Q: How do I become a candidate?
A: If you are a female 18-28 years old and a resident or student in Chelan, Douglas, Kittitas, Okanogan, or Grant County, you are probably eligible to compete! Please complete the online application on our website.
Q: What sort of commitment is required to compete for Miss East Cascades?
A: Constestants will attend approximately six rehearsals where they will receive mentoring in interview, talent and other skills in preparation for the pageant and beyond. They will be encouraged to participate in fundraisers organized by the Miss East Cascades volunteer staff, which help to fund scholarships. Dress rehearsal, private interview with your judges and the evening competition itself are all required in order to compete for the title of Miss East Cascades and Miss Greater Wenatchee.
Q: Is there a fee to compete for Miss East Cascades or Miss Greater Wenatchee?
A: There is a $39 annual membership fee from the Miss America Organization. You can register for the current competition season and pay this fee by going to https://www.club.missamerica.org/join-page
Q: What will I be required to purchase?
A: Although certain items of clothing are needed for the competition, we will work with each candidate to minimize the need for purchasing outfits. You will need an interview outfit, an evening gown, a costume for talent, a fitness outfit (Rebel is our official Miss America sponsor) a production number outfit. It is more than acceptable to borrow items from fellow contestants, former titleholders or friends. Judges will pick the new titleholders based on how they carry themselves on stage, answers interview questions, and performs their talent. They will not choose her based on the amount of money she spent.
Q: What if I do not have a talent?
A: EVERYONE HAS A TALENT! Singing, playing an instrument, dancing, or performing a monologue are the most popular. HERStory is a storytelling talent specifically designed to showcase women who don’t have a traditional performing arts talent. More details can be found on www.missamerica.org. Miss America preliminaries have seen a variety of unconventional talents over the years. Basketball dribbling to music, changing a carburetor, and sewing a dress are just a few. If you are committed to working with our committee and coaches, and are willing to put in the effort, we can help you be ready to perform.
Q: How much scholarship money will be awarded?
A: Important: we are committed to provide a scholarship to every candidate who participates. The total amount is determined by the amount our sponsors contribute. You do not have to win the title to earn a significant scholarship amount. Our People’s Choice award is composed entirely of donations by friends of the Miss East Cascades program, and in the past has regularly exceeded $1,000. We offer scholarships in multiple categories. Our titleholders will receive a minimum $2,000 scholarship.
Q: What will I be required to do if I win Miss East Cascades or Miss Greater Wenatchee?
A: You will have identified an area of service important to you in the weeks preceding the competition. We anticipate that you will have opportunities to serve in that area during your year’s reign. You will have the chance to make appearances in parades and other public events. You will be required to attend a “Spring Forum” weekend (mid-spring) with other state titleholders and to compete in the Miss Washington competition in early July. Your education, employment, and family are very important and your Miss East Cascades board will work with you to minimize conflicts with these priorities as your schedule is set for the year.