them through MAO.
Heather French Henry continues to work with her platform through the Heather French Foundation as well as her own line of eveningwear. She will be starting a new job working with corporate software in the coming weeks.
Ericka Dunlap promoted diversity with her platform and does so still today as a public relations consultant. “I’m still doing the work I love and I thank the Miss America Organization for allowing me to have that platform,” she said.
Caressa Cameron said her career was “birthed” during her reign as Miss America. Her jewelry line sold for HIV Aids awareness is still sold today through Aids United. “I turned my platform into my life’s work,” she said.
Teresa Scanlan was just seventeen when she was crowned Miss America. Now in her second year of college, she is pursuing her degree in government and plans to continue on to law school after that.
Bebe Shopp was Miss America 1948, and although there was no platform requirement during her time, she said she was have made her focus the promotion of public speaking education. “Wherever we are in life, we always have to get on our feet and present ourselves,” she said.
Lee Meriwether was Miss America in 1955, the first competition of the organization to be televised. Unfortunately, the television production crew wanted to shoot the crowning back stage, so only at-home viewers got to see Lee crowned, “and I’ve been apologizing ever since,” she said.
Phyllis George was crowned with robe and scepter, and in a time before Crown Clips, her crown fell off onto the floor, and she had to pick it up and carry it down the runway. But she took from the experience a life lesson: “Life is real, don’t take yourself so seriously,” she said.
Becky King is the only forever Miss America to have had her daughter also compete in the Miss America Organization. She was Miss America the year Atlantic City decided to allow gambling in the city. After a recent bought with stage four melanoma, she is healthy and happy to be back in Atlantic City.
Dorothy Benham was crowned right before the casinos came to the boardwalk. “I remember pigeons and t-shirt shops,” she said. “Those were grand, wonderful days.” Dorothy has six children, the youngest of whom just graduated from high school.
Vonda Van Dyke says she is the only Miss America to have shared the stage with someone else—her puppet. Vonda performed ventriloquism for her talent, and was the first to do so. Now her puppet is retired, just like Vonda.
Jacquelyn Mayer celebrated her fiftieth year since being crowned in 2012. After a devastating stroke, Jacquelyn learned to talk again and is delighted to be a part of the Miss America sisterhood.
Maria Fletcher sees a deeper meaning in numbers than most. The year of the first Miss America pageant, 1921, was special because it was the year of genius, she said. The date of the final night of competition, September 15, 2013, is a group of special numbers as well, the number of the artist, Maria said. “What is the pageant about if not about developing one’s God-given talent,” she said.
Donna Axum is the first vice chairman of the MAO board. She was the first Miss America to be elected to the Miss America board. “The Miss America Organization is so close to me. It’s been one of the driving forces,” in life, she said.
Read more stories about forever titleholders in every issue of fourpoints magazine!
Written by: Erika Rose is fourpoints magazine’s staff writer.