First, I am not against the Miss America Pageant or any of its tributaries. I watch it every year on television. I'm pretty good at picking the top five. Having shapely, attractive legs has everything to do with it, because it's part of our culture's definition of beauty. Admitting that it's partly a beauty contest doesn't make it bad.
Outward appearance is a huge part of success in the pageant business.
Average-looking women aren't even allowed into New Jersey during the pageant. Second, I would never suggest that some women's lives aren't enriched by participating in pageants. I'm sure many do gain self-confidence, learn teamwork, build relationships and open doors of opportunity for themselves by competing. More power to them. Third, I still think Miss Amarillo ought to be a hometown girl.