Thank you!

After six months, it's hard to believe I am finally competing for Miss America. It's amazing to think about all that has happened in such a short amount of time and I feel like I've grown up so much.

I thought this would be a good time to thank all of the wonderful people who have helped coach me into being the best that I can going into this pageant. I've had the 'dream' prep team and phenomenal supporters along the way.

so THANK YOU to:

Dawn Summers- nails
Robert Towle- hair and clothing stylist
Dale-Carnegie- public speaking class
Camille Curtis- voice lessons
Carol St. Hillaire- my trainer
Janet Ross- interview and talent coach
Deb Landry- platform and business manager
Ray Richardson- current events
Mom- my pocketbook (kidding!) love, support, encouragement...everything!

and also...

The Miss Maine Organization and Board members

On Sunday I had a sendoff celebration to show off my wardrobe for Vegas. (Thank you John, Danny and Lucille for hosting it, and Robert for planning it!) Unfortunately, I don't have time to post the pictures before I leave, but I will when I return home.



I'm so excited to go out there and do my thing! No matter what happens, I've had experiences of a lifetime already and it's an honor alone to be representing my state at the 2007 Miss America Pageant!

So tune in..
Pageant School: Becoming Miss America, Jan. 26th @ 9
2007 Miss America Pageant, Jan. 29th @ 8
BOTH on Country Music Television

also, check out my new website thanks to VideoCreations:

http://www.karissaleestaples.com

:)

Miss America Update

Our 2007 Miss America Pageant host...

Mario Lopez

The 2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT will air live at 8 p.m. Eastern; 7 p.m. Central; and will be tape delayed to air at 8 p.m. Pacific; and 9 p.m. Mountain on Country Music Television

IFL World Team Championship

This past Thursday and Friday I was invited by Joel Ehrlich to sing the national anthem at the International Fight League World Team Championship at the Mohegan Sun in Conn.! I had so much fun getting a behind-the-scenes look as to how a big event is put together. I attended the weigh-in, the sold out show, the pre-party and the after party with top producers, agents and athletes from around the world. What a surreal experience! The event aired on Dec. 31st on FSN. To learn more about the IFL, go to http://www.ifl.tv/




signing autographs at the weigh-in with the talented Jodi K and the athletes

with Carlos :)

With Phyllis, Jodi & Joel!

With rap recording producer, Jazze Pha

backstage with Jodi and her dancers

Singing in front of 8,000 people!

Watching the match with Joel!

Fighters in action!