The NAM National Pageant + Band Hero = TOTAL BLAST !!!

Check out this SUPER FUN picture of the first ever "NAM BAND" at nationals !!! This past November at the national pageant in LA, the girls got to let their hair down and kick off their shoes and jam out just like TAYLOR SWIFT !!! It was AWESOME seeing the girls get on stage and put on a show!! To top it off we shot 3 music videos !! Check em out !!

                                               

Click to watch the Preteen Music Video !!!



Click to watch the Jr Teen Music Video !!!



 Click to watch the Teen Music Video !!!



For FUN NAM Videos Check out our YOUTUBE Channel at My NAMiss

Meet the 09-10 National All-American Miss Jamie Roddy!!!

Hey NAM fans its time to get the 411 on the sassy title holder from the Cajun state of Louisiana! It’s my honor to introduce to you our newly crowned National All-American Miss, the beautiful Jamie Roddy!!! Stay tuned and watch Jamie as she represents NAM girls across the USA!!!

Tiffany: What was your first reaction when you won your national title?

Jamie: I was shocked...I just wanted to make to top 5



Tiffany: How did you get involved in NAM ?

Jamie: I think a flyer came in the mail but I'm old, I've been around nam for 6yrs since i was 14 !!! I love it



Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Jamie: I want to work on the travel channel, and still do something with pageants!



Tiffany:What to you like to do for fun?

Jamie: sleep, shop, go to movies and out to eat

Tiffany: What activities are you involved in?

Jamie: Im involved with my sorority alpha omicron pi



Tiffany: What is your best quality ?

Jamie: I'm laid back, soo nothing really affects me negatively!



Tiffany: How would your friends describe you?

Jamie: Outgoing, but usually im hard to put into words haha!!!



Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?

Jamie: The Buckle and Bebe



Tiffany: Finish this sentence: People would be surprised to know...

Jamie: I'm shy when u first meet me but once u get to know me it doesnt stay that way for very long



Tiffany:  If you had 3 wishes what would you wish for?

Jamie: First to win miss universe,  Second to marry the man of my dreams and third to own my very own island !

Tiffany: If you could trade places with anyone for a day who would it be?

Jamie: The Barefoot Contessa...I wish Icould cook like that



Tiffany: If I gave you 1 million dollars what is the first thing you would by?

Jamie: Pay for my education in full !



Tiffany: What is your all time favorite movie?

Jamie: Mommie Dearest



Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

Jamie: My memories of my grandmother



Tiffany: What is your favorite book?

Jamie: Pride and Prejudice



Tiffany: Who is your role model ?

Jamie: Anyone with real talent in their field



Tiffany: If you could star on any TV show what would it be?

Jamie: Anything on the usa channel !



Tiffany:What advice do you have for any girls thinking about entering NAM?

Jamie: DO IT!!! oh and read every piece of paper they send you...its important info!!!

Meet The 09-10 National American Miss Jr Teen Sarah Summers !

It's time to get the inside scoop on this charming corn husker, Sarah Summers is the beautiful 2009-2010 National American Miss Jr Teen!!! Let’s find out what this leader is all about as she will represent today's teens for the next year!!! Check out her exclusive interview where she gives tips on how she captured the national title and on what she is doing now!!!

Tiffany: What was your first reaction when you won your national title?

Sarah: I was in shock. My first thought was “What? I’m from Nebraska!?” I am continuously amazed and grateful.



Tiffany: How did you prepare for nationals?

Sarah: I rewrote my personal introduction, practiced it numerous times, got a gorgeous new gown, and packed of course!



Tiffany: How did you get involved in NAM?

Sarah: I was blessed to have NAM be my first pageant. I started at age ten when I got a postcard in the mail! NAM is different than any other pageant; I love every aspect of the pageant.



Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Sarah: I hope to graduate from UNL to be a Pediatric Oncology Nurse. This is a very important goal to me because I am very close to the American Cancer Society and love children.



Tiffany: What to you like to do for fun?

Sarah: I love being with my friends and family. We often go to the mall or movies.



Tiffany: What activities are you involved in?

Sarah: As a freshman at my high school, I’m on the varsity dance team, show choir, and student council. I also volunteer with the American Cancer Society and many other organizations.



Tiffany: What is your best quality?

Sarah: The ability to communicate with many people. If you put me in a room full of people, I could hold a conversation with most of them.



Tiffany: How would your friends describe you?

Sarah: Outgoing, motivated, a shopaholic, and Happy. On the dance team we all have nicknames from the dwarfs in Snow White. They all call me Happy because no matter what the time of day or the situation, I am always smiling!



Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?

Sarah: I love little boutiques they always have exciting and unique accessories that you never find anywhere else.

Tiffany: Finish this sentence: People would be surprised to know...

Sarah: People would be surprised to know that I have been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.



Tiffany: What is your most embarrassing moment? (Preteen and up)

Sarah: I would say falling in front of a large group of people, which happens more often than not! I am graceful and poised when it comes to performing, but off the stage I am a bit of a klutz.



Tiffany: If you had 3 wishes what would you wish for?

Sarah: My first wish would be to find a cure for cancer because my family and I know many people who have been affected by this horrible disease. I would also wish for a puppy that would potty train its self and lastly, to go to Hawaii with my family.



Tiffany: If you could trade places with anyone for a day who would it be?

Sarah: A performer at Disney World. I love singing, dancing, and little kids. I think that would be an amazing day that I would never forget!



Tiffany: If I gave you 1 million dollars what is the first thing you would by?

Sarah: A trip to Hawaii with my family and friends!



Tiffany: What is your favorite quote?

Sarah: “Be the change you want to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi



Tiffany: What is your all time favorite movie?

Sarah: A Walk to Remember is my favorite movie. It’s a love story and a chick flick that makes me cry every time!



Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

Sarah: My first dance costume from when I was only three years old. I have been dancing ever since! I doubt I will ever be able to part with it.

Tiffany: What is your favorite book?

Sarah: The Giving Tree! I used to have this book read to me constantly as a little girl and just recently it came up in my life as a freshman in high school. It is a wonderful story.



Tiffany: Who is your role model?

Sarah: Through volunteering with The American Cancer Society I have come to know Amy Graber. She is the American Cancer Society Sarpy County Team Development Chairperson. She is very dedicated and I see her as an amazing role model.



Tiffany: If you could star on any TV show what would it be?

Sarah: Gossip Girl, I love that show and all the gorgeous fashions!



Tiffany: What do you hope to accomplish as National American Miss Jr. Teen?



Sarah: I am already very active in my community through volunteering. I hope to do even more with my title this following year. People seem to be more willing and give more when you have a title. I am grateful that I have this amazing opportunity to do more for others and give back.



Tiffany: What is the biggest misconception about your generation?

Sarah: Many adults would say that my generation is too much into technology, mainly our cell phones. I would say, “wrong!” Our phones and Facebook are how we keep in touch, especially when you know people all around the country.



Tiffany: If you had to pick between your cell phone, computer, or TV what would you pick?

Sarah: I would pick my cell phone, no hesitation! I have an iPhone - it does everything. It plays all my favorite music, I can text constantly, and I have internet on my phone so no need for the computer.



Tiffany: If you could witness any historical event which would you choose ? (PreTeen and up)

Sarah: The first time someone was diagnosed with cancer because I would have liked to talk to them to learn what they were feeling and what their case was.



Tiffany: What is your favorite subject in school?

Sarah: My favorite subjects are biology and chorus. I enjoy biology because I find it interesting and chorus because I can express myself with music.

Tiffany: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?

Sarah: Strawberries have always been my favorite food! You can have them in many different forms so I would never get bored!



Tiffany: What makes you unique?

Sarah: I am unique because unlike many teens I love volunteering and I keep active with it. I am often found getting others involved with volunteering by recruiting friends to be on my Relay for Life team, make blankets with me for the Linus Project, etc. Recently I have also learned to be myself and ignore what others say and think. The ones who support you, love you, and make you laugh, are the only ones that matter and will be with you until the end.



Tiffany: What advice do you have for any girls thinking about entering NAM?

Sarah: Go for it! It is an amazing experience that you will remember forever. Get to know the girls you meet there and you will make lifetime friendships.

Meet The 09-10 National All-American Miss PreTeen Adina Triolo !!!

Get the inside scoop on this outstanding Jersey girl !! Adina Triolo is our newly crowned National All-American Miss PreTeen and has a fantastic ride ahead of her as she reperesents the PreTeen's of America !!!

Tiffany: What was your first reaction when you won your national title?

Adina: My first reaction when I realized I had won was – WOW!!! AM I DREAMING?!! I was stunned! I never thought I would have made it so far as to be crowned queen! When they called the first runner up, I felt shocked and confused…I actually recall getting dizzy; I didn’t believe what was really happening until I felt the crown being placed on my head by Nicole! I started crying tears of happiness and my legs were shaking because of my excitement!



Tiffany: How did you prepare for Nationals?

Adina: Having been to Nationals before in 2007, I knew that I had a lot of work to do. For the optional competitions, I tried to make all my performances really fun and interesting by bringing lots of personality. I practiced for the interview portion by having my parents and older brother ask me random questions. I always pretend it’s the real thing and use as much energy and enthusiasm as possible because I believe the judges just want you to shine and be yourself so they can really get to know you. Also I keep in mind to look at the judges in the eyes so they know you are comfortable with them and they have your full attention…not that lovely pattern on the wall! For introduction I prepared by looking at whoever I was practicing with and staying in pretty feet. For the gown walk, I also practiced looking at the judges, smiling and walking at a steady pace…oh, and let’s not forget shopping for that perfect gown!!



Tiffany: How did you get involved in NAM ?

Adina: One day I got a card in the mail inviting me to apply as a state contestant. I had never heard of NAM or any pageant before, and it sounded like a fun way to meet new people and shine, and I was right! After participating in the Jr Pre Teen pageant in NJ in 2007, I was hooked! I gained a lot of confidence and faith and also a lot of new friends that I love!



Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Adina:When I grow up I would like to be a performer. I hope to go to Princeton University to receive a degree in theatre arts so that I can become a singer, actress, dancer or maybe all 3! Whichever path I choose, I’d have a chance to be on my favorite show, ‘Dancing with the Stars’, either as a guest or a professional dancer! I love performing because I believe it truly brings joy to people and I love making people happy.



Tiffany:What to you like to do for fun?

Adina: When I am not in voice or dance lessons, I love hanging out with my brother, writing poetry, watching TV…family movie nights are also a big favorite, my mom always makes homemade popcorn which is the best! I also love hanging out with my cousin Jamie, she’s a phenomenal dancer and we choreograph dances together and perform for our family, usually in the kitchen!

Adina with her brother at the National Pageant !

Tiffany: What activities are you involved in?

Adina:I am involved in a very wide variety of activities. I take voice, piano and dance lessons. In dance I am currently in ballet and jazz. I volunteer for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Finding a cure for breast cancer is very important to me because a good friend of mine passed away from this disease. I also perform with the Paper Mill Playhouse All Stars with is a theatre company that performs for seniors and disabled children. I LOVE this type of community service because I do two things I love at once…perform and bring joy to others! It is simply amazing to see the kids and seniors eyes light up when we perform…you can tell they get so much enjoyment and are so happy and appreciative, it makes everything so worthwhile!



Tiffany: How would your friends describe you?

Adina: I think my friends would describe me as loyal, funny and confident. Loyal, because I stand up for them always, funny because I’m always cracking jokes (I try all my new material on them!), and confident because I am not afraid to try new things and be a little crazy!





Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?

Adina: My favorite place to shop is the Rebecca Collection…it’s a really neat little shop that sells cute knick knacks and fun things to wear…they always have the latest and greatest things…right now it’s Sugar Lips, these really cool tank tops. I love this store because I have been going there since I was a very young child. I remember walking into the store the first time thinking it was just the coolest place ever…the owner and her dog are awesome…ahhh, so many lasting memories packed in that little shop!

Adina getting called into the top 10 at Nationals !!!

Tiffany: Finish this sentence: People would be surprised to know...

Adina: That I play ice hockey…with boys! Most people think that I am a girly girl (which I totally am!) but I have a sporty side too! I play on a team in which I am the only girl. The rest of the team didn’t even know I was a girl until the end of the season because of course I use the girl’s locker room and you come out with your helmet on. It was a good thing but a little unfortunate too, because while they treated me like one of the boys instead of taking it easy on me, they also called me ‘Billy’ and slapped me on the back-HARD!!





Tiffany: If you could trade places with anyone for a day who would it be?

Adina: If I could trade places with anyone for a day it would be with my eldest cousin, Jennah. She is 18 and in college and I think it would be cool to see what college is like! Also, Jennah plays basketball (she is also a girly girl but a killer athlete) and I think it would be fun to take her place in a game-but I’d need her skills too, otherwise it would be pretty scary!!



Tiffany: What is your favorite quote?

Adina: My favorite quote, by Ralph Waldo Emerson, is “do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail”. I love this quote because it inspires me to be myself, have my own dreams and follow my heart.



Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

Adina: My most prized possession is a collectible doll that my Grandpa gave to me. It’s a baby girl with blue eyes dressed as a cat. I loved it because it reminded me of something from my childhood but I couldn’t remember what. One day, my mom said that she was going to get rid of it. At that moment I remembered! On my second Halloween, I dressed as a fluffy white kitten, and all you could see was my face, just like the doll! After I told my mom why I wanted to keep it, she did too!



Tiffany: What is your favorite book?

Adina: My favorite book is Tuck Everlasting which is about a girl who meets a family who stays the same age forever and cannot die. The book taught me so many life lessons such as never take life for granted and live your life to the fullest while you can.



Tiffany: If you could star on any TV show what would it be?

Adina: If I could star on any TV show, I would star on Dancing with the Stars because I love ballroom dancing! I have always wanted to be a professional dancer on the show but it would be fun to be a star too, because a lot of them get to come back and perform again.

Happy New Year !!!

Tiffany: What advice do you have for any girls thinking about entering NAM?

Adina: Go for it!! NAM is so much fun! It REALLY gives you so much confidence to try new things! It really isn’t about winning either! If you play sports, you don’t expect to win every game…it’s about working hard to get better and do your personal best. It teaches you to speak in front of an audience, which is a skill you will use your entire life, whether you become something like a politician or are just giving a toast at your best friends wedding!! Plus once you do one pageant, you meet so many new people, and it’s great seeing them the next time…before you know it, you have a whole new group of friends that you text, go to their parties, or maybe just see next year and pick up where you left off. NAM is the best!!

Fun at Disney !!!

Adina with the National Judges !!!

Meet The 09-10 National All-American Miss Princess Carly Fricken !!!

It's time to get the inside scoop on the 2009-2010 National All- American Miss Princess Queen Carly Fricken ! This bubbly kiddo comes to us from Louisiana. Check out this exclusive interview, and find out what she is all about!!!

Tiffany: What was your first reaction when you won your national title?

Carly: I could not believe that I was the last one standing on stage!!!

Tiffany: How did you get involved in NAM?

Carly: Two years ago we received a letter the mail, I beg my parents to let me try it. This was my first ever pageant!

Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Carly: Not sure, but I think a doctor for now.

Tiffany: What to you like to do for fun?

Carly: I love to ride bikes with my friends and play outside.

Tiffany: What activities are you involved in?

Carly: Dancing, tumbling, cheerleading, softball

Tiffany: What is your best quality?

Carly: My fun and crazy personality. I love to make people laugh.





Tiffany: How would your friends describe you?

Carly: I love to shop at The Limited Too they have great clothes

Tiffany: If you had 3 wishes what would you wish for?

Carly: One to meet Miley Cyrus, Two to have my very own TV show on the Disney channel, and three to go back in the Disney cruise ship !!!

Tiffany: If you could trade places with anyone for a day who would it be?

Carly: Hannah Montana, she is my favorite person

Tiffany: If I gave you 1 million dollars what is the first thing you would bye?

Carly: a lap top for me so I don't have to use my moms

Tiffany: What is your all time favorite movie?

Carly: The Wizard of Oz

Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

Carly: My American Girl Doll

Tiffany: What is your favorite book?

Carly: I have some many favorite books it is hard to choose just one

Tiffany: Who is your role model?

Carly: My mom she is the best mom in the whole world

Tiffany: If you could star on any TV show what would it be?

Carly: Hannah Montana I love the show and cast

Tiffany: What do you hope to accomplish as the new National All-American Princess Queen?

Carly: I want to show girls that if they try hard enough they can accomplish anything

Tiffany: If you had to pick between your cell phone, computer or TV what would you pick?

Carly: Computer, you can talk to your friends on a computer and watch your favorite shows

Tiffany: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Carly: To never give up follow your dreams

Tiffany: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?

Carly: Steak!!!

Tiffany: What advice do you have for any girls thinking about entering NAM?

Carly: Go for it, you will make friends for life it’s a blast!

Meet The 09-10 National American Miss PreTeen Erika Porras !

Its time to get the inside scoop on our sassy NAM National PreTeen Queen Erika Porras !!



Tiffany:What was your first reaction when you won your national title?



Erika: I was so excited and honored. When the MC announced "Your new NAM Queen is....... Erika Porras " I cried, sat down on the floor, ran in a circle, and I walked away from the crown because I didn't believe it...I was on shock!!! It was a dream come true!



Tiffany: How did you prepare for nationals?



Erika: I worked very hard preparing my personal introduction and practicing interview questions in front of my family. Every day on my way to school, I had to tell my personal introduction to my mom. The most important skill I learned was to be confident in who you are, set goals and believe in your dreams.



Tiffany: How did you get involved in NAM?



Erika: was involved in NAM because my friend highly recommended this pageant to me. This pageant is very unique. I Love NAM!!!



Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?



Erika: I want to graduate as valedictorian, receive my Medical Degree from Harvard University; Become a Pediatrician; Be a positive role model serving my community and make my family proud!



Tiffany: What do you like to do for fun?



Erika: I play volleyball with my friends love working together as a team; dancing; taekwondo; acting: modeling: and I am very passionate about volunteering in my community. I make people around me smile and make friends easily. I am a busy girl and love to lend a helping hand.



Tiffany: What activities are you involved in?



Erika: I am an International Student Ambassador for the People to People Organization. This summer, I traveled to Tokyo, Japan representing the best of our country. We promote cultural understanding, humanitarian efforts and world peace. I am also a School Peer Mediator; I also volunteer for several charities and community Organizations: The City of Hartford, American Cancer Society, American Liver Foundation, Multi-National Lions Club, Catholic Charities The Institute for Community Development and many more..



Tiffany: What is your best quality?



Erika: I am Dedicated in everything that I do.



Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?



Erika: My favorite place to shop has to be Mandees... they have awesome outfits !!!



Tiffany: Finish this sentence: People would be surprised to know...



Erika: that I climbed Mt. Fuji (Japan) !



Tiffany: What is your favorite childhood memory ?



Erika: I am blessed to have an excellent childhood full of many memories. My family loves to travel. My best memory was cruising the Caribbean, discovering the beautiful beaches, food, music and cultures and the wonderful people. It was the time of my life!!



Tiffany: If you had 3 wishes what would you wish for?



Erika: 1. My brother died from Kidney Failure 3 years ago in November. My wish is for my brother to be able to see all that I have accomplished, he is my guardian angel in heaven. 2.that there were more hours in day ..So much to do and not enough time. 3. that I had smaller feet. I wear size 11 shoes in woman.. shocker, I know, It is very hard to find pretty shoes..



Tiffany: If you could trade places with anyone for a day who would it be?



Erika: My pediatrician, Dr. Fromson because he has made an impact in my life because I wanted to become a pediatrician since I met him! His love for children is unique.



Tiffany: If I gave you 1 million dollars what is the first thing you would buy?



Erika: An outfit for each day of the year ...lol there's never too much shopping for a girl.



Tiffany: What is your favorite quote?



Erika: "The Beauty Belongs to Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams" Eleanor Roosevelt



Tiffany:What is your most prized possession?



Erika: I would have to say my family album because I can always look back and I will remember the good times we share. I love to spend time with my family.



Tiffany: Who is your role model ?



Erika: My role model is my mother because she taught me the values of education, community service and the pursue of excellence.



Tiffany: What do you hope to accomplish as the NAM national PreTeen Queen ?



Erika: I want to encourage others my age to believe in themselves, be involved in their communities and know with determination, persistence, anything is possible. I want to instill the values of education, health and the pursue of excellence to all. I want to represent this organization with pride, honor and dignity. I will be be a positve role mode and will promote my title with honor.



Tiffany: If you could witness any historical event which would you choose ?



Erika: I would like to have witnessed the swear in of Sonya Sotomayor because she believed in her dreams and accomplished to become the first latina to serve as US Supreme Court Justice.That was a very historic and exciting event.



Tiffany:If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?



Erika: Strawberries...mmm i love the sweet and sour taste in Strawberries!



Tiffany: What advice do you have for any girls thinking about entering NAM?



Erika: I love this pageant system because they provide you all the materials to be prepared for the competition. Read the pageant magazines, watch the pageant videos, visit the website Namiss.com, and follow the pageant rules. Set goals and prepare yourself, practice make perfect..do your best and most important make friends during the pageant weekend. You want to be confident and persistence to reach for your goals, show your best of your personality, be natural. What matter most is how you see yourself. Bring your family and friends and have the time of your life. The memories will last forever!!! I highly recommend this pageant.



Tiffany: What makes you unique ?



Erika:I am dedicated, caring and responsible girl with big dreams. I love to help others and want to make a positive difference in the world.

Meet Courtney Bearer The 2009-2010 National American Miss Princess !

Tiffany: What was your first reaction after winning the title of National American Princess 09-10?

Courtney: Oh my GOODNESS, I can't believe it !!

Tiffany: How did you prepare for the national pageant?

Courtney: I practiced talking to lots of people and I told them my introduction.

Tiffany: How did you get involved with NAM ?

Courtney: I got involved with NAM because a couple of my friends did and they told me I had to do it !!!

Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Courtney: I want to be a teacher or a Pittsburgh Steelers Cheerleader. I like school so I think I would like to teach and I love to cheer and the Steelers are my favorite team.

Tiffany: What do you like to do for fun ?

Courtney: I like to play with my family and friends.

Tiffany: What activities are you involved in ?

Courtney: I'm involved in cheerleading, dance and gymnastics.

Tiffany: What is your best quality?

Courtney: I am determined. When I put my mind to something I am determined to learn it or do it.

Tiffany: How would your friends describe you ?

Courtney: My friends say I'm nice , funny and now some call me Miss America or Miss USA !

Tiffany: Where is your favorite place to shop?

Courtney: That would have to be Justice.

Tiffany: Finish this sentence. People would be surprised to know...

Courtney: That I'm a serious hula hooper, I have about 15 all different sizes and weights.

Tiffany: If you could have any three wishes what would they be ?

Courtney: First to be Miss America, second to star in my very own movie and third would be to become a professional gymnast.

Tiffany: If you could trade places with any one for a day who would it be?

Courtney: I would trade places with my friend Rebecca because she knows how to dance really good, she is smart and funny.

Tiffany: If I gave you a million dollars what is the first thing you would buy?

Courtney: I would buy a Wii because I do not have one.

Tiffany: What is your favorite movie?

Courtney: "Another Cinderella Story"

Tiffany: What is your most prized possession?

Courtney: My stuffed dog that I sleep with every night, my friend Julia gave it to me and he is very special to me.

Tiffany: What is your favorite book?

Courtney: "Its all about me" because you write stuff about yourself and other people can read it.

Tiffany: Who is rolemodel?

Courtney: My mom because she is nice and smart.

Tiffany: If you could star in any TV show what would it be ?

Courtney: Hannah Montana !

Tiffany: What is the best advice you have ever received ?

Courtney: " Have fun, smile and be yourself!" It seems like everyone always says that to me and it makes me believe in myself.

Tiffany: What is your favorite subject in school ?

Courtney: My favorite subject is science because there are neat experiments we get to do.

Tiffany: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be ?

Courtney: I would eat steak salad for the rest of my life because there are so many yummy things in it. There is steak, french fries, cheese and hard boiled eggs.

Tiffany: What advice can you give to other girls that want to enter NAM?

Courtney: I would say do it !!! You will have fun and meet new friends !

Tierra Gonzalez-Hammonds National American Miss PreTeen 2008-2009

It's time to get to know your reigning National PreTeen Queen Tierra Gonzalez-Hammonds ! I first met Tierra when she was just a Princess contestant, I knew then that she was something special ! It has been an honor to watch Tierra grow into a beautiful young lady. Tierra is a straight A student, an awesome dancer and has stage presence like no other. Tierra has dreams of impacting the world as an elected official and even one day becoming President of the United States. Tierra is the definition of hard works pays off. I'm so excited to see what this talented and beautiful young lady will do next. You never know, I might be saying I know the first women president !!!

A word from Tierra !

I am a 13 year old, 8th grader at Pacific Beach Middle School in beautiful San Diego, California. Science is my favorite subject in school this year, but I really enjoy American History and PE, too. Even though I am a typical girlie-girl (pink is my favorite color), I love flag football. I feel blessed to live one short block from the water, and like every Southern California girl, I love the beach! Most of my time outside of school is spent at my dance studio, Mystic Steppers. I started at age 3 as a gymnast, switched to competitive cheerleading at age 6 and settled on dance a few years ago. We preform all types of dance, but compete mainly in hip-hop. Now my big decision is what I will pursue in High School next year.

I am lucky to have a mom who is also my best friend. Sometimes I think she is a little crazy, but I realize that I definitely inherited that trait from her. My little brother Antonio is 6 years old, and has been my biggest fan for as long as I can remember. My Grandpa also lives with us. As a family, we like to go camping, play games, and go to one of Southern California's last drive-in theatre. And, we go to Disneyland about once a month!

We are also very active with our church and community. Civic participation is something I was taught at a very early age. I have had the opportunity to meet just about every elected official who represents us: from my City Councilman to the President of the United States. I used to want to become a political reporter because I noticed that reporters don't always ask the tough questions that I want answers to. But, now, I think I could do more by becoming an elected official, and answering those questions before a reporter has to ask!

Tiffany: How has your life changed since winning your national title ?

Tierra:Well, in some ways it hasn't. I still have to clean my room, do my homework and help watch my little brother. But, I have had the opportunity to travel to places that I never thought I would see, meet amazing people and take more pictures than most people take in a lifetime.

Tiffany: What do you like to do for fun ?

Tierra: I love to do anything that puts me on stage. I have a passion for dance, I love to tumble and perform. I also really enjoy doing volunteer work. It is a blast to hang out with friends and do something good for other people.

Tiffany: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Tierra: I used to want to be a political reporter for CNN. However, the historic election of Barack Obama inspired me to want to make news, not just report it. Now, I want to have a career in law and politics. I plan to become a District Attorney, then run for higher political office. I eventually would like to be the President of the United States.

Tiffany: What makes your state special?

Tierra: Everything! It is California, after all!

Tiffany: If you could only tell me one thing about yourself what would it be ?

Tierra: That I love my life.

Tiffany: How would your friends describe you ?

Tierra: They would say that I was kind and loyal, and a little bit of a drama queen.

Tiffany: What is your favorite pageant competition?

Tierra: My favorite part of competition is the interview. It is not always my highest score, but I always have so much fun speaking with the judges. Interview has taught me to look people right in the eye when I talk with them and to always be myself.

Tiffany:Who is role model?

Tierra: My mom. She is a single mom who is crazy busy but always has time for me and my brother. She is also my best friend. Even though a lot of people think she has an important job, she never treats anyone like she is more important than they are.

Tiffany: Finish this sentence: People would be surprised to know...

Tierra: I am deathly afraid of Mr. Potato Head.

Tiffany: What three words best describe you ?

Tierra: Caring, ambitious, and quirky

Tiffany: What was the first thing you thought after you won your national title?

Tierra: I really can't remember. I was really in shock. In both the 2003 Princess NAM Nationals and 2006 JPT NAM Nationals I had made it down to the final two. The emcee always says "And then there were two." Twice, I heard my name called out as the first runner-up. So, naturally, when Joy Saprano said "And then there were two," I expected California to be announced as first runner-up. When she said the first runner up was Florida, I was almost confused. I was so excited, the next thing I remember was about 10 minutes later when I was signing my contract with Mr. Mayes.

Tiffany: How did you prepare for the national pageant

Tierra: My mom would make me do my introduction on the way to school every morning, and then we would talk about things that may come up in interview. We talked about my hometown, what I like to do, our family - just to get me thinking about various questions that come up in interview.

Tiffany: What is the best advice you can give to a future NAM contestant?

Tierra: Listen to your mom, she is probably right. Sometimes girls our age think some things are cool or not cool. Our parents may think differently. The key is, the judges are more likely to be like our parents than like a preteen. Perfect example: wearing nude pantyhose with your interview suit. I hate nude pantyhose, but my mom convinced me that it was proper for pageant interviews. I think she was right. But for the record, not even my Mom wears nude pantyhose with her suits in real life!

Tiffany: What is your favorite quote ?

Tierra: Go Big or Go Home! - In other words, if you aren't going to put 100% in what you do, you shouldn't even be doing it!

Tiffany: What do you want your legacy to be ?

Tierra: I hope people will remember me as the National American Miss Preteen who never gave up.

Tiffany: If you were stuck on a deserted island what three things would you bring with you ?

Tierra: Food, my cell phone and my mom. I am a very practical person.

Tiffany: What is your favorite book, TV show and Movie ?

Tierra: I love all of the Harry Potter Books, it is the nerd in me. My favorite TV show is "America's Best Dance Crew." My favorite all time movie was "Over the Hedge," which brilliantly taught kids about environmentalism and urban sprawl, but the remake of FAME was a close second.

Tiffany: What activities are you involved in ?

Tierra: At my school,I am a member of the Video Club. We write, produce, direct and star in the school news every week. I am also very active in the Builders Club, which finds and promotes relevant volunteer activities for our middle school. I dance about 15 hours a week with a competitive dance team called The Mystic Steppers. We do all types of dance: ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop and some gymnastics. I also do a volunteer work. I have donated over 100 hours to the United Way's Food Pantry this year, volunteer for my church's homeless shelter, and work on a number of food drives. I have been a member of the Surfrider Foundation for 5 years, and help at beach clean-ups many times each year.

Tiffany: What is the best advice you have received ?

Tierra: You will miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

Tiffany: If you had to eat one thing the rest of your life what would it be ?

Tierra: Sushi!!!

Tiffany: If you wrote a book about your life, what would the title be ?

Tierra: The Best is Yet to Come

Tierra and her sister queens!

Beautiful!

Tierra's Modeling Shot

Tierra and her little brother

Your in for a real treat, its time to meet Tierra's inspirational mom Lorena! Lorena and Tierra have a very special bond, if you ever have a chance to meet them you will see just how dynamic this mother and daughter duo are. Lets get some words of wisdom from a pageant queen herself, thats right Lorena too has graced the stage as a title holder.

Tiffany:What life skills had your daughter learned from being involved in NAM?

Lorena: Tierra has learned so much from NAM, including how to interview, how to speak in public and how to present herself in front of adults. But I also think she learned a valuable lesson that boys often have many outlets to learn and girls far fewer: How to win with humility and lose with grace.

Tiffany: What is your favorite Pageant memory of Tierra ?

Lorena: Of course, it is hard to beat the moment she won the National Preteen title. She had worked so hard, and wanted it so bad, I just cried watching her finally fulfill her dreams on stage. For months beforehand she would say, ever single day, "But mom, you don't understand how much I want this." It was amazing to watch her win it!

But, I also remember taking her to breakfast the morning of the National Finals her Princess year. She was only 7 and I had been blown away by how great all of the queens had been all week long. I tried to have a discussion with her about how proud I was of what she had done that week, and how much I loved her and would be so excited just to watch her on stage that night. I told her it didn't matter if she even made top ten, she was a winner to me. She looked up from her pancakes and said, "Mom, I know you didn't see it, but I did really well in interview. I think I might win." All I could do was laugh because I was so worried she was too young to understand what was going to happen that night. She was much more aware than I had given her credit for. That evening she came very close. After she was named first runner-up she did cry, but then she hugged the winner and told her congratulations and how beautiful she was. I was just so proud of watching her develop emotionally.

Tiffany:Would your recommend NAM to other families?

Lorena: Absolutely. This pageant has not only been such an amazing way for Tierra to grow and flourish, but has really allowed us to grow closer as mother and daughter, too.

Tiffany: What will Tierra take away from her NAM experience?

Lorena: Along with memories to last a lifetime, she has built friendships that I know will continue long after she has given up her title.

Tiffany: What advice can you give to future NAM parents and contestants?

Lorena: Read your magazines, prepare, practice and practice some more BEFORE you get to the pageant. But, once you are there, just have fun. Use pageant week to do everything offered, and build a lifetime of memories. At the end of the day, the pageant goes by too fast. And, parents, don't forget to hug your daughter and tell her how well she did. That is what will mean the most to her!

Tiffany: As a parent how have you seen Tierra change after wining her national title?

Lorena: I think she really believes no dream is too big. I have watched her try new sports, switch schools, and revamp her career ambitions. It is like she now knows she can achieve anything she sets her mind to doing

Tierra with her sister queen Kaydianna and her gorgeous mom Lorena !