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Saturday, October 27, 2018

A New Miss Taunton is Crowned Tonight!

Today, another fantastic woman will take their next step towards their dream job, and earn scholarship money along the way.

Today, a new Miss Taunton will be crowned!

I’m sure you’re all joining Section 36 in eagerly waiting to see who takes the title!

However with that new beginning must come an ending. Unfortunately, Meghan Rubadou will need to relinquish her crown. Section 36 was honored to be able to interview Meg while she held the Miss Central Massachusetts title. From there, we know that Meg went on to win the Miss Taunton crown a year ago. We couldn't have been more proud of her


Miss Central Massachusetts 2017



So, Section 36 would like to congratulate Meg on her time as Miss Taunton. I can't wait to see what she does next. 

I'm also excited to see who wins the title tonight!

And if she'll be able to visit Section 36 after!

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Bridget Oei Talks Miss America: A Guest Series (Part 3 - The Other Titleholders)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to compete at Miss America? I know I have. Miss Connecticut Bridget Oei has graciously agreed to help us all try and figure that out. She will be writing a series of guest blogs chronicling her time at Miss America that I am honored to be able to present here. (To see all of Bridget's posts, look here.)

Today we have our third entry as Bridget shares what it was like spending time with the other titleholders in Atlantic City. I hope you enjoy it!



Miss America was an extraordinary experience for the particular reason that in two weeks, 51 strangers became 51 best friends. The bond that I and the other Miss America candidates formed were catalyzed by our commonalities as well as our differences. Which, in my opinion, make us the most dynamic and well-rounded group of women in America.


But like all strong friendships, they have to start somewhere. Strengthened by silly memories, hearty laughs, and sharing new experiences, the two weeks at Miss America provided us with just that platform to grow and learn about one another.


Prior to the start of the competition, we spent our days in New Jersey exploring and enjoying magical parts of Atlantic City. Our first night, we attended a sponsored dinner at Bocca, a family owned restaurant that truly treated us all like queens. We sat at group tables and connected over a delicious meal, sharing stories of our excitement and our trip to the Miss America competition.


Another fantastic experience was at the Linwood Country Club, where we all got a chance to try our hand at golf. Pro-golfers or
not, we all made memories as we raced in golf carts, and took videos of each other having our PGA tour moment on the course. Later that evening, we met members of the country club and local supporters of Miss America. This was one of the most memorable events for me, I spoke to a physician who had studied medicine at Yale University, and we discussed my goals to become a doctor myself. I also happened to meet a lovely couple who had been to my parents’ wedding and had come to meet me for the first time!


Of course I have to mention spending an evening at the iconic steel pier on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. This event was the last of its kind before the start of the competition. I distinctly remember the love, support, and genuine excitement that was among all of the ladies. We all relaxed together riding the swings, and breathing the salty air. I felt at home, surrounded by women that I admired and respected, and grateful to be a part of such a unique experience.

With Love,

Bridget Oei

Saturday, October 13, 2018

A New Miss Manchester is Crowned Tonight!

Today, another fantastic woman will take their next step towards their dream job, and earn scholarship money along the way.

Today, a new Miss Manchester will be crowned!

I’m sure you’re all joining Section 36 in eagerly waiting to see who takes the title!

Section 36 was honored to be able to interview Marisa Moorhouse not long after being crowned Miss Manchester 2018. Of course, we all know by now that Marisa went on to win Miss New Hampshire, and compete at Miss America last month! We couldn't have been more proud of her!


Miss Manchester 2018



So, Section 36 would like to congratulate Marisa on doing so well with her time as Miss Manchester. I can't wait to see who wins the title tonight!

And if she'll be able to visit Section 36 after!

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

What do You Like?

What do you need? It's a good time to find out, because the Section 36 Store is having another sale!

It has gear to meet all your needs. Frankly, I'm flattered by how popular this store has been with the titleholders that have visited with Section 36 and everyone else! 



So, head over right now and select something that you like. But, don't delay. The sale only runs through Sunday! That's right only a few days before prices go back to their regular levels.


And, as always, when you do get an item, send me a picture wearing it for me to share with the world! The blogFacebook, and even Instagram!


Like Kylee did to show off her amazing new tank top.


This tank is 27% off!

Or like Erin did with her tank!


It's still 27% off!
(Yeah, that tank top is my best seller!)

Or Nicolette, who went with a great t-shirt!


This t-shirt is 30% off!


Allison picked out out a t-shirt too!

Yup. 30% off as well!


But, first you need to buy something you like. There's a lot to choose from.


What will you get?




The available style and color combinations are practically endless!


Which is your favorite?

Monday, October 8, 2018

Bridget Oei Talks Miss America: A Guest Series (Part 2 - The Arrival)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to compete at Miss America? I know I have. Miss Connecticut Bridget Oei has graciously agreed to help us all try and figure that out. She will be writing a series of guest blogs chronicling her time at Miss America that I am honored to be able to present here. To see all of Bridget's posts, look here.

Today we have our second entry as Bridget shares what she was thinking and feeling as she arrived in Atlantic City for the Miss America Competition. I hope you enjoy it!





My room was divided into sections, one area for competition wardrobe, another for rehearsals. Every article was labelled with CT and my initials. Two weeks of clothing, supplies, and necessities were packed and organized ready for the trip to Atlantic City.


The drive to New Jersey, seemed like the longest trip of my life. I was so excited to get there, get settled, and get going. I had been prepping for this experience for months, but dreaming about how it would actually feel to be attending Miss America for years. This was it!


I cannot say that the reality of going to Miss America had really sunk in at this point. I was ready and prepared, excited to share with America who I am. It was game time, and I had every tool I needed to succeed. Family and friends were sending me messages of well wishes and I distinctly remember during the drive, saying to my mom, “I want to make my people proud, I want to make some history!”


When I arrived at the Golden Nugget where I was staying, I was immediately greeted by one of my warm and wonderful hostesses Debbie, who made me feel so calm and welcomed. My wardrobe was whisked away to my room, while I was brought to the hospitality suite where I met my other hostesses and the other titleholders who were all staying at the same location. The hospitality suite had a beautiful view of the Atlantic City Marina and I remember taking pictures of the scenery and getting overwhelmed with excitement that I was finally here! The other candidates began trickling in as their flights and rides arrived, and we all chatted as we finally relaxed after the frenzy of packing and preparing. This is where I felt that initial bond of sisterhood with these women. We were all aware that we were sharing in this once in a lifetime experience together and that made us closer than you can imagine. We all agreed that these next two weeks were opportunities for each of us to soak up every single moment.


If you told little 10 year old Bridget years ago that she would be where she was today, I do not know if she would have believed you. When I arrived in Atlantic City, I felt inundated with opportunity and possibility. I had the chance to shine, to give this experience everything I had and leave these two weeks with no regrets whatsoever. Supported my sponsors, my board and team from Connecticut, and my entire family behind me, I felt ready to make little Bridget proud.

With Love,

Bridget Oei

Saturday, October 6, 2018

A New Miss Merrimack is Crowned Tonight!

Today, another fantastic woman will take their next step towards their dream job, and earn scholarship money along the way.

Today, a new Miss Merrimack will be crowned!

I’m sure you’re all joining Section 36 in eagerly waiting to see who takes the title!

But, with every new beginning comes the end of a reign. Thankfully, in this case, we know how the story continues.

Miss Merrimack 2018 may have to give up her crown, but we all know that she already has a brand new one! That's because Brooke Mills visited Section 36 not long ago as Miss Winnipesaukee!


Miss Winnipesaukee 2019


So, Section 36 would like to congratulate Brooke her fantastic year as Miss Merrimack. She’ll be a tough act to follow, and I’m looking forward to following her adventures as Miss Winnipesaukee!

Congratulations Brooke! 

Monday, October 1, 2018

Bridget Oei Talks Miss America: A Guest Series (Part 1 - The Final Countdown)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to compete at Miss America? I know I have. Miss Connecticut Bridget Oei has graciously agreed to help us all try and figure that out. She will be writing a series of guest blogs chronicling her time at Miss America that I am honored to be able to present here.

Today we have our first entry as Bridget shares what she was thinking and feeling while standing onstage at Miss America as the top five counted down. I hope you enjoy it!



Have you ever been in a situation where you knew you should probably be feeling some sort of way...but you weren’t? There I was standing hand in hand with the top five, in front of 4 million viewers across the country and a full audience in boardwalk hall, about to find out who the new Miss America would be, and if it was me. I should have been nervous, my heart should have been pounding. But I was calm, so very calm.


My demeanor did not change even as they called the fourth, third, and second runner up. The four other women that I stood with filled me with so much pride. From the moment I met them in Orlando, I was impressed. On paper they define the words success, leader, and trailblazer. I remember thinking as we stood together before they announced the results, “Wow, we made it.” I was genuinely humbled to be standing exactly where I was, among these women, on a stage that is truly a once in a lifetime experience. And all the while, I was representing my home, Connecticut.


I’ll never forget the moment when it was just myself and Nia standing center stage and I turned and grabbed her hands. I did so out of routine because I had been in the same situation before back in June at Miss Connecticut. Yet once I turned I saw Nia right in front of me, I also saw the other state titleholders all holding hands, anxious to find out who their new Miss America would be. After two weeks spent with these women, I had grown to love each of them and what we all represented. That is when I looked at Nia and began telling her that no matter what, I would support her throughout her year, that I would be her number one fan, always. I wanted her to know that if she was crowned Miss America, I would be there for her unconditionally.


If you watch the live telecast, you see me look out into the audience right as they call my name as first runner up. That was a moment when I felt so much clarity. No, I had no idea if I was going to win or be called. But in that moment I remembered exactly why and how I was standing in the position I was in. When I looked up, I was looking at my parents, who were sitting about halfway back in the audience. I was calm because they were there, and I was overjoyed to have made them proud. I was proud to have danced my very best, showcasing my talent for my culture and my dance teacher Dr. Colleen Griffith. I was proud to have spoken with conviction and consistency, showcasing the hard work and skills I had refined with my Miss Connecticut prep team. I was proud to have represented Connecticut: my home, my village, my heart.


It didn’t matter what the result was. You can see in my face when I was announced 1st runner up that I was just so overjoyed to be where I was. I had made history, I had done it for Connecticut.


Some moments are just so wonderful, that they exceed your wildest dreams.


With Love,

Bridget Oei

Sunday, September 30, 2018

What Is She Thinking?

As I mentioned before, this year's Miss America competition was a special one for Section 36! Not only were a record number of
visitors preparing to walk on stage, but an incredible two forever visitors were able to make the top five! Miss Connecticut Bridget Oei was even still standing as one of the final two, before being announced as first runner up to Miss America!

While I was watching Bridget standing there, I couldn't help but wonder "What is she thinking?". I couldn't imagine what thoughts must have been racing through her head. 

As the moment carried on, I realized that I wondered a lot of things about the entire night. And, to be honest, the entire week. What was it like just being there? Standing on stage for the first time? Performing your talent? Everything?

I also realized (assumed?) that I wasn't the only one who had these questions. Not many people have had the chance to walk around Atlantic City with that sash on their shoulder. We all have no idea.

Which is why I'm excited to say that Bridget Oei herself is going to help us all out!

I'm honored to announce that Bridget will be authoring a series of guest blogs to be posted right here on Section 36 Pageants discussing her thoughts on all sorts of her experiences at Miss America!

The first post goes live tomorrow! So, be sure to check back in to see what she has to say. And, keep checking back to hear about all of her thoughts and experiences throughout the whole series!

This is going to be fun!

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Miss New Bedford Crowned Tonight!


Today, another amazing woman will take their next step towards their dream job, and earn some amazing scholarship money along the way.

Today, a new Miss New Bedford will be crowned!

I’m sure you’re all joining Section 36 in eagerly waiting to see who takes the title!

But, with every new beginning comes the end of a reign.

The current Miss New Bedford Sara Achorn will have to relinquish her title. Sara was nice enough to visit with Section 36 over a year ago while she wore the Miss Plymouth County crown. Her interview was wonderful, and I certainly hope you’ll go back and reread it.



So, Section 36 would like to congratulate Sara her fantastic year. She’ll be a tough act to follow, and I’m looking forward to seeing what comes her way next!

Congratulations Sara! 

Saturday, September 22, 2018

Two Titles Awarded Today!

Tonight, we'll get the chance to welcome two new titleholders. Both Miss Gate City, and Miss Lake Sunapee Region will be crowned tonight! I'm sure you're as excited as I am to see who will take home those titles.

Of course, as is often the case these days, a new titleholder means the end of the reign of a forever visitor to Section 36. That's what's happening with both of the titles today.

The current Miss Gate City is the amazing Kylee Anne Drew. She visited with Section 36 in March, and talked about heart disease, tap dancing, and much more.

Miss Gate City 2018

The other titleholder turning over her crown is the current Miss Lake Sunapee Region Lauren Fohlin. Lucky for her, she already has a new crown of her own after winning the Miss White Mountains Region title. When she visited Section 36 in January, we talked about the arts, singing, and more!

Lauren Fohlin
Miss Lake Sunapee Region 2018

I would definitely like to congratulate both Kylee and Lauren on their wonderful years as titleholders, and wish them luck. At the same time, I'm excited to welcome the new titleholders to their reigns.

And hopefully, to a Section 36 visit soon!

Friday, September 21, 2018

National Concussion Awareness Day


I’m sure you’ve all read the wonderful interview Section 36 had with Miss Winnipesaukee Brooke Mills. So you’ll remember that as a result of her personal struggles with concussions, she created her platform “Lessen the Impact”.

Her goal is to increase awareness of concussions, and their effect on everyone. As part of that, she founded National Concussion Awareness Day to promote that message. That’s today!



I would implore you to take this opportunity to learn more about concussions, and their impact. You could start by rereading Brooke’s Section 36 interview of course. But you should definitely read some of the important information on the Lessen the Impact website and Brooke's Facebook page. If you are suffering from effects of a concussion, know someone who is, or just want to learn more about it there’s a wealth of information there for you.

If you’ve suffered a concussion yourself, today is the perfect day to share your story with someone else. Tell a friend what happened. Leave a comment on this blog post. Leave your story on Brooke's Facebook page, or shout the story out on your own social media platforms (just be sure to use the #nationalconcussionawarenessday hashtag). The more people who openly talk about something, the less mysterious it becomes and the better off everyone is.

I definitely want to thank Brooke for founding this day. As she said in her interview, “By having a knowledgeable society on concussions including the signs and symptoms, healing processes, importance of rest, returning to play and learn guidelines, and taking the concussion seriously, we would be able to greatly help those suffering and prevent future injuries.” I couldn’t have said it any better.

So check out those websites. Share your stories. Spread the word.

It’s the day for it!

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Oh What a Night!

One of the best parts about interviewing so many titleholders who visit Section 36 is what happens after. It’s so wonderful to watch these amazing young women go on to accomplish so much after their visits. Whether it’s advancing to another level within the Miss America organization, or advancing in their post pageant careers. I always get a flutter of excitement to see them doing so well.

Which happened to a degree Sunday night never before reached.

Thanks to Alexandra Coppa for sending along the pic!

On Sunday, a fantastic five forever visitors took the stage at Miss America. Miss New Hampshire Marissa Moorhouse, Miss Massachusetts Gabriela Taveras, Miss Vermont Julia Crane, Miss Connecticut Bridget Oei, and Miss Rhode Island Alexandra Coppa. If that’s not a record, it certainly could be. It was such an amazing feeling watching each of them walk out on stage. I can’t imagine what it feels like for people who actually know them well. But it was such an honor to be able to think “I interviewed her!” each time one of them came out on stage to introduce themselves. It’s what makes all the interviews even more fun.

Of course, if this year might be a record as far as sheer quantity of visitors appearing on stage, it was definitely a record as far as advancement!

Prior to this year, the highest finisher to ever visit Section 36 was also my very first visitor. Lauren Kuhn made it to the top five at Miss America prior to visiting with Section 36. The best showing by a titleholder after visiting was Alissa Musto. After visiting Section 36 as Miss Cambridge, she went on to win Miss Massachusetts and then finish in the top fifteen at Miss America. So, I would definitely like to mention two amazing women who raised that bar even higher.

Gabriela Taveras is my most recent visitor, and she was able to make it to the top five on Sunday night! Bridget Oei also made it to the top five, and eventually made it all the way to first runner up to Miss America! It was so exciting! As nervous as I was for them, I can't imagine what must have been going through their mind standing up on that stage. The best part was getting to see those two compete in all the phases of the competition, and follow along with their night.

So I want to offer a huge congratulations to all the former visitors why graced the Miss America stage. They definitely made us proud!

I'm flattered that they all visited.

Sunday, September 9, 2018

Miss America is Crowned Tonight!


Yes, Miss America 2.0 is a terrible concept. Yes, eliminating the swimsuit was one of the worst ideas since new Coke. But, that doesn’t detract from the main event.

Miss America is crowned tonight!

This very night one incredible young woman will realize her dream, and wear the Miss America crown. As has been the case the last few years, Section 36 is honored to have interviewed several women competing tonight. It would, of course, be fantastic if one of them walked away with the title. Wondering who you should be rooting for? Here is the group I’ll be hoping finishes 1-5…or, in order of appearance on Section 36.



Marisa Moorhouse


Marisa visited with Section 36 while she wore her local Miss Manchester crown. We talked about her upcoming Miss New Hampshire competition, her dancing, and her favorite Disney character, among other things.



Alexandra Coppa

Alexandra visited Section 36 not long after winning the Miss Rhode Island crown. We discussed eating disorders, her past pageant experience, and her thoughts on Miss America, among other things!


Julia Crane


One of the first things Julia did after winning the Miss Vermont crown is work out a visit to Section 36! We talked about organ donation, her dancing, and thoughts on the Miss America competition, along with other things.
Just one week after Julia's visit, Section 36 welcomed Bridget! We discussed her goals, her dedication to STEM and, oh yeah, surfing!


Gabriela Taveras

The most recent visitor to Section 36 gracing the stage in Atlantic City is Gabriela. Just over a week ago, we discussed her expectations of Miss America, singing, and wrestling!

As you can see, there are some amazing young women hoping to complete the Section 36 - Miss America combo. I can't wait to see how it ends up.

Good luck to all of these incredible women!

Friday, August 31, 2018

Allison Rogers Live!

I'm sure you all remember Allison Rogers from her powerful guest post about her struggles with migraine disorder. But, did you know that she is also an incredibly talented singer/musician? Don't believe me? Well, you can check out some of her videos as proof, or go see for yourself!

That's right. Tomorrow (September 1) Allison will be performing live at The Den at Harry's Hardware in Cabot Vermont! Check out all the details on her flyer below.




Wow. It gets better and better. The show is free! Plus, any tips will be donated to Wild Gift. So, you get to spend the night out, enjoy a Vermont craft beer, make a donation to a great cause, and hear the angelic voice of Allison! You can even pick up a few hardware supplies while you're there. 

Sounds like perfection to me. I really hope you'll be able to make it to her show. It doesn't sound like something you'll want to miss.

And, if you bump into Allison, be sure to tell her you saw her on Section 36!

Enjoy the show!

Sunday, July 22, 2018

Dancing With Miss Connecticut!

One of the points of the Miss America Crown stands for "service". I am always amazed at the ways the titleholders who have visited with Section 36 have exemplified that point. This latest event from Miss Connecticut Bridget Oei is only the latest example. She has come up with a fun way to raise money for Children's Miracle Network, the official Charity of the Miss America Organization. Bridget is offering the opportunity to join her for a Master Class, covering many different dance styles. Check out the flyer below for all the details!



As you can see, there are all sorts of options to help match your schedule and dance preference! All it takes to join her is a $30 donation to the Children's Miracle Network! How amazing is that?!?

Just in case the photo is tricky to read, here are those dates again.

Ballet:
     7/30 - CT Concert Ballet 6:30-8:00 PM

Irish Step and Conditioning:
     8/4 - Griffith Academy 10:00-11:00 AM (8 yrs old and younger)
     8/4 - Griffith Academy 11:00 AM-12:00 PM (9 yrs old and up)

Jazz
     8/11 - Triple Threat Dance Studio - 10:00-11:30 AM

Ballet and Contemporary
     8/17 CT Dance Theatre & the Arts - 6:00-7:00 PM

To reserve your spot, email Kristen at bookmissct at missct.org. Be sure to tell her you heard about it on Section 36!

And when you go, mention to Bridget how much you loved her visit with Section 36!

Saturday, July 21, 2018

Two More Crowns Handed Out Today!


Two More Crowns Handed Out Today!

Today, more amazing women will take their next step towards their dream job, and earn some amazing scholarship money along the way.

Today, a new Miss Rockingham County and Miss Greater Nashua will be crowned!

I’m sure you’re all joining Section 36 in eagerly waiting to see who takes home those crowns!

But, with every new beginning comes the end of a reign.

Miss Rockingham County Hannah Trepainer will have to relinquish her title. Hannah was nice enough to visit with Section 36 in January. Her interview was fantastic, and I certainly hope you’ll go back and reread it.


Miss Rockingham County 2018

Miss Greater Nashua Kayla Warren will also have to give up her crown. Kayla visited Section 36 last November. It was a wonderful interview as well, and definitely worth revisiting!


Miss Greater Nashua 2018

So, Section 36 would like to congratulate Hannah and Kayla on their fantastic year. They certainly set the bar high, and I’m looking forward to seeing what comes their way next!

Congratulations Hannah and Kayla!