Wasilla woman earns national title in pageant

A Wasilla woman became the first Alaskan to hold a title in the All-American pageant, as Darla Evans returned from the pageant as the Ms. Woman Plus title holder.

On Sept. 26-27, Evans competed against women from around the country at the Harbor Side Spa and Resort in Tampa, Fla., in the All-American Pageant. Four divisions -- Ms., Ms. Woman, Ms. Woman Plus and Mrs. -- were up for grabs at the pageant.

Evans, a Wasilla resident, took the Ms. Woman Plus title, while Jennifer Thompson of Florida won the Ms. title, Donna Glanzman of Ohio took the Mrs. title and Kristy Sutton took the Ms. Woman title.

Evans is employed by Behavioral Health Services of Mat-Su. She and her husband, Jeff, have raised five children and are the proud grandparents of eight grandchildren, two of whom are national titleholders in children's pageants.

Evans ran on a platform dear to her heart -- organ and tissue transplants.

"Our youngest daughter was a lung transplant recipient. We were very fortunate that she was able to receive this gift of life from a donor, not all families will be able to say that," Evans said. "Every day a child or adult passes while waiting for organ or tissue donations.

"It is important for anyone wishing to become a donor to let their families know their intentions. Just registering with DMV is not enough," Evans said

"It is important to get on the registry with Life Alaska in Anchorage," Evans added.

As the All-American Woman Plus, Evans will be making appearances throughout the year, as well as doing speaking engagements to promote both the pageant and organ and tissue donations.