Like many of you, I have spent the last weeks anxiously following Miss America 2004 Ericka Dunlap and her husband Brian on the Amazing Race. I was happy/disappointed that they came in third, because third is awesome but winning would have blown my mind.

Anyway, having a former Miss America in the television spotlight got me to thinking. Do I like seeing formers on tv? Is it good for the program?

Well, I love it. Love it. I think it's so wonderful that Ericka and her husband had the chance to be on the Amazing Race and I am so thrilled for the exposure the program got through their experience. All of the people who watch the Amazing Race have now been exposed to a strong, capable Miss America and...well, that's amazing.

And I do think it's good for the program to have formers (all formers, not just Miss Americas) in the media spotlight for positive things. It gives the viewing public a chance to get acquainted with Miss America on another level.

My ultimate dream is to see a former Miss America win Top Chef, marrying my two loves: pageantry and food. Ah well, maybe one day.

What do YOU think?