MISS AMERICA Beagle cherishes pageant experience

The Valley resident is looking forward to her year ahead as Miss Ohio.
By LAURA FARR
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. -- It was the opportunity of a lifetime that only a select few get to experience.
Miss Ohio Amanda Beagle didn't capture the coveted Miss America title but she did capture the admiration of many who traveled to see her perform on the famous Boardwalk Hall stage.
Beagle walked the runway she once only dreamed of doing. Now that dream is a vivid memory she will always cherish.
"That is something powerful that I can carry with me. How many 24-year-old women get to do that?"
She added, "It wasn't important how many awards I received, it was important that I did my best. I accomplished that goal for myself. I can always look back at the memories."
On the national level of competition, $5,000 scholarships are awarded to each of the 42 Miss America contestants who did not reach the semifinals. Beagle plans to use her scholarship to fund her pursuit of a master's degree. She's also looking forward to her reign as Miss Ohio.
Embracing opportunities
"I have a lot of opportunities as Miss Ohio and there are a lot of things I can accomplish, so it will be interesting to explore those opportunities and avenues throughout my year," the Howland resident said.
"I love to perform so I look forward to returning to Ohio to resume my schedule of appearances throughout the state. When I return home to Ohio, I will eat my way across the Mahoning Valley and stop at some of my favorite restaurants."
Beagle, who had a full-page ad in the official Miss America Program book sponsored by the Youngstown State University Alumni Association, received a personal invitation from several former Miss Americas in attendance to have lunch with them this past Thursday.
Beagle had the opportunity to meet and talk with Miss America 1955, Lee Meriwether, among others.
"It was an opportunity to meet with Miss Americas on a personal level to learn about their achievements and future plans," Beagle said.