Wednesday's preliminary competitions recognized well-know favorites like three-time pageant host Chris Harrison, former Miss Americas, long-time volunteers, and Miss America's Outstanding Teen contestants. But the evening's production also welcomed new scholarship recipients and award winners to the stage.

Miss South Carolina Ali Rogers was called on a second time this week for being the MAO 2013 contestant to raise the most money for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals during her year of service. Other Miracle Maker awards went to the Miss Alabama organization–recognized for being the state organization that, in 2012, raised the most money for CMN hospitals–and the Miss Connecticut organization–recognized for being the state with the highest average funds raised per contestant in 2012. Each of the Miracle Maker recipients received $5,000 scholarships.

Miss Virginia Executive Director Harlan Gudger was awarded the Academy of Honor Award for his thirty-five years of outstanding volunteer service to the Miss America Organization. Harlan has served in many capacities over the years, from usher to executive director. "Volunteers are the backbone of this company," said Art McMaster, MAO president and CEO. There are thousands of volunteers across the country who work hard to help young women achieve their dreams, Art said.

Miss Illinois, Megan Ervin, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship for the lifestyle and fitness competition. Megan wore a black bikini by Catalina Swimwear. Catalina's line of swimwear will be available exclusively online and at Walmart beginning Saturday, January 12.

Miss Maryland, Joanna Guy, was awarded a $2,000 scholarship for the talent competition. Joanna sang "I dreamed a dream," from the musical Les Miserables while wearing a shimmering, one shoulder gown.

Get involved in choosing the next Miss America by voting in the People's Choice Awards. Go to missamerica.org or Facebook to vote!

Written by: Erika Fifelski, fourpoints staff writer