After The Preliminaries...

Nora: Good morning, Ladies!

Lorna: Good morning. 

Vilma: How did you guys like the preliminary competition?  Any surprises?

Nora: Right off the bat, there were immediate stand outs that I never paid attention to before.  That’s why sometimes it’s hard to make comments until you see them on stage all together.

Lorna: Who was your biggest surprise or surprises?

Nora: Definitely, New York and Pennsylvania!

Lorna: Mine is Florida.  She had great stage presence.

Vilma: I would have to say, Utah.  I thought she did great.  She needs to learn how to walk better but overall I was really surprised.

Nora: Let’s move on with the disappointing performances.  I would say my biggest disappointment is Arizona.  She just seemed unsure and rushed.  She didn’t glow.  She almost seemed like she ran out of steam for some reason.  My second disappointment will have to be Rhode Island.  I thought Kate would shine but instead, she faded in the background.

Lorna: I think Brittany was just nervous.  I personally was disappointed with Miss North Carolina.  I think it was her make up or something.  Her eye makeup made her face very strong.

Vilma: I was disappointed with Kansas.  Jaymie just seemed blah on stage.  Plus she wore an evening gown that has been worn many times before.  Not a good choice of color either. 

Nora: It scared me when Miss California stumbled on her evening gown in the beginning of her presentation.  I’m not so sure about that gown.  It’s so heavy and green is not exactly my color of choice for a pageant gown.

Vilma: As expected, Michigan pulled a spectacular performance.  She just seemed so at ease on stage and she got the catwalk dialed in…very nice.

Nora: I was not surprised with Channing’s performance at all.  I knew she would do well.  Interview will be her only downfall, which she already admitted as her weakest point.

Lorna: California did well in swimsuit, as expected.  South Carolina, Texas and District of Columbia gave flawless performances.

Vilma: So what do you guys think of our very own Miss Washington, Angelina Kayyaleynen?

Lorna: I’m so proud of her!  I think she did really well.  She seemed to have listened to our advice and decided to wear the same gown she wore at the state finals, or at least something similar…I really couldn’t tell.

Nora: I believe it’s the same one.  I’m so happy with her performance…especially in swimsuit.  She just glided on stage and projected really well.  She just might make top 15!

Lorna: I hope so, I hope so, I hope so!

Nora: Did you see Miss Massachusetts’ gown?  Va Va Voom!

Vilma: Could that slit go any higher?  Geez…a few more inches and it could have reached her chest!

Lorna: I liked it.  I thought it was sexy.

Vilma: I was impressed with Miss Iowa and Miss Nebraska.  I think they did some of the better performances last night.  Iowa just knew how to project and knows her good angles.  She took her time and never rushed.  Nebraska practiced her walk a lot.  It didn’t come across like she was over doing it…just right. 

Nora: I just have to comment on Miss Oklahoma’s gown.  This is what I call a pageant disaster.  Do not wear an evening gown that makes your hips looked twice as big!  The top portion of the gown made her shoulder looks broad, but combining that with a transitional color on the hips, which is a lighter color, which made her hips looked so big!  I just don’t understand.  I would have loved for her to have worn the gown in the picture.  It’s not the best gown but would have been a better gown.  Too bad…great girl, bad gown. 

Lorna: The gown I fell in love with is the one worn by Miss Tennessee.  It’s almost completely translucent but it’s not.

Nora: Worst gown has got to be Miss Montana’s.  Combined with her big hair that made her head looked so unproportionately big, the gown just made her look old.  Red is not her color.

Vilma: Did you like Miss Alabama’s gown?  She also listened to us.  She stayed with red but much lighter fabric.  I actually liked her performance.

Lorna: One of our favorites, Miss Wyoming, stuck with her lavender gown.  It was actually better on stage than in the picture.

Nora: To me, she stood out in the swimsuit.  She was simply stunning!

Vilma: What did you guys think of the 3 Latinas?

Nora: I thought they all did really well.  Florida is definitely my favorite of the 3…perfect evening gown and perfect swimsuit.  I did like Miss Texas’ gown. 

Lorna: Did you notice that 85% of them wore the same gown shown in the pictures?

Vilma: I know.  I was surprised.

Nora: So are you sticking to your original top 15 choices?

Vilma: I am sticking to my top 15.  They are CALIFORNIA, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, WYOMING, TENNESSEE, INDIANA, ARIZONA, KANSAS, TEXAS, SOUTH CAROLINA, WASHINGTON, FLORIDA, NEW JERSEY, MISSOURI, GEORGIA AND ILLINOIS.

Nora: I have to make some changes on mine.  I’m dropping Maine, Indiana, Rhode Island, North Carolina and Massachusetts.  So my new top 15 are NEW YORK, PENNSYLVANIA, FLORIDA, TENNESSEE, MICHIGAN, ALABAMA, CALIFORNIA, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, MISSOURI, WASHINGTON, NEW JERSEY, ILLINOIS, WYOMING AND TEXAS.

Lorna: Can I just mention something real quick?  Did you guys notice that Miss Louisiana’s gown is so similar to Miss Virginia’s gown last year?  She even imitated the dreaded “Samantha Casey” move. Yuck!   Anyway, I’m dropping Miss Louisiana and Miss North Carolina.  So my top 15 are CALIFORNIA, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, MISSOURI, NEW JERSEY, SOUTH CAROLINA, MICHIGAN, VIRGINIA, ARIZONA, TEXAS, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, WASHINGTON, UTAH, MASSACHUSETTS AND TENNESSEE.

Nora: Before we go, I’d like you to give me your top 5 and their rankings.            

Vilma: My top 5 will be CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, TENNESSEE, ILLINOIS AND DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.  Rankings would be ILLINOIS 4^TH, TENNESSEE, 3^RD, FLORIDA 2^ND, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 1^ST AND CALIFORNIA is Miss USA.

Lorna: My top 5 will have to be SOUTH CAROLINA, MICHIGAN, CALIFORNIA, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA AND TEXAS.   MICHIGAN 4^TH, CALIFORNIA 3^RD, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 2^ND, TEXAS 1^ST AND SOUTH CAROLINA is Miss USA.

Nora: Mine are CALIFORNIA, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, MICHIGAN AND WASHINGTON.  WASHINGTON 4^TH, SOUTH CAROLINA 3^RD, CALIFORNIA 2^ND, MICHIGAN 1^ST AND DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA is Miss USA.

Vilma: There you have it!  Good luck to all the girls and we’ll see you both here on Monday to recap the pageant.

Nora: Good luck to all the ladies and to you both.  We’ll see who is the queen of Miss USA this year.

Lorna: See you both on Monday!

Tennessee - Wyoming

Nora: Good morning, Ladies!

Lorna: Good morning. 

Vilma: Two more days!  I’m so excited!

Nora: I know…I bet the girls are getting nervous.

Lorna: Who wouldn’t be?  I’ll be a mess!

Nora: So we’re doing this a little different today.  We’ll do the review first and then I’m putting you on the spot by naming your top 15 before the preliminary competition.  We’ll regroup again on Thursday and see if your list changed at all.  We will also do our final prediction on Thursday so make a lot of notes!

Lorna: So we’re doing Tennessee to Wyoming today.

Vilma: Let’s start with Miss Tennessee, Ashley Durham.

Nora: I like Ashley.  She’s been hanging around my number 15 spot, drops to 16 or 17 on some days so I’m still not sure.

Vilma: She’s got appeal, she’s gorgeous and she’s blonde.  What else do you want?

Lorna: I’m having a tough time with Ashley as well.  That was not the case last year with Tucker Perry.  She was immediately on my top 15. 

Nora: Right now, if I present my top 15, she won’t be in it.

Vilma: Who took her spot?

Nora: Rhode Island.

Lorna: Well, statistic wise, Tennessee has done well.  They’ve made the semifinals 28 times and have produced two Miss USA’s since 2000.  Those are pretty good odds.

Vilma: Next is Miss Texas, Ana Rodriguez.

Lorna: She’s in!  I think the Lone Star State has a winner.

Nora: I think Ana will do well.  Top 10 or even top 5.  Do I think she’ll win Miss USA?  It’s possible.  Miss Universe is in Brazil so maybe the Trump will pick a Latina this year.  There are only 3 of them so he already has his work cut out for him.

Lorna: Nah…I think the Donald will go for a blonde this year.

Vilma: Remember, Texas didn’t make it last year with Kelsey Moore.  But they have produced the most winners, 9 to be exact!

Nora: Ana is a stronger contender but she still has to convince me that she can be Miss USA.

Nora: Okay, let’s talk about Miss Utah, Jamie Crandall.

Vilma: She is the third of the only 3 Latinas of the pageant.

Lorna: I like Jamie.  I think she’ll do well.  She is the Ashley Durham on my list.  She kinda hangs around my number 14, 15 or 16.

Vilma: Not a fan.  She lacks the appeal. 

Nora: This is a difficult one for me.  I want to say that she’ll be in the top 15 but when I see the rest of the top contenders, I change my mind immediately.

Lorna: Believe it or not, Utah has done well at Miss USA.  They’ve made the semifinals 19 times.

Nora: Jamie might be number 20.

Vilma: Miss Vermont is next, Lauren Carter.

Lorna: I think she’s adorable and charismatic.

Nora: I hope she makes top 15.

Vilma: When Brooke Werner in 2009 didn’t make the semifinals, it broke my heart.  I’m afraid to cheer for Lauren now because I don’t want her to suffer the same fate.

Nora: If she deserves it, she will be in the top 15.

Lorna: Last year, I was a big fan of Nydelis Ortiz but I’m a bigger fan of Lauren.

Vilma: I can’t wait to see how she’s going to handle herself in the preliminary competition.

Nora: Next is Nikki Poteet, Miss Virginia.

Vilma: I was not a fan in the beginning and since they’ve arrived in Vegas, she grew on me.

Nora: I do like Nikki but she lacks the charm.

Lorna: She’s not as appealing as Samantha Casey.

Vilma: If Nikki wears that evening gown in the picture, she just might make top 15.  It looks amazing on her.

Lorna: She kinda reminds me of Kandace Krueger. 

Nora: Yeah, I guess…a little bit.

Vilma: That’s unfortunate because Kandace is my least favorite Miss USA ever.

Nora: They are the first state to win a back to back title.  Did you know that?

Lorna: Yes.  1969 and 1970, right?

Nora: That’s correct.  They do really well at Miss USA so the odds are in her favor.

Vilma: Our next contestant is our very own, Miss Washington, Angelina Kayyaleynen. 

Lorna: What can I say?  She’s amazing and has an international appeal.

Vilma: I have to say that she is not very photogenic.  But when she gets that right angle, she is simply stunning.  I can already see her with that Miss USA crown.

Nora: We saw her when she won her title and I can honestly say that she has a great stage presence.  She presents herself really well.  The deciding factor will be her choice of evening gown and how she does in interviews.  I think she already has the swimsuit dialed in.

Vilma: Tracy Turnure did a great job last year, even though she was not my choice at the state level.  I’m a Angelina fan so if I have to choose between the two, I'm Angelina all the way. 

Lorna: Washington has produced a Miss USA before, believe it or not, and has made the semifinals 18 times.  The last one that made top 15 was Tara McCormick in 2004.

Vilma: I really hope Angelina makes it!

Lorna: Down to three…next up is Miss West Virginia, Whitney Veach.

Nora: Love her face, very photogenic…I wish she’s about 5 inches taller.  I’m sure she does too.

Vilma: Do you think she’ll pull a Leah Laviano?

Lorna: She could very well can.  She’s got the goods.

Nora: I think she has the most beautiful face in the pageant.  But is that good enough?  I’m not sure.

Vilma: I’m really impressed with this state because when they get it right, they sure send the most beautiful delegates.  Of course, my all-time favorite is Kelly Anderson in 1984, followed by Jessi Pierson in 2009.

 Lorna: It’s funny to me that last year’s Miss West Virginia, Erica Goldsmith, was the shortest contestant.  This year, Whitney is the second shortest contestant, second only to Miss Wisconsin.

Nora: Good luck, Whitney!

Vilma: Speaking of Wisconsin, she's next…Jordan Morkin.

Nora: Are they sure she’s in the right pageant?  Shouldn’t she be at Miss Teen USA?  I swear to God she looks like she’s 15.  She is so adorable!

Lorna: She has that All American girl next door qualities and she is amazingly cute.

Nora: Remember, she was just the replacement.  Often times, they actually do better than the original winner.  Some examples include Miss Guatemala last year, Jessica Scheel.  She made top 10 at Miss Universe and then there’s Miss Nevada USA 2007, Helen Salas.  She made top 5.

Vilma: I love Courtney Lopez last year.  I think she should have been in the top 15. 

Lorna: We all voted for her last year, didn’t we?

Nora: Yes, we did.  We all had her in our top 15 lists.

Vilma: Wisconsin hasn’t done very well at Miss USA so the odds are against Jordan.

Nora: Who knows…weirder things have happened at Miss USA.

Vilma: And finally, Miss Wyoming, Kaitlyn Davis.

Nora: With the right evening gown and great interview, she’s in.  I want this to be a back to back year for Wyoming.  Claire Schreiner broke the long drought for Wyoming last year and I hope that Kaitlyn do much better this year.

Lorna: She’s very charming.  The judges cannot overlook that.

Nora: I’m rooting for her!

Lorna: I like her too so you don’t need to convince me.

Vilma: Good luck to Kaitlyn and all the girls!

Nora: So…I’d like to put you both on the spot and give me your list of top 15 prior to the preliminary night tomorrow.  I will share mine as well and then we’ll reconvene on Thursday and see if you’re sticking to your original picks or make changes.  So who wants to go first?

Vilma: I’ll go.  Drum roll please….haha.  My top 15 are California, District of Columbia, Wyoming, Tennessee, Indiana, Arizona, Kansas, Texas, South Carolina, Washington, Florida, New Jersey, Missouri, Georgia and Illinois.

Lorna: I’m so nervous…okay, my top 15 are California, District of Columbia, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan (not happy with her), Virginia, Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Illinois, Indiana, Washington and Utah.

Nora:  And mine is, Alabama (not happy with her), California, District of Columbia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Missouri, Rhode Island, Wyoming, Washington, Maine, Indiana, New Jersey, Illinois, Massachusetts and Texas.

Vilma: Good luck to all the contestants and I will see you both on Thursday.

Lorna: Sounds good.

Nora: Bye, Ladies.

Ohio - South Dakota

Nora: What happened yesterday?  I thought we‘re supposed to get together?

Lorna: I was asked to go to a friend’s sister’s wedding.  It was last minute and I couldn’t say no.

Vilma: I'm starting to feel the pressure now.  We only have 3 more days before the preliminary competition.

Nora: Well…because we are running out of time, let’s split the rest of the remaining candidates into two groups.  We’ll review Ohio to South Dakota today and then Tennessee to Wyoming tomorrow.  Deal?

Lorna: Sounds good.

Vilma: So…any gossip out there anyone wants to share?

Nora: Did you hear the rumor about Miss South Carolina?

Vilma: I was hoping you’ll bring that up.

Lorna: I’m not really sure if that’s true or not.  It seems to me that this came from someone in one of the pageant forums that has nothing better to do than to bash the contestants. 

Nora: I didn’t think there was any validity to it but it sure spread pretty quickly.

Vilma: The allegation is that Courtney is such a total B*^#@.  The person claims that she bosses everyone around and that no one likes her.

Nora: I don’t believe it.  I think this is a sinister way to bad mouth someone who I believe is a front runner.  I’m not even going there.

Lorna: I don’t believe it either.  Maybe she had an explosion or having a bad day and someone blew it out of proportion.

Vilma: What about the news about Rima almost losing her crown because she was partying too late?

Lorna: Give this girl a break.  She’s been through a lot and has been in the microscope since she won the title.  I love her determination and her attitude.

Nora: I think she is allowed to party.  She did not break any law and as long as she did not break a commitment or miss a day of work then what’s the big deal?

Lorna: I love Rima and I love the fact that she’s very open, very vocal and not afraid of the questions being thrown at her.

Vilma: I wish her all the best!

Andy Cohen

Giuliana Rancic

 

Nora: The hosts were announced yesterday.  How do you guys like Andy Cohen and Giuliana Rancic?

Vilma: Love it!  I think it’s a great choice and kudos to Donald Trump for picking two great hosts.

Lorna: I completely agree!  I think they will do a great job.  I hope they do Miss Universe as well.

Vilma: We can only hope.

Nora: Okay, let’s start our review with Miss Ohio, Ashley Caldwell.  What do you think of her?

Lorna: She’s cute.  However, she just doesn’t shine when amongst the other contestants.  She’s another candidate that fades in the background.

Nora: Not a fan.  Like you said, she’s cute and all but that’s about it.

Vilma: Compared to Amanda Tempel last year, I’d take Ashley anytime.

Nora: Ohio has produced two Miss USA’s and they placed 3^rd Runner Up in 2006.

Lorna: I’m just not feeling it for Ashley.

Nora: Next up, Miss Oklahoma, Kaitlyn Smith.

Vilma: Well, she ain’t Morgan Woolard.  She’s pretty but not sure she’ll do as well.

Nora: She’s beautiful but not outstanding as Morgan.  When Morgan enters a room, all eyes are on her immediately.

Lorna: In some pictures, Kaitlyn is stunning and then I see some pictures that makes me question, “Is that Kaitlyn?”

Vilma: She’s starting to fade for me.  I wish that she would put herself out there more.  I don’t even remember seeing her in any of the activity photos, have you?

Lorna: I think I saw her in one but that’s about it.

Nora: Historically, Oklahoma has done well in recent years.  They placed 1^st Runner Up last year.

Vilma: Unless she blows everyone away during the preliminary, I don’t think she’ll make top 15.

Nora: Our next contestant is Miss Oregon, Anna Prosser. 

Lorna: I saw her during the Miss Washington USA pageant and if she wasn’t wearing her crown and sash, I probably would not have noticed her.

Vilma: She was there?

Nora: You guys are so mean!  Anna is cute.  I love her in blue…that’s definitely her color.  Will she make top 15? I doubt it.

Vilma: Oregon is not exactly the land of Miss USA winners.  They have yet to produce a winner and they’ve only made the semifinals 10 times.  The last time they placed was in 2004. 

Lorna: But remember, Oregon has the most Miss Teen USA’s and two of those winners went on to accomplish great things.  Bridgette Wilson became an actress and is now married to tennis superstar Pete Sampras.  Tami Farrell became Miss California (by default), when Carrie Prejean was dethroned.

Vilma: As far as Anna is concerned, not seeing a Miss USA crown in her future.

Lorna: They didn’t do well last year with Kate Paul, whose brain got fried upon her arrival in Vegas and decided to change her hairstyle so she can look like a witch.  I still don’t get it.  To this day, I still don’t get it.  Do you?

Vilma: Let’s not go there.

Lorna: Okay, let’s now talk about Miss Pennsylvania, Amber Watkins.

Nora: Not feeling it. 

Vilma: Really? A lot of people like her and she’s on most people’s top 15.

Lorna: Maybe I’m blind. 

Nora: My problem is because I love last year’s Miss Pennsylvania, Gina Cerilli.  She was on my top 5 last year.  Amber is okay.  I just don’t get the butterflies when I see her.

Vilma: Pennsylvania has done really well at Miss USA, especially in the 70’s and 80’s.  They’ve produced the last red-head Miss USA in 1971 and they made top 15 last year.

 Lorna: Not seeing it this year.

Vilma: Miss Rhode Island, Kate McCaughey is next!

Nora: I’m telling you…this girl will surprise everyone.  I think she’s completely below everyone’s radar right now but I can guarantee you, she will knock your socks off on Wednesday night.

Lorna: You really like this girl.

Nora: I love surprises and I think she’ll be Wednesday night’s surprise.

Vilma: We will see. 

Lorna: Rhode Island has done really well in recent years and I personally think that Danielle Lacourse in 2007 remains as one of the most beautiful Miss USA contestants ever.

Nora: I agree with you.  I think Danielle would have done well at Miss Universe.

Vilma: What about Kristina Primavera last year?  I did like her.

Nora: If I have to choose between the two, I’ll pick Kate.

Vilma: Next up is Courtney Turner, Miss South Carolina.

Nora: I love Courtney.  I think this bad publicity will only help her.

Lorna: I also like Courtney.  She’s definitely top 15-material.  I do think she has some bad angles but for the most part, she’s very photogenic.

Nora: I love Rachel last year and I love Courtney this year.  She’ll definitely make top 15.

Lorna: This state has done really well at Miss USA.  They have produced 3 Miss USA’s, made the semifinals 29 times and 2009 was the last time.

Vilma: The odds are definitely in her favor.

Nora: And finally, Miss South Dakota, Chandra Burnham.

Vilma: To me, here’s another gal that should try out for Miss America.  I think she’ll do well over there.

Lorna: I just don’t see it with Chandra.  She’s pretty and all but not enough.  Better luck next time to the Mt. Rushmore State.

Vilma: South Dakota only made the semifinals twice and the last time was 1974.  Compared to Emily Miller last year, I think Emily was a stronger contender.

Nora: Thanks to you both.  I will see you here again tomorrow and conclude our state by state review.

Lorna: We will see you tomorrow!

New Jersey - North Dakota

Nora: How’s your Saturday going?

Lorna: So far so good.  I stayed too late last night watching the interview videos of the candidates.

Vilma: Some of them were quite funny and some were just plain boring.  Some just sounded like pure prima donnas.

Lorna: Especially when asked if they would or have done online dating.  Some of them made it sound like it was such a taboo.  “Oh no, I would never do online dating”…give me a break!

Nora: I personally did not like how Miss Michigan responded to that question.  She made it sound like “Look at me, I’m gorgeous, I would never resort to online dating…and I have a boyfriend”….whatever!!!

Lorna: Did you watch Miss Alabama?  Her answers made her sound so extremely conservative that she bored me to death.  She would never do online dating.  She does not approve of teaching about evolution in school.  She doesn’t believe that the world is round, she doesn’t believe people should be driving convertible cars, people should not be cursing, and people should not use public bathrooms…and on and on and on.  Total blah!!!

Vilma: Which interview you liked the best?

Nora: I’m going to sound so completely biased but I would have to say our very own Miss Washington, Angelina Kayyaleynen.  She was charming.  She answered the questions perfectly and appropriately and she just sounded like she was having a good time.

Vilma: I thought so too.  But I did enjoy Miss California, Alyssa Campanella.  I thought she did a great job and she was just stunning in that interview.

Nora: I have a new favorite.  Most people have not mentioned her at all in their list of favorites.

Lorna: Who?

Nora: Miss Rhode Island, Kate McCaughey!  I think she’s amazing.  I never noticed her before but after watching her interview video, I’m sold.  Plus, she is probably the only one that said she would pose nude as long as it’s tasteful…that’s my kind of girl.

Vilma: She’s the one that looks like Morgan Woolard in her swimsuit photo, right?

Nora: That’s her!

Vilma: Oh, okay.  I see what you mean.  Her evening gown looks great too.  She’s the one wearing the white with silver beading.  I am anxious to see that gown from the front.

Lorna: I am having second thoughts with Miss Nevada now.  She just sounded like a total pageant Patty…over confident and so rehearsed.

Vilma: You think so?  I thought she did a good job.  She sounded confident.

Lorna: Well…watch it again.  When asked about online dating, she responded “I’m really busy being Miss Nevada right now and serving the community that I really don’t have time to date anyone”.  I mean, come on…can you be more pageant Patty than that?   

Vilma: Well, maybe she is too busy.

Lorna: I get that but the question is not pertaining to now necessarily.  It was meant to be in general.

Nora: I was a little disappointed with Miss Wyoming.  She was stunning in that interview but her answers were just too short and plain.  Plus she does this thing with her face when she answered the questions that kind of turned me off.

Vilma: The one that surprised me was Miss Illinois.  She just looked tired in that video.  Her hair was all over the place and looked so dry.  That was definitely not her best moment but I’m still a fan.

Lorna: I think Miss District of Columbia did the best interview.  I’m so loving this girl right now.  I would even go out on a limb and say that she will either be Miss USA or first runner up…definitely top two.

Nora: I think you maybe right.  I would pair her with Miss California.  Between those two, I’ll be happy.

Lorna: So who are we reviewing today?

Nora: We are doing New Jersey to North Dakota.

Lorna: So, who wants to go first?

Vilma: I’ll go…Miss New Jersey, Julianna White.  Hmmm, I’m starting to like her again.  She did well in the interview.  Not seeing her as one of my top two but I’ll be happy if she makes top 5.

Lorna: Do you still think she had surgery done?

Vilma: You know, I was thinking about that.  Maybe it was just makeup that made her look the way she did.

Nora: Historically, New Jersey has done satisfactorily at Miss USA.  They placed 2^nd Runner Up just 3 years ago.

Vilma: Compared to Miss New Jersey last year, I think Julianna will do much better.

Lorna: Julianna is definitely in my top 15.

Nora: Next one is Miss New Mexico, Brittany Toll.  I’m not so sure about this one.  I have to see her on stage.

Lorna: Brittany is a crap shoot for me.  In some pictures she looks amazing and then on others, no so much.

Vilma: I agree with both of you.  She just needs to bring it on come preliminary night.  Otherwise, she fades in the background.

Nora: New Mexico already produced one Miss USA but the last time they placed was 7 years ago. 

Nora: I’m not betting too much on Brittany.  Sorry.

Vilma: Next up, Miss New York, Amber Collins.  Do you think she really looks like Heidi Klum?

Nora: I guess in some photos and in a certain angle but she’s no Heidi.

Lorna: Here’s another one I’m confused about.  She is one of those candidates that you either like or completely dislike.  I completely dislike her.  I don’t know…something’s missing.

Nora: Compared to Davina Reeves last year, I would take Amber.  But does she stand out among this year’s contestants?  I don’t think so.

Vilma: Remember, New York has produced 4 Miss USA’s. 

Nora: I know but I don’t think Amber will be the 5^th.

Lorna: What do you think of Miss North Carolina, Brittany York?

Nora: Well, you know I love this girl but to be completely honest, I didn’t like her interview video at all.  She just didn’t sound like she has substance.  She made herself sound like a ditzy blonde.  I’m sorry, Brittany…I’m still a fan!

Lorna: I’m with you on this one.  But, I still see her in the top15.

Vilma: They won the crown twice since 2005…not bad.

Nora: I don’t think we can even compare Brittany with Nadia Moffett.  Nadia was awesome last year but I’m Brittany all the way.

Lorna: My advice to Brittany, do not do the Venezuelan hair flip like Nadia did a lot last year.  It really annoyed me.

Vilma: And finally, Miss North Dakota, Brandi Schoenberg.

Lorna: Brandi to me is a total Miss America contestant.  Her beauty is not for Miss USA.  I wish she would join the Miss America system because I feel she’ll do well over there.

Nora: Brandi is cute.  But I think you have a point.  She does look like a total Miss America contestant.  Maybe she will try it in the future, who knows.

Vilma: The last time North Dakota made the semifinals was in 1996, with Juliette Spier. 

Nora: I love Juliette!

Lorna: Me too!  She’s so adorable.

Vilma: How did you like last year’s Miss North Dakota, Taylor Kearns?

Lorna: Compared to Brandi, I think Taylor was a stronger candidate.  Plus Taylor competed at Miss Teen USA.

Vilma: Not feeling it for Brandi.

Nora: I think we need to do this again tomorrow.  We only have a few days left before the preliminary competition on Wednesday.

Lorna: I’m all for it.

Vilma: See you both tomorrow?

Nora: You betcha!

Missouri - New Hampshire

Nora: I’m sorry, Ladies…all this work stuff is driving me crazy.  I know we’re supposed to get together Tuesday but once again, I got called in at work to meet with some clients out of town so I apologize.

Lorna: That’s okay.  I know how that goes.  I’ve been so busy at work myself.

Vilma: Ladies, as expected this week, Miss USA finally posted all the official photos of the candidates.

Nora: I know.  What did you guys think of the glamour shots?

Lorna: Very glamorous indeed!

Vilma: I really liked it.  I didn’t even recognize some of the contestants with their wild hair and makeup.

Nora: Which one is your favorite?  My personal favorite is Miss Hawaii.  I love red and she looked fierce in that picture.

Vilma: I like Miss Indiana’s shot.  I love that funky thing they did to her hair.  It’s easier to play with long hair.

Lorna: I like Miss Wyoming’s.  Speaking of Wyoming…this girl is growing on me.  I think she looks amazing in swimsuit.  I just hope she doesn’t use that purple gown in the preliminaries. 

Nora: You know what?  I had the same thought the other day.  She is starting to become a great contender for me.  She looks great and photographs really well.

Vilma: I know that those gowns are not necessarily what they will be wearing during the preliminaries but any of them you wish they would?

Nora: Definitely Virginia!  I love, love, love this gown.  It fits her perfectly.  So I hope she does wear that in the pageant.  She will score big on that.

Lorna: I love that gown too.  I think the color is wonderful!  It’s sexy but not vulgar.

Vilma: I cannot believe we all picked the same gown.  I also like that gown!  I love Miss Missouri’s gown too.  I hope she wears that in the pageant.

Lorna: Let’s emphasize again that the gowns shown in the pictures are not necessarily what they will wear in the pageant so let’s make that clear to everyone.

Nora: Is there any of those gown you wish they would not wear during the pageant?

Lorna: Definitely Connecticut’s.  She looks like she’s wearing a giant plastic Solo cup.  So for your own sake, Regina, do not wear that!

Vilma: Mine would be Miss Ohio’s.  Dear God…that gown is what I call a senior prom gown.  If she wants to make top 15, she better not wear that gown.

Nora: I’m hoping that our very own Angelina Kayyaleynen doesn’t wear that pink gown in the pageant.  That’s not her color.  I love the color of the gown she wore at the state finals so I wish she would wear something in that color palette.

Lorna: What about the swimsuits?  Who has the best bods out there?

Nora: It’s interesting because I think that the ones with the best bodies are Miss Nebraska, Miss New Hampshire, Miss Illinois, Miss Virginia and Miss Wyoming.

Vilma: I really can’t tell with some of them because of the way they posed.  I hate the “Samantha Casey” pose!!!  It’s the ones that have their back on the camera and showing their behinds.  God, I was so irritated last year when Miss Virginia, Samantha Casey did that with all her photos.  She even did it during the finals…yuck!

Nora: Maybe she’s trying to show off her best asset…which I guess is her behind.

Lorna: It doesn’t matter…it’s still annoying!

Nora: Okay, let’s get on with our state by state review.  We are doing Missouri to New Hampshire.  Let’s start with Hope Driskill, Miss Missouri.

Vilma: I’m a total fan!  I love the evening gown she’s wearing in the pictures so I hope she wears that in the pageant.  I think she’ll be in the top 15.

Nora: I think so too!  Missouri made top 10 last year with Ashley Strohmier.  I hated that Gatorade gown she wore in the finals.  What was she thinking?!

Lorna: At least she made top 10.  I think Hope will equal or even top that this year.

Vilma: Statistically, Missouri has done really well in recent years and I think Hope will keep that streak going.

Lorna: Next is Miss Montana, Brittany Wiser.

Nora: You know, she has some bad angles but I think she is gorgeous.  Not sure if she’ll make top 15 but if she does, I will be very happy.

Vilma: I think she looks better in person.  She has an amazing body and believe it or not, I like that red gown in the picture.  I hope she wears that one in the pageant.

Nora: Last year’s Miss Montana was gorgeous!  Not sure why Annie didn’t make the semifinals.  I would have picked her over Mississippi.

Lorna: Historically, Montana has not done very well at Miss USA.  They’ve only made the semifinals 3 times and the last time they placed was in 1958.  That’s not looking good for Brittany.

Lorna: I do wish her well.

Nora: Next on the list is Nebraska, Haley Herold.

Vilma: She has an amazing body!  I’m not sure if that’s going to be enough. 

Lorna: Belinda Wright made top 15 last year and won Miss Congeniality.  I’m not sure if Haley would do as well as Belinda did.

Vilma: It will be tough.  But, they did win Miss America this year so who knows.

Lorna: Our next candidate is the hometown girl, Miss Nevada, Sarah Chapman.  What do you ladies think?

Nora: I think Sarah will make top 15.  It’s time for the hometown girl to make good.  She’s very photogenic and the press loves her.  She’s been getting a lot of good press lately and she’s consistently putting herself out there.  Plus, she’s a blonde and I’m sure Donald Trump will be all over her.

Vilma: I think she’s got the goods to do well in this pageant.  She just needs NOT to be over confident because that will be her downfall.

Lorna: Well, Nevada is not very consistent historically.  They did place in the top 5 in 2007 with Helen Salas, who was not even the crowned Miss Nevada USA that year.  Helen was only the 1^st Runner Up after the dethronement of Katie Rees.

Nora: I would love to see Sarah do well.

Vilma: And finally, Miss New Hampshire, LaceyJane Folger.

Nora: I would kill to have a body like hers.  She’s got the tiniest waist!

Lorna: I know!  She makes me sick.  I think I’ll have another Snickers bar now.  She depresses me.

Vilma: Oh come on…I’m sure if you work hard, you’ll have a body like Lacey’s.

Lorna: Not a chance!  I can work out 24-7-365 and I wouldn’t be anywhere close to what her body looks like.

Nora: She’s a thousand percent better than last year’s Miss New Hampshire, Nicole Houde.  Will LaceyJane makes top 15? It’s a long shot.  There are just too many other above-par contenders this year.  Plus they haven’t really done well historically. 

Vilma: So when is our next get-together?  Is it tomorrow or Saturday?

Nora: It will be Saturday.  We’ll be reviewing New Jersey to North Dakota.

Lorna: Sounds great!  See you both Saturday!