Judges of the Miss America pageant are looking for passion.
The judges talked about the qualities they consider in assessing contestants in the Miss America pageant during a media conference at the Planet Hollywood complex Wednesday.
The panel includes professionals from the entertainment, sports, physical fitness, film and magazine fields. They have different opinions, but panel chairwoman Robin Meade, a CNN news anchor and former Miss Ohio, said they have bonded through the process this week.
Olympic medalist and panelist Jackie Joyner-Kersee said she is looking for a contestant with sincere character and a genuine desire to be Miss America, and she's asked contestants how much they have dreamed of wearing the crown.
'I think it's really important to have the passion,'' she said.
Meade clarified that Joyner-Kersee's question had been criticized as softball when there are tougher questions to be asked about current events, such as who is responsible for importing lead-tainted toys from China.
Several judges agreed that preparing for the pageant takes years of work, and they said Miss America should be a woman filled with mental and physical confidence and show a commitment to her platform and to community service.
'We do need more role models,'' said Sarah Ivens, the editor in chief of OK! Magazine, which under her key direction has become America's fastest-growing publication and specializes in celebrity news.
Miss America will be one of those who will present a positive platform and be a counter to celebrities who drive drunk and dress inappropriately, she said.
James Arthur Ray, president and chief executive officer of a firm dedicated to teaching individuals to create wealth financially, intellectually, physically, spiritually and in relationships, said he is looking for a woman with emotional and mental capabilities, with goals and demonstrated fitness and fashion practices.
'This woman is going to represent our country,'' Ray said.
The other judges are :
ä Trace Ayala _ A Memphis-born fashion designer and co-founder of William Rast denim with his childhood friend Justin Timberlake.
ä Jason La Padura _A native New Yorker behind casting in the Disney Channel "High School Musical" who soon will begin work on "High School Musical 3." He is casting NBC's "Heroes" and CBS' "Cane."
ä Kim Lyons _ A star of NBC's "The Biggest Loser." She is also featured in the bestselling "The Biggest Loser Cookbook," and "The Biggest Loser" Workout DVDs.
