Passing the crown: Meet Miss Homecomers 2007 and Miss Homecomers 2008

Laurie Jean Clippard, Miss Homecomers 2008

Age: 15

Grade: Sophomore

School: Jackson High School

Interests: Four-wheeling, bike riding, horse riding, shopping, hunting with dad, creekin, sports, hanging out with friends, church and youth group.

What other titles have you held?

2008 Missouri State Mini Supreme Queen Fabulous Faces, 2008 National Novis Beauty Queen Fabulous Faces, 2008 Top Super Model Missouri Division Fabulous Faces

Why did you want to be Miss Homecomers?

I wanted to be Miss Homecomers because I wanted a Jackson girl to be representing the 100th year celebration. I love Jackson and I thought it would be neat to be Jackson's queen!

Is the crown heavy?

No, I was so excited I couldn't tell it was even there.

Do you get to keep it?

Yes its going in my keepsakes.

Did you meet Ruby Conrad, the first woman to win the Miss Homecomer crown?

I did not get to meet Ms. Ruby yet she will be at the ceremony for past queens on Saturday so hopefully I will have the privilege to meet her then. I am looking forward to meeting her because it is awesome to share the same award of being Ms. Homecomers!

Who do you look up to?

Carla Jean Clippard A.K.A. mommy! She's awesome. She is such a great role model because she has worked so hard for everything she has and she gives 100 and 10 percent to give me and my family the best we can possibly have. She is a loving, kind hearted sweet lady that lives everyday to the fullest, and I love her so much.

Do you want to compete in higher pageants? Why?

Yes, I love competing in pageants and it's always great to go to different pageants and meet new people and make new friends. I also enjoy getting all dolled up and strutting my stuff. I love to be on stage.

How does it feel to be Miss Homecomer 2008 (keep in mind, it's the centennial!)?

AWESOME!!! it feels so good to be able to represent my hometown, Jackson, Missouri, and to win this title on the 100th celebration. This whole week has been a blast and a memory I will cherish forever! The community is so supportive and loving toward me that I am honored to represent them and our city.

Anything else you'd like to add?

My school activities include student council, choir, FBLA, and I play basketball and volleyball for Jackson, too. I also attend Jackson First Baptist Church, and I am a member of the youth group and a girls group called Acteens. in the future I plan to graduate from Jackson High and go to college to be something in the medical field.

I want to say thanks to everyone who put the pageant on and to all the fans that showed up to support all the girls. It was a fun time for each and everyone of us girls and I will cherish this memory forever! Thanks so much.

Julie Mothershead, Miss Homecomers 2007

Age: 17

Grade: Junior

School: Cape Central High School

Interests: Dancing, acting, reading books, water and snow skiing, hanging out with friends and family.

Other titles you have held: I have been Miss SEMO District Fair Teen, Miss Springfield Outstanding Teen. Miss Jackson Outstanding teen, first runner up to Miss Missouri Outstanding teen 2007.

What did you do as Miss Homecomers?

I was fortunate to hold the title of Miss Homecomers in 2007 where I was given opportunities like being the MC of the Talent show, riding in the Jackson Christmas parade, being the MC of Miss Homecomers 2008 and just being honored to represent Jackson.

What are your fondest memories of being queen?

My fondest memories of this title are being able to spend time with Marybeth Williams. She was a dear friend, and amazing role model and I miss her so much!

Did you get to meet Ruby Conrad, the first Miss Homecomers?

No, I have not met Ruby Conrad, but I will Saturday night when all of the past Miss Homecomers are recognized. I look forward to meeting her!

Any advice to the new Miss Homecomers?

My advice to Laurie (CHECK SPELLING!!!!) is to just have fun and to take in all this wonderful experience has to offer.

Anything else you would like to say?

I am a member of the Cape Central Tiger Dance team, drama club, FBLA, PSI and student senate. I was also asked by Marybeth Williams to attend the learning to lead program back in the spring. It was a great experience to help teen girls become better leaders and bring their knowledge back to their own communities. Also, I was given the opportunity to dance in the upcoming Macy¿s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, which I¿m very excited for.