'MISS JACKSON' FEELS CLOSE TO THE COMMUNITY

While Merideth McDowell is not a Jackson native, the 2000 "Miss Jackson" is certainly familiar with the town she will be representing this week at the Miss Missouri Pageant.

"Being so close to the Jackson area has been an added bonus," she said. "It has allowed me to be very involved in the community and school system. It has enabled me to spread my message of positive values and encouragement for children."

McDowell, a 1999 Sikeston High School graduate, just finished her freshman year at Southeast Missouri State University. She is majoring in mass communications and public relations, with a minor in business communications.

One key format to the Miss Jackson/Miss Missouri pageants is the platform of public service each candidate must develop.

"I am committed to increasing self-esteem in children," McDowell explained. "I believe if you can help a child to feel better about themselves, all other aspects of the child's life will improve.

"Children with high self-esteem are less likely to turn to negative things such as drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders or violence.

"Since children are the future of our country, it is imperative that we teach them the proper values to lead their lives and communities. Role models are key. I strive to serve as a mentor and advocate for children. They need to be reminded to dream, stay in school and work hard to achieve that dream."

The pageant also requires a talent to be displayed. McDowell sings "That's Life," an old Frank Sinatra song.

"I got involved in the Miss Missouri program because it is an excellent opportunity for a young woman," she explained. "In the last year and a half, it has provided me with $3,300 in scholarship money. The experience I've gained through the many speaking engagements and community projects has been a valuable learning tool for the real world."

McDowell edged out a field of eight candidates Nov. 13, to win Miss Jackson honors. Jackson's Christina Icaza, second runner-up, later won the Miss Springfield crown and will also be competing in the Miss Missouri pageant this week.

The daughter of Eddie and Christy McDowell, she enjoys hunting and fishing with her father. She has bagged a nine-point buck. She also enjoys serving as a magician's assistant.

"I would like to enter the business world and work hands-on with people," she said. "I love the interaction and satisfaction I get from the public. I would eventually like to become a national motivational speaker for children."

She won the Steven Barr Rockabrand Speech Award and took first place in the SEMPSA Write-off (sponsored by the SEMO Press Association) and in the Missouri International Press Association. In June, 1999, she spoke before a panel at the Governor's Task Force on School Violence.

McDowell believes getting involved with local children is crucial.

"The need to serve should start locally," she said. "I feel that our area children are worth it. Each one is special and has many talents. But, as they say in Missouri, You gotta show me.' You have to show children how valuable they are, as well as encourage them to strive to reach their goals."

The Miss Jackson Scholarship Pageant is sponsored by the Jacksonian Charter Chapter of the American Business Women's Association. Marybeth Williams was pageant director.