Pageant News Bureau - Miss USA 2003

Murfreesboro firecracker

By Tori Carter

PNB special events correspondent

Is this flame extinguishable? Don't bet on it where Beth Hood is concerned. Miss Tennessee USA 2003 is lighting up the runway in San Antonio. She was the talk of the town in a knockout ember-colored evening gown by Sheri Hill. She explains the multi-paneled dress consisted of different fabrics -- an orange halter, yellow skirt and a multi-hued flounce.

Beth Hood
Photo courtesy of Miss Universe L.P., LLLP

The flounce layer is made up of an antique fabric, which has been saved many years for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, such as a live prime-time telecast on a major network.

Ms. Hood has really warmed up to San Antonio, especially since she already knew her roommate, Miss Georgia USA 2003, Erin Haney, prior to arriving at the pageant. These two modern-day Southern belles share the same director and get along very well.

Having recently graduated from college with a degree in public relations and mass communications, Ms. Hood has another burning desire -- to have a career as a vocal performer. She is turning that dream into reality as she is currently working on a record deal in Nashville. It sounds like her fuse has been lit and she's poised to blast off.

Fortune's child

By Tori Carter
PNB special events correspondent

A little superstitious, Lana Wright of Idaho always looks for wood to knock on when someone suggests she will be in the top five at Miss USA 2003. She's a little excited and a little nervous, too.

However, Miss Idaho USA does not feel mere luck has been with her so far. She came very prepared.

Photo courtesy of Miss Universe L.P., LLLP

PNB correspondent Tori Carter interviews Miss Idaho USA, Lana Wright.
Photo by Susan Carter / PNB

Ms. Wright says she feels her interview was very strong, and it has been the highlight of her experience in San Antonio.

Funny, because she usually is most confident in the swimsuit portion of a contest.

Her whole week has felt like a vacation, in a very positive atmosphere. The girls have been "great" and the judges are "neat individuals." Scott, Marco and Jen have been "phenomenal" in rehearsals, according to Ms. Wright. She also comments that the host city and its inhabitants have treated the pageant contestants very well.

Who knows? With that much graciousness, she may be her own good luck charm. Break a leg.

Photo at right courtesy of Miss Universe L.P., LLLP

The answer girl

By Tori Carter
PNB special events correspondent

Easy for the asking. That's what happens when you come to a national pageant incredibly prepared.

According to Miss Nebraska USA 2003, Jessica Perea, the interview questions at Miss USA have been easy and relaxed.

The judges were not intimidating, especially compared to the panel of professors she practiced with at home. Miss Perea underwent mock interview sessions once a week for two months in order to be at her best in San Antonio. She also fielded questions while appearing at numerous fund-raisers, schools and party events.

Placing in the top six at her state pageant in 2002, Ms. took the Nebraska much more seriously the second time around and won the title. If she does not place in the top 10 at the nationals, she still will feel she did her best. Her experience has been fun, different and exciting.

Photos courtesy of Miss Universe L.P., LLLP