A Biased Assessment of the Miss USA Pageant

It has been a number of years since I've watched a pageant; tonight I watched the 2007 Miss USA Pageant and was, for the most part, unenthusiastic.

I miss the monotony and the cheese from years past, most especially the late 1980's and early 1990's. Since then, pageants began to bore me because they were rushed and stale.

I miss the diverse hairstyles, the humility, or at least the pretense of it, and I miss the Air Force Academy choir and drill team that always accompanied the evening gown competition. I even miss the tacky sound proof booth where two contestants languished in nervous standing while another was asked a question that would soon be offered to the others.

The questions now border on the ridiculous with predictable and shallow answers. For example, this evening, Miss Rhode Island, Danielle Lacourse, was asked by Jerry Springer that if she could ban anything, what would it be. Ms. Lacourse replied, "I would ban the use of cell phones while driving."

With all the options available I find her response hard to believe and seriously doubt that cell phone use while driving would be her number one choice.

Also cringe worthy was the self-glorification by Miss Virginia, Lauren Elizabeth Barnette, who proudly stated in her ironic "Beautiful on the Inside" fluff piece that she was voted "most beautiful" by her senior class.

That was just what I wanted to know about someone who is so noticeably gorgeous on the outside that she doesn't need to announce it to the world.

Actual substance was found in the radiant stand-out, Miss Kansas, 19-year-old Cara Renee Gorges, who was assertive, brave, and stuck to her guns. She was honest -- courageously admitting after being asked about her volunteer work that yes, she volunteered for many different programs through her Catholic church. Her disclosure also revealed that Ms. Gorges is gasp pro-life.

Her final question was put forth by Nick Lachey's lovely lass, Vanessa Minnillo, who asked if Miss Kansas thought everyone deserved a second chance.

Ms. Gorges didn't hesitate, her voice didn't waver, and she answered "no" and went on to list her reasons why. Her reply seemed the most genuine, thorough, and the most straightforward.

Posed to Miss Kansas were questions with substance while many others were offered easy fluff. Miss Kansas is only 19-years-old - one of the youngest in the entire competition; I was impressed with her, even before I knew her values, which she has the integrity to live, and not only speak of.

I think she would have made a respectable Miss USA and one little girl's could look up to.

And while I'm on the subject, I'm disappointed that Miss USA 2006, Tara Conner, was given the oft repeated 'second chance.' Personally, I believe that questionably conduct can be forgiven, but should not be rewarded. However, in the world of celebrity and notoriety it is, which is unfortunate. I do believe in second chances for those that deserve them, but I also believe in consequences.

I would rather reward the person who worked hard, made good choices, and ultimately respected the position that many strive for, but few achieve.