Lindsey's Adventures as Miss New Hampshire 2009

A Silver-White Winter and Holiday Cheer

2009-12-31T16:28:00.000-08:00

This holiday season has been filled with fun as I’ve traveled to take part in celebrations, filled with work as I’ve volunteered nearly every day with different organizations, filled with awe and pride as I’ve watched our troops get ready for deployment and filled with love as I’ve celebrated with my family the joy of living. However, I wouldn’t be completely honest if I didn’t tell you that it has also been filled with some guilt for not sharing everything that has been going on with you! As much as I love having the ability to let others know what it is I do as a state titleholder and how much impact each one of us can have on our community while at the same time receiving opportunities to learn and grow from others, I have found it difficult to keep still behind a computer screen long enough to write about it all on this blog. With the time I had, this is what it came down to for me: I could have either done less and made it seem like I’ve been doing more as I took the extra time to talk it up on a blog or I could have been out there doing more and giving up the extra time writing about it. I chose the latter. Therefore, if you’ve been checking my blog updates I apologize if you’ve been disappointed but if you’ve been checking the newspapers and seeing me work around New Hampshire then hopefully you’ll understand :)

One thing I love about my days is how much I learn. I have been thrust into many different “worlds” within our world and have gotten to ask questions and find out more about them from the groups that are involved. For instance, I had the pleasure of talking to the members of the New Hampshire Trappers Association during one of their meetings and was exposed to the world of trapping. My grandfather taught me archery and how to handle and aim a shotgun when I was younger but I never knew much about the actual craft that has been a cornerstone in the development of this nation. By talking to the members of the association, I quickly gained a better understanding and appreciation of it and learned how it continues to find relevance in our modern world as a cost effective and humane means to manage the furbearer populations within our state.

With the NH Trappers Association Members in Boscawen while wearing the fisher cat fur coat they generously donated to the Miss NH Scholarship Program.

Money Magazine recently named Hooksett, NH as one of the top 100 places to live in America and it was great to be the featured speaker for the Hooksett Kiwanis Club. The group’s primary focus is improving the lives of children in its community and throughout the world. Its goals are demonstrated by its dedication to the Kiwanis Builders Club that supports the 160 students at Cawley Middle School who are members as well as its sponsorship of the Kiwanis Key Club at Manchester Central High School in which 200 students are members. Beyond speaking with the members of the group and having the chance to answer their questions, I was able to watch the induction of two new members—Caroline Herron and Nick Mercier—and meet the young members of the school programs that the Hooksett Kiwanis sponsors. From being warmly welcomed by Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bishop, having the chance to speak at length with Kiwanis President Frank Kotowski and joking with the Key Club members from Central—it was a fun night.

After dinner with Hooksett Kiwanis Builders Club members, Lauren Scarpetti, Emily Duchesne and Charlie Reagan, who presented a check of $500—raised from a homemade pizza sales event--to the Hooksett Kiwanis Foundation for Hooksett Community Food Pantry.

One kind sponsor of the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program is Profile Storage and this year they put on an event that took place over five days and I was ecstatic to take part in it throughout the week. It was Santa’s Workshop—not only with Santa himself but also with 33 of his elves who were busy making wooden toys for all the children that visited. Each child who came through got to talk with Santa and could either help the elves make a toy or take home one already made—such as a doll, a race car, a truck or a train.

Since the long line to see Santa filed out into the falling snow, I spent a lot of time entertaining and talking with those anxiously waiting. But somehow word spread amongst the children that I was Princess of the Elves and my once-tall autograph stack seemed to disappear quicker than normal!

The space at Profile Storage was magically transformed into a beautiful shop and I was excited to put my carpenter skills to work. I used to construct sets for theater but making little toys that week seemed a lot more rewarding!

With two of the Profile Storage owners that were the elves Kyle and Pietro for the week at the workshop. Since the Scarpetti brothers had elf-names, they made sure I had my own too—Lulu!

The month of December was especially packed with events—bouncing around from parades in blizzards to speaking engagements to holiday festivities I entertained at. It is great though how one event can lead to opportunities of more events later on. One in particular that I was happy to be a part of was the “Life Under Construction” event put on by the National Alliance of Mental Illness. It was a one-day conference for adolescents/young adults with mental illness and their families on the transition planning process. It was a blast spending time and talking with everyone who attended and I also had the honor of meeting Jonathan Mooney who offers every one of us all the reasons in the world why we should continually persevere in life. I am a constant reader and will forever be carrying a book by my side—two of them that I have only positive remarks after reading were written by Jonathan. One is entitled “The Short Bus” in which he takes us on his journey around the nation as he confronts the concept of normalcy and one is entitled “Learning Outside the Lines” (co-written by David Cole) in which he shares his experiences at school and techniques he developed for academic success. Despite being dyslexic, Jonathan went on to graduating from Brown with an honors degree in English. His books are written straight from the heart and his energy at the conference was beyond powerful and uplifting for all of us there.

Even though most of the parades this season consisted of me walking in front of the car because the weather was too bad to put the roof down, they were still all a lot of fun! It’s unbelievable how cold, winter weather can bring a group of people together in a holiday spirit. I swear, the people in New Hampshire are as strong as the granite beneath them—all I have heard are statements about how cold it is but never a complaint, never a bad word against it. And as frustrating as shoveling out my car may be sometimes (or trying to open my car doors that are frozen shut...) there is something about the winter weather that makes me incredibly happy too. It makes us tough while also making us feel like little kids at the same time. For instance, the other day I ran outside in the falling snow and on the icy-patched road since the gym was closed and I had way too much energy to burn. After feeling somewhat tough as I then ran up the last hill before I reached my house again I saw my Sheltie waiting for me by the mailbox. It then took only seconds for me to melt and revert back to being five years old as I found myself playing in the snow with her until I had to get ready for the rest of the day.

After one of the parades with two fabulous ladies from Exeter

It is obviously not uncommon for people to get dressed up in the summer but I feel that during the holiday season I see many people in their most glamorous apparel. Maybe it’s to match the sparkle of the snow or the flicker of Christmas lights or maybe it’s just to divert attention away from the possible extra pound or two gained from all the hot cocoa. I don’t know. I just know that I have definitely noticed more sparkles and glitter on everybody throughout my latest travels and—coming from a woman who walks around with a four-pointed, glistening crown on her head—I’ve loved it! One event I participated in that was especially fun for the eyes was Bellman Jewelers’ Holiday Night. David Bellman donated a NH-state charm to our current Miss America, Katie Stam, at the New England States’ Conference this year and he generously donates an item to the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program every year.

Flashing some bling from Bellman’s at the Holiday Night

However, one of the best holiday celebrations I was a part of had little-to-no bling—except for the occasional sight of stick-on rhinestone tattoos that adorned the top of children’s hands with the words “Make-A-Wish.” The mission statement of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy—all of which was conveyed upon first sight of the door to its holiday party. Waiting to open the front door was a man in a full tuxedo with sunglasses that welcomed each visitor to the red carpet that led to the entranceway of the party. After two more tuxedo-clad men gave each child his or her VIP pass, “paparazzi” took their pictures when they entered and a room full of games, magic, clowns, entertainment, food, desserts, presents, craft-stations, photo booths and even places to take pictures with Santa Clause awaited them. Spending the day with Katrina Rossi, Miss NH’s Outstanding Teen, we had fun taking pictures and playing with the happy children of Make-A-Wish.

With Jason Tremblay, the hard-working director of corporate alliances at Make-A-Wish

Another day that was a lot of fun was the one I spent at Ashland Elementary School when I talked to the first grade all the way up to the eighth grade. For each grade I spoke with I talked about my platform, and it was enjoyable for me to change my presentation according to each grade and how the students responded.

The first graders were incredibly excited to ask questions the second Mr. Wolff (the humble “Teacher of the Year” in NH) brought me in the room.

Really, how cute are they?!

After talking seriously about life and transitions, it was nice clowning around with the older students at the end of the day

One of the large-scale events I did was sing with the Boston Pops during its holiday show at the Verizon Wireless Arena. It is cool enough just to sit and listen to them perform because they always put on quite the show. Then add getting an all-access backstage pass to meet them. Then add getting to go onstage with them and perform! It was simply beyond cool...

Singing onstage with the Boston Pops

I somehow made my way into the audience

I was most excited about meeting Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart that day. It is almost unbelievable that so much talent could be in one person and to meet him was an honor. I was impressed that the kindness he exudes onstage is still sincerely with him behind the stage and even though the intermission was brief for him to even catch his breath, he still generously gave his time to welcome those who traveled backstage to see him. And, yes, I did have a lot of fun with him onstage—he even let me take his spot conducting!

Singing Christmas songs onstage while dancing with Keith Lockhart

Like I was saying—an overall, great guy

The Swingle Singers were a big part of the show that night and they definitely rocked. Their pitch was right-on, their tonal quality was astounding and they blended together more eloquently than water evaporating into perfumed air. You should seriously check this London a cappella group out. You won’t be disappointed!

Backstage with The Swingle Singers

Another holiday show I took part in was at the Palace Theater. The Union Leader sponsored it to raise money for the Salvation Army and it was a huge success—raising more than $6,000 for the service organization.

During Intermission Santa passed out candy-canes after I read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” onstage.

Teeny Treasures, which is a sponsor of the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program, donated a gorgeous diamond ring that was raffled at the end of the show. Claudette joined me here while I was selling raffle tickets for chances to win it.

Speaking of the Salvation Army, I also took part in the Salvation Army’s Toys for Tots. I spent one day unloading the trucks and organizing all the toys—as well as blankets and clothes—with the other volunteers and local titleholders. I then spent the next day experiencing the best part of the event—watching the excited parents come in and pick out what was available to them. When I first got there I was thinking how great it was to know that thousands of children would find the donated toys waiting for them on Christmas. But by the end of the day I realized the best part was that it gave the parents the ability to provide gifts for their children. It was ultimately for the children, yes, but I would imagine the parents received the most joy from it. This year has not been easy for any of us—and has definitely been harder on some of us. I talked with parents who never had a problem filling up the empty space below their tree before but now found themselves unable to even provide that tree. One mother bypassed the tables with socks and briefs saying she would rather other people who really need those things take them. Her children had enough socks, she said, but none of them would have a gift to open on Christmas if it weren’t for this event. She and her husband lost their jobs this past year and were grateful to the Salvation Army for providing them a means of still giving their children something special for the holidays.

Local titleholders and volunteers take a quick lunch during the day spent at The Radisson Hotel for Salvation Army’s Toys for Tots

Another toy drive I was a part of was held by the U.S. Government State Employees at the program's headquarters in Concord. It was Operation Santa Claus--a non-profit organization run by union members of the State Employees' Association of New Hampshire. With thousands of toys needing to be loaded onto National Guard trucks for delivery around the state, all of the volunteers (including the student representatives from Bishop Brady High School who dressed like elves for the event) stood together in an assembly line. Each bag of toys was passed down the line until it reached us at the front where we hoisted them up to our servicemen and servicewomen in the trucks. My arms are strong but if someone asked me to lift them up after all those toys were loaded into the trucks, I very much doubt I would have succeeded!

Within this past month I have spoken to many of our service people and I had the privilege of being involved in the New Hampshire Army National Guard’s Change of Command Ceremonies—involving CPT Ken Kruger and CPT Tyler Chamberlain—as well as taking part in its Family Holiday Dine In event. I was very grateful to have been given the chance to talk with such assiduous and dedicated people such as LTC James Challender. I was also very grateful to have talked with the families of our soldiers at length. Since the soldiers are being deployed, most of these families won’t celebrate the holidays with their loved ones until 2011—if they are lucky, they said. One recently married wife told me how difficult it was adjusting to the world of her husband. Yet another wife who was born into a family of soldiers and had a lifetime of adjusting to the world before she even met her husband still expressed the same difficulties to me. Nothing is easy about being a soldier or being a soldier’s family member, and I am dumbfounded by the strength each one of them acquires for the sake of our country. Hearing about certain struggles these families go through, it was even more of a treat for me to spend a day of fun with them as they then enjoyed the Holiday Dine In with their families.

Inspiration Comes in All Sizes

2009-10-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

The leaves are gently brushed off their branches by the wind as my fingers press down on the keys. I draw the chocolate-colored curtain slightly open so that I can see their brilliant colors sprinkling the grass below. With each leaf that falls comes with it another opportunity to be inspired--to feel as if a great secret was just whispered into your ear. Somehow, your understanding of the world just deepened. Even though you can’t fully explain what you just learned, it makes you feel lighter. At least it does for me anyway, with the chocolate-colored curtain in hand...

One thing I have noticed in life is that every moment we have holds the possibility of inspiring us in some way. These moments are not always on the same level with one another. Some are massive in their significance, life-changing. Then other moments are like watching an orange leaf drift in the air until it rests on the ground--for a pinch of time we can simply feel connected with something greater and feel good about it.

When asked in an interview on WOKQ this week if I was nervous when I performed in Christmas Spectacular! at Carnegie Hall, my mind shot back to my first steps on that stage in front of a packed-house. No feelings of nervousness or apprehension were in those steps. That night my body just felt the energy of the space and was moved by the thought of the great performers who stood there before me. I felt--you guessed it--inspired. And while I was driving to a meeting after talking on the radio, it hit me that most of our experiences can be used as an inspiration to us. If we are fully present in each moment, big or small, I think we’ll find that we can always take away something valuable for ourselves--whether life-changing or life-refreshing.

There are many perks about having the job of Miss New Hampshire. But besides the scholarship, besides the chance to represent my state at Miss America and besides having the great ability to further decrease the stigma that surrounds mental illness, I am given the gift of having the most inspirational people and stories put in front of me on a daily basis. With each event I attend, I can easily find something or someone that moves me, encourages me to follow the path I’m on and makes me grateful to be a part of this world.

Grateful for Summer Days

2009-09-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

I loved that President Obama signed legislation last April declaring September 11 a National Day of Service and Remembrance and I am confused as to why it has prompted so much rage in certain political parties. I have read the accusations that the democrats and liberals are using the incident to use 9/11’s meaning for their own political agenda and downplaying the reminder of threats from terrorists. I have also heard the complaining on shows such as when Lauren Ingraham said on The O’Reilly Factor that left-wing groups are trying to “co-opt 9/11 and make it their day” and that focusing on service “blurs the importance of what happened.” I just feel that those who are accusing the Obama administration of scoring political points are actually trying to do that for themselves, and I really do not agree with what I have been hearing this past week. There are many things we can focus on when thinking about that day—terrorists, miscommunication, government downfalls, inadequate security, fear, dread, tragedy. I feel it is important that not all of these things be ignored, but that it is also critical to focus on the other lessons that day has given us on the importance of every day, the importance of each other and the importance of this superhuman unity we are all connected by. The heroic steps of the people who died in service to others on that day and the outpouring of compassion from stranger to stranger felt throughout the world embodies these most significant lessons. I feel that those who lost their lives would want something positive to emerge through the ashes, and I feel that we would be honoring them and their loved ones if we remember them by performing some good deed in their respect. One thing the Miss America Organization has taught me is the importance of service above self. My job as Miss New Hampshire is just that—giving back to the community as much as I can and trying to inspire others to follow suit. I think it’s great to share some of the things you do with others because it gives people ideas of how they can start getting involved and it lets them see how rewarding it can be, which is why I wanted to start writing on here to begin with. At the same time, I find it is extremely powerful doing things for the sake of just helping someone else without sharing what you have done. Out of respect, a lot of what I do for others suffering with mental illness you won’t find me talking about but I have chosen to make my 9/11s full days of “secret service”—doing things to help others without telling anybody what I’m doing. I was contemplating whether or not it defeats the purpose of doing secret good deeds if I tell you that secret good deeds exist, and I’m still not sure it’s the right decision, but it has been very positive for me and I feel I should at least pass the idea along. Plus, I think that being an anonymous donor or volunteer is fitting on such a day where a universal community has shown to surpass personal identity in massive strength.

Besides this past week and the memories it accrues, I have been forced to stop and think about what this life is all about several times since I’ve last written due to deaths that have taken place in my own life. I suppose it is a question that we all think about often, but never as intense as when we are sitting in a service for somebody who has passed on. Sitting in one of them I couldn’t help but to wonder what I would think about if at that exact moment I was told that my time had come. I honestly didn’t think about the titles or awards I had won—I thought about all the relationships I have and the little moments in life that I have had the honor of being able to connect with other people. That is really what has made my life so wonderful. That is the number one reason I am also grateful for the crown of Miss New Hampshire—I have been given the opportunity to connect with very different people on a daily basis, not only from my state but from around the nation. I encourage you to really look around at the people in your world and see how you are connected while understanding how significant that is—from my viewpoint, that’s what it is all about.

With that said, I have been trying to live every day to its absolute fullest and I will do my best to give you some highlights of my latest adventures starting with the Rick Middleton’s Celebrity-Charity Golf Classic that was sponsored by The CB Sullivan Corporation. Thirty-five teams participated in this event that raised $40,800 for the Manchester Police Athletic League. MPAL is a not for profit organization that was formed in 1992 by police officers who wanted to create and cement a positive bond with the youth in the community. It is a very positive organization for our youth—the majority coming from our inner city and lower income families—because it allows them to be engaged in programs that stress education, self-respect and self-confidence. MPAL offers a lot of activities such as judo, football, basketball, cheerleading, boxing, tennis, velodrome biking, racing and lacrosse—all of which is free of cost!

I really enjoyed my day there at the Concord Country Club. To begin with, it is a gorgeous place that lets your eyes take in the image of the striking green fields of the course with a breathtaking view in the distance below. Throughout the day I was fortunate to spend time with the hardworking and fun people from The CB Sullivan Corporation who helped make the event a success—Kenny Feldman, Helen Emmons and Virginia Lineman. I also enjoyed taking pictures with all the teams (and their celebrities) who came out to support the program and helping with the silent auction at the end (while the guests ate dinner catered by Alan’s of Boscawen), but I enjoyed learning more about the MPAL organization and what it offers the most. I had the pleasure of meeting Captain John Hopkins, Lieutenant Ernie Goodno, Officer Brian O’Keefe and others who are greatly dedicated to the program and besides all of the great activities that MPAL offers, it is great to know that the children involved have such positive role models to look up to.

Rick Middleton was a strong energy throughout the event. He is a former captain of the NHL Boston Bruins—one of the team’s greatest stars, to say the least

Speaking of stars, Miss New Hampshire’s Outstanding Teen, Katrina Rossi, is always shining wherever she goes. As she was getting ready to compete in the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Organization the titleholders in New Hampshire put on a trunk show for her before she left. It was a great way for people to come out and show their support of her and it was a great way for everybody to get a sneak peak of all of her outfits before she wore them at the big event! I always love seeing this young lady—and even though she’s much taller than me she makes a great little sister!

Katrina being her classy self

The next day I sung at the Barnful of Blues Festival in New Boston, New Hampshire. It was a family-oriented music event that gave all its profits—which was $10,000 last year—to the Webster House of Manchester. The Webster House provides a home for youth who are unable to live at their house for some period of time. Beyond just helping young adults physically with a safe place to stay it helps them socially by providing a program that offers a structure in their lives, personally by providing counseling and activities for them to build relationships with others, and it also helps them by rebuilding their bonds and reuniting their family. Since Barry Smith founded the Granite State Blues Society as a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money for local charities that benefit children, it is no wonder why it has been focusing all of its activities on helping The Webster House. And what a better way to raise money than by celebrating the art of music with the best blues and R&B bands in New England?

While the stage was being set up in the morning, I stole a pose in front!

I had fun talking to the people who had their coolers and snacks set up beside them on their chairs and blankets as they waited in front of the stage for the shows to begin. Some were performers themselves who came from far away to enjoy the beats, others were local residents who found the event as something just fun to do—for whatever reason they came out though, it was a great way to spend a summer day and a great cause to support.

I would have stayed for more of the festival but I had to leave after I performed so that I could make it to The Sophie before she departed on Lake Winnipesauke and visit all the harbors on the lake. But traffic bid me otherwise. Luckily nobody was seriously injured but there was a major accident that occurred on the highway, which prevented us from reaching the boat in time. When I arrived at the port, the Sophie was gone but I could see the Mount Washington Cruise Ship coming in from across the way. One thing performing in theater has taught me is how to be flexible, so I put on my crown and welcomed everybody back to shore. I met the nicest people coming off the ship--it seemed that everybody had a nice ride and I had fun talking with them and taking pictures.

Waiting for the Mt. Washington Cruise Ship to dock

I still felt awful about not making The Sophie and not being at the harbors that I was supposed to be at, but then Captain Leo O’Connell came to my rescue! After docking the ship, he took Claudette and me on his own boat and drove us to the harbor that The Sophie would be visiting next. He was extremely kind and very informative about the history of the lake’s community--I thought I already knew a lot about it, but he still gave me facts that I didn't know before.

Captain Leo O’Connell, being the hero that he is

It was great getting to the harbor and meeting all the families who were waiting there. After spending some time with them The Sophie then pulled in and I got the chance to meet everybody onboard. They were eager to tell me everything about the trip and even though I was feeling even worse about having to miss the children waiting at the camp harbors, it was adorable seeing how animated The Sophie’s passengers were in describing what they saw. They also passed along signs that some of the young men from the camps made me. After I said goodbye to everybody I tried getting to the camps so that I could thank them for their kind words and thoughtfulness but the counselors had meetings and it couldn’t work out. It really did mean a lot to me though, and I hope they realized how much I appreciated it. Even though it didn’t work as planned, I was fortunate to have been able to meet the people I met and to have spent time with some of the crew from the Mountain Washington Cruise line.

With Amber Werren, Rebecca Watson and Seth Porter—the photographers on the cruise line who are also photogenic themselves!

I then had the privilege of welcoming two new local titleholders into the Miss New Hampshire family in the Miss Bedford and Miss Hooksett Scholarship Programs. I had so much fun throughout the night! The director of Miss Bedford, Trisha Tidd, has her own clothing line called Togatae Designs and she made a fun outfit for me to emcee in. I just love wearing the clothes she makes--she does a really great job with them! She is very creative and her shows alone prove that. She chose the theme of “Around the World” with Miss Hooksett’s director Christine Kuliga and the show started with a tango dance performed by my co-emcee and me. I was then happy to share a piece of the Italian culture later on in the show by performing an aria for the audience.

Emceeing with Danny Tidd

All the ladies competing did an outstanding job and with several thousand dollars awarded in scholarship, the night ended well.

With the new Miss Bedford, Sarah Mousseau, and the new Miss Hooksett, Rebecca Rendina

Phoebe Collins also performed in the show after winning Miss Bedford’s fundraiser pageant--a very talented little girl and simply adorable.

One thing that was really fun was seeing off our teen, Katrina, when she got into the airport at six in the morning to fly down to Orlando. There aren’t many people who can look great early in the morning, but her entire family somehow pulled it off.

This young lady is gorgeous at all times

I would have gone with her then and there but I still had several things to do in New Hampshire before I left. First was a yard sale fundraiser that benefited the nonprofit organization Keep Sound Minds that is dedicated to mental health awareness. The group of nurse practitioners from Wright and Associates Family Healthcare in Amherst wanted to put it on for our organization and it was obvious how hard they worked in putting the event together with everything they collected and set up. When I got there in the morning, everything looked good to go--except for a box of Barbie dolls that had yet to be clothed, but I fixed that quickly!

Some of the volunteers and nurse practitioners that helped put the fundraiser together

I left with just enough time to drive back to my hometown for Sandown’s Old Home Day Parade. After the parade, I walked around the festivities and met with the people who came out for the celebration and who were volunteering in various booths. One booth I loved was an Alex’s Lemonade Stand. The proceeds of these stands—that are all managed by youth—go towards childhood cancer research. It is part of a national organization that has raised more than $25 million since 2004. If you haven’t heard about it before, you should check it out at http://www.alexslemonade.org/slideshow.

The hardworking crew of the lemonade stand as they raised money for childhood cancer research

From the Old Home Day celebrations, I left for the 2009 National Night-Out event that was hosted by the Rimmon Heights “Neighborhood Watch” Group in Manchester. The event was to celebrate community collaboration and Police partnership and I was happy to be a part of it. They had bouncy houses, boxing rings for karate demonstrations, various tables set up for different resources and food vendors, and an entertainment stage that had performances going on throughout the day. I had the best time getting to know the people who were there. One couple in particular really touched my heart by what they shared with me (and if they happen to read this I want them to know that I have not forgotten their story and I have followed through with what I said I would do). It is remarkable to me how some people will come into your life for a fleeting moment yet make lasting impressions.

After I spent some time there, I left the celebration to attend the Miss Londonderry Scholarship Program’s competition. I really enjoy getting to these competitions early enough to talk with the ladies involved before everything starts. Sometimes music will be playing while the young women do their hair and move with the rhythm or sing along, but this time you could hear a pin drop—everybody was still friendly, but very focused. After some time with them backstage though when they were near ready, they all seemed very comfortable and ready to have fun—exactly what I love to see! Besides, it would be impossible not to have fun with a show themed around Mamma Mia!. If ABBA can’t bring cheer to your day, nothing will. It was great getting to be a part of the show as well by performing the song “I Have a Dream” from the musical.

With Miss Londonderry 2009, Alyssa McLaughlin

The next morning I was at New Hampshire’s Old Meeting House as the motivational speaker during its annual ceremony service. My audience consisted of a diverse age group—literally from a few months old to 96 years old—and it was really exciting to find ways to connect everybody despite the diversity. I feel that all of us want to be fulfilled with who we are and what we are doing at the present time no matter where we are on our life journeys and in that way we really have more in common than we may initially think anyway.

On the topic of connecting, I was absolutely blown away by the collaboration that took place for the Sixth Annual MB Tractor & Equipment Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Fund Charity Golf Tournament. The event took place at Laconia Country Club with a record number of people and teams participating to support our program. We are very blessed to have the support of Marc Bourgeois and his team who made this fundraiser the success it was!

The Miss Maine Invitational

2009-08-03T20:18:00.000-07:00

Valerie Crooker Clemens, Miss Maine 1980, is now the Executive Director of The Miss Maine Scholarship Program and generously holds an annual Miss Maine Invitational at her home in Radnor, Pennsylvania. It was held this past week and I was fortunate enough to have been able to attend. The event itself was put in place in order to help state titleholders learn more about the history of The Miss America Organization and to learn more about themselves by visiting historic sites, meeting MAO staff, and volunteering their time to help other organizations. Valerie sums it up well by referring to the invitational as “Miss America University.” The added bonus is then to have the young women who attend be able to meet and spend time with other state titleholders before they all compete together for the Miss America title. It was obvious how much time and energy was put into planning this event, and I really appreciated how hard everyone worked for the sake of us titleholders.

The adventure officially began at Schoppy’s in Linwood, New Jersey. After spending the night with Miss Connecticut 2009, Sharalynn Kuziak, and her Traveling Companion, Lisa Little, I drove down with them to the famous trophy store. Starting its relationship with the Miss America Organization in 1921, it was the official MAO gifts and awards supplier for most of the program’s existence.

Meeting other state titleholders upon arrival

Its size does not parallel its impact. Driving up to the small building with the one hanging sign in front is deceiving for those who aren’t aware of its enormous history. Its humble appearance makes it easy for a regular passerby to not take notice, but it makes someone like me adore it all the more. As I walked into the crowded showroom, my eyes immediately caught the rhinestones glittering in the showcase of Miss America gifts and then they focused in on the reflection of crowns upon its glass. Before me were five other state titleholders who I never previously had the chance to meet—Susanna Stauble (Miss Maine), Jennifer Corey (Miss District of Columbia), Heather Lehman (Miss Delaware), Ashley Shaffer (Miss New Jersey), and Shayla Solomon (Miss Virgin Islands). Over breakfast that the staff of Schoppy’s provided I was able to learn a lot about our other state titleholders and how the beginnings of their reigns have been going. It was great to also meet other volunteers of our state programs and to hear why they became involved with this organization.

Schoppy’s is still owned and operated by the original family—it is currently run by David J. Talarico Sr. who is the grandson of William Schoppy. After we told him all about our different platforms and what we have done for the causes we have chosen, he shared with us a detailed history of the store and its association with the Miss America Organization. My favorite part was hearing his words about what it was like for him when the Miss America competition came to Atlantic City. He had little time for sleep for those two weeks of the year, but you could see how happy those memories made him. The pace of his speech became quicker as he recalled his experiences from the eyes of a little boy to an adult. It felt great to see someone so proud of his commitment to our organization.

With David as we pose for the first time together

After we perused the store—and, yes, made some purchases—we piled in the cars parked outside to make our way to the headquarters of the Miss America Organization. It was hard for me to imagine what kind of building the address I’ve seen so many times on envelopes could have belonged to, and I was looking forward to catching the first glimpse of it.

As our car turned into the parking lot, I saw the brown wooden building with an elegant white sign above the entranceway identifying it as the Miss America Organization. While we walked through its double-doors, the MAO staff lined up in the front hallway to greet us. They were all extremely warm and friendly as they shook our hands, congratulated our accomplishments and welcomed us into their office space. After hearing so many positive things about the staff there and receiving helpful e-mails, it really was a treat for me to meet them face-to-face and to have the chance to talk with them and ask them questions. Art McMaster, who serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Miss America Organization, even welcomed us with a nice speech shortly after we arrived.

Art McMaster also oversees all of the state scholarship programs and is the executive producer of the Miss America Pageant.

After we were introduced to everyone, we had the honor of getting a tour around the building. To me, the best part of the building is the pictures that adorn it—there is literally a picture of every single past Miss America hanging on its walls. Thus, with the tour also came a history lesson of not only the organization’s headquarters but of the Miss Americas who have helped shape it into what it is today. There were also many artifacts throughout the building. There was a swimsuit used in the pageant during the 1920s that looked more like a male Renaissance costume with its loose fitting form and its wool fabric and, among other things, the trophy of the Mermaid lying across granite that the winner of Miss America used to receive when the program first started.

In front of a picture of Yolande Betbeze, Miss America 1951, as we listened to how she refused to pose for publicity pictures while wearing a swimsuit—directing our program further into recognizing intellect, values and leadership abilities rather than beauty alone.

Pretending to be Art behind his desk

The staff did a great job preparing for us to come and even had lunch for us. They separated us into different offices with various members of the staff, and I had the pleasure of spending that time with Bonnie MacIsaac who is the Public Relations Coordinator. I was very impressed by her and enjoyed hearing what she had to say before we were asked to go to the conference room to talk with Sharon Pearce who is the Director of Communications. After playing in a trivia game the staff put on, Sharon explained all the different media outlets Miss America uses and gave us another glimpse into what the titleholder’s year is like. She also had a stack of magazines and other information for us to look through, which helped us understand more of what she does.

In the conference room, where there is a cutout picture of Bert Parks facing me.

The trip to the Miss America Organization headquarters was definitely a lot of fun and very informative. I really appreciated the sincerity of the staff and the time they generously gave us.

With the dedicated staff of the Miss America Organization

Our next stop was at the Convention Hall in Atlantic City where the Miss America competition previously took place. We had to disappoint a lot of people who became excited when they saw crowns and thought the competition had moved back to Atlantic City. I can understand why longtime-fans of our program were upset to find out we changed locations to Las Vegas a few years ago. There was definitely a strong sense of community and support in New Jersey.

You don't want to mess with us!

It was an unbelievable feeling to walk into that space where the competition was once held though—and what a huge space it is! The stage itself is monstrous. When performers use the space now, rarely any of them will use the stage because it is too big for them and they opt instead to set up a smaller stage in front of it. What is hard to believe about the competitions we used to put on at this venue is that—extended from the already enormous stage—there was a runway that came out into the audience hundreds of feet further. Michael Chait, who gave us a tour of the building, did a great job explaining how it was all set up.

Standing on the stage together

We were able to see a lot of different spaces of the building—including the other ballroom where Miss America would give her first speech and the balcony area where former Miss Americas would watch the parade on the boardwalk. But out of all the things I saw and heard at the Convention Hall, my favorite moment was standing behind the curtain of the main stage in the wings of the proscenium. With the only light creeping in from underneath the heavy stage-curtain and from a door positioned high above on the catwalk, I stood there mesmerized in the dark. There is something about being backstage that always gets to me. In every show I am in, there is something very magical about standing in the wings where thousands of performers once stood. I feel the wings serve as a common bond for all of us--behind the spectacle of the bright stage, it is the place filled by only raw emotion. But in that moment at the Convention Hall, I was hit with the images of young women waiting back there anxiously during the big competitions of Miss America. From the puffed sleeves of the past to the form-fitting wardrobe of the present, I pictured the shadowed colors and heard the stilettos on the floor. It was very motivating to think of all the women who have become involved in our program to better themselves and their futures while serving a cause greater than their own, and it was humbling to be in the same space almost all of them stood.

The Convention Hall is also home of the world’s largest pipe organ, which has more than 33,000 pipes

We then left the Convention Hall to walk down the boardwalk and to jump into the Atlantic Ocean. Being from New Hampshire, I thought the water was perfect—although Miss Virgin Islands strongly disagreed!

Kicking in the waves

Walking the boardwalk was really fun. We were able to talk to many people, sign handfuls of autographs and take pictures with tourists who were visiting. It is always enjoyable talking about our program, so we were in our element with all the questions we were getting.

Atlantic City visitors can still get rides in boardwalk pushcarts

With all the casinos on the strip, the boardwalk was all glitz. Even the mall was over the top. It was built above the water on a pier and the floor inside was designed as a boardwalk itself. The food court even had seating in front of massive windows that overlooked the water and—get this—the floor near the windows was covered in soft sand with Adirondack chairs. So if you like sitting on the beach but love air conditioning, then this is the place for you!

Heading up to the “indoor beach”

Another place we went to was the Sheraton Hotel so that we could look at more artifacts of Miss America. For the parades that used to take place on the boardwalk before the Miss America competition, all of the titleholders would create special shoes that went along with their state (and the onlookers would yell, “Show me your shoes!” up and down the boardwalk). The hotel had a wall display of some of these shoes and I was happy to see a few of them from New Hampshire! The hotel also had displays of the gowns some of the past Miss Americas wore—such as the gowns of Lee Meriwether and Lauren Nelson. In front of the building was also a statue of Bert Parks holding a crown, which we all had fun taking pictures under.

Admiring the purple lilac shoes of a former Miss New Hampshire

As a side note, if you do ever go to Atlantic City, I highly suggest seeking out White House Sub Shop on Arctic Avenue. I have heard of the famous sub shop before, but that was my first time eating there and I discovered how fabulous it really was. The subs are fantastic and the celebrity photo-plastered atmosphere is even better.

Full and happy

After some of the titleholders went back to their states at this point, several of us drove to Philadelphia and spent the rest of the night watching documentaries on the Miss America Organization and talking about our personal stories on why we became involved in the program. The next day we woke up early to head to Melmark. Melmark is a comprehensive multi-service provider of residential, educational, therapeutic and recreational services for children and adults with developmental disabilities—including autism spectrum disorders, acquired brain injury, other neurological and genetic disorders, and related challenging behaviors. I was impressed with Melmark just by driving through it. It felt as if it were a college campus—in-between the neatly groomed homes were various well-kept facilities such as tennis courts and basketball courts and the environment did not feel restrictive in the least.

With Cyndie Martin, Director of Corporate & Community Affairs at Melmark

When we got there, we had the chance to meet the residents and participants of Melmark. I had a blast learning about different individuals and what they like to do. Several told me that they were involved in the drama program, the Melmark Players, and I was able to hear all about the plays they put on and what parts they had. They perform two musicals a year by acting out the soundtrack played behind them, and those who are involved really enjoy it.

None of the residents were camera-shy—most would call over the photographer to snap some pictures!

We put on a show entitled “Miss Maine and Friends” in which we performed different numbers for them and also had them take part throughout. It was a lot of fun and the participants were extremely excited to see us sing and dance. During the first song I shared, a couple of them even stood up to dance by their seat as they sang with me. Every performer likes an audience who appreciates what it is she’s doing—needless to say; by the end of it I was in love!

Since many in the audience expressed to me they like show tunes, I sang one from Follies.

After the show was over, we set up a table where we signed autographs for all of the residents who attended and then we joined them for lunch. I had a great time hearing stories from the three women who sat with me. They roomed together in a house at Melmark and they were hilarious. I especially loved how they acted with one another. They would put each other in their place if need be and would find themselves bickering every few sentences, but from the stories I heard it was obvious how they take care of each other and love one another. It really was wonderful to see.

Dan Drinker is awesome! You can check out his blog at http://dandrinker.blogspot.com/.

After lunch, we went to a pool party with the residents. Melmark has a full range of recreational and athletic activities, and I was happy to help with the games being put on for the day. Having taught swimming lessons for years, I’m not one who shies away from the water—especially when it comes to playing in the water!

Bob did a great job of putting all the water activities together.

We played several different water games such as swimming a titleholder to the other side of the pool, throwing the most floating balls into baskets, jumping in the water through a hula-hoop and also swimming relay courses with various objects. After the pool party Cyndie gave us a tour of The Meadows at Melmark, which is a work-centered program for adults with mild-to-moderate disabilities. Through this program, the residents get to perform fulfilling work by generating products throughout the year that they sell at craft shows and the Meadows shop. From their beautiful wreaths and basket arrangements, to their knitted stuffed animals and rugs, to their handmade note cards and assorted woodcrafts—their work is unbelievable. If you would like to learn more about Melmark, feel free to visit their website at http://www.melmark.org/index.htm.

Giving Nanette my hand when she was too scared to jump in--and she did it!

After we said goodbye to everybody at Melmark, we then traveled back to the house of the Clemens and got ready for the night’s events. Valerie graciously held them in her home where people from all over came to interview us individually for ten minutes and then asked us questions press-conference style. I love having the chance to talk to people about mental illness and what it is I have been doing to improve our current mental health system, and I was happy to have been given another opportunity to do so. After interviewing was complete, Mr. Clemens and Valerie provided a nice meal for everybody as we talked to attendees and got to know them.

Valerie has a replica of the Miss America crown, which we all politely shared with each other :)

I feel that spending my time at the Miss Maine Invitational was very beneficial. I left with more knowledge about the program I am a part of and my reasons for being involved in this organization only grew stronger. We have extraordinary people in this world, and I feel that the Miss America Organization does a great job attracting them to its system. Everyone I have met in this program—from titleholders to volunteers—are dedicated, selfless and extremely interesting human beings. I constantly feel honored to be a part of this family and am grateful for all it stands for. A special thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Clemens for hosting us and starting such a great event, Lisa Little who was always five steps ahead of everything, Bruce Little for sharing his home (and charger!), Louanne Gamba for also taking care of us and sharing laughs, Sally Johnston and Debbie Wilson for hosting in New Jersey, and Lisa Perez Miller for taking pictures as she helped host as well as for teaching us how to reach the next level within ourselves. These people are all extremely giving and represent what our program is all about.

With Mr. & Mrs. Al and Valerie Clemens at their home in Pennsylvania

With all the ladies who participated in the event

JFF, KSM, Elton/Joel, History & State House

2009-07-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

Joshua Frase was born on February 2, 1995. At the time of birth, his muscles were so weak that he could flex only his right hand and his lungs could barely draw the air that he needed to breathe. His parents, Paul and Alison, were told that he may not survive the day.

When Joshua was three months old, a muscle biopsy revealed myotubular myopathy (MTM), a muscle disorder. Tragically, only 50% of the children born with Joshua’s disorder live to the age of two. Fewer still survive past their early school years.

Paul Frase knows what it means to be a survivor after an 11-year career in the NFL. The 6-foot-5 defensive lineman has endured his share of setbacks but has always found the courage to battle back. In his third pro-season with the Jets, Frase was diagnosed with Graves disease, a weakening condition that causes severe weight loss. But Frase refused to give up. His teammates honored him with the Ed Block Courage Award for his triumphant comeback.

In 1995 Frase was chosen in the expansion draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, just days after Joshua’s birth. But sadness ensued when Joshua was diagnosed with congenital myopathy those three months later. The struggle of a lifetime began. Later in that 1995 season, Frase received the Ed Block Courage award for an unprecedented second time in the 18-year history of the Award.

Frase needed no more trials, but he was dealt one more. Paul was traded to Green Bay, and after his eighth game as a Packer a herniated disk forced him to undergo back surgery. Remarkably, he recovered quickly enough to play in both playoff games and join his teammates at the 1998 SuperBowl.

To those who know him best like his high school football coach, Paul’s tenacity is no surprise. “It’s always been two steps forward, one step back, but he’s hung in there. He’s a survivor.”

Ask Paul who taught him the most about courage and he will tell you, “my son.”

I took the above information off the website of The Joshua Frase Foundation-- http://www.joshuafrase.org/--to give you an idea about the family I met this week that has the courage, faith and energy to barrel through obstacles and create lasting change. I was lucky to be able to meet both Paul and Alison Frase at a golf tournament put on to benefit their foundation by Keith Ferdinando of Ferdinando Insurance Associates—which is a sponsor of the Miss New Hampshire Program by generously providing the state titleholder with health insurance for her reigning year.

Paul and Alison Frase are on the right side of the picture. And, yes, my banner does fit nicely, doesn't it?

Ferdinando Insurance Associates has co-hosted the Corporate Golf Tournament for the fourth year now and has already raised more than $100,000 for the Joshua Frase Foundation with the event! This year it was held on a beautiful day at Brookstone Park Golf Course in Hampstead, New Hampshire. The golfers mostly represented the clients and friends of Ferdinando Insurance Associates and Capital Investigating, and they all seemed to enjoy themselves—even if their games weren’t going as well as they hoped. When I asked the participants how they were doing on the green, most of them just smiled and ignored the question by saying they were happy to contribute to a good cause. It was an enjoyable day out there though, and it did seem like everyone was having fun!

The winner of the tournament, Kyle O'Brien, literally sweeping me off my feet!

After the tournament was played, the participants enjoyed a nice dinner—complete with ribs and corn-on-the-cob—in the Event Center. As the attendees were finishing their meals, Keith Ferdinando stood up to the microphone and demonstrated his commitment to this cause by speaking about its importance and how it has aided in providing not only more funds for research but also a stronger hope for a cure that is becoming more visible. He was then followed by Paul Frase who spoke eloquently about the major strides being made in the study of muscular diseases and how grateful he was for everybody’s support and help. Shortly after, the silent auction began. The items they collected to auction off really did impress me. Among other items, they had a round-trip package to Europe, a football fan’s dream vacation package to the Florida Bowl, a mower from MB Tractor and no silent auction would be complete in New Hampshire without some great seats to a Red Sox game! The auction went well and we even had the pleasure of seeing the dance floor utilized as one of the attendees jumped up like Vanna White to show off the mower as he lead it in a tango. To make sure everyone was enjoying the day, two comedians were even asked to come and they provided entertainment after the auction. Luckily, they didn’t pick on me too much.

I realize that I'm not the tallest person to begin with, but most of the attendees made me feel ridiculously close to the ground!

It was great to be part of an event that was fun for its attendees and helped such a dignified foundation. The fact that Joshua has grown to be a 14-year-old teenager by the help of this foundation and the research it has provided is astounding. Already, Children’s Hospital Boston is making great strides toward understanding the causes of MTM and researching developments for potential treatments and medical researchers are closer to human trials for muscle cell injection therapies than ever before—all done with the help of funds received by the Joshua Frase Foundation.

I appreciated that Keith Ferdinando let me sponsor a hole as Miss New Hampshire for the event.

The second I left the golf tournament I drove straight to a meeting for Keep Sound Minds, a NH-based non-profit organization that I volunteer for, which is also known as Kaleigh, Shane and Marci for Mental Health Awareness. The organization is dedicated to the memories of Kaleigh and Shane Lambert and Marci Thibault whose lives were lost as a result of mental illness on January 11, 2008 in Massachusetts. We hope to prevent similar incidents from occurring by improving society’s understanding and management of mental health issues.

One of our goals include increasing general public awareness and education of mental health issues by including mental health education in the curriculum of public schools, as well as developing mental health educational materials and screening tools to be distributed to the public. A second goal of ours is to encourage changes in Law Enforcement and Department of Motor Vehicles policies to protect the public from dangerous consequences due to mental illness. A third goal is to improve the assessment, treatment and discharge protocols at in-patient mental health facilities, for the benefit of the patient and the family. A fourth goal is to support the development of Assisted Outpatient Treatment Programs (AOT) and to implement a court mandated commitment to outpatient treatment for those deemed unlikely to survive safely in the community without services. A fifth goal is to develop a Mental Health Advocacy program that encourages involvement and input from family members when concerns about mental health issues arise. And another main goal of ours is to lobby for strict gun-control requirements of all citizens, especially those who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness—making it illegal to sell or purchase guns and assault weapons and ammunition on the Internet.

Keep Sound Minds has been very active in the community and it is a pleasure working with such inspiring and hard-working people as we continue to make strides in improving the current mental health system. To learn more about what it is we do and our upcoming events, feel free to check out our website, http://keepsoundminds.org.

The co-founder, Ken Lambert, at the memorial benefit dinner we held at the Sheraton Boston this past March that was emceed by WBZ-TV anchor Jack Williams, had a speech presented by U.S. Representative Patrick Kennedy and had entertainment by The James Montgomery Band featuring J.Geils.

With the other co-founder, Danielle Lambert, at the fundraiser that greatly benefited our cause of mental health and awarded scholarships to students who competed in our Public Service Announcement Contest.

During this particular meeting, we discussed our basic updates and then focused on our August fundraisers. A couple of things we are doing in these upcoming weeks include holding a huge Yard & Bake Sale Benefit in Amherst, NH on August 8^th from 8:00am-3:00pm (it will be held at Wright & Associates Family Healthcare, PLLC on 282 Route 101) and putting on a Motorcycle Benefit Ride in Bellingham, MA on August 23^rdin which registration runs from 9:30-11:00am (it will be at Patriots Bar & Grill on 15 N. Main Street). We then talked about the DVD project we are taking on that is for police awareness and education regarding mental illness interactions. The community radio programs and television shows that I’ll be on for KSM were then discussed before we spent the rest of the time going over the new bill to be introduced in the New Hampshire Legislature that regards police database and training among other things. It is a very exciting piece of legislation to us and we are hoping for the best as we actively try to gain its support.

It always feels good attending these meetings of Keep Sound Minds as ideas are shared and as our successes are tallied, but it always feels especially good to periodically get the chance to sit next to these particular people who are passionate and committed to the same cause that I am dedicated to and care a lot about. We have all been affected by mental illness in some way—most of us experiencing tragedies of varying degrees and circumstances related to the disease—and it is a powerful feeling coming together in order to help stop more preventable tragedies from occurring. I strongly believe that stigma only silences the stigmatized and by being vocal in our communities about mental illness, those who need help will hopefully be more comfortable in actively seeking the treatment they require.

The next day I had the privilege of meeting with Arlene Bassett for a tour and history lesson of the Old Meeting House in Sandown, New Hampshire where I will be giving a motivational speech in a couple of weeks. She graciously offered to meet me there before the day I spoke so that I can understand the importance behind the building I will be speaking in, and I gladly took her up on the offer.

You should know that the Old Meeting House has held a special place in my heart for quite some time now. I would jog by it often when I was in high school and always looked up at it in admiration. When I went to college in New York City and started feeling the pangs of missing the countryside of home, my parents then sent me an ornament of the Old Meeting House that I hung next to my bed so that I would see it when I first woke up. Whether it was the fact that it was built before the United States of America even became a nation or that it represented the pleasant country style of New Hampshire, it always made me feel good. To say I was excited to see inside and learn about it would be an understatement.

The tulip-styled pulpit was amazing. The counter on the bottom was where communion bread was cut and also where money was collected. Apparently, they weren't germ-conscious back then.

It is an extremely interesting place. It is credited in many books and magazines by photographers and historians who go so far as to say it is the finest meeting house in America. Even a replica of its woodwork toured the world as an example of the skill of the nation’s colonial craftsmen. It is claimed that it is the oldest unrestored Congregational meeting house of its kind in the world. It was wild to think that voters cast their yay or nay ballots for every president from George Washington to Herbert Hoover in that space and that I was lucky enough to stand under the same roof. Since the building was started in 1759, the small town even debated the merits of the Constitution there. Crazy, right?

Arlene Bassett does a lot for the community in Sandown. Besides taking on Old Meeting House responsibilities, she helps with Sandown's pantry all year and also spends a lot of time providing gifts to families who can't afford them during the Christmas season.

Mrs. Bassett was full of information and even gave me a book written by Richard Holmes that gave a detailed history about our town and about this particular place. One fact that I found interesting was that this building was the location of the first labor strike. Since the workers had a rum barrel that was dry, they all came to agreement that if there was no run, they would not work. And they didn’t. They laid down their tools and sat on the piles of timber until the selectman arrived with another barrel of good New England rum, according to Holmes. From the 53 sheep-pen family pews, to the sinner rows in the front, to the pulpit that stands 11 feet above the floor--it was a fascinating place and I appreciated all the time Mrs. Bassett gave me in explaining the importance of the historic building. I really can’t wait to go back for the service now!

This is a view from where the female servants sat. Residents of the town used to own those family pews below as property—the ones on the balcony were more ornate for the wealthier families. The rows in the front were reserved for people caught sinning (which might have been considered holding hands in public) because they were uncomfortable (yet perfect for sitting with good posture!).

During the weekend I then went to Gillette Stadium with a crew of Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program volunteers to work a concession stand during the Billy Joel and Elton John Concert. Last year, volunteering at the stadium in a Freeport Fryer concession stand on the main concourse raised more than $12,000 for the Miss New Hampshire state program.

Some of the Miss New Hampshire volunteers who came to help out--Melissa Mitchell, Adria Farr, Janine Mitchell, Michele Hanson, Aimee Hanson and Kat Howland. Trisha Tidd, Elaine Tidd, Danny Tidd, Cindy Conley, Brooke Farr, and Sarahjayne Howland were also there.

Operating the stand involves a staff of about 15 people per event to prepare the food and operate the cash registers. Elaine, Trisha and Danny Tidd are the ones who manage the stand every single event, and that is no small feat! A lot of time and energy have to go into such a commitment and I am always happy to join them when I can.

One of the best parts about volunteering here is seeing Gillette staff members who visit us. This is my friend, Stephen. If you ever need to hear an uplifting voice at the stadium, track this man down!

We are mostly responsible for manning the stand during all the Patriots home games, but we also have Revolution games and concerts when they come. This concert was particularly fun simply because I am a huge fan of Elton John and Billy Joel. There seriously was not one song I didn’t know! It is also a plus doing a concert because everyone attending is happy. During games, there’s always one side that is not as happy as could be (although the majority of people are Patriots fans there, so at least most of them are enjoying themselves!). It is a long day—leaving my house at 1:00pm, I arrived back at nearly 3:00am—but it is always fun spending time with Miss New Hampshire local titleholders and volunteers as we help raise the scholarship money our program awards. If you are interested in filling a spot on the staff, check out our Miss NH website: http://missnh.org/gillette/.

The crowd behind me singing “Benny and the Jets.” What a great song!

To end the week, I then went to a special presentation held at the New Hampshire State House in Governor John Lynch’s office. Since I helped with the benefit that raised money for Fred’s Fund—an organization Jay Swymer created to help the families of children who are being treated at the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth (CHAD)—I was asked to be there when the Governor presented the checks to Mr. Swymer. Averill Cate, Team Manager for The American Legion Post 21 Baseball Team of Concord, provided one check for a sum of $1,000.00. The Fred’s Fund Fantasy Baseball Camp provided the other check for a sum of $500.00 that was given by John Bly, Assistant Coach for Baseball at Colby-Sawyer College of New London. Lynn Presby, a member of the New Hampshire Gaming Commission, and the coaches of both teams were there as well.

In Governor John Lynch’s Reception Room with all of the program's helpers and contributors.

First of all, it is always a pleasure visiting our golden-roofed State House. I can’t help but feel proud as I look up, especially knowing it is the oldest U.S. state capitol where legislators meet in their original chambers. I find it to be an extremely fascinating place and I love feeling the energy of our past and present leaders who have helped shape the world into what it is today. Second of all, it is always nice seeing Governor John Lynch. He doesn’t have one of the highest approval ratings in the country for no reason—he is a genuinely nice man who serves our state and its people incredibly well. During this visit, which took place after he already put in a long day of work, he could have easily (and understandably) rushed through it by saying hello, taking pictures and departing the first second he could. But he didn’t. In fact, he did quite the opposite. Walking around the room shaking everyone’s hand, he engaged each and every one of us in conversation and took the time to listen. After he presented the checks to Mr.Swymer, he still stayed to discuss the benefit that was put on and even played with the two little boys (Stephen and Matthew) who came with us to the presentation. Third of all, and most significantly, it was an honor to be able to share in the moment of the special presentation held for the sake of CHAD’s patients and their families. Jay Swymer is another example of how we can move forward from tragedies in positive ways. Loosing his 9-year-old son from a cancer related illness two years ago, he chose to dedicate much of his time to raise money for the families who are struggling with their own children’s illnesses in order to lessen their financial burdens while their loved ones are being treated. Mr. Cate and Mr. Bly show how significant volunteering is—not only did they work hard at helping the families of CHAD through Fred’s Fund and were able to make a great contribution, they also were able to see the Governor present Mr.Swymer with checks that provide him the opportunity to help others who are in the painful position he once was in and that provide him a little more peace. Again, it was an honor aiding in this presentation.

Presenting a check to Mr.Swymer with Coach Cate, Governor Lynch and Coach Bly.

I also took time this week to care for a little project I started at home. Since “being green” is becoming a staple of our nation, I decided to start my own garden this summer and make a little contribution to the cause. As far as my gardening abilities go, let’s just say that I have never successfully grown anything in my life except a cactus. And when one of my friends gave me a lucky bamboo tree a couple of years ago, I literally let him keep it because I didn’t want killing a lucky tree on my mind. Needless to say, I was curious to see how handling a garden would turn out. But then I became absurdly proud this week when I brought in my zucchini--one would have thought I won the title of Miss America from the tone of my voice! So, to you green people out there, this one’s for you!

I'm sure our constant rain has helped, but hey! I think I'm doing well for a beginner!

Fairs, and Winni, and Mass...oh my!

2009-07-15T02:04:00.000-07:00

After nine years of being an engineer and becoming a father of two daughters, my dad, Gary, decided to go back to college to receive his Doctorate of Chiropractic. My mom, Tina, also went back to school with him at Palmer College of Chiropractic and when they graduated they moved to New Hampshire to open up their own practice—Raymond Chiropractic Clinic. That is where I grew up, in the little town of Raymond. I only went to school there for a few years but that town gave me a lot that I am grateful for. Since the town is so small it didn't take me long to know most of the people in it, and because I spent much time in my parents’ office I knew a lot of these people well. My parents still run their business in Raymond and though I moved out of the town when I was 15 years old, the people in it still have given me love and support with all that I do. After I received the title of Miss New Hampshire, the majority of congratulatory cards I was given came from the people in this town and I was taken back by all the encouraging words I read.

One of the biggest events of the year for this town is the Raymond Town Fair, and I was happy to help out at it throughout the week as Miss New Hampshire. Numerous non-profit organizations rely on the proceeds from the booths they set up in the Town Common for a large portion of their operating funds each year and it is always wonderful to see the spirit of volunteerism throughout the town from these groups who make Raymond a special place to live. Besides being an important event for local businesses and these non-profit organizations, it is a fun week for everybody and I love going just to see the people of the town having a good time.

The first night kicks off with the annual crowning of “Miss Raymond” and I was asked to specifically help with this event by Jane Paradise Button, a former contestant in the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program who is now the director of this pageant. This competition is not affiliated with our state program but it still gives scholarship to the winner and serves as a nice stepping-stone for the young women of the town who are interested in pursuing our system as contestants. It was a great chance for me to meet more young women who are eligible to compete in our organization and I was very happy to learn that some of them are going to start competing with us at our upcoming local competitions!

Entertaining the crowd

Jane hosted the show and asked that I sing the national anthem, perform a song for the audience, and spend time onstage talking about the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program and its benefits. A few members of the audience gasped when I told them how much scholarship I have received from our program—I love when that happens! It is always great speaking at Miss New Hampshire’s local competitions, but it was really beneficial being able to speak to an audience less familiar with all it is we do. During intermission and after the show, I had a line of people asking questions and many expressed how impressed they were with our program.

Putting the sash on the new Miss Raymond

The next day I was asked to come to the fair and to participate in the “Fireman’s Parade.” I rode in a 1940’s Ford fire truck that was driven by Raymond’s Fire Chief, Kevin Pratt. Raymond already has a fire station filled over capacity—they literally park trucks in-between the station doors to make room—but surrounding towns also came with their sirens to aid in the excitement. The little bell I had next to me on the truck didn’t have much of a chance being heard, but I rang it anyway as we lead the parade path. I couldn’t help but think how cool it must have been to be a firefighter in the 40s—jumping on the sides of the truck and taking turns ringing that little bell to warn others of your “fast” approach. The size of the warning bell on the truck humored me. My great-grandmother had a bell larger than that just to let everybody know that dinner was ready!

Do you think anyone would notice if I just took off?

It was wonderful to get to spend time with the Pratt family again during this night as well! The Fire Chief’s daughter was in my grade and became a firefighter and his firefighter brother, Kerry, was also there with his daughter, Tammy, who I spent hours upon hours with as a little girl. Tammy’s mom used to watch me during the day and I will never forget her generous care and warm heart—as I’m sure no one in Raymond will.

With Firefighter Kerry Pratt and Fire Chief Kevin Pratt before the parade began

After the parade, I went to the fire station and handed out the awards given by the Fire Chief. While I was there, Kerry Pratt handed me a card. I opened the envelope to find a Good Luck Card that held within it a picture of Tammy and me when I was around five years old. He wrote the words “Always the performer!” in the card and the picture pretty much encompasses what I was like as a child—always striving to make people laugh through some kind of a performance. I figured I would share it with you. I'm on the right side of the picture and I believe I was impersonating Arnold Schwarzenegger here—you know, because I was so strong and everything.

Obviously this was taken years before I learned a pageant pose

The next day I was up at The Naswa Resort on Lake Winnipesauke early in the morning to help Easter Seals set up for its 9^th Annual HK Powersports Land & Lake Poker Run. Easter Seals clients and families do not have the luxury of choosing to deny themselves or their loved ones the services Easter Seals provides no matter what the economy is going through, and this event was to benefit Easter Seals so that it may provide those services by raising significant funds for its clients. Therefore, I was pleased to join Easter Seals in an event that raised more than $7,500.00 for the organization last year. After I taped up the decorations, folded and organized clothes that were being sold and set up the raffle ticket stand, I stood behind the registration booth and manned my station.

Prepared for the rush to come

Later in the morning two local titleholders—Miss Winnipesauke, Kayla King, and Miss Weirs Beach, Asheley Chaput—joined us. Having to give up their titles the following day, this event was a last hoorah for them as these positions and what a great event for them to end their year with! All of the people participating in the poker run were incredibly excited and their positive energy just poured out over the entire sun-drenched beach. By registering, the participants received a packet of information and treats in a goodie bag that helped them through the process. What they did was stop at a choice of checkpoints, depending on their mode of transportation, and picked up poker chips. The last stop for all of them was then The Naswa Resort again, where they turned in their chips for a poker hand in order to possibly win one of the four amazing prizes. Being titleholders, we simply felt it was our duty to test out all of the prizes as best as we could, of course!

On the Suzuki King Quad LTA400FK9 ATV

As you can see, it was exhausting work testing these toys

We also helped set up the stage where the awards would be announced later in the day and where small competitions would be held for children to win prizes. Don’t think we didn’t test out some of the prizes there as well—to make sure everything was safe for the children and all.

I think Kayla’s jealous of my table

We then helped out by selling raffle tickets and selling seats to the brunch being put on by the Easter Seals, as well as talking with the participants of the poker run. We were able to meet a lot of generous people, as well as clients of the Easter Seals who were enjoying the nice day with us. It became a successful event and I was happy to spend it with two of my local titleholder friends.

With Kayla King on the left and Asheley Chaput on the right

I then left Gilford to drive down to Worcester, Massachusetts and support the Miss Massachusetts Scholarship Program at its state competition. This was the first year it was held in Worcester—usually it is held in the southern part of the state in Fall River—and they found a beautiful location for their show at the Hanover Theater. While there, I had the pleasure of meeting three other state titleholders—including Laura Hall who represents the state that has been spooning with New Hampshire since 1791, Vermont.

I’ve learned that it’s never easy getting titleholders to look at the same camera together

It was enjoyable to watch the show and to be invited to the upstairs lobby so that I could meet the newly crowned Miss Massachusetts, Amanda Kelly. Alicia Zitka was a wonderful representation for the state of Massachusetts and for our Miss America Organization, and I wish her the best of luck in all that is to come her way! The class of 2009 was full of outstanding women who are all going to make positive footprints in the future, I am sure.

Welcoming the newest member of our MAO class, Miss Massachusetts, Amanda Kelly

The next day, I went back up to New Hampshire’s lakes region to support the Miss Winnipesauke and Miss Weirs Beach competition at Gunstock. I arrived early to talk to the contestants and I had dinner with all of them before the show started. I was very happy when one of the other young women from Girl’s State arrived before the show to talk to me about the competition and to meet the other ladies involved in the program. The contestants were welcoming and also talked to her about how our program has helped them in their lives—I do hope to see her coming back as a contestant herself now!

Gunstock, which is a ski lodge, was a beautiful place to hold the competition. Mountains where green trails were cut in strips along the trees and where horses grazed surrounded us. The wood lodge complete with an enormous fireplace was then converted into a stage and audience for the show. This show was all about Madonna—every song played throughout the production carried her voice and beat. Following the spirit of the show, I chose the Madonna song “Love Profusion” to perform for the attendees.

I realize Madonna is one-of-a-kind and probably shouldn’t be imitated, but a girl can at least try!

(Thank you for the picture, Kim Keyes)

It was exciting when the titles of the night were awarded. Jennifer Clements received the title of Miss Winnipesauke, which was nice to see that night in particular because the camp she works at allowed the children she counsels to come and watch the entire competition. It was also really nice to see our New Hampshire’s Outstanding Teen from last year, Megan Lyman, be awarded the title of Miss Weirs Beach. Tina Gebhardt and Gary Vincent, the directors of these local titles, have a great year ahead of them!

Adding glitz to the lodge

For the remainder of my week, I continued to work on Loud & Sound: Speaking Out for Mental Illness—mostly setting up appointments with radio networks, confirming platform-related appearances, talking with professionals in the mental health field, and finishing tasks I set out to do. Throughout the majority of the week though, I have been praying for the health of Bob Jolin. He is the husband of Claudette—Miss New Hampshire’s Co-Executive Director and Traveling Companion—and he has had a very rough week at the hospital. Whenever you have a moment, please, send a positive thought his way.

Welcome

2009-07-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

I have been given the opportunity of a lifetime to be able to dedicate a year of service as Miss New Hampshire 2009 with the Miss America Organization, and I would love to share all of my experiences with you through this blog! You can do what you want with it—read it, skim it, just look at the pictures or not read it at all—but I have already been on such a fun and rewarding journey since I have been given New Hampshire’s title that I feel the need to write my activities down so that you can experience them as well. I can guarantee there will be some weeks that are less interesting than others but, nonetheless, I will plan on writing once a week to keep you informed and I will try very hard not to be boring! :)

I have found that even if an event I attend is not a major one, it still holds great importance because it provides another opportunity to meet interesting people, to share my story about how this program has helped me, to talk about my platform (Loud & Sound: Speaking Out for Mental Illness), to provide service to another cause and to learn a little bit more about life. Since I have been very active since receiving my title, I will give you the SparkNotes edition of my life as Miss New Hampshire thus far so that we can get caught up.

First of all, the night of the crowning was a whirlwind. There were twenty-six of us local-titleholders that went through the weeklong competition. I say “weeklong” as it pertains to the actual week of staying in a hotel together, attending all-day rehearsals, and competing for preliminary events until the final night when the top ten performed. However, you should realize that New Hampshire puts hours upon hours into its production. The actual production team—comprised of all volunteers, just like everyone else involved in our program—started planning for this event a year before and us contestants started rehearsing together the first day of March until the competition. The show really was put together phenomenally well. Our team put everything they had into it, as they always do. Our production staff includes—among many others—Brenda Keith (President and Executive Director), Bill Haggerty (Co-ED/Executive Producer), Claudette Jolin (Co-ED, Traveling Companion), Peter Dusaitis (lighting design) and Chris Piccolo (video and music) who are our co-producers, Michael Blanchard (Set Construction/Staging Coordinator), and Heidi Noyes Bourgeois and Heidi Sullivan Laroche (Co-Choreographers). We also were lucky enough to have Lloyd Owens, Candace Glickman and Michael Gallagan as our vocalists, and Michelle Gagnon, Kelly Houde, Debbie Molloy and Lauren Pagliuca as our Miss New Hampshire Dancers. There were many other hands involved to make it a great production, and it really was.

Posing at the end of our opening number production

Dancing next to my friend, Lauren, in our

Bollywood production number before swimsuit competition

My crowning moment was one of the most humbling moments of my life. As I looked out into the audience, behind me at the amazing young women who all could have easily been in my place and at the volunteers peeking through the curtains backstage, it hit me that I was chosen for the great responsibility of representing all of them for a cause much greater than my own. It was a very powerful feeling to say the least when Natalie Shaw, Miss New Hampshire 2008, draped the sash across my body and pinned the crown in place on my head. Moments later, I was interviewed by our show’s host, Jamie Staton, for WMUR—the ABC-affiliated television station for the state of New Hampshire—and taken by Grace Limousine to our patron party where I received a $7,000 fisher stroller from the New Hampshire Trappers Association, a gold cuff from Teeney Treasures, the keys to a brand-new Volvo (Boston Red Sox Special Edition!) that I can use for the year from Alex Saidel at Merrimack Street Volvo, and many other gifts.

Posing with the ridiculously nice car the following day

Though all the gifts were wonderful, the best gift of all was the presentation of the scholarship money I earned. You might want to prepare yourself. From this one competition I earned $20,000--which means I have won $50,000 in total from the Miss New Hampshire Program! By the end of the night, $89,500 was awarded between all twenty-six of us who competed. Not bad for such a small state, right?

Minutes after I was crowned

The following days were incredibly fun as I met with more than 35 sponsors, organized my life for what was ahead of me and was presented with even more gifts. I then sang as the special guest for the Voices of Distinction “Red Carpet” Concert, which was really fun. I was requested to perform the song I used for our state competition, and it felt incredibly good to have the chance to perform the song without having to worry about cutting it down to a certain time. Originally being more than a six-minute song, it holds a lot of depth that I feel is lost when cutting it down to only a couple of verses. Needless to say, it was quite the reward to be able to sing more of it.

After the concert with the talented Danny Smith--I am grateful for all he has taught me about vocal technique

That same weekend I sang “The Star Spangled Banner” and grand marshaled the walkers for the New Horizons’ Walk Against Hunger, which raised $109,000 to alleviate the pain of hunger for families in the greater Manchester area. I had the pleasure of meeting Mayor Frank Guinta and talking to the workers of New Horizons such as Scott Colby and Fred Robinson. It was really great getting to spend time with the walkers who put a lot of energy into creating teams and participating in the event.

Saint Joseph’s Regional Junior High School also asked me to perform and help host its talent show a couple of days later. Since that was where I went to school, it felt really strange walking down those hallways but it was incredibly nice seeing the warm faces of my past teachers and seeing the positive changes of the school itself. It is so funny that being led to the teacher’s lounge felt like such a reward to me. I literally hesitated before entering the room though because that was something that was just always off-limits, and my mind somehow reverted me back to when I was in seventh grade. During the actual show, it was obvious that all of the students worked very hard on their talent sets. I had fun talking to them backstage as well. I was very impressed by the students the whole night and it was really sweet how proud the school seemed of my accomplishments thus far. Needless to say, it felt good to be back!

Performing "Popular" from Wicked to start off the show

(the funny thing is that I was just wearing those nerd glasses the day before!)

I then went to help out at Canobie Lake’s Military Appreciation Day, where a tent was set up for me to talk to visitors and sign autographs. While there I had the chance of meeting American Defenders players and Sarah Sullivan who interviewed me for the radio on 106.3 Frank FM.

Spending time with the mascot

In-between appearing at parades, I had the opportunity to go to the Club Industry East fitness convention in Boston with the franchise company Integrity where I met Dr. Nancy L. Snyderman—NBC News Chief Medical Editor and New York Times Bestselling Author. Seeing her often on The Today Show, it was quite an honor to talk with her in person.

Later, I was the guest speaker at Boynton Middle School in New Ipswich where I talked with approximately 90 students in groups. I loved talking to such small groups because it allowed me to get to know the students throughout my sessions and it allowed them to be able to get all of their questions answered. It is great talking about the skills needed to be a state titleholder—whether someone can compete in this program or not, they are great skills to learn because they are conducive for achieving success in any goal the person sets. Nonetheless, the boys I talked to were still disappointed they couldn’t one day compete too!

What's one of the little secrets to success

that I shared? Reading--especially the newspaper!

One of the next appearances I did was at Littleton’s Summer Fest. I was asked to perform a set of songs for its kickoff concert at the Beacon Resort. Other performers who were there that I got to spend the day and night with were Frankie Burke who formed the popular group “The Tempos” and Leslie Wolfe who has performed on Broadway and around the nation. It is always enjoyable to hear stories from seasoned performers—they are such interesting people! I had a great time spending time with them and I was very grateful for all of their encouraging words.

One of the songs I chose was "Easy as Life" from

Aida to go along with the concert's theme of Disney.

Up in Littleton, I also participated in its parade and its Taste of the North Country. It really is such a gorgeous place to be. Growing up near the coast in southern New Hampshire, minutes from the Massachusetts border, I always appreciate seeing the beauty of our mountains and countryside up north. My favorite spot is where Interstate 93 winds around one of the first mountains in Franconia Notch and seconds after you turn around that bend your eyes are hit with the most incredible sight! You see the mountains at an astounding angle that allows you to see the most peeks at the same time from the road. It seems as if the mountains have been perfecting their pose and have been waiting there just for you to see them in their glory around that corner. I really wanted to take a picture for you at that spot but I couldn’t while I was driving and there was no place to park. Next time I’m in the passenger seat though, I’ll be sure to click that moment with my camera to show you! No matter how much I’m expecting it, I’m always surprised by the power of that image.

Being almost completely Italian, I do appreciate great food!

Back in the southern part of New Hampshire, I participated in the Relay for Life held at Pinkerton Academy in Derry. Hundreds of people were gathered there to raise more than $82,000 locally for cancer research. I was able to give flowers to the cancer survivors, perform for them and serve them dinner. The people there were so strong and brave that I felt truly honored to be in their presence and was inspired by all of the personal stories of struggles and triumph that were shared with me. One motivating story was that of Gary Aramini who assembled a team to commemorate the 25^th anniversary of his historic cross-country run in which he covered 3,480 miles in 116 days in honor of one of his high school classmates who died of bone cancer. To see someone who has made such a difference in other people’s lives by being completely committed to service and compassion makes you understand the power each one of us has to create lasting change in the world. It’s great to have people like Mr. Aramini who remind us of that.

Serving dinner for those who participated in the event

A fun event I helped out at after the Relay for Life, was the Rotary Club of Nashua West’s seventh annual Rock ‘N Ribfest at Anheuser-Busch in Merrimack. It was pouring rain most of the day, but it was worth every drop. I had a great time being a judge for the barbeque championship, talking with everyone who faced the rain for the sake of great food, and awarding the winners at the end of their three-day event. Judging the nine professional rib companies was harder than I thought it would be—they were all incredibly good in very unique ways. (Although, by the end of it I think I should have received some kind of an award for not getting one drip of sauce on my white banner--but I’m sure most rib-lovers would think that’s a fault anyway!) I seriously did consider myself a qualified judge though—previously working at steakhouses and having a lifetime of enjoying great barbeque, I knew what I was looking for. The only thing that was a first for me was watching The Sausage King make deep-fried Oreos. I highly suggest trying one (or two...) if you ever have the chance!

With the barbeque champions, T'Roy's!

As a performer, I was asked to participate a couple of days later in the 36^th Annual New Hampshire Distinguished Citizens Award Dinner put on by the Daniel Webster Council Boy Scouts of America. They put on quite the program! The night honored Ovide Lamontagne and Public Service of New Hampshire for their contributions to our community through business as well as civic leadership. It’s really a shame that young men don’t have a Miss America Organization of their own but on a certain level Scouting can be seen as our counterpart. It teaches the scouts commitment, character development, personal fitness and how to be an active citizen. It’s nice to know that the boys and young men involved are looking for opportunities of community leadership just as us young women are, and I was really happy to be able to participate in a night that awarded others for service as well as raised funds for the Boy Scouts of America.

While the attendees socialized outside, I rehearsed in the ballroom for a few minutes

The largest event I did took place a couple of days later, and that was singing at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the Lenox Industrial Tools 301 NASCAR Race. I sent in a demo tape of me performing “The Star Spangled Banner” right after I was crowned and I was chosen to sing it in front of a crowd of 100,000 people as well as for national television. It was intense! I have sung live in front of thousands of people before, but never for a national audience. It was funny that the only thing I was nervous about was being nervous, but I surprised myself with how calm I felt. The day itself was really fun. My day started with just getting home from the Miss Rhode Island Competition at around 1:00 am. The night before I went down to support its scholarship program and was able to see our new state titleholder, Julianna Strout, get crowned. I took a little nap before I jumped behind the wheel again to drive up to Loudon for the race—since there was a lot of traffic, I got into the infield at around 8:00am. I was parked in the middle of all the excitement and had the pleasure of getting to walk around all of the garages and getting to meet the different teams at work.

It was fun learning more about racing from the team

that represents one of our Miss New Hampshire sponsors--UPS

Never being to a race before, it was definitely sensory overload! All of the people working though were really great and taught me a lot about the different aspects of racing. I always appreciated the sport and the hard work that had to go into it by the teams and the drivers, but this experience was definitely an awakening to the hundreds of pieces that are involved in order to make a race successful. And that’s just by the teams! The speedway has hundreds of other things it needs to prepare for and worry about. Just caring for potential medical emergencies needs to be addressed by them, and it was really neat getting to walk through the trauma hospital they have in the middle of the track and getting to talk with the doctors who work in it. It even has helicopters parked behind it in case a severe accident occurs. After I had a tour of the grounds, I was invited to the Driver’s Meeting where—to name a few—Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Jeff Gordon were sitting only feet away from me! When it was over I had the chance to speak with broadcasters from TNT and then I joined the Vice President of Events, Bruce Stone, next to the stage for the opening ceremonies.

Jamie Staton, the Sports Director and Weekday

Sports Anchor of WMUR-TV, visited me before the ceremonies began

After all the drivers were introduced, I was told to stand onstage for the next ten minutes until I would sing. My view was unbelievable! I literally had to turn my body around so that I could see the entire extent of the audience. It’s amazing what went through my mind while up there waiting. While Canada’s national anthem was being sung, I was thinking that I was surprised I didn’t feel nervous and started laughing in my head at the thought of forgetting the words. Could you imagine?! I was picturing Jay Leno having a field day if a state titleholder vying for the title of Miss America messed up the words to our national anthem on television! I then was thinking about the reaction I would get if I sung it like Maya Rudolph’s version as Pamela Bell on Saturday Night Live. If you haven’t seen it, you should check it out: http://bighutch.net/?p=260. It is hilarious. Then, while I’m thinking about all of this, the minister starts his prayer and when he was done the production manager pointed at me to begin. I know my mind was making jokes a few minutes before, but when I placed my hand over my heart and started singing it was one of the most powerful feelings I have ever had. I have always been a patriotic person and there is no greater honor than singing “The Star Spangled Banner” in reverence to our nation and to all of the people that have fought for our freedom and have served it. Then, in the middle of the song when I was singing about the rocket’s red glare, they wound up initiating 35 pyrotechnics right next to me! The force on both sides of me was extreme—to say the least—and a few seconds after they went off a thick cloud of smoke enveloped me. As I breathed in what felt like fire, I looked down at the production manager to see if I needed to slow down or speed up. I was told fighter jets may be flying above at the end, but since it was a rainy day they weren’t sure if they would be able to do so. Before I could get an answer from him though, the clouds had apparently raised high enough to fly because at that moment I could hear them faintly approaching from the distance. I was then able to time it so that they flew above the stage just as the last note was sung. It was an unbelievable experience. I think I was in slight shock after it was finished and it took me a good two seconds to regain control of my body again.

Losing my hearing at Victory Lane--and loving every second of it

Watching the race after was just as much fun! I watched the first few laps from Victory Lane where I could hear the roar of motors scream in my head and feel the earth beneath my feet shake with excitement from the tires circling around. I then watched the rest of the race up in the suite of Bruton Smith. He is the founder and chief executive officer of the speedway and is a remarkably nice man. New Hampshire is lucky to have someone who gives as much as he does to our community and I, for one, am grateful. If any of you saw the race you know that it, unfortunately, got rained out by the 255^th lap, but what a race it was! It was very cool to see Connecticut’s Joey Logano win and Claudette Jolin and me were all smiles when we got back to the Volvo after such an exciting day—soaking wet and all!

To our surprise, Claudette and I discovered the

winner's trophy being kept in the trailer we used for the day

A couple of days later I went to a youth baseball camp that benefited Fred’s Fund for the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth. The east coast has been hit with rain just about every day this spring and summer and—surprise, surprise—it was raining yet again. That didn’t stop us from playing though, and we had a blast! I first got the chance to speak to the children who were attending the camp and then they threw me a batting helmet so that I could start playing with them. They were great kids—very talkative and fun to be with. After we played several innings together, I signed baseballs for all of them and talked over lunch.

The best part about signing my name: The Cursive L!

The kids at the camp had me talk to their friends

on the phone who didn't believe Miss New Hampshire was there

The next day I was the guest speaker for the Granite Girls State Program, where I talked to more than 100 young women about the Miss New Hampshire Program and about my platform, Loud & Sound: Speaking Out for Mental Illness. They made an incredible audience—very attentive, and full of questions! It was great having the chance to spread the word about what it is I do to girls from various communities throughout New Hampshire, especially since they are all hard workers who have high ambitions. (It was also great seeing some of these girls attend the next local competition we had for Miss New Hampshire!) I was especially lucky this night to have been given a time to speak that was followed by a party for them. They asked me if I wanted to stay for it and I did, which allowed me to speak to a lot of them individually. There was one girl in particular that I spoke with that really touched my heart. Due to the nature of what we talked about, I would not feel right sharing the conversation but it showed me that what I am doing with my platform is really making a difference and the cause for mental illness is an important one. Already I know of people who have come up to me to talk about how I have helped them and just for those times alone, I know that what I am doing is worth a great deal.

Sharing funny stories to some of the ladies at their party

My Independence Day weekend celebrations were fun--hopefully yours were enjoyable and safe as well. I had the chance to go up to the mountains again for a parade in Gorham and to sing at its ceremonies. It was raining the whole drive up, but cleared just long enough for the parade route. Alas, the second I got down from the back of the convertible, the heavens started pouring down the rain again right before the ceremonies began. For some reason though, I have really grown to like the rain. I think it makes everything a little more fun. Makeup is washed off of everybody, hair-dos are ruined, clothes are sopping wet and muddy, but it makes us more fully appreciate what it is we are doing. In the rain, we gathered together in celebration of our freedom and of our fight for independence, and it was a beautiful thing.

The week before, I was able to welcome the first member of our 2010 class of local New Hampshire titleholders at the Miss Greater Derry competition, Krystal Muccioli. Since the theme of the show was The Elements I got to rock out with a local guitarist to Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” and had a blast starting off this year’s round of competitions.

Through the humidity and heat, we smile!

To end the Independence Day weekend, I was then able to congratulate two new members at another local competition. Adria Farr received the title of Miss Seacoast and Janine Mitchell received the title of Miss Kingston. This show meant a lot to me. My local title while competing for Miss New Hampshire was Miss Seacoast and the director of it, Elaine Tidd, was the one responsible for getting me started in this program. Though it was bittersweet, it was a fun day. I spent it helping out wherever I could and during the Broadway-themed show I was asked to perform “Maybe this Time” (which was the first song I sung for my local competition), “For Good,” “Summer Nights,” and “You’ll Be in My Heart.”

I had the pleasure of crowning Adria Farr as our new Miss Seacoast

Janine Mitchell in one of her first pictures as Miss Kingston

As you can see, a lot has happened in a very short period of time since I have been given the honor of representing our program as Miss New Hampshire and these rushed paragraphs are just a glimpse of what I have been up to! I do hope you enjoy reading about my experiences as much as I enjoy sharing them and if you ever want to get in touch with me, feel free to e-mail me at missnh@missnh.org and I will respond as quickly as possible.

God bless,

Lindsey