Mr. USU contestants “Stand Out” from the crowd
Seven contestants battled it out for the title of Mr. USU Tuesday in the Kent Concert Hall, with Emon Williams snagging the honor, as well as being named Mr. Congeniality.
Grady Brimley, Scott Klein, Jason Sanders, Brian Watts, Brian Wilde, Emon Williams, and Keith Wilson showed they were willing to do whatever it took to entertain the audience, this year’s theme being “Stand Out.” Brinton, named Mr. USU for the 2006-2007 school year, hosted the event. The applicants were carefully watched by five judges including Sonny Bryant, vice president of ASUSU diversity, and Tim Hansen, a special guest from S.E. Needham Jewelers.
A local band, the Rock Bandits, was brought in to open the pageant, and they were followed by a projector film introducing the contestants, including a USU Student Ambassador and a runner from the USU Track and Field team. The first test that the applicants were put to was swimwear. Contestants tried everything – one wore a Spongebob Squarepants costume while another glued hair all over his body, willing to do whatever it took to impress the judges with their sense of humor; this was, however, the least of their competitions.
“So far it was the powder puffs. Now it’s where the rubber hits the road!” Brinton said as he led the audience into the talent portion of the pageant.
The first to compete in the talent competition was Grady Brimley; with help from a few friends, he performed a rather elaborate and costumed dance number.
“Tonight, I’m going to show you guys my talent,” he said. “And it’s having a good time!”
Seven contestants showed their skills, which included singing, roller-blading, cheer-leading, gymnastics, and an acted out game of Super Mario. Immediately following these performances, the 2007-2008 Homecoming Royalty were brought out to lead off the question portion. The contestants were asked a single question each.
When asked what it means to be a True Aggie, Williams responded, “A True Aggie is someone who takes pride in their school.”
Winners were announced for Mr. Congeniality, each portion, and one over-all. Swimwear was given to Williams, who sported swim trunks and oil. Wilde was named the winner of talent for his re-creation of a Super Mario Brothers game, and Watts took the formal wear/question portion.
Williams, a member of the USU Track and Field Team, said, “I love you guys! Thanks!” as he was presented with the Mr. USU ring, donated by S.E. Needham Jewelers.
-heather.wilk@aggiemail.usu.edu
Emon Williams, Mr. USU winner, performs for the audience and panel of five judges. (CAMERON PETERSON)