Grant woman wins Mrs. Congeniality

Mrs. Nebraska Adair Reese of Grant returned home from the Mrs. America pageant in Las Vegas with the Mrs. Congeniality award.
The award was determined by a vote among Reese’s fellow 51 contestants, as to who they felt was the most congenial, or friendliest.
Reese said as much as she thinks it would be an honor to be Mrs. America, she feels it’s just as much of an honor to be named Mrs. Congeniality.
“There are five judges voting for Mrs. America, but 51 girls voted for Mrs. Congeniality,” she said.
The award was presented at the Mrs. America finals held at Westgate Resort and Casino on Saturday after a week of activities and competition.
Reese flew to Las Vegas Aug. 16 with three suitcases and a carry-on totaling nearly 100 pounds. She shipped 37 pounds of clothing before her departure. The week-long event consisted of a full-schedule requiring several gowns and cocktail dresses.
 On Aug. 17, Reese checked in and received the sponsored swimsuit, heels and outfits that all contestants wore for specific categories and the opening dance number. An orientation dinner was held that evening with Mrs. America and Mrs. America founders David and Elaine Marmel.
Rehearsals were held nearly all day Sunday, Monday and Tuesday to learn the opening dance number, walking patterns, where to stand, spacing, etc.
“Handling 52 ladies on a stage is a lot, so a lot of time was spent getting spacing down,” said Reese.
Gifts were also exchanged between contestants. Reese gifted key chains that read “Always wear your invisible crown.”

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