Fifty-three of the most talented, intelligent, and beautiful women in the nation arrived in Las Vegas for the 2013 Miss America Competition. It was there that this year’s Quality of Life finalists were announced during the 2013 Miss America Competition Arrival Ceremony.

Returning to the Theatre for the Performing Arts at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino for the seventh consecutive year, the contestants’ arrival kicked off a week of preliminary competitions—interview, lifestyle and fitness, talent, and evening wear—culminating in the live telecast on ABC, Saturday, January 12, at 9 p.m. (EST) tape delay (PST).

On hand to announce the finalists were Sean McBurney, vice president and assistant general manager of PH Resort & Casino; Vince Alberta, vice president of public affairs of the Las Vegas Convention Authority; Sam Haskell, III, chairman of the board of the Miss America Organization; and Art McMaster, president and CEO of the Miss America Organization.

The seven finalists and their personal platform issues are:

Miss Alabama Anna Laura Bryan - P.A.W.S for Autism: People and Animals Working Side-by-side

Miss Delaware Alyssa Murray - Mela-No-MORE: Skin Cancer Advocacy & Awareness

Miss Idaho Whitney Wood - Handbags of Hope: “Giving Women Confidence They Can Carry"

Miss Maryland Joanna Guy - Jo’s Jars                                                                      

Miss Mississippi Marie Wicks - Eyesight To All Regions (eyes.T.A.R.)                  

Miss Tennessee Chandler Lawson - “Feed Hope: Fight Child Hunger”                                          

Miss Washington Mandy Schendel - Do Something: Enriching Youth, Cultivating Leaders

The Quality of Life Awards were introduced in 1988 to recognize contestants who excel in their commitment to community service. To be considered for the Quality of Life Award, contestants must submit an application describing their involvement with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals—the national platform of the Miss America Organization—and their own personal platform issue.

The winner of the Quality of Life Award will receive a $6,000 scholarship, the first runner-up will win a $4,000 scholarship, and the second runner-up will win a $2,000 scholarship. Winners will be announced at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on January 10, during the 10 a.m. (PST) Miss America press conference.

For tickets to attend the Miss America Competition, call Ticketmaster at 1-877-307-8667 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Source: MAO