January/February Highlights!

Hello again! After returning from the Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas, I was eager to jump back into my role as Miss Florida! I attended the Florida Strawberry Festival's annual Strawberry Ball. I was happy to see many great friends who were excited to hear all about my Miss America experience. I don't think I'll ever get tired of talking or reminiscing about it. I am pictured below with Mr. Al Berry who has been such a blessing this year. He and his wife Patsy have been such a support system for me from the very beginning. Thank you to all of the wonderful citizens of Plant City for your encouraging words, thoughts and prayers. The Ball was fantastic, as always, and was a great start to getting into the Strawberry Festival spirit!

Although not pictured, I attended the 2011 Miss Orlando and Miss Orange County Pageant in Orlando and I have to say, it was nice being in the audience this time :) Donald Gray and Juan Cantu put on a fantastic show! Congratulations to Brittany Hagan- Miss Orange County, Ashley Ramsey- Miss Orlando and Elizabeth Fechtel- Miss Orlando's Outstanding Teen. I will see you ladies in July at the Miss Florida and Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Pageant in St.Petersburg, Florida! To continue with the strawberry theme, I participated in the Strawberry Distance Challenge 5k also held in Plant City. It had been quite some time that I participated in a 5k, but I managed to place third in my 20-29 age group! You can tell I'm pretty excited in the photo below! I had such a great time, and am looking forward to racing more often :)

Grrrr! :)

After the race, I attended the 2011 Miss UCF Pageant, held at the beautiful University of Central Florida. Go Knights! Thank you to Allison Walsh for attending with me and to Veronica Levisay for allowing me to speak on behalf of the Children's Miracle Network, it is always an honor! It was a phenomenal production! Congratulations to Jaqueline Boehme, Miss UCF 2011!

With the beautiful Audra Martin and Allison Walsh!

My next appearance brought me to the Women's Junior League of Dunedin to speak on the topic of Cyberbullying. I was thrilled to once again share my story (although it is not a pleasant one) so that the severity of this issue is recognized. I was so excited to learn that they had many anti-bullying initiatives that were being planned for the upcoming year, it will most certainly change lives. Thank you to Suzanne Patrick for giving me the opportunity to speak to the lovely ladies of your Junior League!

My next highlight brings me to the United Food Bank of Plant City's annual "Celebrity Chef" event with Chef Jon Ashton as our special guest. (http://www.jonashton.com/). Before the evening began, there was a cook-off competition between the Plant City Gourmet Club and Grillers. I tried each of their dishes and have to say, they were both fabulous. However, there could only be one winner...and it was the Grillers! They had a delicious filet dish that was a hit. I couldn't wait to see what Chef Ashton would be demonstrating during dinner, which ended up being an Italian cream pasta recipe. He was extremely entertaining to say the least, but also very easy to follow as he was explaining each part of the process. It was wonderful to be a part of such a successful fundraiser for the Food Bank, as they assist countless amounts of families in the area. We appreciate their efforts so very much!

My next event took me to Naples, Florida for the ground breaking of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project/Faka Union Canal Pump Station on behalf of the Everglades Foundation. I was joined by Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and other state and federal officials to celebrate the restoration project which will provide direct benefits to the many plant and animal species (including our Florida Panther) that inhabit the area by recreating its natural conditions and connecting broad expanses of other protected areas. It was an honor to not only be a part of the ground breaking but to also sing our National Anthem as a part of the day's events.

That evening, I attended the Foreverglades benefit at The Breakers in West Palm Beach, as it is the main fundraiser of the year for the Everglades Foundation. All proceeds support the Foundation's restoration programs aimed at saving our precious Everglades. This year's theme was "country-chic", so with my Plant City roots, I knew exactly what to wear ;) I was excited to put on my glitzy denim Juan Carlos outfit provided by Regalia Magnificent Apparel, and meet all of the wonderful people who have contributed to such an incredible organization that is continuing to change the state of Florida and our ecosystems for the better. Kenny Chesney was the star performer for the evening, but we were also surprised by another guest performer.... Jimmy Buffet! We had such a ball dancing the night away. Thank you to Wendy Roberts for accompanying me for such a fabulous evening and to the Everglades Foundation for allowing me to participate in both events.

Kenny Chesney!

I tried to put the cowboy hat over the crown...See it peeking out? :)

With legendary golfer, Jack Nicklaus and his wife. They are fantastic supporters of the Everglades Foundation!

In the midst of a very busy week, it was so wonderful to hear from Miss Delaware, Kayla Martell, that she was in Plant City (of all places!) filming for NBC's "The Doctors"! We were able to meet up in Tampa for lunch and it was the greatest feeling to see her. We had bonded so much during Miss America and I was overjoyed to be able to spend some time with her and her beautiful mother. I love you both!

The next evening, I attended the Miss Winter Park/ Miss City Beautiful Pageant. The Miss Florida Organization is thrilled to have both titles back at the state pageant this year. Congratulations to Ross Amkraut on a fabulous production, you did a fantastic job and we appreciate the opportunities that you have created for the young women in Central Florida! Congratulations also to Miss Winter Park- Kristina Janolo, Miss City Beautiful- Sara York, Miss Winter Park's Outstanding Teen- Samantha Janolo and Miss City Beautiful's Outstanding Teen- Rachel Strever!

With Kayla, Miss Delaware! :)

With our Winter Park/City Beautiful titleholders!

Next, I returned to St.Petersburg and had the honor of singing the National Anthem at the opening of International Baseball Season at Al Lang Field. It couldn't have been a more beautiful day for the game and it is always a pleasure to reunite with the wonderful people of St.Pete. It was an exciting game where Penn State took on the Seoul (South Korea) Nexen Heroes. It was great to catch up with Mayor Foster after he threw out the first pitch, and visit with other council members in attendance. It was great to see Al Lang Field keeping the tradition alive!

Although I would have loved to stay for the entire game, I immediately went to my next appearance of the day. It was an honor and privilege to attend The Sgt. Thomas Baitinger and K9 Officer Jeffrey Yaslowitz Memorial Golf Tournament at Feathersound Country Club in Clearwater. I couldn't thank each of the participants enough for contributing, as all of the proceeds went directly to family. Thank you to the St. Petersburg Police Department for allowing me to attend and for all that you do each and every day in the community. You are our heroes.

After the tournament, my day didn't stop there! I drove to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to assist in conducting another BullyBusters meeting with our awesome BullyBusters Youth Council. I love being able to help guide them as they face the battle of bullying every single day in their schools. They are true leaders and it excites me to have such positive, young people standing up to bullying by taking their personal experiences and using the strength that they have gained from persevering, to help other students. It is children and teens like them that continue to inspire me as well. Thank you to Carol and Commisioner Murman for such a wonderful partnership.

Next, I was thrilled to hear that legendary supermodel and Celebrity Apprentice star, Nikki Taylor was going to be in Plant City for the Reader's Digest "We Hear You America" tour, honoring America's greatest hometowns. They donated $1000 to Plant City's Little League and our hometown star, Chelsea Baker was recognized for her incredible achievements! She has been given nationwide exposure for throwing two perfect games in a year and has represented Plant City so well. We are so proud of you, Chelsea!

With Nikki Taylor and Chelsea Baker at City Hall!

Continue to stay posted, another entry to follow soon! :)

Much love,

Jaclyn

November/December Highlights!

Hello Everyone! As promised, I will continue my blog where it was left off in November! As you can imagine, the excitement and hectic preparations for Miss America kept me quite busy during these two months. However, I want to keep all of you filled in on my amazing journey. Here are some of the highlights! :) After the Children's Miracle Network Torch Relay in Orlando, Mary and I traveled to my hometown of Plant City to attend a "Jersey Boys" concert at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. We were joined by the wonderful David Gilbert and my wonderful parents. It was such a fun evening and I couldn't wait to have my Miss America send-off party there in December! Thank you to the Madonia Family for allowing us to attend!

Mary and I. She is looking beautiful in gold! Some of the performers and I

Next, I attended the Hillsborough County School Board meeting to join Dr. Judith Rainone in presenting the Hillsborough County Schools Anti-Bullying/Harassment Awareness Month proclamation. This is aimed at ending all bullying and harassment and urges all schools, departments and individuals to launch an ongoing campaign to raise awareness about bullying and harassment prevention and intervention among youth and adults who influence them. It has been an honor to assist Hillsborough County in battling the ongoing issue of bullying.

Immediately after the meeting, I drove to the Ryan Nece Foundation's Good Samaritan Thanksgiving Celebration event. I had a wonderful time meeting the families, volunteers and supporters throughout the evening. Over 75 volunteers were able to feed over 1,000 people and distribute over 1,200 boxes of food and personal items to 400 families. Thank you to Ryan for allowing me to be a part of such a fantastic event and Mari Wilensky for attending with me.

With Ryan Nece

Later that week, I was invited to be a part of the Great American Teach in at Seminole High School, Seminole Middle School and Bauder Elementary School. I love speaking to many different ages of children about bullying prevention and sharing my story. It is an epidemic that all students experience, no matter what age, so it has been vital for me to educate them. Thank you to Mrs. Harrah and Skyler Harrah for making this day possible for me :)

The next morning, I had the pleasure of giving another "Stop Bullying Now" presentation to Valrico Elementary School. This particular presentation was covered by Channel 8 News Tampa and the Tampa Tribune, which the kids were very excited about :) This was also the day where my favorite question of the year was asked...."So, what KIND of castle do you live in, Miss Florida?". Of course, I had to tell them about my CAMARO (which the guys loved!) and explain to them that because of the amount of traveling I do, I don't get to visit my castle very often ;) Thank you to Regan Whitehurst for arranging each session!

The following week, was my Miss America support party, held at the beautiful home of Michael Nutter and Ron Jackson in Winter Park. Thank you to Jennifer McKenna, Allison Walsh, Michael and Ron for organizing an incredible afternoon for me and helping to assist me in my Miss America journey. Your kindness and willingness to help me is appreciated more than you know.

The next day, I traveled to Washington D.C. (for the very first time!) for 48 hours of business! First, I visited Florida House, which was founded in 1973 by Rhea Chiles as Florida's "embassy" in our nation's capital. It is owned by the people of the state of Florida and we are the only state to have such a facility that serves as a "home base" for tourists as well as the business community. Being a ninth generation Floridian, I always enjoy learning more information about my great state, which Florida House had much to offer. Thank you to Bart Hudson for taking the time to meet with me. (Pictured below with Fernando The Flamingo!).

Fernando!

Next, I met with SPAN USA (Suicide Prevention Action Network USA) a part of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. It was unbelievably wonderful to meet with the wonderful individuals who are a part of this organization. We discussed my platform very much in depth, especially legislation that could potentially effect it. Thank you to SPAN USA for the great support!

Visiting the SPAN USA headquarters

I love this shot, beautiful!

The next morning, I met with Florida Senator, Bill Nelson. He and his staff were so very welcoming and I had such a nice time discussing everything from Florida facts to bullying. It was also pretty cool to see all of the NASA and space exploration photos and to hear the interesting stories behind them. Thank you Sen. Nelson for taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with me.

Next, I had the honor of visiting National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. Every day men and women are putting themselves in harm's way in risking their lives to preserve our freedom. I was greatly moved and humbled during my visit with them as well as their incredible families. Holding the hands and looking into the eyes of our wounded warriors is an experience that I will never forget. I am proud beyond words to be an American and grateful for the selfless sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. This was by far, my favorite day as Miss Florida.

Hey! Where did my sash go? :)

When I returned home from D.C., I visited my favorite radio station, 933flz at Clear Channel Communications in Tampa to film a short video for their "Shut It Down" anti-bullying campaign, and audio for PSA's that aired throughout the following weeks. It was awesome getting to know the crew, we had such a blast filming that day. Thank you to Tommy Chuck for allowing me to partner with 933flz to stop the spread of bullying!

With Froggy and the amazing interns!

With MJ, who I have grown up listening to. I'm a big fan!

The following day, I was joined by Miss St. Petersburg, Brittany Wardell, Miss Pinellas County Outstanding Teen, Mahallie Griffin, Miss Largo Outstanding Teen, Haley Muley, My beautiful little Mary Katherine Fechtel, Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen and my Miss Florida Sunshine Princess, Kayla Fisher for the St.Petersburg Santa Parade! It was great to be back in the host city of the Miss Florida Pageant and visiting with fans and friends from all over. Mary Katherine, Kayla and I had the privilege of riding in a carriage that looked exactly like the one in "Cinderella"! All three of us felt like absolute princesses and had a wonderful time together. After the parade, I had a delicious and fun filled lunch with the beautiful Fisher family, Mary Katherine and Dixie Fechtel. What a way to begin the Christmas holiday season! Thank you to Robert Danielson for organizing our participation in the parade.

Next, I participated in the All Children's Hospital Radiothon on behalf of the Children's Miracle Network. It is always a pleasure to visit and work with All Children's. They have incredible people who work within the hospital and within their guilds. Below is a photo of me doing a radio interview with US 103.5 fm! Thank you to Crissy McWilliams for always inviting me to participate :)

Next, came the day, which officially gave me the rush that..."I am going to compete in the Miss America Pageant in a month!". My Miss America send-off party was held at the beautiful Red Rose Inn and Suites of Plant City, Florida! I can't even begin to explain the feeling I had looking around the room, taking the afternoon in, and realizing the amount of love and support I had surrounding me at my send-off party alone. It was then that I realized no matter what the outcome of Miss America may be, I have these and other phenomenal people in my life and for that alone, I feel blessed beyond words. Thank you to Al Berry, The Madonia Family, Sandee Sytsma and the FANTASTIC committee, Mary Sullivan, the Miss Florida Board of Directors, Mary Katherine, Ann Marie Griffin, David and Carry of Regalia, LaVoyce Porter, the local directors and local titleholders in attendance and of course to my beautiful family, Mommy, Daddy and Alek ( I absolutely have to thank you three the most!). It was the perfect day of encouragement and celebration as I was approaching my departure for Las Vegas very soon! :)

With Mary Katherine Fechtel- Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen, Former Miss Florida's Allison Walsh, Kylie Williams and Mari Wilensky, the amazing Mary Sullivan and our fabulous Miss Florida Board of Directors!

As soon as my send-off party had concluded, Mary, my mother and I rushed to get ready for 93.3flz's Jingle Ball concert held at the St.Pete Times Forum! I was invited to be a guest in the Metro PCS "Celebrity Club" where I was interviewed on the jumbo-tron by Katie Sommers and also spent time with the other awesome 933flz DJs. It was great to also meet a few of the performers as well. Thanks again to everyone at 933flz! :)

With Mike Posner

Being interviewed by Katie Sommers.

My final highlight before departing for the Miss America Pageant, was my Studio 10 interview with Holley and Jerome! They were so excited to learn about my Miss Florida experience thus far and also about my Miss America preparation and details about the pageant. Being a broadcast journalism major, it is always fun for me to be on set and learn something new each time I walk into a news station. Thank you to Bill Doniel for joining me that morning!

Watch out for my next blog entry very soon! :)

Love,

Jaclyn