As the director of
the Miss Austin USA, Miss Williamson County USA, Miss Round Rock USA
and Miss Round Rock Pageants for the past twenty-five years, I continue
to strive to make this a positive learning experience for each and
every contestant. The following are quotations from former contestants,
parents, pageant judges and community leaders, who have been involved
with these pageants.
Thank you all for the kind words.
Betty Warner, Director
Betty! I feel so honored to have the opportunity to
serve Austin! I've been receiving dozens of emails from friends and
supporters of mine - it is a wonderful feeling to know there are people
that believe in me and want to help me succeed! I am indebted to all
the people on the Miss Austin team for their help during rehearsals,
dance practices, and the contestant coordinators backstage that zipped
and sprayed anyone that needed help! :) I can not tell you how excited
I am to work with you! You are a treasure of a director and I promise
I will work my hardest to prepare in every way for Miss Texas. It
is my dream to be Miss Universe and I was humbled when some of the
judges told my mom after I won that they believed I could make it
all the way. I am ready to begin working on my weak areas so I will
make Austin proud at Miss Texas in June! Sheena Monnin, Miss Austin
USA 2006
Hi Betty, We are still SO EXCITED! What an amazing
weekend! My family and friends went nuts! Thank you so much for all
your help and support! Rachel is so thrilled I cannot put into words.
She is looking forward to her duties and getting to find out more
about what all she will be doing. I have to say that EVERYONE involved
was absolutely so nice, helpful and caring. Rachel bragged on and
on about how many people offered and gave help. I was really wowed
by people's generosity! THANK YOU AGAIN FOR EVERYTHING! Becky, Rachel
and Family... Mom of Rachel Ross, Miss Austin Teen USA 2006
Betty, I just want you to know that I am so impressed
with how organized your pageant is run. I've put on so many events/fundraiser's
in my life, having been a decorator for hotel banquets for several
years, and I know what detail it takes to pull these things off. I've
never heard of a pageant that provides the girls with so much help
and instruction to make themselves better contestants. Gayle Graham,
mother of Casey Graham, Semi Finalist, 2006 Miss Austin Teen USA pageant
Hi Betty, I think you are a very special lady and
I would love to be there to help celebrate your 25 years. Unfortunately,
I don’t think I will be able to come. Thank you for all you
did for me and for so many young girls. You are a fabulous pageant
director and a wonderful person. Happy 25th! Anna Parker Kohlbeck,
Miss Round Rock 1984
Betty, It's been nine years and counting since my
first pageant with you and I can't begin to tell you how much I've
gained from you and my pageant experiences. Throughout these past
years you 've gone from acquaintance, to director, and now I'm proud
to call you my friend. You always know exactly what to say to make
me feel better or to push me to that next level. From you I have learned
how to win graciously and lose proudly knowing I gave my best. Although
I am not your Miss Austin USA 2006, it puts me at ease to know that
at least I'm considered one of your girls. Thank you for being such
an amazing director and always making me feel like one of "Betty's
Beauties!" All the hugs I can give, Allison Seale, 2nd runner
up, 2006 Miss Austin USA pageant
I just wanted to thank everyone who put so much of
their time and energy into this GREAT pageant. I feel honored to have
been a Judge. I hope to be asked again next year. You are the best
group of Pageant persons I
have ever met. It was an honor Thank you! I wish that I was younger
so I could be a Betty's Beauty. Love to you all! Tammy Guerra,
2006 Miss Austin USA Judge
Dear Betty, I am Kristin Morris' mom Rhonda Morris
and I just wanted to thank you and all the wonderful people associated
with the pageant. As this was Kristin's and my first experience in
the pageant world we were both very impressed with the whole experience.
Kristin had a blast, learned tons, made some new friends and also
caught the pageant bug. She is already gearing up for next year. She
is determined to be one of Ms. Betty's Beauties. Looking forward to
visiting with you again soon. Mom of Kristin Morris, 2006 Miss
Austin USA contestant
Hi Miss Betty! First off I want to thank you for such
a wonderful experience and first impression of the USA system. Your
staff, facilities, and all around attitude towards the contestants
was by far the most professional that I have ever experienced in my
small time competing in pageants. I am so grateful for the opportunity
that has been put forth because of your program that exceeds all expectation,
thank you so much for allotting me with this wonderful feat. Thank
you so much! Brigette Dechant, 1st runner up 2006 Miss Austin
Teen USA Pageant
Dear Ms. Betty: Thank you for a very memorable experience
for Jacqueline and our entire family. We appreciate everything from
the beginning to the end, and everything in-between! Jacqueline wants
to go with YOU to Miss Texas Teen USA instead of the title offered
her previously before the Austin Pageant, and I couldn't agree with
her more. Vicki Johnson, mother of Jacqueline Johnson, 2006 Austin
Teen contestant
Dear Ms. Betty, I would like you to know how much
fun I had while participating in the Austin pageant. A lot was learned
and I grew as a person. I admire your hard work and effort and thank
you for your constant kindness It was a wonderful experience and I
hope to participate once again. Thank you, Casey Graham, Semi
Finalist, 2006 Miss Austin Teen USA pageant
Betty, thank you so much for your help! You are an
amazing lady and I have been blessed to have the opportunity to come
under your wing ...I'm very excited to be working with you these next
couple of month s... with love Stephanie Kelly, 4th Runner up,2005
Miss Austin USA Pageant
Betty, Thank you so much for all the fun and the experience.
I learned so much from everyone. Best of luck always,
Kaely Johnson, Semi Finalist, 2006 Miss Austin Teen USA pageant
Dear Betty: Through this entire process you have held
my hand and been truly enjoyable. You are just amazing, and I want
to thank you for making the pageant experience so wonderful for Kaely,
and for myself. All my love and best wishes, Belinda, mother of
Kaely Johnson, Semi Finalist, 2006 Miss Austin Teen USA pageant
Hello Betty, Just wanted to share a quick note to
let you know what PROUD PARENTS we are of Holly for doing so well
in the pageant this past weekend. More importantly she had the opportunity
of experiencing building her inner strengths as a young person/teen
and looking ahead for setting the foundation for future goals. She
made new friends along the way and has many mentors from the pageant
to look up to in paving her path for community involvement and her
career for college, work or other.
The entire weekend and "Pageant Experience" was professional
and Absolutely Entertaining!! I hope your 25th Anniversary was everything
you hoped it would be and more! FABULOUS!!!! All the past title holders
being at the pageant confirmed that their title experience was positively
life changing. Can't wait to receive our DVD in the mail! Many Thanks!
Rhonda & John Leschber, Proud & Loving Parents of Holly
Kuhn, 4th Runner up 2006 Miss Austin Teen USA pageant
I also wanted to tell you thank you for all you did
to put the pageant together (for the 25th time!). I can't tell you
how much fun I had and what a wonderful experience it was for me.
I can't wait until next year! Samantha Swann, 2006 Miss Austin
USA Contestant
Betty, thank you for your love, friendship, and devotion
to the pageant and to the girls. I am honored to represent the city
and the organization. You are the spirit and passion behind the pageant!
I will treasure the experience forever. All my love, Julia........Julia
Salmon, Miss Austin USA, 2005
Betty, Thank you for the opportunity of a life time. I had so much
fun and will never forget the memories. I am looking so forward to
the year ahead and I hope I will make you so proud of me. I love you
so much...... Raevan Valadez, Miss Austin Teen USA 2005
Ms. Betty, Thank you so much for your patience and
help. I look forward to the Miss Texas USA pageant and getting to
work withsuch an extraordinary woman as yourself. Ginessa Laneaux,
Miss Heart of Texas USA 2005
As a first time pageant contestant, I really enjoyed
the Miss Austin Teen USA pageant. Even though I didn't win anything,
I did win a very positive experience, great friendships and I learned
so much. I'll be back new year.
Whisper Mack, 2005 Teen ContestantBetty,
I haven't really gotten a chance to say thanks for this year. It was
really an interesting experience to say the least. I learned new things
about myself. I am so lucky to have been in the company of such a
wonderful lady as yourself for this last year. You have become another
mom or aunt or even grandma to me. I know we may not have always seen
eye to eye on a number of issues but I know that in the end we always
compromised some how...... you have only made me experience great
times. I am proud to say I am one of Betty Warner's lucky Austin's......I
love you! Liz Bernardo, Miss Austin Teen USA 2004
Betty & Committee - Jessica & I wanted to
say to you all how much we have enjoyed being a part of the
Miss Austin USA pageant!! It has been so much fun, especially this
year. We appreciate all that you do -both seen and unseen!! You have
a qualityproduction that Jessica is proud to be a part. Thanks again!
Jessica & Jenifer (mom)
Jessica Wakefield, Teen Semi Finalist, Miss Austin Teen USA 2004
To Betty, I cannot believe our time together is almost
over. You have been the most wonderful director. I love you!! From
this moment we are forever connected and I will never forget what
you have done for me.
Cynthia Agnew, Miss Austin USA 2003
This has been such an amazing year and I am so blessed
and glad that I've gotten to grow closer to you. You are such an amazing
person and you've taught me so much. I love you so much and I'll miss
you tons.
Krystal Larson, Miss Austin Teen USA 2003
Betty, Thank you so much for all you do. You are awesome!
Thanks for preparing us so well for Miss Texas USA 2004. I had so
many girls ask me why the Austin girls looked so great!! I have learned
so much over the years from You. Austin is truly blessed with the
Best Director.
Tiffany Saylor - Miss Bastrop County USA 2003, Fourth Runner up, Miss
Austin USA 2003
Betty, I want to thank you for letting me be apart
of MISS AUSTIN USA PAGEANT 2003. I did not realize that I have been
judging pageants now for 10 years. It was you that got me involved
back when Lisa was expecting with our first son Hayden. I will never
forget it. I cannot speak for anyone else but I think what you do
and mean to all the young ladies is nothing short of a miracle. You
are like an angel that has been put in each of their lives. The positive
influence you have on them will be cherished for a life time. I realize
there will be some that are not sincere but the majority of them love
you for the impact you have on their lives. Thanks have allowing me
to be apart of MISS AUSTIN USA. It goes without saying, if you ever
need me just contact me.......................................William
Graham, Judge 2003 and 2006
Thank you for everything!! You are such a joy and
I've relished each moment. This experience is one I'll never forget....thanks
for making it so memorable!
Heather McAngus - Miss Lake Travis USA 2003
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for
all you have done for me, and the Austin group. You genuinely put
heart and soul into giving us the opportunity to compete to the best
of our abilities. I know I gave my best performance possible because
I was prepared. People all over Texas realize what a devoted director
you are, not only because of the girls that proceed to semi-finals,
but also because of the girls that did not make it. We all have the
potential but can handle success or challenges with grace because
we know you will be by our side with unwavering support. I am so thankful
to have you as my director and I know I have done well because you
make sure we are ready!! I am absolutely thrilled about making semi-finals
and am glad I have you to share it with................................Julia
Salmon - Miss Travis County USA 2003
I will absolutely do the pageant again this year.
It was one of the best pageant experiences I have ever had.
Crystal Chau - 2003 Contestant
I just wanted to say "thank you!" for thinking
about me while I was at Miss Alaska USA. And, when I won, your kind
words made a huge difference to me. I truly appreciated your card
while I was at Miss USA. It was nice to see a familiar face in the
audience.
Stacey Storey - Miss Alaska USA 2003 (First runner up to Miss
Austin USA 2000)
Thank you for all of the hard work you have put into
our preparation for the 2004 Miss Texas USA Pageant. You have no idea
how much it means to me!!...................................Andria
Mullins - Miss Central Texas USA 2003
I just wanted to tell you, I was so impressed
when I went to your workshop. I actually felt that each participant
was cared about, and not just looked at as another customer like the
way I felt at the last pageant I did. And believe me, it makes a HUGE
difference! Thanks a Bunch!!........................................Nicole
Matyas Miss Texas Teen USA Contestant at Large 2001
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for
allowing me to serve on your panel of judges for this year's Miss
Austin Teen USA. It was nothing short of an honor. You and those who
worked closely with you on the pageant always seemed to pull through
with perfect direction and of course with seamless grace. I also wanted
to congratulate you on masterminding an exceptional pageant. As difficult
as our job was, we judges really had an amazing group of women and
girls before us. I honestly feel that the caliber of contestants was
a direct reflection of you, Betty. What we witnessed last weekend
was proof that goodness attracts goodness and that excellence begets
excellence. From the comments made by those who have experienced your
incredible spirit and great vision from both the past and the present,
I know that I have not been overly generous in my estimation of you.
Before this weekend I kept asking myself why it was that from the
moment I first met you, I felt so trusting of you and subsequently
looked up to you. Now I see that it was simply because you are a true
leader and a class act. Good Luck to you and your family of women
and girls..... Valencia Lee - Ms. Texas Achievement 2000 -- Judge
2001
Thank you so much for all your help with everything,
picking out my clothes, my make up and hair and perfecting my walk
and much, much more. The pageant was such a great experience for me.
I learned so much and I'm already looking forward to next year. thank
you so much for all you help, I couldn't have done it without your
support. You are truly the jewel in my crown.
Courtney Wyer - Miss Austin Teen USA 2000
Really enjoyed your 2001 Miss Austin USA Pageant Saturday
night. The staging was the best I've ever seen at a preliminary contest.
And better than many state pageants........................Bill
Woodside - Director - Miss Lake Whitney USA Pageant
Words cannot express my sincere appreciation for all
your love, support, encouragement, advice and help during my preparation
for Miss Texas USA. I wouldn't have been able to do it without you.
I am so blessed to have you in my life.....You truly are an angel
and I thank God you every day!! From the bottom of my heart....thank
you!! Love you! Your FIRST Miss Texas USA!
Kandace Krueger, Miss Texas USA 2001
Just a note to thank you again for all you do for
Kandace and all of the 1000's of other young women whose lives you
have touched. Having observed
the pageant world for several years now, I am over whelmed with how
much of your time, energy and love you put into your work!! Kandace
truly admires you and treasurers your friendship. You are like a second
mom to her! Thanks for all you do!!
Barbara Krueger - Mother of Miss Williamson County USA 1999, Miss
Austin USA 2000, Kandace Krueger
Betty Boop,
I just wanted to let you know how much you mean to me!!! I truly appreciate
everything you have ever done for me and I'm going to try my hardest
to make you proud!!.......I 've always heard of people turning frog's
into prince's, but never have I met someone like you who can turn
a princess " frog"into a Queen!! I love you!
Jori Renouf - Miss Austin Teen USA 1999
Thank you so much for all the help, support and encouragement
for the Miss Texas Teen USA Pageant! I had so much fun and I learned
so much from your workshops. I was so proud to be one of your girls.
You are the best director a girl could have!
Krissi Rewie- Contestant 2001
Thank you so much for all of your support & encouragement
over the year's. I wouldn't be where I am today without you. You are
very special to me..........................Kandace Krueger, Miss
Austin USA 2000
Thank you to Betty Warner,my Director,
for the time and dedication to many young ladies in the Austin area.
Candice Galindo, Miss Austin Teen USA 1997
I have thoroughly enjoyed my year as Miss Austin USA
with you. The self improvement skills I have gained as Miss Austin
USA will carry over into my future. I have found this year to be an
opportunity for me to grow as an individual and become a stronger
person.........Thank you Betty for being an outstanding director.
I am thankful I had the opportunity to work with you and the new Miss
Austin USA will love getting to know you!................. .Camille
Anderson, Miss Austin USA 1997
You have been such a wonderful director! When ever I have needed
anything...I knew I could count on you to help me out!! Your continuous
support throughout my reign has been greatly appreciated! I will never
forget all of you kindness and generosity!
Stacey Huber-Miss Williamson County Teen USA 1999
Where do I begin> You have made such a huge difference in
our (Stacey & I) life!! What would we have done without you!
Carla Heller - Mother of Stacey Huber - Miss Williamson County USA
1999
You do so much for so many people, You are truly a fantastic
director. You care so much for ALL the girls.....it’s apparent.
Thank you for everything!!!! You’re the Best!!! ..................Lou
Ann Kirkpatrick, Miss Round Rock USA 1996
You have brought me so far from those days of sweating out on
the soccer field. Through a lot of help and advice and a friendship
that will last forever, you have prepared me for life and created
a young lady out of the Tomboy I used to be. Thank you for making
my senior year the best ever and allowing me the opportunity to make
a childhood dream a reality.
Kristin Nasset, Miss Round Rock Teen USA 1996
Thanks so much for such an exciting year. You're really
a very special person and I’m so glad Kristin has you in her
life.
Carole Nasset, mother of Kristin Nasset, Miss Round Rock Teen USA
1996
Wonderful Show! Your hard work really paid
off. Congratulations on your success............
Donna Lanfear, Judge and former director of the Miss Austin USA Pageant
The pageant was fabulous!! Ron and I enjoyed the production
so very much. The stage sets were fantastic, music, EVERYTHING! .......
Valle´ Moorash, Mrs. Idaho America 1980
Another tremendous show and entertainment
for the community! Thank you for all you give in order for young ladies
to have the opportunity to learn invaluable skills that will serve
them well in the future. I truly appreciate your dedication and hard
work and Care!!......................Judy McLeod, former member
of the Round Rock School Board
Betty, I feel grateful to know you and thankful that
you allow me to, in some way touch the lives the young ladies you
work with. In life it is nice to achieve great things but the best
part of life is knowing that you have the chance to impact the life
of others in a positive way..........................William Graham
- Judge
I have had a wonderful time for the past
3 years. You’ve taught me so much and I love you lots. Thanks
for being a terrific friend and the very best director in Texas!!!
..................
Tiffany Easterwood, Miss Central Texas USA 1995, Miss Round Rock USA
1994; Miss Round Rock Teen USA1993
Thanks so much for the encouragement..........I’ll
never forget my pageant days and most of all .....you Betty!! You
are the best. Angela Pike, Miss Round Rock Teen USA 1995
Where do I begin? The pageant that you
put together for the citizens of Round Rock is beyond simple “thanks”...I’m
still astounded! What I expected to see in the pageant and what you
actually produced were two different ball games altogether. In fact,
they are in different leagues. I had expected the typical small town
pageant that drags on for several hours and entertains mostly the
relatives of the contestants. What you produced however was a well-orchestrated,
colorful, fast paced evening of quality entertainment that was enthusiastically
received by the over-flow crowd. You are a pro in every sense of the
word...
Ken Long, Past Editor, Round Rock Leader and former President of the
Round Rock Chamber of Commerce
“The ‘Starrs’ exist that
we might know how high our dreams can soar” Thanks to you for
helping make a lot of girls dreams come true. Thanks for everything,
you’re the best!
Brittany Olson, Miss North Austin USA 1998 Miss Round Rock USA 1995
Thank you for getting me where I am today.
If it were not for you, I don’t think I could ever feel so positive
towards myself and others. You taught me a lot about myself. You take
many hard working hours out of your personal life which shows how much
you care about what you do and who you do it for. You prepared us tremendously
well. Thank you so much for all your time and effort. I’ll never
forget what you’ve taught me, and all the memories that go with
it. You’re the best director one could ask for, but not only that,
you’re a great friend ! .......................Jaclyn Leonard,
Contestant
Congratulations on a successful pageant. Please accept
our thanks for your patience, direction, and caring. You and others
associated with the pageant, set a positive example for the girls.
I know you have made a difference in Ashley’s life. Many, many
thanks!!.....................................................
Susan and Daryl Hargrave, Contestant’s Parents
You put on a great show and I think
it is wonderful what you give to the girls and the community. I really
enjoy judging the pageant!.............................................
William Graham, 1994 Judge & former Detroit Lion and Texas Longhorn
Thank you so very much for another great year with
the pageant. I would not have been in it again if I hadn’t had
such a great experience when I was in it two years before. You are
the best director and take such an interest and care so much for ALL
the contestants. Without you, this pageant would be just like all
the others!.................
Kim Holden, Miss Round Rock USA 1993
I really did enjoy being in the pageant. There were
many aspects of this pageant that were just outstanding!! First and
foremost, it had one terrific pageant director that was patient, motivating,
and extremely organized! I learned a lot from the presentations and
beauty tips. By having many rehearsals, I felt very comfortable with
the program, as well as the contestants and others involved. That
gave me the security and confidence I needed...........................................Lori
Ehrenfeld, Contestant
I can’t thank you enough for all of the time,
support and your caring for each and everyone of us. The pageant was
a huge success and we owe it all to you, Suzy and the crew. I’ve
learned so much from being in the pageant. It was a wonderful experience
for me: from learning the correct way to walk and turn, and talking
with ease with people, as well as getting a boost of confidence............
Emily Kock, Contestant
Thank you for everything you have done for me, and for preparing
me well for the Miss Texas USA pageant. I will think of you every
time I’m on that stage!! You have spent a lot of time with me
and the pageant and it has been a wonderful growing experience. I
have been in several local pageants, but this pageant is the best
by miles!!
Karen Williams Ogle, Miss Round Rock USA 1992
Words aren’t strong enough to describe
my appreciation . You are the most caring and helpful director and I
can’t thank you enough!...........................................Kandace
Krueger, Miss Williamson County USA 2000
You’ve been the greatest! Thank you for all your
support and concern. You are the number one director!
Apryl Hollie,
Contestant