Most of the 80,000 in attendance over the weekend at the Vectren Dayton Air Show were dazzled by the display artistry in the air performed by the various planes. Their eyes were glued to the sky, I on the other hand while impressed by the Blue Angels flying 18 inches apart was drawn more to a different sight of beauty. My attention went to Becky Minger, a.k.a..Miss Ohio 2010.
‘It’s not easy being beautiful,’ is a phrase often uttered by women, who are bothered by all the lustful attention received by men and challenged to find matching accessories for every outfit. Their complaints are unwarranted compared to the endless efforts that Miss Ohio must give in representing her crown.
Since being named Miss Ohio a month ago, Minger has already traveled 3,500 miles for speaking engagement and other appearances, in her own car. All while maintaining a natural sparkling smile and radiant glow. Never showing any signs of weariness, but always ready to keep going to the next stop.
More than just a pretty face, and a prized figure, the true gift that Minger possesses is her intelligence and inner beauty. She dispels the notion that beauty pageant contestants are all thoughtless airheads who only know how to balance books atop their head rather than be able to read them. Minger is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in Interpersonal Communications and a minor in Political Science.
Her platform is strong and very dear to her heart, which is ‘Empowering You, Discovering You.’ It focuses on four key points; building a healthy self image, respecting yourself and others, setting goals, and recognizing support. Her mission is to strengthen children with the endless power of believing in themselves.
Self confidence and perseverance got Minger to where she is today. She had tried for Miss Ohio four previous times, but never gave up until her goal was ultimately reached. Next on her agenda is being crowned Miss America, the pageant will be January 15th on ABC.
It might not be easy being beautiful, I will never know, but I can attest that it can be difficult being faced with it. As a credit to Minger, I must make this confession. While meeting with her for the interview I was accompanied by Wendy Bauder, not only as a colleague but also a friend. I’ve known Wendy for over a year; I’ve dined at her house, we’ve walked the streets of Tipp City together, and are even Facebook friends. I know her name as well as my own, but while attempting to introduce her to Miss Ohio I drew a blank. Mind you it was very hot out so that might have had something to do with it as well. Though my memory seemed fine all the rest of the day.
I hope everyone else enjoyed watching the airplanes as much as I did my time with Becky Minger, who makes being beautiful look easy.
