Friday, August 6, 2010

MIRACLE TREAT DAY AUG. 5, 2010

Thursday Aug. 5th, 2010 was "Miracle Treat Day" at Dairy Queens all over the United States.
If you brought a Blizzard Treat on that day, you were helping sick and injured Children in your area.
For each treat sold on that day, Dairy Queen donated $1.00 or more to the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. I was proud to participate to help miracles happen for the kids in need.



I traveled to 3 different locations. Here I am in Wallingford, with the Mayor William Dickenson, and the DQ owner Ron Sotere. Both were amazing people and we had a lot of fun


Hartford County's Outstanding Teen, Haylee Rochler met up with us in Wallingford and joined in with the "Blizzard Feast"


Ok, so we didn't spend the WHOLE day eating, we did meet up with a lot of folks, took pictures and spread the word about the wonderful work the Children's Miracle Network does.


In Hamden, My sister queen, Casey DelBasso who is North Haven's Outstanding Teen, joined me. We had to dodge a lot of Thunder, lighting and rain, but we stuck it out.
And before the day was over, we also visited the DQ Grille & Chill in North Haven as well. It was such a fun day, especially since we knew we were spreading the work about the Children"s Hospital. Several Months ago, I had a opportunity to actually tour the hospital in Hartford. It was such an amazing experience. My own nephew spent some time there last year, let me tell you, it is so comforting to know that a place like this exists. On Friday Sept. 3rd, I will be manning the phones for their annual fundraising radiothon and I am really looking forward to it.


Sunday, August 1, 2010

Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. July 29 2010

On Thursday July 29th, I was at the Square Foot Theater in Hamden for the opening of "Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr." The cast consisted of students from the Jared Andrew Studio for Performing Arts. What a talented and energenic group of kids. The show was amazing and I look forward to the next production; "Alice In Wonderland" coming up soon.














This was the little star herself. Monica Capriglione. She is only 12 years old, but a bundle of talent. Watch out everyone, she will be a top contender for our Teen Competition soon!























I was introduced prior to the show and I spoke briefly about my issue of concern; "Disability Awareness" I thanked everyone for coming and settled into my seat to watch the show.















My other Business Mgr., Patrick Laffin did all the costumes and scenery for the production and I've got to tell you, I was quite impressed. But he always finds time for a hug.
















As I was passing out programs, I met this adorable little girl. I never was able to get her name, but she was my best friend all night!!





















And of Course my Buddie Michael Maze from KC101 was there as well. It was a wonderfully successful night for all and I was so happy to be back at the "Square Foot Theater" once again. Thank you for inviting me.

Meet the Mayor July 8 2010

On Thursday July 8th I had an opportunity to meet the Mayor of Hamden, Scott Jackson.

He was so wonderful to me, and we spent the afternoon just getting to know each other.

He asked my about myself, my goal and my dreams. We talked about my Issue of Concern and how I could use it to help the city of Hamden. It was a wonderful afternoon and I truly look forward to upcoming events with him.

My Business Manager Jared Andrew accompanied me as well. We talked about the opening of his New Theater and the positive effects it will have on the community.



Miss Conn. O.T. Competiton June 24 - 26 2010


After 3 days of rehearsals, it was finally time to start the competition. Everyone was so excited. We had a great week being all together but now it was time to get down to business. The audience was beginning to arrive and the nerves were really starting to mount back stage!!

Dressed in our gorgeous Cherry Hill gowns, we performed a great dance number choreographed by Billy Griffin called "Fashionista" It was such a blast working with him and watching the whole thing come together.








For the Talent competition, I performed a tap dance to "The Sound of Silence," choreographed by Mary Marrone; my teacher, my sister and my friend. I felt super about my performance. All of my sounds, turns and arms were right on. I know my "Angel" was dancing with me.





Then is was on to the Evening Gown Competition. Yellow is my signature color and has always been lucky for me. The dress came from Ragtime in Watertown. Natalie spent so much time with me making sure that every detail was perfect. I felt wonderful as I stepped out onto the stage.








"On Stage Question" This is always tough. First I had to choose the name of a judge from the Gold Fish Bowl. That was the judge that would ask me my question. I answered to the best of my ability and without hesitation.



















And finally the announcement of the Top Ten. I had made it!! Unfortunately this is where the journey ended for me. But I was so happy with myself. I had worked hard and being among the top ten was such an honor.










A special hug from Jared. This was his first year as the Executive Director of North Haven / Hamden pageant. He was so very proud that all 4 of his "Crowns" had done so well.
























As the week came to an end, we were all so proud of our accomplishments. All 4 of us had made it into the top 10
There was a little sadness though. I have now aged out of the Teen Division and Amber has aged out of the Miss division. But we wish Gretchen and Casey lots of luck and love as they continue on. These 4 years of Teen Competition have help shaped me into the person I am. I have held 3 wonderful titles in these 4 years. That"s a lot of memories for me to carry in my heart. I am truly blessed and honored. I am on my way home now, and I will be the best "Greater Hamden's Outstanding Teen" that I can be for the remainder of my year.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Miss Connecticut Week June 22, 2010

I arrived at the beautiful Radisson Inn, in New London around 5:20 p.m. My Business Manager Jared Andrew Brown, helped me unload the car and get settled in my room. Then it was off to our first rehearsal.

Here we all are, the Misses and Teens Together. In just a few short days, the new Miss Connecticut, and Miss Connecticut Outstanding Teen, will be chosen from this group.
"Dear Lord, give me grace, poise and wisdom, and above all please guide me through this week"
Good Luck to everyone.

"Ferrari Concorso" June 20, 2010

The 2010 Miss and Outstanding Teen's were invited to be a part of the 10Th annual Concorso Ferrari Fundraising event for Conn. Children's' Medical Center Foundation. Patients from the hospital were honored by riding in one of the fabulous Ferrari's in a parade through the Streets of Hartford.






We formed a special welcoming entourage
for the children as they arrived. Here I waited for my special guest to get out of his car.














His name was Timmy and he was feeling great! He was so excited to be there. We talked a few minutes then headed into the State Capitol for a terrific lunch.








We took lots of pictures, and the kids loved every minute of it!! During the event each child was given a chance to pick a model Ferrari as a special "Kids Choice Award" to take home.






I was so honored to finally receive my official Children Miracle Network Pin from Scott Organek. He is the coordinator of C.C.M.C. shows that I am an advocate for the children and a believer in the work that is being done there.





The kids asked for pictures and autographs, and we were only too happy to oblige!












I was so proud and thankful to be part of the day. The kids were incredible. The State Capitol Building is a magnificent place to visit!








Tuesday, June 22, 2010

"Miss Connecticut Gala" June 18, 2010

What s fabulous way to kick off Miss Connecticut Week. The "Miss Connecticut Gala" was held at the Aqua Turf in Southington on Friday June 18th.


This Picture is of my sister queens, Gretchen Hahn (Miss Greater North Have), Amber Caron (Miss Nutmeg) and Casey DelBasso (Greater North Haven OT) We make a pretty good Team If I do Say So my self!




After the traditional Photo Session with Catherine Fiehn, Casey and I got down to some serious dinner!



As titleholders in "The Miss Connecticut Organization
" our state Issue of Concern is The Children's Miracle Network. This is Scott. He is our main contact for the hospital and organizes all of our activities with the children.

It was great to have him come out and wish us all good luck.



There was one very sad note to the evening, that being the announcement of the retirement of our Executive Director Luis Pabon. After many many years with this organization he will be stepping down after the pageant. I will miss him, but he promised that he would never be far from us.



This is My Grandmother. Many years ago she was the head banquet waitress at the Aqua Turf. I was so pleased that I could have her with me tonight, and she was actually able to reconnect with one or two of the people she use to work with! The night meant a lot to both of us.






And of course after an fantastic dinner, there was dancing. One of my Business Managers, Patrick Laffin and I looked pretty good out there!









It was a perfect evening of Good Food, Good Friends, and Fun. Everyone looks great, what an array of "Formal Wear"
Only 4 days left till we leave for the state pageant, one of us here tonight will be the new Miss Ct. and Miss Ct. Outstanding Teen....WOW!