Miss Manchester 2011-2012

Rochester PD & The Howard Safety Challenge

2012-01-20T09:30:00.000-08:00

Jan 19: I was asked to be a guest speaker for the Howard Safety Challenge that Spaulding High School in Rochester, NH is participating in. Today was a practice seat belt speed session in preparation for their physical challenge which happens in May. I was allowed to share my personal story with how my family has been affected by distracted drivers with the teens and encourage them to take action and responsibility to choose to not be distracted behind the wheels of a motor vehicle. I am thrilled to be partnering with Officer Balint and the Rochester Police Department to continue to bring awareness and take action against distracted driving.

Passion on Ice 3

2012-01-20T09:23:00.000-08:00

Dec 30th: Passion on Ice 3 was a magical show! National competitors, New England champions, and local rising stars took the ice at the Rochester Arena. It was an honor to be asked to emcee with my lovely co-host Meghan Loring, Miss NH Collegiate America. More than $1,000 went to the NH Breast Cancer Coalition and the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. A special thank you to Sarahjayne Howland for all of her passion, creativity, and work behind the scenes <3. See you next year for Passion on Ice 4!

Salvation Army Toy Drive

2012-01-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

Dec 22nd: I was honored to help serve at the Salvation Army's annual Manchester Christmas toy drive. It was so much fun to organize, sort-by-age, and pile up thousands of toys for the greater Manchester, NH area. Thank you so much to all the volunteers that came out.

Santa Shuffle 5k & Manchester Holiday Parade

2012-01-05T18:41:00.000-08:00

Dec 4th: Had a wonderful time volunteering at the first annual Santa Shuffle 5k which preceded the Manchester holiday parade. More than 1,500 participants dressed in Santa suits ran in support of the Safe Sports Network & New Hampshire Musculoskeletal Institute. For more information on Millenium Running go to milleniumrunning.com.

Thanksgiving 5k

2011-11-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day 5k at the Fisher Cat stadium in Manchester, NH. More than 17 states were represented for this Thanksgiving Day turkey trot. Here with the fabulous Jamie Staton from WMUR News and Mayor of Manchester, Ted Gastas. Go Fisher Cats!

Miss Manchester '11-'12

2011-11-24T13:45:00.000-08:00

November 20th: I was honored with the title of Miss Manchester 2011-2012 and was awarded $2,600 in scholarship dollars. I also tied for the overall talent and interview award as well as being voted congeniality by my peers. Looking forward to preparing for Miss New Hampshire 2012 this coming April. A big thank you to all the volunteers, supporters and sponsors of the Miss Manchester Scholarship Program!

Luck Me a Lady

2011-11-24T13:41:00.000-08:00

October 28th: I attended the first annual 'Luck Me a Lady' casino night for Breast Cancer Stories at the Sheraton in Portsmouth, NH. I served as a back-up black jack dealer, but ended up working most of the evening at the chuck-a-luck table. There were always winners at my table!

Making Strides

2011-11-24T13:34:00.000-08:00

October 16th: Team Sisters participated in the Dover Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk for the American Cancer Society. Dover, NH raised more than $90,000 for cancer research.

Miss Greater Derry 2012

2011-06-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

Last night I had a great interview with the Miss Greater Derry panel of judges. The pageant starts tomorrow at 7pm at the Adams Memorial Opera House. Come celebrate Miss Greater Derry's 25th anniversary with some of the most intelligent, talented, and beautiful young women. I will be performing a ballet en pointe variation from the ballet Don Quixote. See you there!

Snow White

2011-05-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

I've been asked back again to perform with Great Bay Academy of Dance cast as the Evil Queen in their Spring production of Snow White. GBAD is producing its child friendly version of Snow White & Fairy Festival for production on June 11th at 1pm and 4pm. The production will be held at The GBAD Studio at 1 Raynes Avenue in Portsmouth, NH. Tickets are currently on sale and are $15 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. Last year's event was completely sold out, therefore advanced ticket sales and reservations are strongly encouraged. Each show involves one hour long production of the story ballet with complete narration as well as a fairy festival with arts and crafts and picture opportunities with Snow White.
See you there!

Off to the Races Kentucky Derby

2011-05-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

May 7th I was asked to join the committee for the first annual 'Off to the Races' Kentucky Derby fundraiser for Susan G. Komen NH-VT. The Kentucky Derby party was held at the Sheraton in Portsmouth, NH. More than 160 guests came dressed up in their fashionable derby attire to raise funds for the cure and to bet on their favorite horses. Thank you so much to Anne Janeway, Executive Director for Susan G. Komen NH-VT, for inviting me to serve at such a wonderful event.

Miss NH 2011

2011-05-10T08:19:00.000-07:00

Here with Krystal Muccioli, Miss NH 2010, receiving the Donald C. Anderson Platform Award on the final night of Miss NH 2011. In total I received $7,200 in scholarship this year as Miss Winnipesaukee, and I'm so thankful for that.

Tina and Gary you made this year such a memorable one. You were supportive of everything I wanted to do and wanted to accomplish. You gave me your honest advice and were excited for everything leading up to Miss NH. The two of you truly idealize the Miss America Organization. The amount of hours that you put into the Miss Winni/ Weirs Beach program alone is astonishing. I love both of you so much. Tina, I will miss our late night phone calls, chatting at bingo and being able to talk to you about anything. Gary, thank you for your dedication to the program despite all you were dealing with this year. I'll miss giving you a hard time on the bingo floor :). Thank you for everything.

Thank you to the Miss NH staff, countless volunteers and local directors. Every one of you truly believe in empowering young women and helping us achieve our educational goals and career ambitions. Thank you for all the time you give up to serve us.

To the Miss NH class of 2011, I had the best week with all of you girls. You are inspiring, dedicated, and such great role models for all ages. Love you all. Congratulations to Regan Hartley! Have a wonderful year.

Lastly to my family, I know that I have the best support system in New Hampshire. Mimi (and Beryl too), thank you for coming to support me at any and every event. Zach and Tiffany, you're the best two siblings anyone could ask for. Thank you for your constant encouragement. Phil, thanks for keeping me grounded and being so supportive along the way. Finally, to my parents who believed in me every step of the way since I started pageants three years ago, you are my rock. Mom, thank you for the countless early mornings you spent with me, shopping, running errands and words of encouragement. The time you spent with me preparing means more than you know. Dad, I value your advice more than anyone I know. Thank you for your input along the way to Miss NH and reminding me just to do my absolute best and let God do the rest. I love you both so much.

With much passion and love,
Lissa Silk, Miss Winnipesaukee 2010-2011

Amy in Bloom

2011-04-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

April 17th I had the pleasure of being a part of the fourth annual Amy in Bloom auction for Amy's Treat, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing solutions to the day-to-day difficulties of living with cancer and offer unexpected 'treats' to renew the spirit. The Portsmouth Harbor Events and Conference Center was overflowing with people bidding on silent and live auction items for the cancer center. Here with two of the prestigious nurses at the Seacoast Cancer Center, Sheila and Alice, and probably the youngest bidder in the room, Lainey.

Miss NH Ball

2011-04-25T20:09:00.000-07:00

April 10th was the annual Miss New Hampshire ball at the Executive Court in Manchester. I had a wonderful time with my family, friends and fellow title holders. Congratulations to all the volunteers who put on an exquisite ball to raise money for Miss New Hampshire 2011's wardrobe.

Celebrate Pink Women's Expo

2011-04-09T15:25:00.000-07:00

April 8th I worked at the 2nd Annual Celebrate Pink Women's Expo held at the Portsmouth Harbor Events and Conference Center. The event is an annual fundraiser for BreastCancerStories.org and their new local My Breast Cancer Support programs. The Expo truly celebrated beautiful women everywhere who have been touched by breast cancer and raised hope for seacoast area sisters who need a little extra strength and encouragement. Thank you to Wendy McCoole for inviting me to serve again.

Voting Begins at Midnight

2011-03-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Voting starts at midnight (April 1st)! Vote for your own Miss Winnipesaukee at www.missnh.org AND the Miss New Hampshire Facebook page. Every vote counts as the count down to the Miss New Hampshire crown draws closer.

Travels to NJ

2011-03-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

Friday March 25th my Miss Winnipesaukee directors, Tina Gebhard and Gary Vincent, flew myself and Miss Weirs Beach down to New Jersey for the day to work with former Miss Massachusetts 2001 and first runner up to Miss America, Abbie Rabine. Thank you so much for preparing this wonderful trip Tina and Gary, and thank you Abbie for spending your whole day with us. You are truly an inspiration.

Miss NH 2011 Public Voting

2011-03-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

The public is being invited to vote for two contestants who will join ten contestants selected by a Panel of Judges as semi-finalists in the 2011 Miss New Hampshire Competition April 28, 29 & 30, 2011, at the Stockbridge Theatre at Pinkerton Academy in Derry NH. Voting will take place on the Miss NH web site and it’s Facebook page from April 1-27, 2011. Get ready to mark your calendars this week and become a 'fan' of Miss New Hampshire on Facebook.

-Lissa

Dancing with the Stars

2011-03-27T16:31:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night, March 26th my partner Danny Woodman and I took home the title of grand champions for the concluding season of 'Dancing with the Farmington Stars'. Two other former champions were vying for the grand champion title. Danny and I performed a Cha-Cha to Dynamite by Taio Cruz and a freestyle routine to Shake It by the Metro Station. All proceeds went to the Farmington Park and Rec Center's after school and senior activities program. For a great write up visit Fosters.com!

Strike Out MS

2011-03-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Thursday, March 24th I caught the end of Miss Strafford County's fundraiser at Dover Bowl, 'Strike Out MS'. Here with Miss University, Kacie Ferraro trying to go for our double strike out. Congratulations Kamilah on raising over $1,000 for MS! It's still not too late to donate by going to http://www.active.com/donate/OrangeBowl.

'Carribean Cruise Night'

2011-03-22T05:24:00.000-07:00

March 12th was a 'Caribbean Cruise Night' fundraiser at Church's Landing in Meredith for the Lakes Region Boys and Girls Club. Miss Weirs Beach and I arrived at the cocktail hour and sold five dollar keys for a chance to open the pictured treasure chest that contained an overnight stay at Church's Landing and fifty dollars cash. The night continued with silent auction, dinner, live auction and dancing. Congratulations on a successful fundraiser.

No Strings Attached

2011-03-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

As one of the Norris Cotton Cancer Center committee members it was a privilege to be apart of the first collaboration between the Nashua Symphony Orchestra and the Norris Cotton Cancer Center Friends. The fundraiser was titled, "No Strings Attached". Only the wind instruments were conducted on stage in the benefit for the Cancer Center. The evening consisted of a pre-performance cocktail hour at the Adult Learning Center in Nashua, and of course an exquisite evening conducted by Jonathan McPhee, Music Director and Principal Conductor for the NSO. Here with Eric Valliere, Nashua Symphony Orchestra executive director, Brian Lavoie, the esteemed NSO trustee who headed up the collaborative evening, and proud supporters of the 'Friends'. Looking forward to next year.

National Pancake Day

2011-03-03T14:09:00.000-08:00

March 1st was the annual National Pancake Day for the Children's Miracle Network. IHOP set a goal for 2011 to raise more than $2.3 Million dollars for the cause. I was up early before classes at the University of New Hampshire at the IHOP in Newington, NH. I spent my hours greeting customers and informing them of the excitement of the National Pancake Day benefit for CMN, and handing out and helping people sign or hang their balloon donations up on the wall. Thank you to the owner, Bob, and one of the managers, Alice, for participating once again in National Pancake Day.

Zumbathon for Children's Miracle Network

2011-03-03T13:49:00.000-08:00

February 26th I was invited to join and teach at M.C. Archer's, Miss Greater Derry 2010-11, Zumbathon for the Children's Miracle Network. The two hour cardio-dance party was held at Best Fitness in Nashua, NH. More than sixty attendees and volunteers raised more than $700.00 for the Children's Miracle Network. What a fun afternoon getting nice and sweaty for such a great cause.

Holy Rosary Credit Union

2011-03-02T21:27:00.000-08:00

Here with Mr. Brian Hughes, president of the Holy Rosary Credit Union, and proud supporter of the Miss New Hampshire Organization. Congratulations on receiving Dover's 2011 'Business of the Year' award! Thank you so much for supporting me over the last three years. Visit www.hrcu.org for more information.

Bill and Bob's Bridal Show

2011-03-02T19:27:00.000-08:00

February 20th I was invited back to model for one of Bill and Bob's annual bridal fashion shows held in York Harbor, M.E. All of their bride and bridesmaid dresses were so beautiful that I got to wear. Thank you to Diane for inviting me to participate on the runway. I had a wonderful afternoon. Planning your wedding and need the perfect gown? Visit Bill and Bobs Bridal Salon in the Fox Run Mall in Newington, NH.

Miss NH's Outstanding Teen

2011-02-25T13:31:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the new Miss New Hampshire's Outstanding Teen...Lauren Percy! I loved watching some of the most beautiful, talented, and passionate teens compete for the coveted crown. They were all very impressive. However, one young lady won over the judges with her stunning talent, poise and confidence on stage in fitness, gown and onstage interview. I know you will have a wonderful year Lauren. I will be cheering for you in Orlando this Summer!

Latchkey Ice Car Racing

2011-02-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 29th was the twenty seventh annual Latchkey Ice Car Races on Berry Pond in Moultonboro, NH to benefit the Norris Cotton Cancer Center. Over the years the races have brought in over $212,000 for the NCCC at Dartmouth- Hitchcock Medical Center. I had a wonderful time experiencing ice car racing for the first time and promoting the Norris Cotton Cancer Center to the many spectators on the pond. For a more detailed write up on the races visit the Union Leader. Congratulations on a successful event Lakes Region Ice Racing!

The Passionate Cast...

2011-01-30T19:46:00.000-08:00

Passion on Ice 2 Photos

2011-01-30T19:32:00.000-08:00

Introducing some of the captured moments from the celebrity skaters at Passion on Ice II...

Passion on Ice Thank You

2011-01-23T06:56:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much to all of the 'Passion on Ice 2' team volunteers and all the passionate skaters that made this event such a phenomenal success. A special shout out to Kamilah Fucci, Miss Strafford County, Lauren Percy, Miss Strafford County's Outstanding Teen, Brittany Freeman, Miss Gate City, Trisha Tidd, Elaine Tidd, Pat McNulty, Ray Pasquale, Lisa Berry, The Dover Arena, The Skating Academy/SCNH, US Figure Skating, FMusselman's, The Skating Club of Boston, Beth Duxbury, Lynda Hathaway, Jen Hurley, Alice Sedgwick, Max Pickett, Blue Dolphin Screenprinting, Joanne Houghton, and The Silk Family. The 'Passion on Ice 2' team is grateful for the many efforts and support of Sarahjayne Howland working tirelessly for such great causes. Thank you! Event pictures to follow soon.

PSA for Passion on Ice

2011-01-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

Here at the Clear Channel Radio recording studio in Portsmouth, NH with my friend Justin McIsaac working on a PSA for 'Passion on Ice II' which is coming up fast...January 22nd 2:30pm at the Dover Arena. Join me and a cast of the most talented New England skaters featuring the 2011 New England Champions, Jessica Lin and Matthew Swinton, New England medalists, and Dover's own Sharper Edge synchronized skating team for a fantastic show to benefit the Children's Miracle Network and the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition. I always love visiting the WERZ recording studio! A special thank you to the amazing Elizabeth Tretter from WERZ 107.1 and Justin McIsaac from WHEB 100.3 for your support.

Miss Auburn Preliminary

2011-01-18T19:31:00.000-08:00

Saturday evening on January 8th was the Miss Auburn Scholarship Program pageant. Many local title holders attended dressed in evening gowns in support of Miss Auburn's fun theme,"She works hard for the money". I had the privilege of inviting the audience to my second annual event, "Passion on Ice II" as we were asked to talk about any events we were currently working on. Congratulations to the new Miss Auburn, Asheley Chaput, and a special congratulations to my friend, Heather Comstock, on first runner up in her first pageant.

Colonial Classics 2011

2011-01-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

I volunteered to travel with the Sharper Edge synchronized skating team out of Dover, NH to be a makeup/ hair assistant as the team competed at the Colonial Classics competition in Lowel, MA on January7th- 8th. I was so proud of my sister, Tiffany, and all the other girls on the team for finishing with silver medals! The Sharper Edge skated beautifully. Come watch them perform once again this Saturday, January 22nd 2:30pm at the Dover Arena for 'Passion on Ice II' to benefit the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition and the Children's Miracle Network. Tickets are $10/ adults and $5/ students.

Miss America 2011 Voting

2011-01-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

The Miss America preliminary shows begin tonight in Las Vegas. Help support our Miss New Hampshire, Krystal Muccioli, by participating in the Miss America Video Contest! The contestant with the most votes earns the sixteenth spot on the final night. You can vote all four ways:

--Using your mobile phone, text MANH to 24470.
--Vote for your favorite contestant's video via the links provided at MissAmerica.org/VideoContest.
--"Like" your favorite contestant's video at Facebook.com/MissAmericaOrganization, via the links provided under the “VIDEO CONTEST” tab.
--"Like" your favorite contestant's video at YouTube.com/MissAmericaOrg.

Second Annual Passion on Ice

2011-01-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

On January 4th I had a TV interview with Dover's Ch 22 for the second annual 'Passion on Ice' happening at the Dover Arena on January 22nd 2:30pm-4:30pm. 'Passion on Ice II' will benefit the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition and the Children's Miracle Network. I'm thrilled to have some of the most talented local skaters, synchronized skating teams, and New England Champions take on the ice for such worthy causes during both Miss America month and National Skating month! Tickets are $10.00/ Adults and $5.00/ Children.

An 1836 Nutcracker for Breast Cancer

2010-12-16T11:45:00.000-08:00

I recently finished The Nutcracker with Northeastern Ballet Theatre on the weekend of December 4th. And now tonight is opening night at the Music Hall in downtown Portsmouth, NH with Great Bay Academy of Dance. The 1836 Nutcracker runs through Saturday evening December the 18th. Also, for every ticket that is purchased ten percent of the proceeds will benefit the York Hospital for Breast Cancer research. Hope to see you there for a great show and a great cause! Video clips will be posted shortly.

Dover Holiday Parade

2010-11-30T10:16:00.000-08:00

Sunday, November 28th was the annal 'Miracle on Central Avenue' Dover Holiday Parade. I was honored to be asked back as Miss Winnipesaukee and a proud Dover native. Large crowds filled with excited children covered the sidelines of Central Ave. through the city of Dover. What a great afternoon with Kamilah Fucci, and Lauren Percy (Miss Strafford County and Miss Strafford County Teen). For more information on Dover, NH events visit www.ci.dover.nh.us.

Circus for Bella

2010-11-24T06:52:00.000-08:00

Saturday, November 20th a few of the local title holders volunteered at a fundraiser called Circus for Bella. Bella is an eight year old girl from Londonderry who lost all of her limbs to a life threatening infection. Circus for Bella sold out two shows at Pinkerton Academy! The title holders worked concession for one show and got to watch the other. Here with me is my little friend Keira who was sitting next to me for the circus. We both loved the show.

Miss Rockingham County

2010-11-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

Saturday, November 13th was the Miss Rockingham County scholarship pageant at Salem high school. Here with me is a future Miss University contestant, Heather, a friend of mine also from University of New Hampshire supporting the Miss Rockingham program on Saturday evening. A huge thank you to Paula Moore, the director of the Miss Rockingham County title for nearly a decade, for her everlasting dedication, hard work, and thousands of hours devoted to the Miss NH organization. We all love you Paula. Also, a warm welcome to Joy and Justine Barker who are now the new co-directors of Miss Rockingham.

Miss Berlin-Gorham 2011

2010-11-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

November 6th I attended the annual Miss Berlin-Gorham pageant held at the Gorham Middle School. Six talented local women competed for the coveted title, scholarship money, and a spot earned at the Miss NH 2011 competition. Congratulations to the newly crowned 2010 Miss Berlin-Gorham, Jennifer Clements.

Kathy for the Cure

2010-10-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

October 30th was the annual 'Kathy for the Cure' fundraiser hosted by Kathy Kerrigan, a local fitness expert and breast cancer survivor. The day consisted of nine hours of a variety of fitness classes in Pilates, Zumba, Belly-dancing, Yoga, TRX and more hosted at the Oyster River High School in Durham, NH. I had a wonderful time participating in a couple classes for the cure. All proceeds went to the Beyond the Rainbow Foundation which provides support and financial assistance to Exeter Hospital cancer survivors. Last year her event rose over $6,000 and Kathy hopes to surpass this as the donations continue to come in. For more information or to make a donation visit beyondtherainbow.org.

5k Carving a Trail of Hope

2010-10-25T07:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 24th I volunteered on the 5k run/walk course in Candia, NH for the Carving a Trail of Hope 5k to benefit the Children's Miracle Network. Over 70 runners and walkers came out on the crisp October afternoon and took to the beautiful trails of Candia for a great cause. Here with one of the runners Meghan Loring, and Miss NH contestant, Tina Gebhard, Miss Winni director, and in front of the Candia trails. Hope to see you there next year.

Family Halloween Party

2010-10-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 24th Miss Weirs Beach, Chantel Mccabe, and myself made an appearance in costume at the annual spooky Family Halloween Party at Funspot in Laconia, NH. Close to 2,000 people walked through the doors that night dressed as princesses, vampires, birds, ketchup, and more! Chantel and I had a blast juding the annual costume contest in six different age categories who all won fabulous prizes. Thank you to the Miss Winni directors, Tina and Gary, and to Pat Kelly for a wonderful night for all ages.

Making Strides Dover, NH

2010-10-18T20:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 17th was the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walk Dover, NH at Henry Law park. I was so proud of my team, Pink on Ice who exceeded our personal goal of $1,000! It was an also a honor to be asked to help open up Dover Strides with a Zumba warm-up right before the three mile loop. Dover, NH rose over $92,000 for the American Cancer Society which goes to support all of the many programs which help thousands of women, and men, battle their way through breast cancer every year. Last year Dover Strides rose $62,000 in 2009. Each donation made helps make more strides towards a day where no one has to worry about losing loved ones to breast cancer. A huge thank you to the Dover Strides committee headed by Allison Alper, to all the teams decked out in pink, and to all the local supporters. Check out the article Fosters for a great write-up and pictures of the event at fosters.com.

Hosting Macy's Shop for a Cause

2010-10-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

October 16th was Macy's annual Shop for a Cause where Macy's stores across the nation donate 25% of proceeds from a purchased coupon to local charitable organizations such as Make a Wish, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and local food pantries. It was an honor to be asked for the third time to be the emcee for the 2010 Macy's Shop for a Cause fashion show. Here with the 2010 Miss NH models and with Kevin Neal, manager of Macy's Newington, NH. Thank you for supporting such great causes.

OneBlaze Northeast Conference

2010-10-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

October 8th-10th I was one of the leaders for the OneBlaze Northeast Conference held at Camp Brookwoods in Alton, N.H. Over fifty teenagers from NewFrontiers churches across New England and Canada came together for a long weekend for guest speakers, times of worship with the 'Youth Band' (led by my brother Zach Silk, pictured with the guitar), and to perform different service projects down-town Dover, NH. One of them included cleaning, and re-painting the Dover skate park! Can you spot Miss 'Winni' in front of Lake 'Winni'? Or her little sister Tiffany? For more information on OneBlaze conferences go to oneblaze.net.

NH's first BJs Pink Picnic

2010-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

Friday, October 8th I was asked to emcee NH's first BJ's Pink Picnic hosted at the Hooksett, N.H. BJs location. Through the month of October BJs Pink Picnics are happening all over the U.S! It was an honor to host the first one in the granite state. Pictured with me is Dr. Roshani Patel and Dr. Gerald Gehr from the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Norris Cotton Cancer Center in Manchester, NH which is only 1 of 40 National Cancer Institute Comprehensive Cancer Centers nationwide. Dr. Gehr mentioned how many males he works with who are in treatment for breast cancer in N.H., and Dr. Patel blew my mind when she said the latest research this year shows that if a person spends a minimum of two hours of aerobic exercise per week then your risk of getting breast cancer is lessened by 50%. The Norris Cotton Cancer Center is working closely with Exercise Physiologists on developing exercise programs soon to be infiltrated into other hospitals, and health care centers. Take time to find two hours a week, to learn your family history, and also to schedule your yearly mammogram. It could save your life.

Apple Harvest Day

2010-10-13T20:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 2nd was Dover's annual Apple Harvest Day. For credit towards my dance major I spent the whole day working at the University of New Hampshire's Theater and Dance station promoting the 2010-2011 season at Johnson Theater. For a complete schedule of the UNH Theater and Dance Department go to www.unh.edu/theatre-dance. Come see Miss 'Winni' in the leading role on March 30th-April 3rd 2011 for the UNH Dance Company performance.

Tanger Outlets Fit for Families 5k

2010-09-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

September 25th was the Tanger Fit For Families 5k run/walk in Tilton, NH. The intent of the second annual event was to bring the community together and encourage a healthy, happy lifestyle and fight Breast Cancer. Proceeds from the 5k went to the LRGHealthcare. All of the Miss NH local titleholders were invited to volunteer during the race. I had a great time quickly handing off cups of water to the runners on the course! Special thank you to our Miss NH sponsor and chair of the Tanger event, Mike Buescher.

Gilford Old Home Day

2010-09-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

August 28th was the annual Gilford Old Home Day Parade! What a perfect day for the thousands of people that gathered down town Gilford, NH to see all the floats, fancy cars, and of course a special appearance by Miss Winnipesaukee and Miss Weirs Beach 2011. My sister queen and I won first place out of all the parade participants. A great smile, eye contact and a piece of candy for the judges was our trick to winning the award.

The Ironman

2010-09-29T19:59:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures volunteering at the annual Timberman-Ironman 70.3 marathon. This happened on August 21st in Gilford, New Hampshire right on Lake Winnipesaukee. I worked at the volunteer check-in tent, guarded the walk paths across the track to protect the runners and had a great time watching all different ages swim, bike and run to the finish line. For details on The Ironman 2011 visit ironmantimberman.com/index.php.

A Sad Farewell...

2010-09-20T05:28:00.000-07:00

It was such a privilege this year to represent the Strafford County Area. I have grown so much, established a greater network system, and met some of the most amazing local people who lead all different types of organizations such as The New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition, Relay for Life, Making Strides against Breast Cancer, Habitat for Humanity, The Dover Children's Home, Breast Cancer Stories and more. Although a sad day for me, I am so excited for the new Miss Strafford County 2011, Kamilah Fucci. She will be a great rpresentative. A huge thank you to my local director this past year, Sarahjayne Howland, for helping me perform to the absolute best of my abilities as Miss Strafford County 2010.

Miss Strafford County's Outstanding Teen is...

2010-09-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of co-hosting the Miss Strafford County Outstanding Teen, Pre-Teen and Little Miss Competition just a few hours before the Miss Strafford County Competition with my little sister Melanie Konstant, Miss SC Outstanding Teen 2010. Congratulations to Lauren Percy, Ella Campfield, and Keeley McIsaac.

Miss Strafford County Morning Media Tour

2010-09-19T15:52:00.000-07:00

Nine finalist made the cut to be in the running for Miss Strafford County 2011! The finalists, myself, and Krystal Muccioli, Miss NH 2010 went all around Strafford County thanking supporters, sponsors, and creating excitment for our 6:30pm curtain at Portsmouth Christian Academy. We were limo driven to the Rochester Fair, Hilltop Chevrolet's Child Safety Day, Federal Savings Bank (Official bank of Miss SC), the Empire Beauty School, The Salon @ 903 Central Ave, the headquarters of Benjamin Walk, West Wind Gardens, Walmart to help with the Children's Miracle Network fundraising, Da-Vi Nails, and lastly Panera
for lunch.

Krystal's Crockpot Cook Off

2010-09-19T15:24:00.000-07:00

September 12th was Miss NH 2010, Krystal Muccioli's third annual Crockpot Cook-Off at Haluwa Restaurant in Nashua, NH. All proceeds from the cook off went to the Children's Miracle Network, the national platform of the Miss America Organization. The food was delicious!

Bras Across the River

2010-09-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

Also on September 11th in Manchester, NH 95.7 fm WZID in conjunction with A Market Natural Foods presented the first 'Bras Across the River' event. Many vendors, local artists, and over fifteen organizations that deal with breast cancer were there. Admittance was a $10.00 donation and a bra to hang up on the bridge. Proceeds benefited the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition, Elliot Breast Health Center, The Susan G. Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society. I spent the afternon volunteering at the N.H. Breast Cancer Coalition table handing out information for their wonderful services to women, and found time to hang up some bras.

Zumbathon a Success

2010-09-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone who came out for the very first New Hampshire 'Party in Pink' Zumbathon. Everyone left nice and sweaty from a great Zumba work out and supported a worthy cause. Proceeds went to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Another big thank you to our fabulous emcee, Thom Fucci, from The Citadel Broadcasting Company, WOKQ 97.5, The Shark 102.1 and 105.3, and WPKQ 103.7. He even showed his support and up on stage with me to teach the 'Quebradita' dance.

'Party in Pink' Zumbathon

2010-09-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 11th at the Dover Hellenic Center from 10am to 12pm don't miss this 'Party in Pink' Zumbathon! Zumba has created a partnership with the Susan G. Komen Foundation now through October 31st to help create awareness and provide more funding for breast cancer research. Zumba fitness professionals Diana Post, Harmani Erhart and myself will lead two hours worth of Zumba for the Cure. These pink Zumbathons are happening all over the country now, but this is the ONLY New Hampshire event. See you there decked out in pink and ready to break a sweat.

Gillette Stadium

2010-09-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

August 26th I was serving hundreds of Patriots fans pizza, pretzels, cotton candy, fried dough and more at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA for one of the Patriots pre-season games. All workers were Miss NH volunteers at our stand to help keep bringing in scholarship dollars tor the Miss NH Scholarship Program. Pictured with all the lovely volunteers: Michele, Daniele, Deb, Tina , Sarah and Katie. Go Pats!

Last Peak Pilates Training

2010-09-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

I spent my last two days of Peak Pilates training on August 23rd, and 24th in Newburyport, MA at Progressive Bodyworks. Teachers from England, Austrailia, Belgium, Italy, Germany, and Hungary flew in for the advanced workshops. After three years of trainings I will soon take my over-all comprehensive Peak Pilates exam to earn my Comprehensive certificate. I will be the youngest Peak trainer in the world with this title. Pictured is me trapped in the Ped-o-pull with Master trainer Clare Dunphy, demonstrating some ballet moves on the Pilates Jumpboard apparatus, and with the two other U.S. trainers at the workshop, Carolyn and Meredith.

The Sharper Edge Camp

2010-09-04T20:13:00.000-07:00

August 17th-20th I spent a couple hours each day working with the The Sharper Edge synchronized skating team of Dover, NH. I choreographed a cardio dance warm-up routine for the girls, worked on core strength through Pilates, and even let loose a little with a cardio Zumba workout. What a great group of hard working teens...including my sister, Tiffany! Can you spot her?

Laurie's Ride for Breast Cancer

2010-09-03T05:34:00.000-07:00

August 15th was the 7th Annual Laurie's Ride for Breast Cancer at the Nashua Haraley Davidson. Over 150 motorcycle riders made a great ride around New Hampshire and finished at the Steve 'n James Tavern in Derry for a barbeque, raffle prizes, and dancing. All proceeds benefitted the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition. Pictured here with Laurie, and volunteer driver Loreen, Laurie's motorcycle riding friends, and volunteer Suzanne Rak, former Miss NH staff member, and former Mrs. New Hampshire. The big surprise for the day was two laps around the New Hampshire Motor Speedway! What a treat. More group pictures to follow...

Mr. Strafford County Competition

2010-08-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

Another great event I was involved in this past Summer was the first Mr. Strafford County competition that was held at the Dover Bowl. Six local celebrity men competed in the categories of onstage interview, swimsuit, and formal wear/evening wear. Will James, manager of Planet Fitness Dover, took home the coveted crown along with a giftcard and goodies from Home Depot. Dover Mayor, Scott Meyers, placed as 1st runner up, and T.J. Jean, Mayor of Rochester, in 2nd place. All proceeds from the night benefited the Miss Strafford County Scholarship Program! Read the full article on Mr. Strafford County at Foster's Daily Democrat.

OneBlaze Luncheon Fundraisers

2010-08-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

About every 3-4 weeks over the last few months I have been heading up luncheon fundraisers at Christ the King Church for the Youth Group teens to attend the upcoming OneBlaze Northeast Conference in October 2010. The weekend will consist of meetings with guest speakers, fellowship, and most importantly a variety of service projects that will be done throughout Dover, NH on Saturday, October 9th. If you happen to be in Dover that day be on the look out for bright colored T-shirts serving the city! So far over $1,300 has been raised from the luncheons.

Celebration Northeast Conference

2010-08-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

I spent a three day weekend recently at Gordon College for the annual Celebration Northeast Conference for New Frontiers International. I served as one of the Youth leaders for teens ages 12-15 during the weekend. Here with John Lanferman, leader of the USA New Frontiers from Missouri, and another New Frontiers Youth worker, Sherry Grammatic.

Miss NH and MB Tractor Golf Tournament

2010-08-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my birthday, August 9th, at the beautiful Laconia Country Club for the seventh annual Miss New Hampshire and MB Tractor Golf Tournament fundraiser. I was stationed at Hole 15 on the course and offered delicious shrimp cocktails for all the players as they went through. Here with Miss Lakes Region at my station, Caitlin McGlinchey. Thank you so much for all of your fundraising support for the Miss NH Scholarship Program Mr. Marc Bourgeois and MB Tractor.

The Mt. Washington Cruise on Winnipesaukee

2010-08-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

August 8th was the annual Miss NH cruise on the Mt. Washington on my lake, Lake Winnipesaukee! The cruise is another fundraiser for scholarship fund for the Miss NH Program. We had perfect weather, a lovely lunch, fun karaoke, and dancing. I'm pictured right in front for the 'Cha-Cha Slide' with other pageant contestants. Here also with Miss Weirs Beach 2010, Chantel McCabe (my sister queen), and my two Grandma's for the day. There's nothing like a good cruise on Winnipesaukee.

Bingo at Funspot

2010-08-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 14th was my very first experience volunteering at Funspot's Bingo Hall in Laconia, NH. Every Wednesday, the Miss Winnipesaukee Scholarship Program offers BINGO in Funspot's state-of-the-art bingo hall, located in the parking lot Funspot. I'm so thankful for all of the fundraising efforts from the Miss Winnipesaukee Program at Funspot as I was awarded $4,050 in scholarship, along with the title of Miss 'Winni' 2010, towards my education at the University of New Hampshire as a result. Come stop by any Wednesday to say hello to all the Miss 'Winni' volunteers and hopefully yell through the two story hall ...'BINGO!' Here with the co-directors of Miss 'Winni', Tina Gebhard and Gary Vincent after a long night of bingo.

The Miss Winnipesaukee Crown

2010-08-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

On July 11th I was crowned Miss Winnipesaukee 2010 at the Gunstock Mountain lodge in New Hampshire! The Miss Winnipesaukee Scholarship Program is one of the oldest running Miss America local state pageants in the country since 1925, and also one of the twenty-seven coveted local titles in the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program system. Along with the Miss 'Winni' title I also took home the overall talent award that evening. I am privileged to be graced with such a wonderful and historic Miss America local title. I'm looking forward putting my crown to good use in my year of service where I will be promoting my personal platform, Passionately Pink: Awareness, Prevention, and Support as I head into the 2011 Miss New Hampshire competition in the Spring.