Miss Maine 2006

Update

2007-08-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

Since my reign as Miss Maine has ended, I decided to stop blogging and instead, create a new website that will include new pictures and updates of the projects I have and will be working on. The site is in the works- it looks fabulous, thanks to Jonathan Ehrlich (http://www.jonathanehrlich.com/). Stay tuned...the launch of karissaleestaples.com will be coming soon :)

2007-06-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Miss Maine 2007, Tara Allain!

She is a lovely girl, who I know will represent the state of Maine very well :)

Check her out at www.missmaine.org

A New Life

2007-06-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

Upon moving to New York City, my life has changed completely. I have a great apartment right near Herald Square, which I share with three other roomates. My internship at the International Fight League has been so much fun as I'm learning and experiencing the work life. Most of all, I'm two weeks into this transition and I've already had amazing opportunities. The second night I was there, I took part in the reading of 'Red Hook', an indie feature film that will be shot this August in the city. I also had the chance to be a guest as Miss Maine on board the Hue City ship during the Navy's Fleet Week. On top of that, I've been networking, seeing shows, and will finally be taking acting, voice and dance lessons so I can delve into the theater world completely.

I am home now for 10 days because 'Pageant Week' has finally arrived. Starting Monday, I will be with the contestants attending appearances and rehearsals all week and then next Saturday, it is (sadly) time to pass on the crown to the new Miss Maine. It will be quite an eventful week!

NYC

2007-05-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

The best advice I ever received was from my mom (of course). At the start of my reign, I remember she said to me, "never miss an opportunity." And I'm so glad I listened.

I was 1 of the 13 contestants who chose to go on the Miss America Cruise to the Bahamas this past October. We stopped at Nassau, went to a diamond store to take publicity photos, and I ended up bumping into two producers (as well as amazing people!); Joel and Phyllis Ehrlich. I was so lucky to make this connection and now Joel has taken me under his wing and has given me so many opportunities!

I am moving to New York City tomorrow into an apartment right in Midtown Manhattan. There, I will work as an intern for the International Fight League (see past entries) while Joel takes me to shows, readings, dance and acting classes and auditions. FINALLY, I will be a part of the NYC world- something I have always dreamed of doing. (And I thank Joel and Phyllis for all of their love, guidance and support!)

I am almost done my reign, and it has been quite a year. Of course community service has been such a big part of my life and I will continue that as well as the rest of my duties for Miss Maine although I am moving away. The next titleholder has quite a year ahead of her! It is so rewarding what the Miss Maine/Miss America Organization can do to a young girl and how many wonderful things can come out of it. I'm truly blessed!

Visits and Pre-Pageant Clinic

2007-05-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

My reign may be coming to an end, but I've still been busy with appearances- each one very rewarding! I just recently visited Wiscasset High School to speak to the students there about America's Promise and the importance of aftershcool programs. They were a great audience and the students and teachers were all so kind!

I also made a trip up to Newport to visit students. I hosted the Crossroads Talent Show and had the opportunity to speak about my platform there as well. I saw some future stars!

This past Saturday was the Miss Maine Organization's annual Pre- Pageant Clinic. There, I met (most) of the 2007 Miss Maine contestants. The day is a critique for them in all areas of competition as they get to know one another before they compete. It seems like yesterday I was just there! It's amazing how fast time flies.

At night, the organization hosted the annual Springtime Gala. There, we had a nice dinner and friends and family had the opportunity to see the contestants perform. I had the chance to perform and speak about my year as well.

Taking pictures after having tea with the beautiful Pine Tree Princesses

With most of the contestans and a couple of the teen contestants as well

My picture was on the cake (and I got to eat my face! yumm)

With the Emcees of the Gala

Appearances

2007-04-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Kelsey!

Big Brothers, Big Sisters bowling event

A beautiful group of bowlers!

Visiting students in Jonesboro

Visiting Jonesboro students k-3

Visiting DW Merritt School- next to the nice sign the students made me!

Appearances

2007-04-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

Television Interview for Time Warner

Visiting students from Memorial Middle School who are part of the school's REACH leadership program

Visiting my fur coat sponsor at the Maine Sportsmen Show in Augusta

Appearances

2007-03-30T15:32:00.001-07:00

Hosting the Brunswick Fashion Show with Senior Nick Saba

visiting the Holy Cross Middle School in South Portland

I was the keynote speaker at the Oxford Hills Middle School's Wellness Day. Project AWARE traveled to Gorham and Oxford Hills to premiere the new movie 'Falling' and to conduct youth empowerment workshops to middle school students!

Update

2007-03-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago, I visited Westbrook high school to speak to a few classes. Since my platform, America's Promise, is geared toward younger students, my main focus was to raise awareness about prescription drug abuse. Since my involvement in Project AWARE, I've learned that it is a growing trend among teens. The class was great and the students were responsive.

I was also a keynote speaker at the 21st Century Grant Conference in South Portland. There, I spoke about the after school program, Crossroads. I have been a 'Crossroads Kid' since the 8th grade and it affected me greatly. I performed in shows, volunteered at their camps and eventually became a mentor. Crossroads gave me the Five Promises growing up, and in turn, led me to where I am today.

On Saturday, I modeled and performed as Miss Maine in a fashion show put on by the Freeport Merchant's Association. I was happy to meet and get to know some of the 2007 Miss Maine contestants. (They are all so wonderful!) Despite the weather, the event pulled through!

modeling Anne Klein

with Mrs. Maine US, Kristin Center

With two of last year's Miss Maine contestants, Jona and Jessica. I've missed them!

Children's Miracle Network

2007-02-22T13:45:00.000-08:00

CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK SELECTED AS NATIONAL PLATFORM FOR MISS AMERICA ORGANIZATION

First Time in History the Miss America Organization Creates On-Going Philanthropic Alliance

Salt Lake City, Utah – January 23, 2007 – Children’s Miracle Network today announced that they have been selected as the official national platform for the Miss America Organization. This partnership represents the first time in the 86-year history of the Miss America Organization that they have adopted such a program. Children’s Miracle Network has had an 18-year history working with the Miss America Organization, with this newest initiative signifying a permanent and on-going relationship between the two.

The new partnership will provide opportunities for the Miss America Organization to not only raise funds and awareness for the 17 million children treated each year at the 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, but also for the Miss America Scholarship Program, the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women, providing more than $45 million in cash and tuition scholarship assistance to them each year.

“We are thrilled to have formed this national partnership to continue to help the many children that are supported in every city in America by Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. Together, we’ll work towards raising funds for our scholarship program to enable young and talented women across the country gain new opportunities,” said Art McMaster, president & CEO Miss America Organization. “We look forward to a long and rewarding relationship with Children’s Miracle Network.”

Each year the new Miss America, in addition to bringing awareness to her personal platform, will be an official goodwill ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network as she raises funds and awareness for both Children’s Miracle Network and the Miss America Organization. This partnership also extends to the woman competing at the local, state and national levels of the pageant, asking each contestant who participates to be responsible for raising funds on behalf of Children’s Miracle Network and the Miss America Organization.

“We are honored to be selected as the official national platform of the Miss America Organization,” said Jim Hall, CEO and president of Children’s Miracle Network. “The Miss America Organization and Children’s Miracle Network have had an amazing 18-year history and we’re looking forward to building on that and increasing funds for both organizations.”

Post Miss America

2007-02-21T13:44:00.000-08:00

After such a great week, I finally crashed. I have been sick for a few weeks, but now I am back on track. I think the stress, excitement and travel of the competition caught up to me! Upon my arrival home, I was able to visit Thornton Middle School and Saco Middle School. What a wonderful group of kids! I also emceed the Westbrook High School fashion show, which was fun. It made me miss putting together school events and being a part of them!

FYI...The International Fight League kicks off their 2007 season in Atlanta this weekend! There are lots of new and exciting things happening with the league. I'm now a fan!

the 2007 Miss America Pageant

2007-02-09T05:46:00.000-08:00

The Miss America pageant was a blast! It was my first time in Vegas, too, so it was all very exciting. The first few days we were out there, the contestants had appearances. We modeled in a fashion show, attended dinner receptions and a private screening of Dreamgirls, and also had a night out at Planet Hollywood. During the day, we rehearsed for the show.

At the end of the week, we had preliminary competitions in all categories. I was the very first interview then I competed in swimsuit, eveningwear, talent and onstage question. It was nice to finally be standing on stage after six months of anticipation!

Although I didn't place, competing at Miss America was one of the most memorable experiences of my life thus far!

Congratulations to Lauren Nelson, Miss America 2007! The title was well deserved!

Click HERE for pictures!

Thank you!

2007-01-18T10:13:00.000-08:00

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

2007-01-03T14:30:00.000-08:00

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

2007-01-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

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!

December Appearances

2006-12-31T21:39:00.000-08:00

Here are pictures of some of my December Appearances:

At Fox Morning News with Ray Richardson

Wells Christmas Parade

I was a guest performer at the VIH Christmas Concert- with one of the singers, Willy

Visiting the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital...with my buddy Shane and his sister

2006-12-14T13:12:00.000-08:00

Miss America contestant profiles are up! You can check them out at:

http://missamerica.cmt.com

More Photos

2006-12-07T18:07:00.000-08:00

Friends Like These

2006-12-07T17:20:00.000-08:00

When I went on the Miss America Cruise at the end of October, the girls got off at Nassau to take pictures at Diamonds International. At that very store, I just so happened to bump into a producer! Immediately, we clicked and by the next week I was in NYC meeting him and singing for him as we were getting to know each other more. Joel has already become an influential figure in my life- a generous man who is willing to help guide my career.

On Monday I went to NYC with my mom to see the reading of his up and coming show, "Friends Like These," like the musical version of Sex & the City. The show was performed by 4 great Broadway actresses and the music was phenomenal! I'm so glad I was an invited guest to see something that is about to take off. Right now, Joel is also producing the upcoming Broadway show, 'Music Boy'...he and his wife, Phyllis, are just two wonderful and talented people and I'm so fortunate to have met them!

at Rockafeller Center

at my favorite sushi restaurant in Times Square!

after the reading with Phyllis and Joel!

Photos

2006-12-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple photos from a shoot I did with Seaglassphoto. She is AMAZING and so much fun to work with!!! more to come...

November Appearances

2006-12-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

Here are pictures of just a few things that have been going on this month!

Singing the national anthem at the Pirates game

Singing at the BMS piano dedication

I graduated from the Dale Carnegie course. Thank you David & Shirlie!

Visiting one of my sponsors, the Saco-Biddeford Savings Institution

School Appearances & 1st Annual Miss America Cruise

2006-11-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago, I went into some of the Biddeford schools to speak. First, I accompanied a good friend of mine, Norm in speaking about Red Ribbon week to the middle school students. The following week I went back to speak to all 600 middle schoolers about my platform. Carl Lakari, the Project AWARE coordinator was so kind to join me to tell his story. What a wonderful group of students!

with the BHS journalism class

at the middle school

The first annual Miss America cruise was a blast! 13 contestants attended the event. 4 young veterans also joined us and we had a chance to get to know them and what they've experienced, which was very rewarding. After a week of relaxing, sunning, dancing, shopping, meeting new people and attending a few appearances, all of the contestants performed their talent on the main stage as a salute to the veterans!

View Show Create Your Own
CLICK FOR PICTURES-> http://www66.rockyou.com/show_my_gallery.php?instanceid=43671910

2007 Miss America Pageant Judges

2006-10-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

The Miss America Organization Announces National Panel of Judges for the 2007 Miss America Pageant

Atlantic City, NJ, October 16, 2006 - The Miss America Organization has announced the illustrious panel of six National Judges who will decide which one of this year's 52 contestants will become Miss America 2007. The judges - all distinguished members in their fields, from entertainment to business to the arts - will evaluate the contestants from the preliminaries through the final night of competition, will be premiering live from the Aladdin, soon to be Planet Hollywood, Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, on Monday, January 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, exclusively on CMT.

Debbie Allen
Nigel Barker
Delta Burke
Michael Feinstein
Chris Matthews
Susan Powell

Scooping for a Cause

2006-10-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I volunteered to be a 'celebrity scooper' at Coldstone Creamery in Portland to raise money for the North Atlantic Figure Skating Club! I've been a scooper before so it was a blast :-)

With Maine comedian, Bob Marley, Bridgette, and MMO Vice President, John Hatcher- we made a great team!

"Have a cold and creamy day!"

It's a wrap!

2006-10-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

Project AWARE and its PLAYERS have finished the big project: a short video that raises awareness of the growing trend of prescription drug abuse among teens. 'Falling' is about a young straight 'A' student who gets hooked on painkillers after an injury on the soccer field. It shows her downward slide and how the addiction ends up affecting her and the world around her.

Youth 2 Youth Summit

2006-10-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I spoke at the Youth 2 Youth Summit in Waterville. This event brought together high school students from different schools and organizations to work on their area of volunteerism such as the GSA, school climate, school nutrition, and Civil Rights. These students do amazing things for their schools and their voices have and will continue to be a catalyst for change.

Might I just add that Waterville is one of the 100 Best Communities in the country under the America’s Promise Alliance!

The New Miss America

2006-10-03T05:31:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to express my excitement of the new changes the Miss America Organization is going through. They have been doing a great job trying to attract a younger and larger audience and hyping up the pageant with specials of the girls on the Inside Edition, ABC, E! News, MTV and of course, CMT. It's the first time ever that all 52 girls are recognized. I hope you all follow along and join in on the fun! :-)

Cumberland Fair

2006-10-01T13:56:00.000-07:00

You're not truly Miss Maine until you've judged the Prettiest Pumpkin contest!

Pictures courtesy of Mike Nutter ©

Washington DC

2006-09-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

This past week, I traveled to Washington DC. On Saturday, I had the opportunity to visit the Central Intelligence Agency for its ‘Family Day’. I was able to explore the campus, and walk through Michael Hayden’s (Director of the CIA) office and at the end of the day, I got to hear him speak. What a rare opportunity!

The following Monday, I visited the office of America’s Promise. Mike McGill, Senior Director for Media Relations, has been kind enough to help educate and prepare me toward my venture as a spokesperson for the alliance. I was fortunate to meet with other employees and learn much more. I have many plans this fall in continuing my involvement with youth empowerment and of course, tying that into the America’s Promise Alliance for Youth.

with Mike McGill

with President and CEO, Marguerite Kondracke

Filming 'Pageant School: Becoming Miss America'

2006-09-12T17:19:00.000-07:00

I just got home from a wonderful trip to Cali to film 'Pageant School: Becoming Miss America'. We stayed and filmed at a beautiful hotel at Santa Monica Beach. For four days, we filmed a series of events and competitions the 52 contestants participated in. After filming was done, we shot some profiles and promos for CMT and also did some interviews. When the week was over, we all had the chance to relax and hit the pool, beach, and promenade. The final night, we had a little shindig outside at the Roosevelt Hotel. It was beautiful!! We were lucky to be able to meet and mingle with stars such as Doris Roberts, Marilu Henner, and several past Miss Americas. What a week!! I can't give out details of the show, but I do know that the TV special will be aired on the nights leading up to the pageant in January on MTV, VH1 and CMT. I'll post more information as the time gets closer. :-)

If you can't view the pictures on this page, just click below on 'View' or simply go to: http://www54.rockyou.com/show_my_gallery.php?instanceid=38661953

View Add Favorite

Biddeford's Recovery Month

2006-09-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

I’ve been up to a few things… This past week I sung the national anthem at Seadogs game again and at the Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival. Ever since I performed with the Playing Possum in Rockland, I fell in love with that genre of music!

Last Friday evening, my hometown had a ‘kick off’ for National Alcohol and Drug Abuse Recovery Month in an effort to raise awareness of substance abuse and to take steps towards becoming a healthier community. In the month of September, our city will focus on four areas: prevention, rehabilitation, recovery, and community response.

I had the opportunity to open the event with Mayor Nutting and speak about my platform in conjunction with the town’s initiative. The Project AWARE Players performed a moving improvisation about substance abuse, the alumni band played, and we had a showing of the drug awareness film, ‘Ty’, produced by Crossroads.

To read a little more about Recovery Month, go to....
http://www.biddefordsacooobcourier.com/news1.html

With Mayor Nutting and the Project AWARE Players

2006-08-27T12:06:00.000-07:00

Miss America- Monday, January 29th, in...

LAS VEGAS!!!

Project Redway-Woodcock-Miss Maine Day

2006-08-26T18:35:00.000-07:00

This past week has been a busy one! On wednesday, I took part in Project Redway (http://www.projectredway.com) to benefit the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women Campaign. It was quite the experience...I don't model so it was my first fashion show. Macy's donated clothing in addition to some designer pieces! There was a 'wedding' at the very end and I had the chance to wear the bride's crimson red designer dress. Everyone had a great time... and the models were fabulous!

Jim & I in our businesswear :-)

This Friday, I had the opportunity to attend a social event for Chandler Woodcock. I got to meet and speak with people and performed two songs. What an honor!

And finally, today was Miss Maine Day, which is a fundraising pageant that benefits the Miss Maine Organization. There were 17 contestants and four divisions. All the girls were beautiful and talented, with bright futures ahead of them! I had the pleausre of speaking with them and performing in the show. I saw some future Miss Maines!

2006-08-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Since I was a little late on starting my blog...here are pictures of some of the things I've done over the summer...

Me at my hometown parade (La Kermesse) in which I ended up in the hospital, but that's another story!

Freeport Parade

Freeport Signing

I received a color consultation with Gari Lewis in Connecticut

I went to the Miss Connecticut pageant (with mom & dad)

at Thomas Point Beach with Maine's Outstanding Teen, Mallory, to perform at the Beautiful Beach Baby contest

At the Subaru dealership

Barbara Bush's 'The Greatest Race' Silent Auction

Barbara Bush's 'The Greatest Race' Silent Auction

Singing at the Seadogs Game

Voices in Harmony

2006-08-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

I have been a choir member of Voices in Harmony for three years and was unable to join the group again this summer. But- on Sunday, I had the pleasure of being the 'special' guest at their performance! I was interviewed on stage, and sang my talent song towards the end. Everyone was welcoming, supportive...and I missed being part of the group! They sounded phenomenal, as always. There is so much talent in the Biddeford/Saco area, and they're lucky to have such an inspirational choir director, Camille Curtis.

signing pictures

two of the choir members, and my friends!

Miss America's Outstanding Teen Pageant, Orlando, FL

2006-08-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

I just got home from the Miss America's National Oustanding Teen Pageant in Orlando Florida. What a blast! I was able to be there to support Maine's Outstanding Teen, Mallory Lavoie, and also, meet 37 of the 52 Miss America contestants. The night I flew in, the Miss America contestants all went to dinner at Olive Garden, where we had a chance to meet each other for the first time. After that, we all went to watch the third night of the MAOT Preliminary Competition.

The following day, we all took a VIP tour of Magic Kingdom. We had fun exploring, going on the rides, and still getting to know one another. It was a long day, but we got star treatment! That evening I attended the Gala, where we had a nice dinner in support of Meghan Miller, the first MOAT.

a group of us at Disney

the girls at Magic Kingdom

connecticut, maine, kentucky and north carolina with our bodyguard!

me, chelle, and mickey!

Mallory and I :-)

On Saturday, The MA contestants all went to lunch at Planet Hollywood. We wore our CMT shirts (CMT is the network that hosts Miss America), did photoshoots, and introduced ourselves to everyone that was eating at the restaurant.

Maine, Illinois, Kentucky

That night, we attended a VIP reception and the final competition. Hosted by Jennifer Berry, Miss America 2006, and ex-N'Sync member, Joey Fatone, the pageant will air on the 'N' in October. If you want to know who won, visit http://MAOTeen.org

Giving Maine Promise

2006-08-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I met with WGME 13 to film some PSAs. Their mission is to 'Give Maine Promise' under the America's Promise Alliance (which is my platform) so it is a great way for me to get myself and my platform out there. The short clips have aired, and the longer PSA should be out soon, so keep an eye out on channel 13! :-)

American Idol Hair Stylist, Dean Banowetz Comes to Town

2006-08-11T12:24:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I went to the Amore hair salon in Portland, (where I get my hair done for the year), because American Idol hair stylist, and personal stylist of Ryan Seacrest, Dean Banowetz, was there giving two winners from Q 97.9’s contest hair makeovers. He was a wonderful person- funny, friendly and willing to give us the low-down on what goes on back stage at American Idol. The winner’s hair came out fabulous, and I got a little style done from him, too!

Now that I have the connection, I will be finding a way for him to meet the Miss America contestants out in LA when we film ‘Becoming Miss America.’ Hope it works out!

**Check out the news segment:
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=39824

Rockland

2006-08-09T20:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I traveled up Maine to do some appearances in Rockland for the Lobster Festival. I had a wonderful time! On Saturday, I rode in the Rockland parade, the biggest in Maine, in a black corvette! There was a big crowd and in talking to them, many were from all over the country.

That night I sang at McMahon's Rockport Grille with the bluegrass band, Playing Possum! Although I enjoy bluegrass, I am not really familiar with that genre music but we managed to work it out. I was able to perform 'Summertime', 'Over the Rainbow' and few bluegrass songs I had learned an hour before we went on. I had a blast...the band was great, the audience was supportive and my lobster dinner was delicious :-)

The next morning, I had a meeting at Hot Diamonds (http://www.hot-diamonds.co.uk/) the line of jewelry is from the UK, but a few stores have opened in Maine carrying the jewelry. I had the privilege of choosing a variety of beautiful pieces to have during my reign as Miss Maine (and they will be coming with me to Los Angeles&Miss America!) It was extremely generous of them...the pieces are gorgeous and I'm excited to wear diamonds!

Pictures courtesy of Jan Gilley ©

One more thing...my weekend in Rockland only reminded me of how beautiful Maine really is. The weather, the trees, the rocky coast, its lakes...I'm so lucky to have grown up here, and now, to be representing the state, I'm truly honored!

America's Promise Regional Forum, RI

2006-08-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

I've been very busy, forgive me! Here's a recap of what I've been doing. Also- I will add in pictures to my previous blogs and the ones following once I figure it out. I know pictures will make my entries much more interesting so keep checking for them!

On July 26 & 27, I attended the America's Promise (www.americaspromise.org) national forum in Providence, Rhode Island. There, I had the opportunity to meet the President and director of operations and get in-depth knowledge of the alliance. From here on out, I will be working to become a spokesperson for America's Promise and hope to carry its message forward; that in order for young people to reach their full potential, all communities must strive to give them Five important Promises:

1. Caring adults in their lives, as parents, mentors, tutors, coaches
2. Safe places with structured activities in which to learn and grow
3. A healthy start and healthy future
4. An effective education that equips them with marketable skills
5. An opportunity to give back to their communities through their own service

The forum was great and I met many wonderful people. The night of the dinner social, a group of young teenagers from the city performed rap songs that they had written personally addressing issues that they (teenagers) face today. It was the most interesting and creative way of expression....very inspiring and I hope to get them to perform at some schools here in Maine!

Me with America’s Promise President and CEO, Marguerite Kondracke

Anyway, In September I plan to visit the America's Promise headquarters in Washington DC before I begin my venture in the fall as one of its ambassadors!

Miss America Update

2006-07-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

To set things straight...

The Miss America Pageant has NOT yet taken place- all the details of its airing are as follows:

Two-Hour Contestant Special to be Broadcast on CMT, VH1, MTV and Logo and Include Viewer Voting For ‘Miss Congeniality’

Beginning in January, CMT and its sister networks, VH1, MTV and Logo, will air a newly-produced, two-hour special featuring all 52 Miss America contestants as they meet in Los Angeles and prepare for their odyssey to become Miss America. VH1 is available in 90 million homes; MTV in 90 million; Logo in 20 million and CMT in 83 million. CMT remains the exclusive home of the pageant. Beginning in December, CMT will devote nine hours to Miss America programming that will repeat on the network leading up to the MISS AMERICA PAGEANT in January 2007. Additional programming will be available exclusively on CMT LOADED, VOD, CMT.com, CMT Radio and CMT Mobile. Miss America-related programming will include:

CONTESTANT SPECIAL – two-hour special featuring the 52 State Finalists as they meet in LA and prepare for their quest to become the new Miss America. In addition, viewers will be able to cast their vote via phone and online at CMT.com for “Miss Congeniality,” which will be announced live during the Pageant. This program takes the place of the previously announced documentary series, FINDING MISS AMERICA. Special to air on CMT, VH1, MTV, Logo and available on CMT LOADED.

CMT TOP 20 COUNTDOWN – two-and-a-half hour show counting down the week’s top videos with host Lance Smith reporting on-site at the 2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT. This special edition will feature interviews with pageant contestants that will premiere on CMT and be available on CMT LOADED.
CMT INSIDER – half-hour magazine show with host Katie Cook going behind-the-scenes at the upcoming pageant. This special edition of CMT INSIDER will premiere on CMT and be available on CMT LOADED and CMT Mobile.

2007 MISS AMERICA PAGEANT – two-hour pageant final that includes swimsuit, talent and evening wear competitions; and the crowning of Miss America 2007; premiering exclusively on CMT. Pageant location and venue to be announced.

TALENT PRELIMINARIES – Cameras will document each contestant’s talent performance from the Preliminaries leading up to the Pageant; available exclusively on CMT LOADED.

CONTESTANT PROFILES – One-minute profiles on each state finalist; available on CMT LOADED and VOD; CMT.com; CMT Mobile; and CMT Radio.

Philly Trip

2006-07-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

Ever since my crowning on June 3rd, life has been crazy. The following week was ‘Senior Week’ so I focused on graduation before I stepped into my role as Miss Maine. A month and several appearances later, it has finally hit me that I am on my way to Miss America!

I just got back from the ‘Miss Maine Invitational’ trip from Philadelphia and had a wonderful time! Miss Connecticut, Miss Rhode Island and I were invited for a weekend to Valerie Clemens’ home in PA. (Valerie is the President of the Miss Maine Organization).

On Friday, we all went down to Atlantic City to visit the Miss America office. I had the pleasure of meeting the staff and getting the tour of the Miss America portraits, archives and displays. And what a coincidence- Miss America 2006, Jennifer Berry was in town! She joined us at the office and we ate cake in celebration of her birthday. Star struck, we carried on and visited the Atlantic City boardwalk. After having fun at the 100th anniversary of Planter’s Peanuts and enjoying the beautiful beach, we headed back for the night.

The following day the girls and I had a couple of appearances. We performed our talents at Melmark (along with a few special guests!) then went straight to the Habitat for Humanity house dedication, where we also had the chance to perform and meet all of the appreciative families. We went back to Valerie’s for a night of mock interviews, talent evaluations and a nice dinner with her friends.

at Melmark

Habitat for Humanity (Maine, Conn, Rhode Island)

Invitational Dinner

On Sunday, we performed at Sunrise Assisted Living, then sadly, Miss Rhode Island and Miss Connecticut left for home. The rest of the week, I had the opportunity to shop in Philly and NYC for my Miss America wardrobe. I also had appearances at Benchmark Summer Camp, ESF Dream Camp, Sunrise, and the Ronald McDonald house. But there was no better way to end a great week than to go on a segway tour around Philly. What a beautiful city!

Benchmark Camp

ESF Dream Camp

Segway Tour in Philly
Ronald McDonald House

It’s funny that after just one week, my confidence in speaking and performing as Miss Maine has grown. I have a better grasp of what to do, and feel ready for the exciting year ahead of me!