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The 2012 Miss America Pageant contestants arrived here over the weekend for weeklong rehearsals leading up to the big show on Saturday at Planet Hollywood. And while their week here has included an Italian restaurant outing, fashion show, visit to “Iron Chef” Kerry Simon’s restaurant Simon at Palms Place and a backstage meet-and-greet with the cast of “Phantom – the Las Vegas Spectacular” at the Venetian it hasn’t been all fun and games. The 53 contestants have also undergone some grueling rehearsals, parade practice and even “back-to-school” classes. For the orientation classes, the lovely ladies sat in on lectures from Miss America officials, the security team, the TV production crew and the administration staff to learn the rules and regulations of the 10-day visit to Las Vegas and for the winner who will immediately leave for her 12-month reign. On Sunday, the judges began the intensive interview session with the first of the preliminary competitions that began on Tuesday at Planet Hollywood’s Theater for the Performing Arts. For the first time in Miss America Pageant history, all seven of those judges were pulled onstage – and put through the same grueling process that face the 53 contestants: the runway poise, the posture and personality presentation and the dreaded unknown question. The hilarious, unscripted segment was orchestrated by 1994 Miss New Jersey Dena Blizzard and the judges all seemed to relish being in the spotlight, even if it was for just a moment. And while it was a funny moment, the judges now have a better understanding of what kind of pressure these ladies are up against. All joking aside, the night kicked off with glamorous evening gowns, some backless, some bare shouldered, and many with plunging necklines and thigh-high slits. The gowns count for 20 percent of the overall vote. And then there was the talent. From opera to Broadway numbers and classical ballet to Irish tap dancing, these group of 53 contestants aren’t just lookers, they’re incredibly talented too! Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler was named the first night’s preliminary talent winner for her operatic vocal performance of “Ill Bacio” and won a $2,000 scholarship. In the swimsuit portion of the preliminaries, Miss Utah Danica Olsen, 21 was the Lifestyle and Fitness winner in her Deaville Komplique swimsuit with 18K gold and Swarvoski crystal accents. Danica won a $1,000 scholarship. Miss Nevada’s own Alana Lee had to answer the judge’s questions about her platform: “Patriotism: Rock the Vote.” Yesterday, Alana showcased her singing skills in the talent portion. Make sure you tune in Saturday on ABC for the 2012 Miss America Pageant live from Planet Hollywood! And while you’re in town don’t forget to check out Planet Hollywood’s other shows including Peepshow with Holly Madison!
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