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LAS VEGAS, Jan 30, 2007 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Miss Oklahoma Lauren Nelson from Lawton, Okla., an aspiring Broadway star, has been crowned Miss America 2007 in Las Vegas.
Nelson, 20, a student at the University of Central Oklahoma, said her platform issue is Be NetSmart -- Protecting Kids Online. In addition, she will be the official goodwill ambassador for the Children's Miracle Network, the Miss America Organization national platform program.
Miss Texas, Shilah Phillips of Plano, Texas, was named first runner-up in Monday's ceremonies. Phillips said she hopes to become a professional recording artist.
Second runner-up honors went to Miss Georgia Amanda Kozak of Warner Robins, Ga.
The Miss Congeniality Award, selected by the viewing audience, was awarded to Miss Alabama Melinda Toole.
Nelson, who sang "You'll Be In My Heart," from the Disney animated film "Tarzan," will receive a $50,000 scholarship with the crown and represent the Miss America Organization in appearances across the country during her yearlong reign.
URL: www.upi.com Copyright 2007 by United Press International
