Miss Vermont 2008, Ashley Wheeler, received the best talent score for her a capella rendition of "God Bless America" in the final night of the Miss America preliminary competition on Thursday, January 22, 2009.
WHERE: Planet Hollywood- Las Vegas, Nevada
WHY: The preliminaries are made up of three nights of competition where contestants are judged in talent, evening wear, fitness, on-stage interview, and private interview. The talent portion of the competition counts for 35% of the contestant's score. This recognition is very good news, as Ashley's goal is to be the first Miss Vermont ever to make the Top 15 and a top score in talent will help her overall score a great deal.
The Miss America final competition will be taking place live on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 8:00pm on TLC.
ASHLEY'S REACTION: "When I arrived in Las Vegas I looked around at all of the glitz and glamour and started to feel inferior; however I looked at my "green" (environmentally friendly) evening gown that was designed in the Northeast Kingdom, and all of the family and friends who came out to support me, and I held my head high. I know that I have what it takes to be Miss America and this talent award reaffirms this for me!"
CONTACT: Hannah Manley, 802-296-1649
Photo attached - Ashley Ruth Wheeler, Miss Vermont 2008, holding her Miss America Preliminary Talent Award