Miss Minnesota 2009

For the last time...

2010-06-19T07:23:00.003-05:00

This is my last blog as Miss Minnesota 2009. This entire year has been such a blessing and I want to thank everyone who supported me.

The past two nights have been quite the rush. On Thursday we had our first Preliminary Competition where I performed one of my favorite songs: “Over the Rainbow” At the end of the night we announced two very special awards. Congratulations to Molly Jewison, our Miss America Academic Award Winner and Tiffany Schultsted-Peterson, our Miss America Community Service Award Winner.

Friday was our annual Golf tournament and then another night of preliminary competition. This night I performed the song “Let it Be” while accompanying myself on the piano. It was such an amazing experience to play and sing (my first time ever in public!) on the Miss Minnesota stage. At the end of the evening we announced our preliminary winners. Congratulations to Kathryn Knuttila, Quality of Life Award Winner, Lexy Okeson, our Swimsuit Prelim Winner and Siri Freeh, our Talent Prelim Winner.

Tonight someone’s life is going to change forever. I am so honored to be apart of the new Miss Minnesota’s journey, and to be a constant resource throughout her year.

I have a little over 12 hours left as Miss Minnesota, and I am so grateful for my entire year. Every moment created, every word spoken, and every person I met I will remember. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my year.

This is not the end… instead this is only the beginning. This is the springboard to the rest of my career as a performer, and just the start of my work with Children’s Miracle Network. You will see more of me, I promise ☺

Always,
Brooke

My Outstanding Teen

2010-06-18T06:39:00.006-05:00

Wednesday night was the Miss Minnesota Outstanding Teen Pageant, where we had to say goodbye to my good friend and sister Katlyn Ziegler. I want to dedicate this blog to Katlyn, for all the amazing times we had this year during our reign.

The Thursday before Miss Minnesota last year, I went with 16 other contestants to watch the new Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen be crowned. As soon as Katlyn was announced the winner I only hoped that I would be the one to spend the year next to her. Luckily I was.

I could not have asked for a better sister queen to spend my year with. Every appearance together I spent most of the time either smiling or laughing. Especially when we sat side by side in the Frazee Turkey Days Parade throwing candy, and one guy decided to challenge us and throw candy back. It nailed me right in the head.

Cheering Katlyn on at the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant was another incredible part of our year. The Minnesota cheering section was not only the loudest but the most visible with our neon yellow t-shirts! I still have mine and wear it more then you think ☺ Katlyn did an incredible job representing Minnesota at the teen pageant. She walked with such confidence, and played just beautifully. I could not help but tell everyone around me that she was my outstanding teen.

Since the summer I have had the opportunity to spend almost every weekend with Katlyn. Whether it was at a local pageant, collecting donations at the Mall of America, or riding in parades we were together. I really enjoyed the days when I was able to convince Katlyn’s mom, Roberta, to let Kate take the morning off from school to do an appearance with me. Who needs morning class when you can have pancakes at IHOP?

I have never had a sister, even though I still ask my parents every day for one, Katlyn filled that position this year. And I know she will continue to be in that role. For those who have met her, you know what I mean when I say Katlyn is someone you will never forget. She has already done so many amazing things at such a young age. I cannot wait to see what she continues to accomplish.

Thank you Katlyn for making my year so much fun, and thank you for becoming apart of my life. I look forward to the many more memories we will continue to create in the future. You have definitely made an impact on me.

Congratulations to the new Miss Minnesota's Outstanding Teen Katarina Akridge!

Always
Brooke

Bird On My Arm

2010-06-16T05:57:00.009-05:00

Miss Minnesota week is on its way! The girls arrived on Saturday to check-in and enjoy a night out of bowling. I had 2 shows that day, so I unfortunately was unable to attend. The girls are lucky they missed out on my insane bowling skills ☺ Last year I did get the lowest score… I guess you could say I am the best WORST bowler ever!

On Sunday, I woke up bright and early to finish packing and move into my hotel room. A huge THANK YOU to my family for helping me organize everything. This year I have my own room with a couch. (The perks of becoming Miss Minnesota.) I met up with the girls as they were making door signs for their hotel room doors. Since I had to head to the Quality of Life interviews, Miss Winona Lauren made my door sign. It looks great!

Congratulations to our five Quality of Life finalists: Liz Abbas, Bethany Beniek, Tiffany Gunderson, Kathryn Knuttila, and Allison Lordback. They all did a wonderful job on their interviews, and the judges have a tough job deciding who will receive the award.

Our first official appearance was at the Mall of America. The girls could not stop laughing at all the looks we were getting as we walked through the halls in cocktail dresses, crown and sash. For me it was another typical day as Miss Minnesota, I had done this walk so many times before. We had a delicious lunch at Panda Express, and then headed to Glitz for our fashion show. It was wonderful to see all the family and friends that came to support us. As soon as I saw my mom and dad, I gave them each a huge hug. I know I had only been gone for about 5 hours, but it still felt like days. I started the program out by introducing all the contestants, and then speaking on behalf of Gillette Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network. Glitz was very generous to make this day a fundraiser for Gillette by doing a silent auction and accepting donations. Before the girls started their fashion show, I sang a song off my CD, and then it was time to see the dresses! All the contestants looked beautiful, and the dresses were amazing. I was tempted to buy so many, but after this weekend I’m not sure where I will wear a long flowing gown.

We were able to chat with our supporters who came to the show. Thank you to the Miss Mankato committee who gave me an adorable Miss MN Bear ☺

Then it was off to a wonderful meal at Crave for dinner, and back to the hotel for rehearsals. The show is going to be so fun this year! If you have not purchased your tickets yet, you better arrive early Saturday evening. After rehearsal I was off to bed by 9:15! It was the first night in months that I was able to go to bed before 11:30 PM.

I was so excited for Monday morning as we were visiting Gillette Children’s. This was one of my favorite appearances from last year during Miss Minnesota week as well. When we arrived at Gillette we were greeted by the whole Gillette team: Andrea, Becky, Kate and Darlis. They had tables set up for us to make cookies with the patients and hand out autograph cards. Half of the girls made cookies while the other half would take a tour of the hospital and then they would switch. Since I volunteer at the hospital every week, I know the hospital quite well so instead of a tour I stayed with the cookie group. I had told the girls prior to this experience how life changing Gillette can be, and it was so rewarding for me to watch each titleholder interact with a patient and smile every moment. The delicious cookies made all of us hungry, so it was perfect that we had Panera right there at the hospital. It was a wonderful way to start our morning!

Then we popped the umbrellas back up, and headed off to the capital. Where we met with Lt. Governor Carol Molau. It was an amazing experience as she asked every girl, individually, about where she was from and their platform. Then we were able to learn about her job that is constantly changing day-to-day… sounds like the job of Miss Minnesota ☺

Dinner at Fuddruckers was full of little kids in the restaurant collecting all of our autograph cards and then back to the hotel for more rehearsal.

Tuesday started out at the zoo, which I have not been to since last year. It was a beautiful day and we were able to walk around until meeting for the Bird Show at 11am. As soon as we entered, I knew this show was going to be different. First, 21 girls in crowns and sashes makes any little kid curious, and the way we all sat in the same row made the perfect autograph line. Once the show started the host could not help but notice us. He even did a special presentation for us with a bird that looked like she was wearing a crown, with the “Miss America” theme song. But my all-time favorite part of the show was when the host, Dave asked for a volunteer. I raised my hand right away! Then he said this volunteer needed to be an adult, I kept my hand raised. Then he said this volunteer had to be very brave, hand still up. Dave then said the volunteer must have a dollar, and with my hand still raised I shouted, “oooo I have a dollar!!!” At last I was picked for the bird show. After folding the dollar up, I held it out in my hand and the bird fell to my arm and took the dollar. Except I didn’t see it since I closed my eyes as soon as the bird started to come towards me. Since the bird had to return the dollar, I made sure I kept my eyes open to watch the whole thing. We definitely have some great photos from that event.

The rest of the day we were at the Theatre running the show, and had a huge dinner at Buca’s. We are halfway through the week, and I only have 4 days left as Miss Minnesota. Stay tuned to hear about the preliminary competitions and who will be the new Miss Minnesota 2010.

Always
Brooke

Free Time? Nah.... I'm Miss Minnesota!

2010-05-31T20:04:00.014-05:00

Two weeks and counting until Miss Minnesota week starts, and we will crown a new Miss Minnesota 2010. As I try to squeeze the last few appearances in the time I have left, I am also writing my farewell, and preparing for my life after Miss Minnesota. The day after I give up my title as Miss Minnesota, I am right back into my show at Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, which will continue until July 31st. Then I will have a few weeks off, until I start school back up. I am looking forward to being a constant resource for the new Miss Minnesota, and continue advocating for Children’s Miracle Network.

The last few weeks have been quite busy, as most of my weeks are. With performances every night other then Monday, and Miss Minnesota appearances during the day.... Memorial Day was the perfect day to relax and spend some quality time with my family.

On May 14 at the Eagan Walmart we celebrated our new Children’s Miracle Network Champion, Bella Giraldo. I met Bella and her family at the Mall of America CD Release Party, and was excited to be apart of this special day for her. The theme of Bella’s Party was Princess, and I wanted her to feel like a true princess. With the help of my seamstress Chrissy Stoner, and Sundantz Creations we created Bella her own sash!

At the event I met up with Vicki Kueppers and her daughter Kathryn who set up the sound system. Then I chatted with the crew from Gillette, and the rest of the guests. It was wonderful to hear Bella’s mom, Rebecca, talk about how grateful she is of Gillette Children’s, and to see Bella’s face when I gave her the sash, and her own crown! I, of course, did not forget about her little sister Grace, as I crowned her as well! Then I performed the song “Part of Your World” from Bella’s favorite Disney movie, The Little Mermaid. If you are attending Miss Minnesota this year, you will have the opportunity to meet Bella and her family!

I am also spending a few of my mornings at Gillette Children’s volunteering with their patients. The hospital has been doing some remodeling, and it looks beautiful! I am excited for their new edition to open next fall. Also with being apart of the cast of Footloose, I was able to do a volunteer opportunity with my entire cast. We went to Feed My Starving Children in Chanhassen, where we were able to hand-pack meals specially for starving children. Since we needed to have 50 people volunteer I called on the help from some of the Miss Minnesota contestants. Miss Twin Cities, Kathryn, Miss Moorhead, Bethany, and Miss Mankato, Samantha were able to help out. We ended of packing 62 boxes, that's about 13,392 meals! It was such an incredible day! This year Miss Minnesota has welcomed a new sponsor, Coco and Chloe. They wanted to put on a fashion show with Miss Minnesota and the contestants. They were very accommodating of my schedule, and booked a day I had off from my show. Last Monday, at Majors in Bloomington they held a fashion show and a fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network. I sang my song “Don’t You Dare” and then quickly jumped into the fashion show!

I look forward to seeing everyone at Miss Minnesota this year! I better get back to working on my farewell, and finding my songs to sing for the preliminary nights! Oh, and my 8 show week ☺
Always,
Brooke

One Month to Go!

2010-05-18T17:45:00.005-05:00

I have not had a spare moment since starting Footloose. On top of performing 8 shows a week at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre and keeping up with my appearances as Miss Minnesota, my May schedule has definitely picked up. So this blog is a tad late but I thought I would update you on what I have been doing these last couple of weeks.

It is my one month anniversary performing with Chanhassen Dinner Theatre! I cannot believe I still have two and a half months of the show left. Who knew you could have so much fun at work? If you have not seen the show yet, I strongly encourage you to come check it out! Footloose is such a great show to watch, and this cast is so talented!

Before I was cast in the show Footloose, I took a job on Monday night’s teaching at Premiere School of Modeling for Faith Schway. Did I mention that Monday is the only night I have off from the show? The class size is 12 girls and they are all different ages. Some of the girls are looking into competing in pageants, some would like to try modeling, and others are taking the class for confidence. I have truly enjoyed working with all of the girls, and we always have a lot of laughs during the class.

That is what I have been busy doing when I am not wearing the crown. Now back to Miss MN appearances, I was invited to Eagan’s Wine Tasting Event at the Eagan Community Center. Luckily I was able to stop by for an hour before I had to leave for my show. I met up with Margo Danner (who has been a wonderful supporter of me ever since I competed in Miss Twin Cities) and we greeted all the guests who arrived. It was nice to see so many familiar faces from the area, and thank them for all their support.

Three weeks ago I attended the Miss Minnesota Workshop for all 20 contestants competing this year. Since it was on a Saturday I had to take off from my matinee show, thank you so much Maria for covering for me! The workshop was an all day event. We started with picking the contestant order, and then roommates (I found out that Miss Minnesota get’s her own room!!). We went over the entire schedule for Miss Minnesota week, what to expect, what to wear, and how to prepare. I remember one year ago when I was sitting where the contestants were, and I had so many questions and thoughts going through my head. This year I tried to provide answers to any of the questions they might have, and help put their mind at easy. The rest of the day consisted of presentations from our partners such as Gillette Children’s, YoungQuest Fitness, Arbonne, and Paula Preston. Then I was off to my show that night!

Last week was packed with appearances for Gillette Children’s. It started with the Grand Opening of the new Bruegger’s Bagels in North Oaks Village. It was a fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network as well. If you purchased a dozen bagels, part of the proceeds were donated to CMN. At the event we had the CEO Jim Greco and Head Chef Phillip Smith to kick off the grand opening! Bruegger’s Bagels in North Oaks Village was 1 of 5 stores that they were visiting! Phillip gave us the history on how the bagel and cream cheese from Bruegger’s are made, and he even gave us samples of their new Iced Coffee Coolers! As I was heading out the door to my show, I was handed a bag of a dozen bagels, and 2 boxed lunches. The rest of the cast of Footloose was happy when I brought them bagels to share in the dressing rooms.

The next day was an Art Gallery Fundraiser for Gillette Children’s. I ran into a lot of friends from Gillette who I had seen at the hospital and my CD release party. The artists were Gillette Patients! It was fun learning about their picture they painted, and having them describe it to me.

May 1st was probably one of the longest days of my life! I woke up bright and early to head over to the CMN Walk at Como Park. I started the walk off by singing the National Anthem, taking tons of photos and signing autographs. It was a beautiful day, and we could not have asked for better weather. A few of the contestants competing for Miss Minnesota were in attendance as well, and we were able to catch up a bit. During the walk I was able to see plenty of familiar faces, volunteers from Gillette, employees from Wal-Mart, and patients I had met before. For most of the walk I was with Gracie and her mom Linda. I met Gracie the year before at the CMN Walk while I was Miss Twin Cities. I then ran into her at the Art Galley where her painting was on display. Gracie always has a smile on her face, and continues to inspire me. I am so excited to have her come to Miss Minnesota this year!

After the walk was finished I was able to meet other families from Gillette, and hear their stories as well. The connection I have made with Gillette Children’s has definitely been one of the best parts of my year. After the walk at Como Park I drove right to Chanhassen for a matinee show and thankfully I was able to squeeze in a 30 minute nap before the evening show at eight.

The next day I was up bright and early again to emcee the MusicLink Play-athon at the Mall of America. I emceed last year as Miss Twin Cities, then this year as Miss Minnesota, and told everyone that next year I would just have to be plain Brooke ☺ MusicLink is an organization that raises money for music lessons for children in need. During the Play-athon we had students who had benefited from this program perform for the audience. All the kids were extremely talented, and I had the opportunity to perform as well. I look forward to next year!

On Mother’s Day my whole family ran in the Race for the Cure. My older brother Mike surprised us by coming home that weekend, and he joined us on the run. I am so incredibly proud of my mom who finished her first 5K run! My mom was Supermom this year with everything she did to help during my reign as Miss Minnesota. I would not be here without her, and I love her so much!

In four weeks I will embark on a new chapter in my life. When I think about giving up my title as Miss Minnesota, so many emotions run through me, yes I will be sad to see this year end, but relieved to have a little more free time. I am anxious to see who will be my successor, and excited for another girl to experience the year I had. I feel proud, blessed, overwhelmed, and honored because I did everything I wanted to this year, and more. Sure, some things did not go the way I had hoped, but there have been many astounding opportunities along the way. For these last four weeks I will cherish every moment I have as Miss Minnesota.

Always,
Brooke

Footloose

2010-04-15T14:22:00.003-05:00

All my life my Mom has told me, “Everything happens for a reason”. I think she was trying to console me when things didn’t go my way like: not being chosen for a solo in choir or a part in a show, or not getting into the top 10 of American idol. Every time she said it I would always think to myself, what does she mean? When will I find this reason? The reason finally came about two weeks ago!

I was home all alone while my family on vacation in Hawaii. I had the whole house to myself. I know all you college students know what I am talking about, because as much as I love my family, living at home after you have been on your own, in your own apartment, doing your own thing, let’s just say we all needed a break from each other ☺

I woke up that morning with a head cold, and planned my day to just sit on the sofa and write a blog, work on my new website, and answer hundreds of emails. Around noon my phone rang with an unknown number, if you know me I never pick up numbers I do not know… bad habit. I let it go to voicemail, and a minute later checked the message. It was Chanhassen Dinner Theatre asking if I could come in for an audition that day. They were looking to replace the person in the role of Rusty (due to maternity leave) in their current production of Footloose. Sing one song, and bring a headshot and resume.

I looked at the tissue box in front of me, and bag of halls cough drop and jumped off the couch and ran to the piano. I knew that voice or no voice I was going to do this audition, and I had only 5 hours to prepare! As I started to learn the song I had to perform, I got a message from my friend Ben who is currently in the show, Footloose. He invited me to watch the second half of the show to get a feel for what the director is looking for. Perfect! I have never seen Footloose before, and this will help so much! It did chop off two hours of my prepare time, but it was worth it.

It was about 30 minutes before I had to leave, when I got another message from Ben…. “Dress the part.” Well what does that mean? I grabbed my computer as I started googling Chanhassen, Footloose, and Rusty! Thankfully Chanhassen had some photos of the show on their website, ran up to my room to search for leg warmers which are popular again for dance class at the Conservatory. I had a pair of cowboy boots from a country performance I did a couple years ago when I thought I would become a country singer. Thank goodness I never cleaned out my closet!!!

Now, I had about 10 minutes before I had to leave, when I realized I did not have a headshot or resume ready. Thankfully I had a performance resume already created from Boston Conservatory…. Now where to find a headshot? My Miss Minnesota headshot will work, it is the most recent. As I attempted to print my resume, my printer decides to tell me it has no black ink. Now I have 2 minutes before I have to leave, and have no idea where the ink cartridges are. I send a frantic text to Hawaii to my Mom, Dad and brother Sean asking if they knew if we had any black ink cartridges. With the time change they were all still asleep, no response. I now begin to tear my office apart as I desperately look for a black ink cartridge! I’m about to give up when I try one more place under my desk, and HOORAY, an ink cartridge. My resume is printing and I start to look for my headshot on my computer, found it right away. Time to print… it won’t print. I was supposed to have left 5 minutes ago, and I start looking around my room for a photo I can use. And what to do I find….. An extra copy of the Miss America Program Book. I find the Miss Minnesota page and proceed to cut the circle picture of myself out of the book, my headshot ☺

As I’m driving to Chanhassen I get another call from them, audition has been moved to 3:45 can you make it? Sure, no problem. I make it to the show just before the second act begins. I’m escorted up to the directors room to watch the show, I felt like a VIP. I have never seen Footloose before, and I did enjoy the half I saw!

Time for my audition, I walked into the room with the music director, director and choreographer of the show. I felt as ready as I could be. I started to sing, and it just felt right. Yes, I had a cold, and yes I only had 2 hours to prepare, but I was not going to let them know that. After I sang the song once, they asked if I could take it up a key. Oh Boy, but when I started to sing once again it just felt right. After talking over my resume, and giving him my circle, cut-out, headshot, I was asked to do a monologue. I thought to myself, a monologue? I don’t have a monologue! What am I going to do, can I make one up?

I smiled and said, “Unfortunately, I do not have a monologue at this moment, but give me 5 minutes and I will come up with something.” 5 minutes to come up with a comedic monologue?? What was I thinking!! Then it dawned on me, I have been Miss Minnesota for almost 9 months, I know I have some funny stories from my adventures. Which one to choose? The time my crown was stolen? When I ran a 5K in my crown and sash? The time I had to use the men’s bathroom at Miss Brainerd Lakes and a guy walked in? Yup, that was my winner!

I felt pretty good after the audition, and was honored to even be considered for the role. Once I was home, I walked out to get the mail, and noticed two missed calls on my cell phone. I looked, and it was the Chanhassen. My heart started to race! I called back right away, and heard the words, “Congratulations, you are the new Rusty,” I did a silent scream in my house, and jumped up and down! Then I heard…. And you start in 2 weeks.

For the past week and a half I have been at the Chanhassen everyday learning the show. It is a different rehearsal process since the show is currently running. My rehearsals consist of watching the show, and teaching myself. I started on Tuesday, April 13th and the show runs until July 31st.

I hope you will all come out to see this entertaining show! My understudy will go on for the days that I need to attend my Miss Minnesota appearances, April 24th for the Miss Minnesota workshop, and the week of Miss Minnesota, June 13 to 19, but come any other time ☺

So, my Mom was right, everything does happen for a reason. Thank goodness I was home to answer the call when the reason finally came.

Never a Bridesmaid... Always Miss Minnesota

2010-04-15T14:02:00.005-05:00

It has been almost a month since I have blogged, and so much has happened!

On Saturday, March 27 I headed to the Mall of America to meet up with Katlyn, the current Miss Minnesota Teen to volunteer for The Great Minnesota Birthday Party for Cheerful Givers. I volunteered for the Cheerful Givers back in October for Make a Difference Day. I was hoping to see some familiar faces. Cheerful Givers is an organization that puts together birthday bags to give to families in need. In October I helped stuff 500 birthday bags! This time around we were collecting donations, to be able to make another 500 birthday bags. The mall was very busy that day with Spring break, Prom season, and Easter right around the corner. Thank you to all who donated.

From the Mall of America, my dad and I headed up to Duluth for the KTCO Bridesmaid Ball Event. This was a fundraiser for Gillette Children’s Hospital hosted by the radio station KTCO up in Duluth. During Miss America week the hosts of this radio station interviewed me about my work for Children’s Miracle Network. While on the air they invited me to this event, and having never been a bridesmaid myself, I wanted to see what everyone was talking about when it comes to bridesmaids dresses. I had to go!

Every woman who attended the event wore a Bridesmaid dress from a wedding they were in, at the end of the night the judges would announce the winners of specific division of the competitions.

The divisions were:

Disney Princess
What was the bride thinking?
Blast from the Past
Most likely to go home with a grooms men

It was quite entertaining seeing all the dresses, and I had a blast judging.

At the event I meet Becky, a Gillette representative, who had a few local kids that have gone to Gillette with her. She introduced to me, Emma, who was 2 years old, came to the ball dressed up as Bell from Beauty and the Beast. She was the clear winner for the Disney Princess award ☺ I also met Michael Rudd and his family. Michael was born with Apert Syndrome, his fingers and toes were fused together. He has been going to Gillette Children’s hospital for treatment. The third Gillette Patient who was in attendance was another Michael. He was 16, and made me laugh the entire night. We talked about American Idol, Math, English, and of course… our iphones. We were sharing our favorite apps with one another, when my dad chimed in. He said his favorite game to play was solitaire. Michael looked at my dad and then said, “Solitaire is an old ladies game…” It was the funniest moment of the night!

April 6, I attended an appreciation luncheon at the Science Museum in downtown Saint Paul for Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club on behalf of Gillette and Children’s Miracle Network. Wal-mart and Sam club and their employees have been have been sponsors for Gillette and Children’s Miracle Network.

As soon as I arrived I saw many familiar faces, Andrea and Becky 1 and Becky 2 from Gillette, Brandon Wittrock and his family and also Jon Galloway, Vice President of Gillette Children’s. I sang, and spoke on my experience at Gillette and then Brandon and I handed out awards!

On Thursday April 8th, I attended a fundraiser for CMN “A Night of Inspiration”. I was so excited to see Tyler, and his family again from National Pancake Day. Tyler and I love to talk Pokemon, and he just got a new gadget that he loved showing me! He even told me how to get one of my own. ☺ At the event I spoke to Brandon Wittrock and his family, and also a new patient named Rachel who was wearing her crown and sash from the Pageant of Hope that she participated in March.

Workshop for Miss Minnesota is only 1 weeks away!

Always
Brooke

Foxtrotting

2010-03-26T11:10:00.006-05:00

So when I was crowned Miss Minnesota I knew that there would be some interesting appearances where I would be asked to do things that I had never experienced before.

I think fox-trotting would qualify as one of those “things”!

For 5 weeks I had been learning how to do the Foxtrot at Arthur Murrays at their Saint Paul Studio for the Dancing with the Twin Cities Celebrities Ball for Susan G. Komen.

Five days a week for two hours I worked with my professional partner Nate. I learned that Nate is one of the top dance teachers for Arthur Murray across the country so I knew I was in good hands. Nate was a blast to work with and we definitely kept ourselves entertained throughout rehearsals. Although, he was not easy on me! He made sure I practiced every step over and over until it was just right! His analogies were just brilliant when he was teaching me. He always helped me find ways to get the move just right. Sometimes at my rehearsals I would get a sneak peak at the competition, Todd Walker from Fox 9 and John Hanson from Twin Cities Live.

In order to dance I had to purchase special dance shoes, I have dance shoes from school for tap, ballet and character shoes but ballroom dance shoes are different. They feel so much different when your feet are moving across the dance floor. So “my dance shoes” became very important because without them I couldn’t dance. One night after a late rehearsal I was trying to get home to get to bed for an early morning appearance and I lost one of my shoes. I didn’t notice until the next day when I was packing up for my day’s appearance and evening rehearsal. I was just so upset because I knew I could not dance without my shoes and I really didn’t want to have to go buy another pair. As I was driving to rehearsal I was trying to come up with a speech that would explain to my partner, Nate, why I only had one shoe. When I walked into the studio the dance instructors turned and looked at me with a strange look on their faces. After about 30 seconds one of the teachers said,”lose a shoe?” We were all laughing when I found out that I had lost my shoe in the parking lot on the ground!

The week before the big event John Hanson and I were invited to perform in front of the students of Arthur Murray at a dance party. I assumed I would perform my dance and then leave before the party started, Oh No, I was dancing the entire party! They started by calling out a dance “Rumba” and then you would grab a partner and dance the “Rumba.” Slight problem... I only knew the foxtrot. I had a lot of learning to do that evening! Thankfully most of the dance partners I had that evening where experts... until they called out the “Waltz” and I looked over and it was just John Hanson and myself. We thought we would give it a try... I wouldn’t say we were waltzing but we were in some way dancing

Saturday March 13 was the big event. That afternoon my dance partner Nate and I went to the Minneapolis Hilton, where the event was to be held, to run through our dance. We met up with Todd Walker and his dance partner Rachel and shared the dance floor for a while. Then I had the rest of the day to get ready!

My Mom and Dad and Vicki Kueppers came to cheer me on and to vote for me. As soon as we arrived I put on my sash and crown and started to campaign for votes. I tried to give out autograph cards for votes. It worked! The process for the night was everyone would dance, and then after each dance the judges would give a score. Then the couple with the highest score would advance to the dance off. The audience would vote for their favorite competitor and that couple would also dance in the final “dance off” which is why we needed to campaign for votes ! Each ballot cost $5, with the money going towards Susan G. Komen.

I danced second to last, and everyone before me was dazzling. One of my favorite dances was Christopher Ruevers from 107.1, he did a swing dance and it was fantastic! Who knew he could really dance! Before each dance they did a quick video of the couple together. I kept laughing because in almost every video from team St. Paul (4 of the celebrity dancers rehearsed in St. Paul and the other 4 rehearsed in Edina) Nate and I were in the background dancing. Just shows you that we really were there 5 days a week rehearsing! I was really proud of the way our dance went! I remembered everything Nate taught me, and had so much fun! The judges gave us 9,9 and a 10!!!! It was the only 10 that judge gave out all night Even though we did not advance to the dance off, I was so happy with our performance and excited for Todd Walker, and Julia Cobbs from 107.1, who were in the finals! CONGRATULATIONS to Julia Cobbs for winning the Dancing Championship! Her Salsa was something else and I hope she has no memory lost from being dropped on her head during rehearsals!!!!!! Also a huge thank you to Arthur Murray for all my dance lessons and putting on such a great event!

Aside from training for my dance, I had some other fun appearances to fill my time. As you know Children’s Miracle Network is the National Platform for the Miss America Organization, February 23rd was National Pancake Day and we had an enormous goal this year to raise over 2 million dollars to hit our mark of 5 million in the 5 years we have participated in Pancake Day.

I was invited to the Bloomington IHop early that morning to do Press with Tyler Schell, a Gillette patient, and his family. We had so much fun with MA Rosko from Kare 11, and preparing for our pancake-stacking contest. He was a tough competitor and although he came out on top, I had so much fun with him! The rest of the day was full of signing autographs, serving pancakes and collecting donations. I hope you were able to visit your local IHOP and have some pancakes

I also visited Cottage Grove Middle School for their Tour De Groove fundraiser for Gillette Children’s Hospital. They had students bike for 15 minutes each all day long, and also invited local celebrities to join. Now I can say I have done a 5K run in my sash and biked wearing it too! Congratulations to Cottage Grove for a successful fundraiser!

Two weeks ago I appeared at The Royal Experience in Maplewood held by Stacie McBride. The event was for girls grades K-6, and the theme for the event was “What is Inner Beauty”. The event started out with me performing for the girls, and then speaking about Inner Beauty.

After taking some time off from the gym after coming back from the Miss America pageant I am now back training for several 5K’s I will run this summer. I also will be riding my bike with my dad and brother again this year in the Diabetes tour de cure 25 miles bike race. I have been riding outside everyday 10 miles a day working up to those 25 miles. If you want to join me sign up!

Last year as Miss Twin Cities I hosted the Queens for a Cure breakfast and walk for the Race for the Cure on Mother’s Day. My mom walked with our Queens group and she said that next year she wanted to run in the race. Something about one of the things on her bucket list?? So this year she is training with me to run in her first 5K. She has down loaded an iphone App “couch to 5K” and has been running on the treadmill getting ready for the race in May. Go Mom!!!

Always
Brooke

Iphone, Welcome to Clearbrook, Minnesota!

2010-02-22T15:30:00.009-06:00

My first appearance after Miss America was the Miss Coon Rapids pageant. I was so excited to attend since I could not attend last year when I was Miss Twin Cities. After catching up on my much needed rest after Las Vegas, I was ready to perform, unfortunately two days before the Miss Coon Rapids pageant I developed a terrible sinus infection and lost my voice completely. Although I was unable to sing, it was fun seeing all the local titleholders, directors, and supporters from Minnesota. We had a special treat for the audience as the reigning Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, Jeanette Morelan sang a beautiful rendition of, The Climb. I am more and more impressed with Jeanette every time I see her! Congratulations to Allison Lordbock our new Miss Coon Rapids. We only have one pageant left until all of our girls are crowned for the upcoming Miss Minnesota pageant in June !

On March 13th I will be dancing in this years Dancing with the Twin Cities’ Celebrities. The event is a charity ball for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. If you are interested in attending here is a link with more information and where to you can purchase tickets!

http://www.arthurmurraystpaul.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=149:arthur-murray-events-march-13-dancing-with-the-twin-cities-celebrities-&catid=19:events&Itemid=107

I met my dance teacher, Nate, two weeks ago and we have been dancing almost every day together! I am starting to get use to all the new steps I have to learn: I have never experienced ballroom dancing before this, so you are all in for a treat! It is quite the challenge, thank goodness I have a wonderful teacher. I will keep you posted on my progress!

Along with dancing, I have been helping out at Saint Agnes School in St. Paul with their Singathon. It is a five hour long event where the students perform and raise money for their choral department. This year’s theme…MUSICAL THEATRE! Right down my alley. I worked with students individually on their performances and how to be drama kings and queens.

This past weekend I was invited up to Clearbrook, Minnesota for their Clearbrook Centennial Celebration. My dad and I left at nine in the morning and drove five and a half hours north. Clearbrook was worth every minute of that drive. As soon as we arrived we were welcomed with open arms. I was taken to the tea party for all the contestants, and judges. It was fun getting to know everyone and I enjoyed a wonderful cup of Green tea. For about an hour I lost my Dad! When I did find him he was in good hands. The senior’s helping serve the food for the tea party had taken my dad into the other room, and treated him like royalty as he enjoyed tea and cookies and sharing stories with all the seniors! He loved getting to know all of them, and was quite the hit of the day.

After going over all of the logistics for the pageant that evening, my dad and I went to The Piper’s Inn to put our things down and get ready. When I walked into my hotel room, my jaw dropped. I had a suite all to myself. I reached into my bag to grab my camera, turn it on… and realized my battery was dead, I forgot to charge it since returning from Miss America! Thank goodness for iphones! In the one corner of the room was a giant king size bed, in another corner about 3 couches, and my favorite corner… the Jacuzzi.

On the table in the middle of the room was a welcome card, newspaper story on my appearance, gift basket with their famous wild rice, and a purse with my initials! I later found out the purse was hand made by a committee members sister!

In my dad’s room was a gift for him too! A Clearbrook wind jacket! For dinner we were instructed to call the local pizza place, DaRoo’s. They delivered to our hotel room, and even brought me my own DaRoo’s Pizza sweatshirt!

The women running the Clearbrook Pageant were extremely organized and amazing. I received a script that was hightlighted where I needed to speak (I was the emcee) and they provided me with phonetic spelling so I could pronounce everyone’s name correctly. They didn’t miss a beat !! Right before the event began I was able to meet with all the other visiting royalty including Joanna Endrizzi, Miss Marshall County and Kaitlyn Maurstad, Miss Thief River Falls. I cannot wait to hang out with them again during Miss Minnesota week.

The pageant began and all the candidates and royalty were escorted in by the local firefighters. Then I introduced all the women running for Grand Lady of Clearbrook and Miss Clearbrook Centennial. This was my first time performing since Miss America, and it felt so good to be back on the stage. The whole pageant was so much fun and Congratulations to Norma Olson, Grand Lady of Clearbrook and Kaylah Nyegaard, Miss Clearbrook Centennial! I told Kaylah after the pageant that since I drove 6 hours to her pageant she has to drive 6 hours to watch Miss Minnesota! She agreed!

After the pageant we enjoyed cake, coffee, lemonade and socializing. I had a blast getting to know all the families in Clearbrook! Then the mayor surprised me with another sweatshirt!

My dad and I were up the next morning at five AM to drive home… Did I mention it was my Dad’s Birthday? Yea, he is superman. We kept one another company, talking about fun stories from the night before and listening to DJ Bubble’s on the radio.

As soon as I got home, I had to get ready for the Saint Agnes Singathon. I had joked with the students that if they were not dramatic during their song I would throw marshmallows at them. Who knew that the marshmallows would be such a hit! After every performances all the kids would throw marshmallows, it was our way of saying good job!

Congratulations to the Saint Agnes Choir for raising over $8,500 for their choral department. It was such a blessing to work with all of you. I was incredibly proud of all the performances and how hard you worked.

Tomorrow is National Pancake Day! I will be at the Bloomington Ihop from 7-12PM and then the Apple Valley IHOP from 4-6PM. Make sure to stop by and get your free stack of pancakes and make a kind donation to Children’s Miracle Network. Our goal is to raise 1.75 million across the country!

Always
Brooke

Miss America

2010-02-11T20:19:00.033-06:00

January 21 was finally here, the day I would leave for my adventure at the Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was one year ago I attended the pageant to cheer on our then current Miss Minnesota Angie McDermott and now it was my turn.

Of course, I could not sleep because of the excitement of this day finally being here. I was up by 4 AM for my 9 o’clock flight. After all 6 suitcases were packed my Dad and I were off. I was so thankful that my Dad was able to fly with me (he can check his luggage for free!) If I were to check in my bags the cost would have been over $400 dollars, so it was less expense for my Dad just to fly with me. Once I arrived at my gate I saw Miss Wisconsin, Kristina Smaby, she was also on the flight heading to Las Vegas.

When we landed in Las Vegas the Miss America staff and security greeted us, and they treated us like celebrities! We were picked up in Limos and taken to the Planet Hollywood Hotel where we were checked in at the VIP Lounge. I was told my roommate would be Miss Oregon and I was excited to meet her. My room in Planet Hollywood was much larger than the standard hotel room; we had 2 queen size beds, seating area, and two large clothes hanging rack for our entire wardrobe.

After unpacking and getting to know my roommate I had a fitting for my Production Number dress. I also had to bring my entire competition wardrobe for fittings and leave it in the dressing rooms.

Because of the rain that day in Las Vegas we had the Arrival Ceremony inside Planet Hollywood. Each State Contestant was announced and we had an opportunity to introduce ourselves and say a few open remarks. After all the state contestants were introduced the Quality of Life Finalists were announced. I was honored to be announced as a finalist.

The next few days were filled with rehearsals by day, and fun appearances by night. The dance for the opening number was so much fun to learn, and I loved everyone who worked on the dance with us. Barry, the choreographer was from Minnesota, and we instantly connected through our love for the Minnesota, Vikings. His assistants Brian and Stacy were just hysterical and kept the 9-hour rehearsals very entertaining.

Some of my favorite memories from the week were the Fashion Show, the Gondola ride, going to see Phantom of the Opera, and the Pole Position Raceway.

At the fashion Show we rode in a glass cube elevator that started in the basement of the mall and all 53 contestants rode it up to the runway which also rose up from the floor of the mall. It was really cool!

The night prior we visited the Venetian where we were serenaded by singing gondoliers while riding in Gondolas. Sunday evening we visited the Pole Position Raceway. I am proud to say that I was 2nd to last in my Race, which by the way, shows that Miss Minnesota is a very safe driver despite what anyone else may say! Congratulations to Lindsey Graham, Miss New Hampshire for having the fastest time! She and I became fast friends during the week. She has a great sense of humor and made me laugh all week and we have that” Theater Major” thing in common.

On Monday, Miss North Carolina Katherine and I had our lunch with Miss America, Katie Stam for selling the most Ad pages! It was a nice break for the Spice Market Buffet where we ate every other meal, hummus, anyone? ☺ During the lunch we were able to really hear what the job of Miss America entails, and some of Katie’s favorite moments from the year. Especially her time in spent Germany, and visiting all the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

On Monday evening after a long day of filming for TLC we were treated to a night at the theater. The show “Phantom” is one of my favorite theater shows.

Tuesday was the first day of competition for me, starting with interview. I had the whole morning to get my hair and makeup done and get dressed for my 12 o’clock interview. The 10 minutes in interview just flew by, but I felt very positive about how it all went. There had been so much hype about Rush Limbaugh that I was ready for any question he threw at me. Just like how I was ready for any comment Simon Cowell could throw at me during American Idol. At 21 years old, I can say that I have met both these two icons of our generation.

Tuesday night was the first night of preliminaries where I competed in swimsuit and evening gown. After my 15 seconds on stage for swimsuit, I felt like I had conquered the world. If you can walk on stage, and walk down stairs in 5-inch heels and a swimsuit… you can do anything. After we came off the stage there was a big birthday cake for a couple of the contestants that were celebrating their birthdays at Miss America that week. I think the funniest thing was watching one contestant just walk off stage and go right to the cake and take a big piece and start eating.

During evening gown, I felt like Miss America. I loved my gown. My hair looked amazing thanks’ to Rod. He made sure I went on stage looking my best.

That night at the visitation it was such an overwhelming feeling to see friends and family. I know I had only been gone for 5 days, but I felt like I had not seen my parents for months. Those 20 minutes were just what I needed.

Wednesday was the day I had been waiting for since I watched Miss America last year. I set a goal of singing on the Miss America stage at Planet Hollywood (which seats 7000 people) and I was about to achieve that goal. Wednesday morning started out quite early with my Quality of Life interview. This Interview was much more relaxed and the judges were former Miss America’s including Kirsten Haglund, and Heather French Henry. Then it was off to talent rehearsal! The first run through of my song was interesting. It was not the perfect performance I wanted, but it allowed me to warm up to the stage, and sound quality. Thank goodness for Vicki Kueppers, and her confidence in me. During the 5-minute meeting I had with her, she knew exactly what to say to make me perform. The second time I sang that morning, it felt much more like me.

Now I know I said in a blog earlier that when I sang the National Anthem at the Vikings Game that was the most nervous I had ever been. Take that nervousness and multiply it by 100 and that is how I felt before my Miss America talent. The moment I walked on the Miss America stage, it all went away. All I could do was sing. For the 90 seconds I had on the stage, I gave my song everything I had. I didn’t just sing I performed. It was the best performance I have ever given.

Even though I did not win my Talent Preliminary, I knew that I could not have performed it any better. Sometimes it’s not about being awarded for a job well done, but rather being proud of yourself for what you have accomplished.

By the time Thursday night Preliminary came around I already had 95% of my scoring done. My onstage Question was a no-brainer. They asked a platform Question, and I knew nothing could stump me. Unfortunately Thursday’s prelim ran quite long, and most of us girls did not get to bed until 1:30 AM! That night I also found out I had a 6AM radio interview… Friday I was running on 3 hours of sleep.

Friday morning I had an early radio interview with KTCO in Duluth. I had the opportunity to talk about Children’s Miracle Network and also my time in Las Vegas. The rest of the day we filmed for the live telecast of Miss America. If you watched, before and after commercials they would play short video clips of the contestants hanging out around Planet Hollywood. We started filming at 7 AM, and during any down time you would find most of us sleeping in chairs or couches. At one point while we were filming outside by the pool, Miss Missouri Tara and I were dead asleep on the pool chairs. They even gave us robes to stay warm!

Friday evening we had off from competition and attended the Evening of Dreams Event. My parents and some family also attended, and it was wonderful to see them during dinner. The event highlighted Katie Stam’s Year, and also had special performances by former Miss America’s including our very own Dorothy Benham! The most exciting part of the evening…Watching Katie Stam be proposed to by her boyfriend of 4 years. I can always say that I was there when Miss America 2009 became engaged!

Friday was also the night when the one-hour TLC special aired about Miss America. All 53 contestants rushed up to our rooms to catch as much of the show as possible. I will be honest and say I was quite disappointed in how the show made us look. I wish that the focus had been on what we as contestants had accomplished with our platforms and with volunteering for Children’s Miracle Network. These are the things that separate us from the other pageants; it is what makes us elite. The Miss America Program is not about who has the best swimsuit walk, or best pageant trick. It should be about the young women making a difference in their community, why was that not showcased on the show? I would have liked to have seen Miss New Hampshire’s platform issue Loud and Sound: Speaking Out for mental Illness show cased. She helped organize a successful fund-raiser for the organization held at the Sheraton in Boston with over 500 attendees. Lindsey also produced and directed a television program on mental health. Or how about our Quality of Life winner Taylor Treat, Miss Oklahoma. Seven years after being the product of service learning in her high school, Taylor spent the year focusing on reaching students from over 150 Oklahoma schools to spread the word about service learning.

Saturday still seems like it flew by. We arrived in the dressing room by 9 AM and stayed there all day. The day was full of rehearsals and then 2 full hours of preparing for the pageant. I could not believe how quiet it was in the dressing room while girls were getting ready. Miss Missouri, Tara and I snuck away to go spray tan one another in the Theatre’s bathroom. Some girls practiced their talents by the dumpsters, or did sit-ups by the snack table. Once the show started, there was no turning back.

After they called the last contestant for top 15, I was disappointed. Most girls at this point would start questioning what they could have done better, not me. I knew I could not have performed any better.

You can have the perfect dress, the perfect body, the perfect talent, and the perfect interview and still not come out as Miss America. I learned that this program is not about winning the title of Miss America, it’s about making yourself the best you can be. They only pick one Miss America. There are only 90 total, but there will also only 79 Miss Minnesota’s. I’m in a small group of women, some of them had the success of becoming Miss America like Bebe Shopp, Dorothy Benham, and Gretchen Carlson. I am also with a small group of women, to name a few, Jo Bender, Vicki Kueppers, Jennifer Ostegaard and Lauren Green who didn’t win the title of Miss America and still achieved incredible things in their lives.

For those of you who say I "should of": I "should of" wore a different dress, different color dress, higher shoes, I "should of" changed my hair, longer hair, shorter hair, "should of" wore different makeup, been tanner, gain weight, lose weight, had more muscle, "should of" listen to your advice...
I went to Miss America the best I could be and I am proud of that.

I have no regrets about my Miss America experience. It is another experience that will help me grow as a performer, and as a person.

One of the best things I took away from my Miss America adventure was the friendships I developed. I have talked to Miss Missouri, Tara every day since I have been home. Miss Iowa, Anne and I both went to school in Boston (granted she went to Harvard….) but we instantly connected through our love for the city of Boston. Miss New Hampshire, Lindsey is a performer as well, and we have a lot in common and had fun all week.

Thank you to all my supporters who came from Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Illinois, and Texas to cheer me on. It was so much fun to have you there in the audience and at the visitations. It truly meant a lot to me knowing you were there.

So before I end and head off to my dance rehearsal for Minnesota Celebrity dancing with the stars. I want to share with you this last little funny story about Miss America.

After the Saturday night pageant it was the parent’s job to find someone to go and pick up the contestants suitcase from the dressing room tent. So my Mom decided she and my older brother Mike would go and pick it up so my Dad could help my Grandmothers up to the visitation. Mike and my Mom were one of the first people back to the tent and unfortunately no Miss America staff was anywhere around to give them instructions. So they and a couple other parents saw the suitcases, picked up the correct one and my brother delivered it to our hotel room and they were done. They then joined us at the visitation and award ceremony. This is where I received my non-finalist talent award! So during the visitation I asked my Mom “Did you pick up my stuff from the dressing room?” She said “yes we put the suit case in our hotel room”. Then I asked did you pack up my crown and sash? My Mom looked confused? That is when she realized that they were supposed to go in and pack up my stuff, that the suit case was actually empty. She thought that I had packed it up during the show and the suitcases were all packed ready for them to grab. My brother and my mom ran back down to the Theater into to the tent area to find an empty tent with no one around to ask for help.

Which meant my entire competition wardrobe, makeup, crown and sash, and hair products were missing! But most important of all, I realized my cell phone was in my crown box ☺ After searching the hotel for a hostess, my brother saved the day by contacting the bellhop and found my things. I was glad to see a few other states down there as well, picking up there missing things including Miss Puerto Rico, who I had my first conversation with. We joked about the entire evening, and she said "we should have been up there on that stage tonight" I agreed.

So that is how my Miss America adventure ended.

Always,
Brooke

Thank you

2010-01-20T13:56:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow I will be joining 52 other girls for a once in a lifetime experience.

As I step out onto the Miss America stage I will be representing every person who helped me along the way.

When I look back on my journey as Miss Minnesota for the last couple of months, I am so humbled and proud of the things I have accomplished. I could not have done this without the support of my family, friends, sponsors, Miss Minnesota board and people I have met throughout the state of Minnesota.

On January 30th my life will change, whether I walk away with the crown or not. If I am chosen to become Miss America this will be an experience of a lifetime. If I am not chosen I will be able to move forward in my life and finish my education and pursue my career on Broadway. This has been an amazing experience and I am honored to be Miss Minnesota 2009.

Preparing for Miss America not only takes determination, and hard work but a team of highly trained professionals ☺ thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this process. Whether you donated towards Children’s Miracle Network, perfected my smile, worked out with me at the gym or gave me great words of wisdom, I am so grateful to be surrounded by so many supportive people.

Miss Minnesota State Board – Thank you for all the time you have put into my journey towards Miss America. I am honored to represent the Miss Minnesota Organization, and excited to show Las Vegas what Minnesota is made of!

Faith – There are no words other then, Thank you. I hope to give you the best birthday gift ever this year, on January 30th, 2010.

Chrissy – You are my seamstress goddess. You make everything look just right, and give me the confidence I need to strut my stuff on the Miss America stage. Thank you for all your time spent working on my wardrobe.

Vicki – I would not be standing on the Miss America stage without your support. You have helped me push through this entire journey. Thank you for helping me see opportunities I never knew existed.

Lifetime Fitness – Thank you to all the staff for being so supportive of my road towards Miss America. I will miss seeing all of your faces… ☺

Judy Beyer – My squats and lunges will never be the same since meeting you!

Jason and Kris - I am very grateful YoungQuest Fitness has become a Miss Minnesota sponsor this year. Thank you for all the intense workouts, and motivational talks.

Keith – You are my fitness guru. I never thought I would ever run speed 14 on the treadmill, but you showed me otherwise. I am very grateful for you and your entire team at Anytime Fitness. Also Miriam and Ben run the best Boot camp ever!

Sandra – You have accomplished the unthinkable, making me tan ☺ Thank you!

Rejuv Skin and Laser Clinic – I had no idea how much easier Laser Hair Removal was going to make my life. Thank you for your generosity!

Dr. Crutchfield and Staff – My skin has never looked better! You are too good to me. Thank you for making sure I look my best on the Miss America stage.

Glitz – I am in love with every dress and every piece of jewelry from your store. I am so lucky to have such a wonderful dress shop sponsoring me!

Regalia – Carry and David, both of you have been such a joy to work with. I know I tried on over 100,000 evening gowns but you helped me the best!

The most important people I have to thank are my parents, and brothers. My family is the backbone of my support system, and I am blessed to have such giving parents. Thank you for supporting me in this incredible opportunity.

One week from tonight I will be performing my talent on the Miss America stage. I promise to make all of you proud through the words I speak, and the actions I take.
Las Vegas, HERE I COME!

Always
Brooke

On a plane...tomorrow!

2010-01-20T13:43:00.002-06:00

Here is a quick update of what I have been doing lately, other then spending hours at the gym, finalizing wardrobe, and finally finding the perfect way to tan!

Last Friday I visited the WCCO’s Let’s Kick Hunger Day Radiothon. I was able to do a quick interview on the radio, sharing all the details about the Miss America Pageant. In one day WCCO Radio raised $190,000 to benefit Taste of the NFL and Second Harvest Heartland. Congratulations! If I have the incredible opportunity to become Miss America, I will be working with the Taste of the NFL the following week during Super bowl! Fingers crossed ☺

Saturday was my send off party to Miss America. Huge thank you to Augustana Church in St. Paul for letting us host the event in their venue!

We were planning to visit Gillette Children’s Hospital before my send off, but unfortunately the volunteer we were working with became ill. Instead I spent 2 hours bonding with all the local titleholders competing for Miss Minnesota ☺ it was fun to get to know them, and answer any questions they had about competing, my Miss America preparation or my year in general.

Before the meeting ended I was whisked away to speak to the local directors for a moment, and then off to get ready for my send off presentation. Since my opening number dress and swimsuit were still not here it was a short and sweet show. I was able to show a couple of the outfits I will be wearing while out in Las Vegas. I also performed my talent, and ended my send off with one of my favorite songs, “On My Own.”

It was so wonderful seeing everyone who came out to support me. Whether you are coming out to Las Vegas, or throwing your own Miss America party, I am so thankful to have you cheering me on! (If you are having a Miss America party I would love for you to send me photos!)

The rest of the time has been filled with wardrobe fittings, shopping trips, workouts, tanning sessions, and mock interviews.

I also had an appearance on 107.1 Living Life Out Loud with Lori and Julia. They are so much fun, and this was my second time on their show, the first time was at the State Fair. I am looking forward to battling it out on the dance floor with Julia for Twin Cities Dancing with the Stars, which will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. More details to come after Miss America!

Always,
Brooke

Three Weeks

2010-01-01T19:26:00.021-06:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I cannot believe that it is already 2010!! The theme for this blog seems to be “3 weeks”, since it has been that long since I updated everyone, and in less than 3 weeks I will be in Las Vegas with 52 other girls competing for the title of Miss America.

December 30th, 2009 at 10:59 PM CST, was the deadline for raising money for Children’s Miracle Network. Thank you to everyone who donated to my account by either purchasing a CD or making a cash donation.

It was a horse race until the end. Miss Louisiana, Miss District of Columbia and myself, Miss Minnesota all going back and forth with a final push for donations. All day long I had donations coming in to my account and I planned on making one large final donation from my CD sales right before the deadline. I wanted to wait so I could make sure that all CD sales for that day would count to reach my goal of 12 thousand dollars.

With about 10 minutes to go, I visited my CMN home page and clicked on “Donate Now.” I filled out all the information for the donation, and I was so excited to see where my grand total would be. It was crazy at my house, my dad was talking on the phone with people getting donations, my mom was moving money from the PayPal account from CD sales, People were texting me what the totals were and then it happened. I screamed “Oh NO”!!!!!! When I hit donate, my money from my CD sales somehow when into Miss Louisiana account.

Everyone one came running into the office and after a few moments of panic, I called and spoke to a CMN representative. I had to laugh because they knew me right away and asked what’s wrong, you see this is the second time this has happened to me when I transferred money in from my CD sales so I knew that CMN would figure it all out. I think the CMN computers were working overtime and things got a little crazy towards the end. On Monday morning everything will be figured out and my totals will be corrected. The great news is that all this money goes to help children and families and that is the most important thing of all.

The grand total for Children’s Miracle Network from the state of Minnesota (drum roll please)

$12,407!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations to Katherine Putnam, Miss Louisiana, for raising over $13,000 for Children’s Miracle Network!

Now let me take you back to three weeks ago (I told you it was going to be the theme) when the Holidays in the Kilgarriff household began.

I always start the holidays off with my annual creation of our Christmas gingerbread house, and I try to outdo myself each year. This year the theme was the princess gingerbread house. The frosting was hot pink, and of course I decorated the house with a huge crown on the back!

Now that the holidays are almost over, the other Kilgarriff family tradition which my brothers find very entertaining is how to destroy the annual gingerbread house that I have worked so hard to create. Last year they tried to blow it up using fireworks. It just caught on fire and we all watched the Santa toy melt and the smell of sugar burning. My Brother Sean has made some suggestion this year the first was shoot a flaming arrow into it, Mom vetoed that one. Drop it from the roof, throw footballs at it, run over it with the SUV, (yes, you can tell these are all the ideas of a 15 year old boy with his drivers permit.)

Back to the holidays, all the traditions were the same this year. While driving to cut down our Christmas tree we played our Christmas song game. Each person goes around and sings part of a Holiday Song. If you cannot think of a song, you're out and we go around until we have a winner. I have been the reigning champ for the past 3 years now!

My brother, Sean and I found the perfect Christmas tree. That was just before my dad and I both fell in an unexpected hole at the tree farm. No one was hurt, just a mouth full of snow!

Next on the list was our annual picture with Santa Claus. My Mom last year made an appointment with our favorite Santa that we have seen for the last 17 years at the Mall of America. But this year everyone must have decided to make appointments instead of waiting in line for Santa so when she tried to get an appointment they were full. So she asked me if it was "Ok" if she pulled the Miss Minnesota card to see if we could get an appointment. This is sort of like a get out of jail free card in Monopoly you only get one per year and my Mom had not used hers yet. My Dad had already used his! So my Mom called back and asked if we could be placed on the waiting list and she just happen to mentioned that I was Miss Minnesota and wanted to take a photo with Santa. It worked and she got a call back in less than 5 minutes with a time for our annual Santa photo. It was good to see Santa again and he was surprised when I showed him my crown and sash…. I even let him wear it in the photo!

I know everyone wants to know what did this year’s matching PJ’s looked like. Monkey Gingerbread men. Yes, I did say Monkey Gingerbread men, they are awesome!

In the midst of all the Christmas joy, I performed the National Anthem at the Serving Our Troops Ceremony at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium. This was an incredible ceremony that honored troops over seas. Families who had servicemen in either Iraq or Kuwait could visit with them via satellite and enjoy a holiday feast with all the trimmings! It is such a blessing to meet the parents, spouses and children whose family members are defending our country.

Later that day I visited The Patriot radio station again with Mitch Berg. We talked for about 30 minutes about my preparations for Miss America, and Children’s Miracle Network. Last time I visited with him was at the State Fair, and things were a little different. I was able to wear the radio head phones this time around, since no one could see me with my crown on. They had a webcam that was broadcasting the interview, so no slouching during commercial breaks!

The following week I was invited to do Celebrity Bell Ringing at Southdale Mall. It was fun to see John and Elizabeth from Twin Cities Live, and other local news anchors. While ringing my bell (which I have multiple techniques now) a dollar floated from the sky into my hands. Whoever was on the third floor and donated towards the Salvation Army, Thank you!

This past weekend I sang the National Anthem at the Timberwolves game, and they won! I have performed for every Minnesota sports team except the Minnesota Wild and Minnesota Swarm... So far every Minnesota Home Team has won when I sing the National Anthem, so I am just saying if you are in need of a win call me! (Here is the video from the game... remember my father is video taping!)

A couple days after Christmas I performed at a Holiday party on Summit Avenue in St. Paul. The house was a beautiful old mansion with a marbled floor foyer and a circle stair case, it even had a ballroom on the second floor. The party was hosted by a Music producer here in the Twin Cities and many local music artists performed. I performed a Christmas song and one of the songs from my CD. I had the opportunity to talk about Children’s Miracle network and sell CDs. It was fun to hear all the children sing Christmas carols and enjoy performances of other musical artists.

Still waiting on the roommates, and I cannot wait to find out! Hopefully it will come soon!

Also my Mom has blogged again in what I will call “Crystal AB HF SS20”!

Always,
Brooke

MOM BLOG

Happy New Year

Thank you to everyone who has supported Brooke this past year with her efforts to raise funds for Children’s Miracle Network.

As of December 30, 2009 at midnight we believe Brooke raised over 12 thousand dollars for CMN. We will not know the exact amount until CMN has a chance to deposit all donations and checks, but we think that Minnesota is the second highest contributor. Again, Thank you to everyone who supported this cause, whether you purchased a CD or made a cash donation, you have made a difference in the life of a child who needs medical care.

It is exactly 20 days before Brooke leaves for Miss America and I thought I would give you an update on where things are at this point.

Right now Brooke is focused on working out with her trainer and meeting with the seamstress doing alterations on her wardrobe. As well as working on tanning. Yes, that tanning thing again. There is so much to do in such a short time, shoes to be bought, make up to be matched and hair to be styled.

Brooke's evening gown arrived a couple days before Christmas and I thought about hiding it and putting it under the tree for her, but she was home when it arrived at the door. Brooke and I had traveled to New York in October to meet with dress designer Stephen Yearick to create a custom gown, so we were excited to see how the gown had turned out. It is Beautiful!!!!! This gown will be added to the other gowns we purchased from Sherri Hill, and Brooke will have the difficult decision in picking which one she will wear.

This was Brooke’s first time competing in the Miss Minnesota pageant so she did not have a lot of gowns to use for Las Vegas. Each night of the Preliminaries in Las Vegas Brooke needs to wear what they call a ramp gown for the end of the night as awards will be announced. So we needed 4 gowns!

Brooke received information about ordering swimsuits on December 21, so we are not sure if they will be here in time for the Send off Party. They promised to have them shipped by January 11th that would be 2 days after the send off party. Miss America has a sponsor for the swimsuits and Brooke was able to pick 2 free swimsuits from 6 different styles.

So what will I be doing with 20 days to go? Shopping for clothes! I think the sales ladies at Nordstroms and Bloomingdales think I am crazy. I go and purchase a couple dresses for Brooke bring them home for her to try on and return what doesn’t work for her. You may wonder why she doesn’t just come with me. Well she doesn’t have time.

I have also started sewing on beads and rhinestones onto her gowns. I guess you can never have enough rhinestones. Trying to keep the cost down I told the seamstress I would go ahead and order the rhinestones online and she wrote down the website where I could order the stones. I am good on the computer but this website for rhinestones and beads had me just baffled. I would put in the order number that she wrote down for me and it would come up “sorry could not find”. I tried searching, but crystal AB HF ss20 could not be found. The seamstress had to walk me through it over the phone to find the stones we needed to order. I felt so inept.

I was also asked to go to the Bead It store here in Eagan to try and match beads for Brooke’s blue dress. So I put the little plastic bag of extra beads that come with the dress in my purse so I could use it to match the beads. When I got to the store there were tables with beads everywhere I knew my best chance of getting out of there quickly was to hand the little plastic bag to the sales girl and ask her to locate the beads in the store. I could not find it in my purse. I had to dumped my purse on the counter and use the little flashlight I received in my stocking for Christmas to locate that little plastic bag. Then I waited while this young sales girl counted out beads for me. The store was closing and all the beads were 50 % off that day. 275 beads later I was done.

I also need to find stuff that goes on the bottom of shoes so Brooke doesn’t slip and fall on the stage.

Oh and I need to put name tags on all her clothes and even her jewelry.

And I need to learn how to use a hot fix thing before the rhinestones show up!

Happy New Year
Miss Minnesota’s Mom

I feel like a Millionaire!

2009-12-09T13:10:00.015-06:00

I cannot believe that it is already December. As I sit on my workout ball, sipping green tea, and gearing up to watch Amazing Race (go Erika Dunlap former Miss America!) I realize the past two weeks have just flown by.

Let me take you back to last Friday when I visited Miss Minnesota’s sponsor Cos Bar. They had a special guest, Claudio, who was in for the day, demonstrating his brush line. I was his model for the day and he tried out lots of new makeup and brushes on me. I wish I could take him to Miss America to do my makeup. But I think he said something about an appearance on Martha Stewart!

Early the next morning I was up at 5 AM for my Kare 11 interview with Eric Perkins. On the show that day was Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Elizabeth Olson. She was crowned during the Minnesota State Fair, and her head was carved in a block of butter, during the fair. Elizabeth told me that her sister had won the title a few years back which means they have two heads of butter! You wonder where they keep them…

I had a blast interviewing with Eric Perkins. He is funny in person just like he is on TV. We talked about my CD and I was able to sing my song Don’t You Dare to promote the Mall of America fundraiser. In case you missed it here is the clip!

http://www.kare11.com/news/local/mornings/saturday/saturday_article.aspx?storyid=829375

That evening I was back to Cos Bar to meet up with the owner for the 50th and France Tree Lighting. I was invited to sing a few Christmas songs during the ceremony. I can tell Winter is here since I could not feel my toes, fingers, and nose after this appearance! Special Shout Out to Ally, Emily and Maddy!!

Sunday,the day of the Mall of America CD Release Party was finally here. A lot of planning and work went into this event and I am so thankful to everyone who volunteered, and came out to support the cause. During one of my songs, I looked up and saw the 4 floors of the mall filled with people looking down and watching the show. My favorite moment of the day was presenting the huge check to Brandon Wittrock (he is our Children’s Miracle Network champion from Minnesota.) While holding the check I asked Brandon how he felt? He said with a huge smile “I have never held this much money in my life, I feel like a millionaire!”

After a few days of sleep, it was back to Gillette to volunteer and meet with the Friends of Gillette, to review my job for the benefit the next day.

Thursday evening at the St. Paul Hotel the Friends of Gillette held a benefit honoring Barbara Nicholson. Barbara started the Friends of Gillette Foundation 25 years ago when her daughter Britta was a patient at Gillette. They have raised 3 million dollars for Gillette. I was the emcee for the evening and was asked to sing a song that was written for Barbara to “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” about Barbara. When I met with the pianist that day, she asked me if I had ever heard of this song before. I told her no, and she explained how it was from the musical Fiddler on the Roof. She then asked me where I went to school… I could not help but laugh when I said, The Boston Conservatory… for musical theatre ☺

Friday I visited the middle school I attended, Falcon Ridge for a school presentation. It really hit me that I was old when I walked through the front doors. It was a joy getting to see my teachers again, including my math teacher Ms. Hoffman and communications teacher Ms. Ruder. During my speech to the kids about goal setting, and achieving their dreams I secretly wanted to impress her. I hope I improved from my baking speech I did in 7th grade!

Saturday was Bell Ringing at Mall of America and then off to support Miss White Bear Lake’s Kids with Cancer Carnival.

I have one more piece of paper work due to Miss America this week and then everything is done!!!!!! On Thursday I will have a conference call with Katie Stam Miss America and Miss North Carolina Katherine Southard to flip a coin to see which one of us will have our own room in Las Vegas. Miss North Carolina and I both sold five ads for the program book so heads or tails will decided it.

My Mom and I have been shopping for this year’s Christmas PJ's, if you have been reading my blog since I was Miss Twin Cities you know that each year my Mom has given our family Christmas PJ’s. Because I am home this year I have been able to help her with this tradition. This is a very difficult task. Trying to find PJ’s that will fit all of us and match is tough. I like the one piece footed PJ's at Target but my Mom is hoping to see those go on sale before she will buy them. We are still looking.

Stay Tuned!
Always
Brooke

My very first Vikings Game

2009-11-26T11:22:00.025-06:00

As a performer you would think that when you are asked to sing the National Anthem it’s a simple request, we all know the song, have heard it a million times. But when you go to an event, there is always that one person you meet that wants to share the story of how a performer forgot the words or left out a line. This is when doubt sets in. Do I know the words, will I start on the right note, will the echo in the stadium make me lose my place etc... I love singing the Anthem of our country, it is a great honor each time I am asked to perform this moving tribute. But this time, I felt that nervousness in my stomach…

I was scheduled to perform the Anthem at the Minnesota Vikings home game on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. It was my first time attending a Vikings game, singing the National Anthem at a professional NFL football game, and singing in front of 65,000 plus fans.

My family and I woke up early and we where off to the Mall of America Field by 9 AM for my sound check rehearsal. The Vikings made me feel so welcomed, with the special parking pass which allowed me to park my car close to the stadium in their VIP parking lot. I met my contact Ren in the player’s entrance inside the dome. As Ren explained the plan for the day, she surprised my family and me with ten tickets for one of the box suites along with tickets for the Viking VIP lounge, and meal vouchers for the game. My Family also had access to go down on the field and take pictures as the Vikings came out of the tunnel for warm ups before the game. This made my Dad and Brother Sean very happy!

My Brother and Dad on the field before the game!

Heading to the rehearsal, Ren took us through the tunnel the players come through before the game. I was hoping to get a glimpse of Brett Favre! Now I know I sang the National Anthem at the Twins Game in the summer at the Mall of America Field but for some reason it looked a million times bigger this time around. I met up with the sound guys and I recognized them since working with them at the Gopher Game, and Twins Game. This made things easier because they knew I had a handle on how things worked at a professional sporting event. This was the first time I was given headphones to wear while singing, this way I would not get distracted by the large echo in the stadium. It made singing the Anthem effortless. I felt really good after the rehearsal, the nerves had not hit me yet.

Ren then took my family and me up to the VIP Vikings Lounge, where they had a HUGE buffet. I’m glad my family was able to enjoy it because I have a hard time singing on a full stomach. To pass the time we brought the board game, Blokus. I know what you are thinking… you brought a board game to the Vikings game? Well, we still had about 2 hours until I needed to go down to the field… and my brother Sean and I had unfinished business from the night before.

I have performed the National Anthem over 100 times, and I have noticed a theme. Every time I sing there is at least one person who reminds me not to forget the words. Luckily at the Mall of America Field, they play the words on the screen for the audience (and for the singers just in case!)

At 30 minutes till kick off, it was time to head to the field. As I waited to sing, I watched the football players warm up only a few feet away from me. I could see Brett Favre, and Jared Allen preparing for the game. Then all of a sudden the linemen came out… and the ground shook. These men were HUGE. My mouth just dropped as I watched them run past me.

I was able to meet Mr. Zygi Wilf, the owner of the Vikings and snapped a few pictures with him. I told Mr. Wilf about the Miss America Organization, and he said he would be watching for me!

Now 10 minutes away from singing the National Anthem… and the nerves are setting in. As a singer I think it is healthy to get nervous before you sing. You are then able to channel that nervous energy towards your performance. I must admit I never felt this nervous before an event. I knew the words, I knew I could hit the notes… but singing in front of your high school football team is much different then singing in front of 65,000 Viking Fans and Adrian Peterson.

As I walked towards the field, I gripped my pitch pipe in one hand and my microphone in the other. When I reached the 50-yard line I knew it was only moments away. I played my starting note on my pitch pipe and then hummed it until it was time to sing. Then I was told to wait one more minute. So I played my note again, and hummed. And played my note again, and hummed. And played my note again, and hummed. And played my note one more time and hummed. At this time the sound guys were trying not to laugh, but I knew if I did not start on the right note… it would only be down hill from there.

Then the camera crew approached me and their camera was 4 feet in front of me, and I got the 30-second warning. I played my pitch pipe for the last time, and hummed until it was time. As I started to sing, all my nerves went away, any doubts I had disappeared , and I was worry free. After the first line, I could not help but smile. I was singing the National Anthem at a Minnesota Vikings game. When I reached the high note “The Bombs bursting in air,” I could hear the fireworks go off around me. Then the cheers came, and they grew louder, and louder. I could live in that moment forever.

As I headed back to the sidelines, I looked up and there was Adrian Peterson standing right in front of me. He smiled, shook my hand, told me I did a great job, and said I was magnificent. I wished him a good game, as I smiled from ear to ear. Right behind him was Brad Childress, the Vikings Head Coach, and he told me great job as well. I was almost back to my parents when I saw Adrian Peterson shaking my father’s hand. I thought my dad was going to pass out right then and there. My brother Sean was in awe as he saw the star football player just inches away from him. (Merry Christmas guys!)

We were then escorted up to our suite where we met up with our good friends, The Petersons. We had called them to join us when we found out we had a suite! The Vikings won 35-9, and have a solid record of 9-1!

Here is Video of the National Anthem, thanks to Ms. Peterson for catching this for me!

Twin Cities Communication Council
Earlier in the week I had the opportunity to speak in front of the Twin Cities Communication Council with Minnesota’s very own Miss America Dorothy Benham. I spoke on behalf of the Miss Minnesota Organization and Children’s Miracle Network. Dorothy and I both sang, and it was quite an honor to perform with her.

Toast of the Town
Last Thursday I attended the Toast of the Town, which is a fundraiser for Normandale Community College. It was the final night of a 12-week long fundraiser. I was invited to present the check and announce the winner who raised the most money. Since the theme was On the Town, I was asked to sing a song from Broadway. I performed the song “On My Own” from Les Misérables. The Foundation raised over $100,000!

Father-Daughter dance at the Convent of the Visitation School
On Saturday, I was asked to emcee the Father-Daughter dance for the Convent of the Visitation School, which is the sister school to St. Thomas Academy where my older brother Mike graduated, and younger brother Sean is currently attending. My dad came with me to the event and we had a blast. I announced all the seniors, sang the song “Hero” and visited with some familiar faces.

This week I will be spending most of my time preparing for the CD Release Party scheduled this weekend. Please come and enjoy a free holiday concert featuring music by Select Three, former Miss Minnesota Jo Bender, and me as we perform in the Best Buy Rotunda at the Mall of America from 1-3 PM on Sunday, November 29. We will be selling CD’s and proceeds will benefit Children’s Miracle Network!

Here is the photo that my Dad took when Adrian Peterson shook my hand... He must have been a tad too excited :)

Happy Thanksgiving,

Always
Brooke

Bass or Opera Singer?

2009-11-18T09:04:00.010-06:00

This week started off with the Minnesota Veterans Day Program with Governor Tim Pawlenty, and Senators Al Franken, and Senator Amy Klobuchar. Before the ceremony started, I was able to meet a few of the guests that were in attendance. Senator Al Franken and I go way back (aka we met once when he spoke at my National Honor Society Banquet in High School.) I had the opportunity to update him about the Miss Minnesota Organization and my preparations for Miss America. It was such an honor to meet only a few of the veterans who have served our country. I am so thankful for all who have served our great nation, and for their courage and dedication.

All the presenters met in the green room before we entered the ceremony. I met Governor Tim Pawlenty on several occasions over the years, as we both share the same home town, Eagan MN. You could say we are practically neighbors. It was great to catch up with the Governor for a few moments. I also met three lovely sisters, from Elk River who sang the National Anthem, they did an incredible job!

My role in the ceremony was to lead the audience with the Pledge of Allegiance. You may not know this but when I attended Eastview High School I was the pledge girl. Every morning when the bell rang at school I came on the loudspeaker and said, “Good Morning Eastview High School!” Then I would always share a fun fact such as…” Today in 2000, Bill Clinton becomes the first U.S. President to visit Vietnam since the end of the Vietnam War.” Then I would recite the pledge.

This years Veterans Day Ceremony was beautiful, and all the speakers had wonderful messages to say. I truly enjoyed meeting Stan the Man, a veteran who recited a poem and spoke about his experience as a War Veteran. Right before the ceremony, Stan wanted to show me a magic trick. He showed me a quarter, and asked me multiple times if I really thought it was a quarter. At the same time, the speakers started to head into the ceremony, as Stan the Man was showing me this trick. After asking me one final time if I really thought it was a quarter, he made it disappear. Just in time for us to run and catch up with the rest of the speakers!

After the Minnesota Veterans Day Program I was off to Gillette Children’s Hospital to volunteer for a bit before meeting with the Friends of Gillette group. I will be emceeing their event in early December!

Thursday was my weekly mock interview and this time it was held at the Luther Auto Group. We also had some guest judges who attended. Thank you to everyone who is helping me prepare for the Miss America pageant!

Friday was my rehearsal for the University of Minnesota’s Gopher Game National Anthem on Saturday at their big game against South Dakota. I would be performing in their new TCF Bank Stadium! Since I had never been there before I was unaware of where to park for the rehearsal. After driving around the stadium about 5 times, I finally pulled over to ask a security guard, Brian, for some assistance. He allowed me to park in a “special” parking spot, and assisted me inside the building. I could not help but laugh when everyone was on their radios saying” Uh… I have a Miss Minnesota here…” Eventually I was led to the field where I needed to meet up with the Band Director. I must have been a bit early because for 5 whole minutes I was in the stadium, and on the field all by myself. It was such a surreal feeling. Soon the field was covered with over 100 band members, and we were rehearsing the National Anthem. I had to have a student help me back to my car because with a stadium this big… I could have parked anywhere! Thanks Tyler!

The new Miss Capital City Kaylah Dockter attends the University of Minnesota, and since I was in the area I thought I would pay her a visit. She was also doing me a huge favor by letting me borrow a jersey for the game tomorrow, therefore I could look like a true Gopher.

The next morning my Dad and I were up bright early for the game. Once inside the stadium, it really hit me how many people were at this game. As I stood on the sidelines waiting to sing, I started to feel the Minnesota cold air. Thankfully they have heated benches that warm your bottoms as well as your feet.

Since I was singing with the band, I had to sing in the key they were playing. This key was a bit out of my range… you see if I sang it with the band I was singing as low as a bass (this is lowest men’s part in a choir) if I sang it up the octave… I was then an opera singer. When I woke up that morning I had to choose…. Bass or opera singer.

I was a bass

Good news the gopher’s won 16-13!

After the game my Dad and I headed off to Mankato. We met up at Olives with the judges for a dinner. I was able to reunite with Kelsey the current Miss Mankato as well. Then it was off to the pageant where 10 girls were competing for Miss Mankato!! I sang the National Anthem and also as a surprise I performed my talent from Miss Minnesota. It was the first time performing it for an audience since June. Congratulations to Samantha Phillippi, the new Miss Mankato!

Always

Brooke

Go Green!

2009-11-08T18:59:00.006-06:00

Hi Everyone,

It is Sunday evening and I spent this morning at the Go Green Convention at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

In August 2009 Miss America announced they were “Going Green.” I was invited to speak at the Convention about how I am living a greener life as Miss Minnesota. After my speech I was able to walk around the Expo and meet some of the vendors. I love the solar powered flashlight and key chain I purchased from Solar Goose. I also was introduced to a vendor who shared with me a website that they thought I might be interested in, “Women’s Voice for the Earth”. Check out this site. They focus on environmental issues directly affecting women.

http://www.womenandenvironment.org

Here is the recap of my last two weeks.

October 29, 2009 – Coats for Kids
The Coats for Kids Program is partnered with The Salvation Army and Channel 5 Eyewitness News. The Dakota County location, where I volunteer, had over 2,500 coats donated !!! I had a wonderful time greeting, and helping the children pick out their very own coats. Many families did not speak English, so I was able to help with some of the Spanish speaking families since I had several years of Spanish in High School. I was a little rusty at first, however in no time we were communicating and having fun ! One little girl who was about 4 years old would try on a coat and run over to me for my opinion. After trying on four coats she finally decided on a cute light green and purple coat.

October 30, 2009 – Gillette Halloween Party
Gillette Children’s Hospital hosted a trick or treat trail for the kids on Friday. Each child was given a map of the hospital, and the locations where they could collect candy. I was partnered up with Andrea, the Children’s Miracle Network Representative, on the 3rd floor waiting area. Not only did the kids get candy, we also handed out coupons for free haircuts, and Dairy Queen Blizzards.

The staff at Gillette really go all out for these kids to have the absolute best Halloween possible. Costumes are donated, and each child is able to pick their favorite costume. Wal-Mart donated bags for the kids to trick or treat , and all the candy was donated as well. I met some incredible kids that day, including a young girl named Isabella. She was from Mexico and was returning to Mexico within the week to head back home. She wore an Egyptian costume, and was such a joy to talk to.

The following week I went to volunteer at Gillette on Wednesday. I knew Isabella was leaving soon, so I made another trip back to Gillette’s on Thursday to wish her the best of luck. She will be back in April and I look forward to seeing her then! For now we are facebook friends so we can stay in touch.

Always

Brooke

Dancing is not my forte

2009-11-02T18:45:00.007-06:00

October 17, 2009 – Shop for a Cause
I was invited to Macy’s to participate in their Shop for a Cause. I met up with my business manager, Barb, and state director, David, to set up for the event. I had a stage right in the middle of Macys! I performed during the day, and also sold my CD, Carry You Through. Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen Katlyn Ziegler also joined me for the event. Katlyn and I received a wonderful gift bag full of samples!! A huge thank you to the staff at Macy’s in Ridgedale and DJ Bob for helping with the sound!

October 19, 2009 - Jewelry Sponsors
Thank you to Tesa Jewelers for lending me jewelry to wear at some of my appearances. Tesa Jewelers is a new sponsor for the Miss Minnesota Organization.

Rejuv Open House
The Rejuv Clinic in Eagan has also become a new sponsor for the Miss Minnesota Program. I attended the Rejuv Open House to discuss the services they are offering to me.

One of the owners is my spin teacher at my fitness club. I enjoy sharing my experience as Miss Minnesota during our workouts. I love going to this spin class because it is like a club. Every Monday and Wednesday at 6:30 AM I see the same familiar faces. We like to call ourselves, the Sassy Cyclers.

Check out their website: http://www.rejuvskinandlaser.com/

October 20, 2009 – Perpich Center for Arts Education
I visited the Perpich Center for the arts which consist of a public arts high school for 11 and 12 grades as well as an Arts Library and a Developmental and Research Center for arts education. I was given a tour of the facilities by Pam and Nyssa, when we went into the high school I was elated when I saw all the beautiful artwork that covered the walls.

During the tour we walked through a few classrooms, and I was able to talk with the students. This school showcases my platform that arts education enhances learning in all other subjects.

Click here to read more about the students at PCAE: http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/64521947.html?elr=KArks7PYDiaK7DUvDE7aL_V_BD77:DiiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

October 21, 2009 – Gillette Volunteering
There are some very exciting things going on at Gillette Children’s Hospital in St. Paul, MN! The hospital is planning a $42 million expansion project in early November! They are already in the middle of renovating the waiting area where I do crafts! Every week I enter the building I have to find a new way to get to my volunteer area because of construction in the hospital. The project will include a new 52,000-square-foot building, with a skyway connecting it to the current building. It also will house several outpatient services, including rehabilitation therapies and Gillette's Center for Gait and Motion Analysis.

This week the craft theme was the “Fall Season”. I met a wonderful family with a daughter named Isabella. They stayed the entire time I was there, and did every craft in my box! That included two bookmarks, a frame, two leave crafts, and a coloring page! It was a fun day at Gillette’s.

October 24, 2009 – Make a Difference Day

Since 1997, Miss America Organization has taken part in Make a Difference Day. This year I partnered with Cheerful Givers to stuff birthday gift bags for needy kids. My mom and I headed over to Thomson Reuters and where we would be volunteering. My mom was put right to work cutting ribbons needed for the bags. I met with all the kids who were attending with their mentors from Kids ‘n Kinship who were invited to take part in Make a Difference Day. The saying for the day was “kids helping kids.” During the event we had an assembly line to fill the bags with goodies such as books, toys, stuffed animals and candy. For every one bag I filled, the kids will fill about 10 more than me. I think it’s because I chat too much. Oh and I had on 4 inch heels and they were wearing sneakers! It was such a fun day and we stuffed 500 bags for Cheerful Givers.

Miss Twin Cities Pageant
We had 11 women vying for the title of Miss Twin Cities and Miss Capital City. The pageant started out with the opening number dance to Uptown Girls. I spent Tuesday through Friday with the girls, rehearsing this number that I choreographed. Those of you who know me, know that dancing is not my forte, but I think it turned out just fine!

Before intermission I talked to the audience about Children’s Miracle Network and the CD I recorded. I was so excited to announce that I had hit the $7500 mark in fundraising for CMN. I talked about my experience with Gillette Children’s Hospital. I am so moved by the kids I meet every week while volunteering at Gillette’s. Right after my speech I started to sing the original song, “Don’t You Dare.” As I was singing I started to really think about the words and meaning of the song. I could feel myself choking up and becoming emotional. If you are a singer, you know that once you become emotional while singing, it is quite hard to get the words out. (Especially if you are belting!)

In the second half of the show the former Miss Minnesota’s and Miss Twin Cities’ were invited on stage. Instead of asking them the typical: Name, title and what have you been up to since you gave up your title. I surprised them by asking “If you were to compete in the pageant today, would be the one competition you would be the most excited about?” They all had great answers but the most creative was when one of the former’s said their talent would be a kick butt PowerPoint presentation.

Congratulations to Kaylah Dockter the new Miss Capital City, and Kathryn Knuttila, the new Miss Twin Cities! They have a fun year ahead of them!

November is going to be a busy month! I have some very exciting things coming up! I will be singing the National Anthem at the Minnesota Vikings Game, and at the U of M Gophers Game. My CD Release Party is November 29 at the Mall of America in the Best Buy Rotunda from 1-3 PM.

Carry You Through is now online where you can download it to your iTunes! Visit this link to download your copy today! Proceeds still go towards Children Miracles Network

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/BrookeKellyKilgarriff

Also if you have not seen my Go Green Video here is the link. During MAOT in Orlando all the titleholders recorded with Green T and shared our Go Green tips. Vote for Minnesota!

http://www.greentwithtamara.com/pg_contest.php

Thank you for all of your support!

Always

Brooke

I must have missed my calling as an auctioneer...

2009-10-16T09:59:00.007-05:00

October 1, 2009 –Movie Premiere
Thursday night I was invited to the Premiere of the locally shot movie Nobody. The premiere was hosted by director Rob Perez at the State Theatre in downtown Minneapolis. I attended the party before the red carpet event and met one of the producers of the movie, Josh Hartnett! Josh grew up in the Twin Cities. He still has a home here, which was used during filming for many of the out of town actors as a place to stay while in town. The film was wonderful, and it was fun seeing familiar faces as well as Minnesota and Wisconsin locations up on the screen. The film “Nobody” is playing at Kerasotes Block E Stadium 15 Theatre, 600 Hennepin Av., in Minneapolis. Check it out!

October 5, 2009 – Miss America Contestant Lottery
I asked my little brother Sean for coaching because I have never participated in an online lottery. My brother has been a part of a fantasy football league for a couple of years and has done the football draft on line, his advise was to have two computers in case one should freeze. I had not thought of that !! So I had my laptop, his lap top, and just in case my mom’s desktop all ready to go. I set up camp on my kitchen counter with two computers and four phones. I was preparing for a long wait before I saw Minnesota pop on the screen.

Once your state pops up on the screen you have 5 minutes to call Miss America and pick your spot. I had thought about where I wanted to be and had a plan if this, than that, sort of thing happened. I just hoped it would work.

As each state was picked, I was TEXTING my Mom letting her know who was going where, since I was home alone. I was not feeling well, must have been from all the school visits the last couple of weeks and my brother bringing home germs every day, I had something!!! I started CALLING my mom after each state was picked. I think she could hear the stress in my voice after each call. She kept telling me it did not matter where I was that I would be fine no matter what. I knew she was right, but I think the stress of the waiting and the fact that I did not feel well started to kick in, then it happened my state popped up on the screen, I was picked 12th!. Ahhhhhh!!!!!!

What to do, I called my Mom, I told her I was “on the board” and what should I do??? The thing that is great about my Mom is she wants me to make the decision and feel good about it. So I decided to go with my plan.

I called right away and after I dialed the extension number, I heard “I’m sorry you have entered the wrong number, and then click.” I was in a panic!!! I had only 2 minutes left. At this point I had all four phones dialed and just hoping it would go through. I was so relieved when I heard Marc, answer the phone and say is this Miss Minnesota? I choose the sigma group and contestant number 13…. It has a nice ring to it: Sigma 13

My schedule for Miss America:

Tuesday Morning – Interview
Tuesday Prelim – Swimsuit/Evening Gown
Wednesday Prelim – Talent
Thursday Prelim – Onstage Question
Saturday Evening – MISS AMERICA LIVE!

October 10, 2009 – Miss North Metro
The Miss Minnesota Organization has grown from 17 contestants to 23 for the state pageant in 2010. Miss North Metro was one of the new locals that I participated in this year. This means in June we will have a two night prelim, and all together a 3 day pageant.

I arrived at Hopkins High School just in time to help out with interviews. Savanna Tate who competed with me at Miss Minnesota, as Miss Moorhead was the emcee for the pageant. It was wonderful catching up with her during the day. Congratulations to Tiffany Gunderson, the first Miss North Metro!

October 10, 2009 – Flying Home Event
I started volunteering at Dakota Woodlands Homeless Shelter as Miss Twin Cities and then as Miss Minnesota bringing Music to the homeless children who were staying there. Once a week I did a music class with the Children, we would make musical instruments, play games, and sing. Who would think in a suburb like Eagan, MN one would find a homeless shelter. I learned that people can become homeless anywhere. Many of these families have jobs but are just unable to afford homes for their families. I was honored when the director asked if I would be a part of their yearly fundraiser for the shelter.

I was asked to build a birdhouse to auction off at the event, which was cleverly named “Flying Home”. I made a princess style birdhouse, with a beautiful crown on top! Each of the bird houses were paired up with a donated sponsored item, my house was paired with a party at the American Girl Doll store in the Mall of America.

I was also asked to help emcee the event and be an auctioneer for the live auction. I have emceed many events but none as an auctioneer. I am told I am a fast talker so how hard could it be?

I arrived at the fundraiser Saturday night with my parents and we were able to walk around and take a look at all the different birdhouses. Each table had very creative birdhouses made by Al Franken, the Minnesota Twins, Miss Minnesota (Me) and many more.

Bob Radecki (The Master of Ceremony) and I would be working together on the live auction. We spoke on the phone just minutes before this event, but we hit it off right away. The first item up for bid was a weekend at a St. Paul Hotel, then Taylor Swift Concert tickets, and Miley Cryus tickets. We had several bids and the money raised will greatly benefit the shelter.

Next up for bid was raising $2500 to renovate the kid’s room at the homeless shelter. The crowd was asked to donate any amount of money and runners with baskets would hand them monopoly money. If someone wanted to donate we would rip the money in half and give them one half. The other half went to the accountant. I was then updating the crowd on how much money we had raised. In less then 5 minutes we had over $2500, it was incredible!

The next items up for bid were GED’s. I had no idea that you had to pay a fee to take the GED test to get your high school diploma. I was asked to give a speech to the audience about how wonderful it would be if they would give this opportunity to the people at the shelter. To make this even more creative, if someone purchased a GED, they would be crowned by Miss Minnesota. I had no idea how this was going to go over, but was overjoyed when I had over 20 people to crown! Each person had a crowning photo, and kept the tiara.

While I was crowning, a donor who wanted to remain anonymous asked if I would sing for a donation of five hundred dollars. How could I pass up this opportunity! I sang the song I performed during my America Idol Hollywood Audition, and shared a bit about my AI experience.

Now it was time for the top two items up for bid. First up, a Joe Mauer (catcher from the Minnesota Twins) autographed baseball. Bob and I decided to make it worth a bit more… so we signed it too. I even drew hearts all over my name and Joe’s. I think we upped the price quite a bit! I heard the crowd grown “Oh NO”!

Gotcha! We did not sign the real Joe Mauer baseball! It was a fake one, but I think worth just as much

The final item up for auction was Vikings/Packers tickets. Bob was the auctioneer for all of these items and the Viking tickets were up to $275, when he forgot where he was and went back to $250. It was my turn to take over. Next thing I know someone is offering $800 for the tickets!! I must have missed my calling as an auctioneer, and the final bid for the tickets was over $1,000! At one point, just like the Sotheby’s auctions in New York we had several people on the phone with their accountants!! Vikings/Packers tickets are priceless!!

Just as I am about to leave, two gentlemen who wanted a picture approached me. They were holding the baseball that I had signed and put hearts all over. I think they got the best item of the night!

It was an amazing evening, and I was so honored to be apart of it.
Always, Brooke

Cupcake

2009-09-28T14:19:00.007-05:00

September 23, 2009 – Delano Elementary Music Presentation
Ms. Peterson invited me to talk to the third graders about the connection between Math and Music at Delano Elementary school. I have been to Delano, one time, and it was when I was 5 years old to pick out a golden retriever puppy. The drive to Delano became challenging when my GPS discovered that Highway 12 was closed for road construction. Road construction follows me everywhere! When the “little car” on the GPS is floating in blue space… that means you are lost. Well, my little car was floating for a while… thankfully I was able to follow the detour signs and safely make it to Delano Elementary School.

The third graders were split into two sessions, each for one hour. I talked about the connection between Math and Music and how they could use Music as a study tool.

After playing Music games, I answered a few question from the students. I thought they would ask questions about Music or American Idol but other topics came up as well. I seem to hear the same ones over and over:

“What does your house look like?”
“How big is your dog?”
“Do you have a boyfriend?”

It seems like all these kids are interested in is my love life. During the second session there was a young boy who was waiting patiently to ask me a question. I finally said I would take one last question, and called on this young boy. He stood up and said proudly “ My brother is 26!” After I smiled he then said, “Just thought you would like to know.” Not sure what he was implying ☺

During my visit, a reporter from the Delano Herald Journal came to cover my presentation. He interviewed me on my background, and why music education is so important to me. He wrote an incredible article, check it out:

http://www.herald-journal.com/archives/2009/stories/miss-minnesota-music.html

The mayor was hoping to come to my music class, but had to work, apparently he had to run the city!!

September 24, 2009 – Minnesota Citizens for the Arts
I met Shelia Smith who is the Executive Director of the Minnesota Citizens for the Arts to talk about my platform. She and I discussed my platform and opportunities that she recommended I look into. We met at this adorable coffee place called Cupcake. Yes, they do serve cupcakes at 9:30 in the morning. I passed, but I did bring home a Smores Cupcake for my little brother. The cashier offered me a sample cupcake, and I had to take a picture. This is a cupcake that a girl can eat while training for Miss America ☺

Northwest Community Television Interview
I did an interview with Elaine Hall on her show In Our Town. It was a 30-minute program, and a great way to promote my CD, Carry You Through.

September 25, 2009 – Elk River High School Pep Rally
I missed my senior homecoming pep rally because I was flying to San Francisco for my Simon, Paula and Randy, American Idol audition. I was able to relive it at Elk High School, while I performed during their pep rally. The kids were covered head to toe with school spirit, and I was honored to be an “Elk” for the day.

I decided to perform my talent song from Miss Minnesota, and I now know what celebrities feel like during a rock concert. Hearing the cheers from the crowd made it so fun to perform, and I felt like a rock star! I wish I could bring all of them to Las Vegas for my cheering section at Miss America!

After the pep rally, I spoke to Mr. Beaudry’s choir class about my American Idol performance. I sang again for them, and answered questions. I have learned when you go to a school, if you sign one autograph card… you will sign over a 100 autograph cards. Thank goodness I had an hour’s drive to my next appearance to let my hand rest.

Thank you to Mr. Beaudry for setting up this appearance, and I hope everyone at Elk River High School had a wonderful Homecoming!

Great Clips Convention
Great Clips is a supporter of Children’s Miracle Network. Their National Convention was held at the Minneapolis Convention Center, and I was asked to be in the CMN Booth. I handed out candy, back massagers (a crowd favorite!!), and I signed autograph cards. At the booth I worked with Brad Lake, a representative for Children’s Miracle Network, and Andrea from Gillette’s Children’s Hospital.

September 26, 2009 - The Hartford PACE Race
I sang the National Anthem at Lake Nokomis, and then ran the 5K. This organization’s goal is to make men aware of the dangers of prostate cancer. My Dad ran the race with me but I totally out ran him. He needs to pick up the pace! (get it… pace race…) Sorry, Dad I couldn't resist the one-liner.

Always
Brooke

Just missed Regis Philbin!!

2009-09-24T12:13:00.006-05:00

September 14, 2009 – National Anthem Project

The National Association for Music Education launched the National Anthem Project in 2005. The purpose of the National Anthem Project is to encourage the singing of the “Star Spangled Banner,” especially in our public schools. There are only three schools in the state of Minnesota that participate in this and I took part in the celebration at Chippewa Middle School. That morning over 100 students from Chippewa Middle School carried out their violins, cellos, and violas to perform. They were joined by the 7th and 8th grade choirs. It was so incredible seeing all of the students come together to perform our National Anthem!

I met the choir teacher, Ms. Hershey and she recognized my chaperone Vicki Kueppers, former Miss Minnesota. Turns out that she was Vicki’s first runner up during their pageant years! I love how small the world can be sometimes!

The students had posted pictures all over the school about my appearance. It looked like I was running for class president with all the flyers and pictures of me in the halls!

I was able to speak with Ms. Hershey’s choir class about my experience as Miss Minnesota, and American Idol. I enjoyed performing for them, and answering any questions they had. Thank you to Chippewa Middle School for inviting me to their event.

Twin Cities Live
I had just enough time to run home before I was off to film for Twin Cities Live. I was going to be a model in their fashion segment on fall boots.

Earlier that morning my mom informed me that Regis was going to be on the show! I am a fan of “Live with Regis and Kelly” and watch it during my daily workouts on the treadmill. It was my goal to get a picture with Regis and to discuss football!

I met up with the rest of the models about an hour before the show. As we were getting dressed I was hoping I would hear more details about Regis. All the models had a “twin,” who would be wearing the same outfit but just different boots. One pair of boots was the splurge $$$$$ and the other was the bargain. Before we filmed we were asked to take photos together with our twins, and do a run through. This was my perfect opportunity to get more details about Regis. One of the assistants informed me after I asked “What time will Regis be on set?” that he was there a few days earlier and pre-recorded the interview. I had hoped to meet him and discuss Notre Dame Football with him since my dad and I are fans. My dad usually gets tickets every year for a game; although I always seem to have a school conflict on that particular game day!

September 16, 2009 – Showcase Minnesota
I was featured on the Community Cares segment on Showcase Minnesota on Kare 11 and did an interview with Corbin Seitz. I promoted the ideals of the Miss Minnesota Program and my CD, Carry You Through; here is a link to the interview if you missed it!

http://www.showcaseminnesota.com/show/client_article.aspx?storyid=824537

September 20, 2009 – Lakeville Arts Festival
I performed at the Lakeville Arts Festival on their Show-mobile on Sunday morning. It was very early and the event was just getting going, but I saw a familiar face in the crowd, Margo Danner a volunteer with the Eagan Funfest that I worked with for several years during the Eagan’s July Fourth Festival. I spent 11 AM to 12 Noon performing, signing autograph cards, and selling CD’s.

I do have to confess that the Lakeville Theater was the first time I was kissed on stage and first time I was kissed ever. I was playing Sleeping Beauty and I think about 11 years old at the time. I remember the first time in rehearsal when I found out that there was a kiss involved and I was afraid to tell my parents thinking they might not want me to do the show. So after a family discussion it was decided that this was “theater” and that I could decide, if I was OK with it, then it was up to me. So the rehearsal day finally came! The kiss needed to happen, and of course the boy I was kissing was cute and his father was also in the show playing the king. Everyone was there waiting for this big moment. The funny thing is after it was over I remember thinking “dry lips”, so there you have it my big first kiss.

Twin Cities Orientation
I cannot believe that one year ago I was preparing for the Miss Twin Cities Pageant. Now I am getting ready to hand over my title to a new young woman who will embark on a year of opportunities. I had so much fun seeing Kathy, Judy, and Miss Capital City, Sara. In the midst of the orientation we had fun catching up. I am very excited for this years pageant, the theme is 80’s! The opening number will be to Uptown Girls and guess who is choreographing the dance….. ME! Now, I have made up the dance for the Miss Eagan Pageant for the past few years, so I will just whip out my Hannah Montana moves and we will have an opening dance in no time. Don’t worry girls we will have a lot of step touches, my all time favorite dance move!!!

September 21, 2009 – Ivey Awards
I have never walked the Red Carpet, so when I arrived at the State Theater for the Ivey Awards I was excited to have the chance to be a part of this event to honor the best theater in Minnesota. On the Red carpet I was interviewed about what I was wearing. I had on my Black BCBG short cocktail dress with BCBG black heels and a handcrafted beaded purse. Just getting practice for the Oscars ☺

Always,
Brooke

The End of Summer: Fairs, Interviews, and a Fashion Show!

2009-09-14T16:23:00.010-05:00

August 26, 2009 – Musical Theatre Workshop
I was invited by former Miss Minnesota, Vicki Kueppers, to help with a Musical Theatre workshop at St. Agnes School. Each year they put on a sing-a-thon and this year their theme was musical theatre. Since I am a musical theatre major, Vicki asked if I would share some of my knowledge with her students, and perform a few of my favorite songs.

I worked with the choir students at St. Agnes and they were divided into three groups of students. With each group I performed my talent song “Somebody to Love” from the Miss Minnesota pageant. After I performed I shared some thoughts on how the students would go about choosing a musical theatre song, and then the students sang for me. It was a fun afternoon and I cannot wait to see what the students chose to sing at the sing-a-thon.

August 27, 2009 – State Fair
Today was the opening day of the Minnesota State Fair! I don’t think I have ever been to the State Fair on opening day, but I guess a lot of people do go on the first day. The crowds were record breaking!

I learned one rule “do not put your crown and sash on and try to walk through the fair and get to your appearance on time”. Everyone wants a picture, so if you stop, a crowd forms. You could be standing taking pictures for 20 minutes and if it were not for my chaperone telling people I have to go, I would have never made it to Morrie’s Mazda Booth.

At Morrie’s my job was to get people to participate in the Morrie’s Idol Contestant. The song that participants had to sing was “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” Even after the 10th time singing I still could not remember anything past the lyric… don’t worry, be happy

After Morrie’s I was off with my chaperone to Garage Logic with Joe Soucheray on KSTP 1500am for a radio interview. Again I was asked for pictures, but my Chaperone said we were running late (I am sorry to the 2 teen girls that wanted a picture, and hopefully I will see you again to take that picture!)

As I came into the little house that the Radio station was located in I saw a familiar face – Marjorie Johnson, famous for her baking, and she was also on Twin Cities Live with me. Marjorie was there to talk about one of her dishes that had won a ribbon at the fair. I love taking pictures with Marjorie because she is the only adult that makes me look tall in photos. The interview was a lot of fun. I was able to perform and talk about Children’s Miracle Network and my CD!

On my way out of the fair I ran into a Robot. Yes, a Robot. A crowd formed around us and the Robot decided to sing to me. It was fun to see the kids faces because the Robot was big and a little scary even for me.

August 30, 2009 – Stiftungfest
My Dad and I were up early to head to Norwood Young America, Minnesota for the celebration of the 148th Stiftungfest. It was so much fun taking part in their festival and I even learned a new dance, the chicken dance! Congratulations to the new royalty, and a huge thank you to the Stiftungfest committee for having me take part in this wonderful event!

September 2, 2009 – State Fair Day 2
Who knew that people would be at the State Fair at 7 o’clock in the morning! I had an interview on WCCO Radio with Dave Lee at 7 AM. I want to give a shout out to my business manager for this one, Thanks Barb!!!!!

Here is a recording of my WCCO radio:http://podcast.830wcco.com/wcco/1933874.mp3

September 4, 2009 – State Fair Day 3
My third and final day at the State Fair started out on a high note! My Chaperone and I found a front row parking spot! I had an interview with Lori and Julia from Radio Station 107.1. I was a little worried about the kind of questions they would ask me because they like to get the scoop on things. Mary Pawlenty, the governor’s wife went on before me and I was glad I had time to hear the questions that they were asking her. During the interview I was able to sing a sample of “Don’t You Dare” from my CD, and they wanted to know all about the CD. We talked about American Idol, Simon Cowell, and Miss America. They asked how much my dress will cost for Miss America, and then even offered to come shop with me! I hope to talk with them again before Miss America in January.

My last interview was at The Patriot radio station. All of the radio stations at the fair have these cute little houses that have a front porch where you sit and do your interview. The Patriot had a really cute house decorated in red, white and blue. During the interview the audience could ask questions. This was great practice for my Miss America interview because you have no idea what people will ask. While I was answering questions a group of teen girls stayed and cheered for me. After doing a number of interviews you start to wonder if anybody is really listening to you so I really love when people do cheer and come up to me after and take the time to wish me good luck at Miss America. I am so honored to represent this state and all the young women in it.

I want to thank my friend Mary who lives in Texas and listens to my radio interviews and always calls me after and tells me good job. Mary has been a great supportive friend and it’s so important to have a great friend in your life. Thanks Mary.

September 11th, 2009 – Around Town Filming
My day started out with a fitting at the Mall of America for the Twin Cities Live fashion show. They are doing a back to school section, and how to find the bargains! I wish they let the models keep the clothing they wear!

For the rest of the afternoon I was filming at Caponi Art Park for this month’s episode of Around Town with Carla Beaurline. She invited me to be a host for the show that will air Wednesday evening September 16th. I talked with Carla before the shoot and she told me I could pick the place to film. I thought the Caponi Ark Park would be perfect because I love to perform, and it would be such a beautiful location.

We spent the next two hours filming the show. Thank you to producer Randy for making sure Carla and me always looked our best. While we were there we ran into Mr. Caponi himself, who I had met previously when I performed with Dakota Valley Summer Pops Orchestra. He even let us interview him on camera! Then we jumped on his golf cart and received a private tour of his studio where he creates the works of art in the sculpture garden. Thank you again to Carla for giving me the opportunity to host with her. I look forward to seeing the final product! Tune in on Wednesday night at 7PM on cable channel 6 for the premiere of the show. You can visit http://www.around-town.tv/ for show times and more information on the show!

September 12th, 2009 – Glitz Grand Opening
Saturday was the grand reopening for Glitz a dress store in the Mall of America. The store moved locations from the first floor to the third floor outside of Nordstrom’s department store. The store is bigger and even has a runway built in the middle of the store.

Glitz is a sponsor of the Miss Minnesota pageant and a portion of the proceeds from the sales of the grand opening will go towards Children Miracles network.

I arrived at the store around 10 AM to meet up with Bethany Pearson, Ms. You Can Do It for Minnesota, and Andrea from Gillette’s. They both helped me set up everything for my CD, and the CMN table in the store. Bethany Pearson is such an incredible girl. I had such a blast getting to know her, and she kept me laughing the whole day! She is such an inspiration.

Along with supporting Children’s Miracle Network, Bethany and I were invited to participate in the fashion show for Glitz grand reopening. We were able to wear three beautiful dresses and walk the runway. It was such a fun day, and thank you to Maryanne, the owner of Glitz and her entire staff for making this possible.

Always
Brooke

Pink Snuggies, Limo Golf Carts and Cancelled Flights... just a typical week as Miss Minnesota!

2009-08-29T08:05:00.012-05:00

Flight to Orlando: 1,308 miles
Flight Home from Orlando: 1,308 miles
Flight to Atlanta: 908 miles
Flight Home from Atlanta: Delayed… miles pending.

As I sit in the airport waiting for my flight to Minneapolis to take off I realized that in the past five days I have been in five different states. I can only imagine that this is what Katie Stam (Miss America 2009) life must be like.

August 11, 2009 – MAOT Preliminary Night

On the first preliminary night, Katlyn (Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen) competed in evening gown and onstage question. The teens put on a great show, and Katlyn just nailed her onstage question! That evening at the preliminary pageant about 30 Miss America titleholders attended the pageant. We were all laughing that for the next few days our names might be Minnesota, or Wisconsin or New Jersey until we got to know each other better.

August 12, 2009 – Universal Studios
All the titleholders were up bright and early for filming for the TLC special. We stopped at Sea World, for a group photo, and then it was back on the bus to Universal Studios. I love going to amusement parks because I love to ride the rides, last summer I performed at an amusement park and after being there all day working I would stay late, just to go on rides for free.

I have been to Universal Studios on a family vacation and my two brothers and I would get the fast pass so we could go again and again. Who knew that all I needed to do was put a sash and crown on, and I could be a VIP and not wait in any lines! The first ride of the day was the Simpson Ride, which is a simulator. I rode with Pennsylvania, Arizona, Washington, South Carolina, and North Carolina in the simulator. We were so excited we started to take pictures, but then the ride shut down. I think we might have accidentally broken the ride with all the photos we were taking. Let’s just say we had a great laugh about this afterwards. The rest of the day was filled with rides: The Incredible Hulk, Dueling Dragons, Return of the Mummy, and Spiderman.

Thank goodness we had time to freshen up before the Wednesday night preliminary. In our gift bags we received Miss America baseball caps with their official logo on it; I put mine on to hide my hair from a day out in the humid weather. As I was trying to sneak back to my hotel room to get ready for the event that evening and go do my hair repair, I ran into Miss America Katie Stam! She was staying just down the hall from me!

One thing I learned about Florida in August is that it is very humid. My hair wasn’t sure what to do, go flat or frizzy. This called for a trip to the closest CVS to pick up some hair care products that hold in the humid weather. When I was back in my room Jennifer who was my Miss Minnesota chaperone that week was a little concerned when I started spraying my hair, the room stared to get a little foggy.

At the Outstanding Teen Prelim, Katlyn did her physical fitness and she wore a cute workout outfit designed just for the Teens. Both Tuesday and Wednesday night pageant preliminaries were emceed by Sierra Minott, Miss Florida 2008, she shared some of her experiences at Miss America. That night after the pageant we had an official meeting for Miss America. We were able to meet the board, and find out more about the TLC taping. We also took a group photo with our (H20) water. Miss America 2010 is Going Green! Each Miss America contestant would be filming a green commercial in the next couple of days.

August 13, 2009 – TLC Taping
Up early the next morning in our matching “Going Green” t-shirts all of the titleholders jumped in the pool. Well, we didn’t jump… but we did dip our toes in and took a group photo. Then it was time for filming for TLC. We had a meet and greet with Sam Haskell and Miss America Katie Stam. Then it was one quick interview for TLC and then a nice long break until my official TLC interview for the website. I was off to have lunch with my Mom. It was my parent’s 26th wedding anniversary and my Dad surprised my Mom by flying in on a red eye flight from LA to Orlando. So Dad was at the pool with my little brother and Mom and I planned to meet up with them later.

My mom and I had arrived in Orlando on Tuesday to meet with Regalia and look at evening gowns for my Miss America Competition wardrobe. After a nice lunch and catching up we were off to the trade show to LaCasaHermosa, they asked if I would be in their filming for the TLC Program trying on gowns. I loved the gowns they had on the mannequins and would have loved to try on the red gown with the beads with wire that went around the neck. I tried on a black gown that was very old Hollywood. After the taping we stopped over to the Regalia booth and talked with David and went up to the Regalia suite with him. In the suite was Jasmine Murray from American Idol who was singing the national anthem that evening at the teen pageant. We had a chance to discuss our American Idol experience since we were both 16 at the time. I was on season 5 she was on season 7.

Before the Outstanding Teen Pageant that evening we went to Maggiano’s with the board. Maggiano’s had designed a special menu for us. All the Miss titleholders have been going from one thing to another and it was fun to sit and talk to each other. Seated at the table with me were Connecticut, Hawaii, Vermont, New Hampshire, Arizona, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

At the Outstanding Teen Preliminary Katlyn’s performed her talent, a beautiful Spanish piano piece. She did a fantastic job and I was so proud of her. My favorite part of the evening was the disco production number. Katlyn had described the outfits they were going to wear and when I saw the stage full of teens in neon jump suits, I loved it. I was bummed to hear that they were not able to keep the jump suits. I thought maybe Katlyn would let me wear it to the next local pageant for my talent costume. I could sing a disco song.

August 14, 2009 – Miss America Fundraiser
I had the day free until the evening. My family came to Florida for a little vacation before my brother heads back to school so I joined them for the day at Universal Studios. One big difference from when I went two days earlier… waiting in line. When I was with the Miss America group we went in through the exit line as VIP’s. Well this day I had no crown or sash, which meant waiting in 45 minute, long lines. We were able to make it to two rides before I had to head back to the hotel to get ready for the evening events. First up was The Incredible Hulk, we convinced my Mom to go on with us. My Mom usually doesn’t like to go on rides that go fast, or your feet dangle 100’s of feet in the air upside down. After we got off she didn’t speak for a little while, I don’t think she enjoyed the ride. That was her only ride of the day!!!! She told me she kept her eyes closed the entire time and prayed for it to be over. So when we walked over to the Dueling Dragons ride she decided she would find a bench to sit and wait for us.

That evening we were invited to the Siegel residence for a fundraiser for the Miss America Program. After our bus ride (sitting next to bus buddy Miss Wisconsin) we jumped on what I like to call “limo golf carts” and headed over to the estate. We enjoyed food, an amazing desserts table, a live auction, and dancing. It was a great evening to meet sponsors and guest from all over the country. I enjoyed talking to the guests from Minnesota. After a four-hour event we headed back to our “limo golf carts” which led us to our buses, which took us back to the hotel.

August 15, 2009 – Orientation and Final night of Miss America’s Outstanding Teen
In the morning we had an orientation with the Miss America Board to hear about the plans for Las Vegas. Miss America Katie Stam also took the time to speak with us about her schedule and what it takes to be Miss America.

At the end of our meeting we were given goodie bags from the Miss Americas Outstanding Teen Sponsors. I loved the pink snuggie and used it on the plane ride home. The bag was full of great items that I brought home that I could use.

That evening they set up tables before the final show for all the state titleholders to sign autographs. I sat next to Miss Arkansas, Sarah and it was fun getting to know her a little bit better

The final pageant was a wonderful show. I sat next to Ashley, Miss New Jersey, who had a great evening! Her teen was 1st runner up and I loved her excitement whenever Brenna advanced to the next phase of competition. Congratulations to Jeanette Morelan, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen 2010 from Wisconsin!

August 16-19, 2009 - Craziness
My family and I flew home on Sunday and had a fast turn around. My mom and I unpacked, and then packed back up for the Atlanta Mart. I was invited down to the Atlanta Mart to meet with a few designers to look for wardrobe for the Miss America Pageant. My Mom and I got to go before the Mart was open and the designers were just getting the show rooms set up. First we met up with Sarah Moses who owns Michael’s Pageant Shop who was also at the Atlanta mart and came with us to our meeting with Sherri Hill.

Then we met with Carry from Regalia who joined us at our meeting with Tony Bowls. Tony Bowls contacted me before the mart to come down so we could discuss designing a gown. It was so much fun being at the Mart and getting first look at all the gowns before the mart was open. I have never seen so many dresses in my life!

After meeting with Tony Bowls, Mom and I had lunch and then met with Carry from Regalia again at Jovani. I was so excited to see the Jovani gowns because my talent gown was a Jovani. I met a girl who works for Jovani that I knew from a pageant when I was 10 years old. It was fun to laugh about how we were back then and how much we have changed. The Jovani staff and models were all excited about my CD that I recorded for Children Miracle network and had me sign copies for them. Then they blasted the music in the showroom!

It was a long day of trying on hundreds of dresses, but I think I found a couple great pieces to add to my wardrobe for Miss America pageant. After sitting and talking with Carry (who spent the day with us) we were ready to go back to the hotel. I had no idea that we were at the mart trying on clothes from 9 to 5:30 and I was tired. After the long day my mom and I crashed at the hotel and had a flight home in the morning.

The weather was perfect in Atlanta, Georgia but not so perfect in Minneapolis. We took a short flight to Charlotte, North Carolina and were suppose to jump on a flight home. First the flight was delayed an hour, then two hours, then three, and then four and then cancelled. Thank goodness my father was already on it and got my mom and me on a 10:15 PM flight.

Sooooo……1 PM… what does a mother and daughter do for 8 hours in an airport? First we had to go and pick up our luggage that we checked and go back to ticketing to recheck it to the 10:15 flight to Minneapolis. After checking our bag I asked if they could give me a pass for the US Airways lounge so my Mom and I could sit and wait, and I could plug in my phone and computer. John Cameron the agent at US Airways who graciously gave us meal vouchers for the day tried to get his supervisor to let us in, I even tried the “I am Miss Minnesota” but it didn’t work. For the next 8 hours we walked the entire airport going through every souvenir shop. At one point of the day we rested in rocking chairs with some frozen yogurt we shared. I spent most of my time looking for plugs to charge my phone and computer and would go sit on the floor and write my blog. My Mom was reading Sam Haskell’s book that we purchase at the teen pageant in Orlando. She did finish it before we got on the plane to head home. Thank goodness our 10:15 PM flight left on time and we were back in Minnesota by 1 AM.

August 21, 2009 – My Golden Birthday
The Kilgarriff family has a tradition of giving the birthday person breakfast in bed for their birthday. We also must wear this birthday hat that my mom purchased years ago that lights up and plays music. I have many photos of me in that hat. I hope my mom never shows those pictures to anyone because if you can imagine what your hair and face look like when you first wake up then you know what I look like in those photos.

I had a fundraiser that evening at the Epic Center, and a good friend of the family, Linda, offered to do my hair for the event. She did a wonderful job and thank you to her kids Sammi, and Austin for helping out as well. I believe my little brother even took a photo of Austin holding a clip in my hair!

My Mom and Dad came with me that evening to the event called The Breast Party which was a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Awareness Association at the Epic center downtown Minneapolis. I performed with the band, The Remnants (the band members are all doctors!). They learned my music to my two original songs for this event. It was a great way to spend my birthday sharing my talents with breast cancer survivors. I heard incredible stories from survivors and convince some people to take a vacation to Las Vegas (right around Miss America). A special thank you to Amy Marie, for letting me be a part of this event and having the band play Happy Birthday to me.

Always
Brooke

Running with the Celts

2009-08-10T13:32:00.004-05:00

It is Midnight, and I am writing the last blog before I head out to Orlando. This just shows how dedicated I am to this blog! This past weekend has been non-stop with the CD sales, Irish Fair and packing for Orlando… oh wait, that still has not happened yet!

August 6, 2009 – Pick up Children Miracle Network CD’s
The CD’s were not supposed to be ready until Friday, but I received a phone call Thursday morning informing me they were ready for pick up! My mom, little brother and I jumped into the car and headed to Coon Rapids. We were preparing ourselves for heavy lifting of the CD boxes, but we should have known they would have had a cart that took it right out to our car. I am so excited that I have all the CD’s and they are ready for sale!

August 7, 2009 – Irish Fair (Day One)
When you hear the last name Kilgarriff, you can just tell that I am Irish. I was delighted when I was asked to sing the National Anthem at the Opening Ceremonies of the Irish Fair. I got there a bit early so I could watch the Irish Step Dancers (always a secret dream of mine to be one!) and then the rugby games. I met up with Emily, Megan and Sarah of the Winter Carnival Royalty and Mr. Saint Patrick himself. We did a mini parade through the festival grounds ending at the River Theatre. After I sang the National Anthem, the Irish Anthem was sung. I wish I knew the Ireland Anthem, because it sounds so cool! Maybe next year at the fair I can sing not only the National Anthem but the Irish one too. Thankfully my family and I got out of there just in time before the weather acted up.

August 8, 2009 – Irish Fair (Day Two)

Here in Minnesota every weekend there is a 5k SOMEWHERE. The Irish Fair also had a run and I wanted to run in it (after my awesome time at the Torchlight run, how could I resist?) Well as soon as they found out that I was Miss Minnesota, they wanted my role in the race to be much bigger. For some reason they must of thought I was an avid runner since they asked me to start the race off. My dad and I showed up that morning ready for a nice run, and this time I came much more prepared! I had my hair already tied back, and I thought wearing just my sash would be easier to run in. As I stepped up to the starting line I was surrounded by what looked to be Olympic Runners. I knew I was doomed. Then of course, the announcer mentions my name, and that if they beat me they can brag to their friends they beat Miss Minnesota in a 5K. I think that motivated everyone, because as soon as they said go… everyone sprinted. Now, I have done a couple 5K’s, and I always thought that you wanted to conserve your energy in the beginning and sprint at the end… I guess I have a lot of learning to do.

I finished the race in… Twenty Two Minutes and 40 seconds. Yes, 8 seconds slower than my Torchlight run but I have an explanation! As I mentioned earlier I thought it would be easier to run with my sash on… negative. It falls right off which means it took me about 10-15 seconds to take it off and slip it into my backpack. So when you really think about it, I actually beat my time, but the sash just held me back.

Miss South Central/ Waseca County Sleigh and Cutter

My mom and I drove an hour to the Miss SC/WCSC local pageant. It was nice to have such a short drive since the weekend before it was 6 hours to Thief River Falls. This was the first local pageant that I was not only going to sell CD’s, but sing one of the original songs! We announced it as the World Premiere of “Don’t You Dare”... It was actually quite surreal for me because at one point during the performance I realize this was my song and I had to keep myself from crying on stage. Good thing the song has an inspirational message so I hope people just thought I was really getting into the song. Thank you to everyone who purchased CDs that night and being there for its debut.

Congratulations to Aja Majkrzak the new Miss South Central and Molly Jewison the New Miss Waseca County Sleigh & Cutter!

August 9, 2009 – Irish Fair (Day Three)
Oh, yes I was back at the Irish Fair. They had a Mass early in the morning and asked me to perform one of the original songs, “Don’t You Dare.” I was so excited to be able to share this song with the crowd that morning.

I raced home for a quick costume change and then it was off to the Target Center to sing the National Anthem at the Minnesota Lynx Game. Performing in the Target Center = Incredible! I cannot wait to go back for a T-Wolves game!
It is now 12:27…. I am impressed that I wrote this blog in 27 minutes. There you have it short and sweet! Now I must sleep… oh wait, I still need to pack.

Also CDs are ready for sale! Pick up your copy at www.musicbuildingblocks.com and support Children's Miracle Network!

Brooke

Orlando - Here She Comes!

2009-08-07T08:47:00.006-05:00

August 5th, 2009 - Outstanding Teen Send off Party

Last night was Katlyn, Miss Minnesota Outstanding Teen's send off
party. I was asked to emcee the event, at the Seasons restaurant. Katlyn’s family and Directors did a great job putting this event together. They even had the Mayor of Coon Rapids there to greet me!

Before the program started we enjoyed a social hour during which I was able to visit with some familiar faces, including my local director Kathy Shellum! She shared with me her ideas and plans for this Miss Twin Cities Pageant for this year. (This is the local I won to head to Miss Minnesota.)

I have emceed the Miss Eagan Ambassador Program for the past six
years, and some other local charity events so I know the most important thing about emceeing is to be prepared to fill. You can never have too much filler!! Good thing I have stories in my back pocket to tell especially when I noticed that it was taking Katlyn about 5 minutes to change, which is quite impressive while putting on a fully beaded evening gown!!

While preparing for this evening I was brushing up on Katlyn's paperwork. I had no idea she was such a talented bowler! During the event I brought her older brother up to talk to him and question him about his bowling skills. I am sure he was not expecting to be call up to speak, but I know my brother is always there for me at these pageant things and I wanted to give him his 15 minutes of fame. Now he can go back and tell his friends he had a conversation with Miss Minnesota about bowling scores. I hope he doesn’t share my score with anyone! After seeing all of Katlyn's wardrobe and her incredible talent I have no doubt in my mind that she will represent Minnesota well at nationals!

I have a busy weekend before Florida. I will be performing at the
Irish Fest on Friday evening and then running the Celts 5k on Saturday
morning (without the crown and sash!) Saturday evening is the Miss
Waseca/South Central Pageant. Sunday morning I'm back to the Irish
fest for their mass and the Sunday night I will sing the National Anthem
for the Minnesota Lynx Game.

Always,
Brooke

Did You Come From Disney Land?

2009-08-06T19:07:00.010-05:00

August 2nd, 2009 - Miss Thief River Falls

I cannot believe that it is already August! This summer is just flying by. I was invited to the Miss Thief River Falls pageant, a new local this year, as they were celebrating 60 years of their program. You are probably asking yourself how a local can be new and celebrating 60 years. The last Miss Thief River Falls was crowned in 2004, and they have not had a pageant since. With the help of Olive Goldesberry and her committee the program was bought back to give another girl an opportunity to experience Miss Minnesota.

My dad and I embarked on our five and a half hour drive that morning and made it just in time for the pageant. I meet the 5 amazing contestants but also the reigning Miss Thief River Falls Sarah (Zak) Mickelson. Lucky girl, she was able to keep her title for almost five years! I loved how she came back and even did her talent during the show!

Congratulations to the new Miss Thief River Falls Kaitlyn Maurstad!

August 4th, 2009 Gillette Fireman’s Carnival and National Night Out

This was the 50th year of the Fireman’s Carnival! It was wonderful to see all the firefighters helping out at this event, and the Gillette Volunteers who donate their time. There were games, prizes, face painting, a petting zoo and ponies for the children at Gillette’s to enjoy.

My favorite part was the Therapy dog, Sasha, was pulling kids around in a wagon. She even gave me a ride, and it was a mini parade during the carnival! The face-painting booth was a crowd favorite. All the girls had these beautiful butterflies painted on, if I didn’t have an appearance that evening I would have gotten one!

Since I volunteer at Gillette’s every week I saw a lot of volunteers and families that I work with. Most of them did not recognize me since I was actually wearing makeup, and had a crown and sash on. Maybe now they will let me wear my crown every week ☺

National Night Out

I was invited to Crossroads at Penn for their huge celebration. They had me sing, sign autographs, and take pictures. My favorite quote from the evening: “So if you are a real princess, did you come from Disney land?” I think the little boy was a bit disappointed when he found out I was just from Eagan, Minnesota.

Turkey Days

2009-08-06T18:42:00.012-05:00

July 25th and 26th, 2009 - Miss Frazee Pageant

My Dad and I headed up north to Frazee to The Palace Café (owned by the Mayfield Family) to join the Judges dinner for the Miss Frazee pageant. Alyssa Mayfield was last year’s Miss Minnesota Outstanding Teen and her family was so gracious to host us at their Café. It was fun seeing all the familiar faces including this year’s Outstanding Teen Katlyn Ziegler! We chatted about her preparations for Nationals in Orlando. I will be emceeing her sendoff party on August 5th at the Seasons Restaurant.

The Miss Frazee committee incorporated the Outstanding Teen program this year into their Pageant. They had 5 girls for the Teen division and 5 for the Miss. Before the show started all the girls were getting their hair done by a backstage helper, Carrie.

Over the last couple of months as Miss Twin Cities and now as Miss Minnesota I have worked really hard at learning to style my hair. My hair is good some days but like everyone else Miss Minnesota has bad hair days. Before being crowned my hair was either in a ponytail or fingered-through curly hair. I was so grateful when Carrie offered to do my hair! I love it when someone else is in charge of the hair!!!!

During the Frazee pageant I sang Somewhere over the Rainbow on the runway they had (just like the Miss America stage in Atlantic City!) Somewhere over the Rainbow had become the song that everyone wanted me to sing when I would go and perform, so it was fun to sing it that night for the Frazee audience. Congratulations to Tiffany Peterson, Miss Frazee and Elizabeth, Miss Frazee’s Outstanding Teen.

After the pageant was over they had a nice after party at their social hall. My dad and I made a quick appearance before we headed back to the hotel to crash. Out of all the local pageants my mom attends, I cannot believe she missed this one. The hotel we stayed at had a beach and a spa!!

The next morning, before the Frazee parade, my Dad and I had time for a nice workout and relax outside. All the Royalty met up before hand for a lunch.

I was ecstatic when I found out that I did not have to ride in the parade alone because Katlyn (Miss Outstanding Teen) and I were sharing the same car! The other exciting thing…. CANDY! I have done a couple parades as Miss Minnesota and I am always stuck behind the float where they throw TONS of candy. The kids are all excited and then when they see me they say, oh just another queen ☺ Well, not this parade!!

I was going to be the one everyone was excited for because I had tons of candy! Katlyn and I did get a little too happy about throwing the candy because we almost went through a whole bag on the first turn. Thankfully our driver, Randy was able to coach us through it.

The last thing to accomplish in Frazee was to take a picture with the World’s Largest Turkey. My dad and I snapped a few before departing. The entire Frazee community was so welcoming and accommodating, and I truly loved my stay.

July 27th, 2009
Meeting – Alice Seagren Commissioner of Education for the State of Minnesota

My platform is Music: The Building Blocks of Education, I asked my Dad if he was able to setup a meeting for me through his contacts with the Commissioner of Education. I wanted to present my platform to her and discuss how I could be an advocate to schools for music education. I was fortunate that Ms. Seagren was able to make time for me.

I presented to her information about my platform and what my plans were as Miss Minnesota. She provided me with some very valuable tools to further my platform. I am looking forward to meeting with her again to discuss more regarding Arts Education and how I can be an advocate for Music Education in Minnesota.

July 28th, 2009 – Hair Cut and Sponsor Thank you’s

I met with Rod at The Hair District to talk about my Miss America look. I still cannot believe that in 6 months I will be in Las Vegas for the Miss America Pageant. I know that Rod is going to make my hair look fabulous.

After receiving the royal treatment, Rod and I went around the block to thank the sponsors for the Miss Minnesota Program. During Miss Minnesota week, in our production outfit dresses, we traveled to all the sponsors and took photos. The state board decided to have Miss Minnesota hand deliver all the photos and thank you notes.

First stop: Max’s. During Miss Minnesota week we received chocolate at the store, we all loved it. Hey, it was a sponsor and we all had to eat it!

Next up: Laredo’s. I had an incredible salad there during Miss Minnesota week, and this is also where I had the conversation with Rylee in the sound proof bathrooms. ☺

Third stop: RejoovMe. I received gift certificates for floating sessions, what a wonderful way to relax before Miss America!

Next stop: Panera. I have to admit this is one of my favorite places to eat. They supplied a wonderful lunch for all the local titleholders during Miss Minnesota week and I love their incredible Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich, delicious.

Last visit: OPM. What a beautiful store, I will be able to shop for a cocktail dress which I plan to use at Miss America.

July 29th, 2009 – Finalizing the CD

Today was rather exciting since I was heading to Darren’s at Skyland Studios to pick up the master copy of the Children’s Miracle Network CD. Darren is the best. He knew that I had a tight deadline getting the CD to Vision Van Gogh to get the CD done on time so he stayed up until 4:30 am WORKING ON IT. (We just missed one another on ichat, since I was up at 5 AM for the gym!)

My mom, little brother and I headed to Darren’s to listen to the master copies of all the songs, and I will admit I was a little tear-eyed when he handed me the official copy. Darren and I spent very long days in his studio working on the CD, and I will miss our sessions. Now that the CD was in my hands, we headed to Coon Rapids to drop it off at Vision Van Gogh. They are putting everything together, the artwork, music, and packaging. Next time I see the CD it will be all complete and ready for sale.

Always,
Brooke

Run Away Queen

2009-07-31T11:46:00.008-05:00

July 22, 2009 - Minneapolis Aquatennial Torchlight 5K
I was asked to sing the National Anthem at the Lifetime Fitness Torchlight 5k, a portion of the proceeds benefits Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare. I was excited to be a part of this event, and kick off the run!

Now I work out, but I have not gone running in quite some time, (I pulled my hamstring in the spring and have been resting it) although I am always up for the challenge! Oh then I was asked if I could run in my crown and sash….

The traffic getting to the race was crazy and it took my mom and me quite some time to find a parking spot to meet up with the two guys, Bryon and Marzol who were in charge. When we did hook up they took great care of me, getting my race number, t-shirt and walked me to the starting line of the race.

I had thought this all out, I was going to sing the National Anthem, then take a few minutes to take the crown off and get ready to run. Once the HUGE crowd had started to die out (there were over 5,000 people running) I would jump in and begin to run. Well of course things did not go according to plan...

Before I sang the National Anthem I met Staci (as in Moon and Staci of KS95!!!) She attempted to run away with my crown, that is the second time in the past month someone has tried to steal the crown! I really need security.

As soon as I was done singing the National Anthem, the race began! After taking a few running photos with the crown on I quickly took my crown and sash off and handed them to my mom, and then I started to run.
About 2 minutes into my run I realized that I did not grab a hair binder, I still had my warm up on, and I had no cell phone!!!! I definitely had the windblown hair look going for me, and there were a lot of shouts out from the crowd that I had the best race hair. As for the warm up jacket, let’s just say I burned twice as many calories than the other runners.

Now the cell phone part…. Not good. I finished the race in… drum roll please….. TWENTY TWO MINUTES AND THIRTY TWO SECONDS. I was hoping for less than thirty, I guess I underestimated my ability! Once I finished they told all the runners to keep walking to leave room for everyone. At this point I had no idea how I was going to meet up with my mom, who was driving from the start of the race to the end.

After about 10 minutes of recovering from my run, I had no idea where I was. I learned back when I was 5 years old on what to do when you are lost. I found the information booth! I asked to use a cell phone and called my mom. Of course as soon as I made the call a band started to play in the background. As I yelled into the phone that I was at the corner of Power and Merriman, I only hoped that my mom knew what I was saying. After another 10 minutes and still no mom, I did the second thing I was taught at age 5, find a police officer. Unfortunately this police officer did not have a cell phone on him. As I was wandering around I was approached by a family that recognized me from the start of the race when I sang the National Anthem. As they took pictures of me with their cell phone, I asked if I was able to borrow it to call my mom. After about 5 attempts I finally got a hold of her and we decided to meet back at the finish line.

Please enjoy the first ever: Miss Minnesota’s MOM Blog:

So here it is the Mom blog, the real story of what it takes to be the chaperone of Miss Minnesota.

First I have learned while driving with Miss Minnesota, she doesn’t give the MapQuest directions fast enough. I hear “Oh you were supposed to go left!” After I have gone right, this is not good when you are in downtown rush hour traffic.

Rule number 1. The job of a chaperone is to remain calm no matter what happens.

This is sometimes hard to do when the person you are suppose to chaperone decides to take off running in a crowd of 5,000 runners and you have no way of contacting her.

Rule number 2. Have MapQuest directions, a map and a GPS in your car for unexpected road construction and closed off roads.

After packing up the crown, sash and camera I headed back to the parking garage to drive to the end of the race. Simple right! Just follow the direction we printed out from Map Quest to the end of the race. I put the address into the GPS and as I pull out of the parking garage I wait for the satellite signal to give me directions. Waiting, waiting, waiting, car behind me beeping and wants me to move so I turn in the direction I came. OOPs that has now become the parade route and is closed.

After several turns and directions given by GPS and Police I think I am going the right way when I hear the GPS telling me to turn on 2nd street, well this street is closed for construction. Then it tells me to turn around as if I miss the street, so I continue to see if it comes up with another route. I start to feel as if the GPS is now mocking me saying recalculating, recalculating, over and over. I am starting to sense an angry tone to the sound of the voice as I keep checking direction trying to find the end of the race.

After 30 minutes trying to find my way using the GPS I stopped and looked at the race map and tried to find this the old fashion way by asking someone! Directed to go over the bridge to Harriett Island I could now see the runners in the distant and just decided to find a place to park and walk over to the finish line.

Walking around seeing all the runners I realize there was no way I would find (Brooke) Miss Minnesota. So I was just about to walk back to my car when I got the first phone call from her. I could not hear very well because there was a Band playing and all I heard was that she was by a tent and a street named How and Merriam. So I did what I taught my children, I went to a Police Officer and asked where was How and Merriam? He had a map and said there are no streets that started with H (How) but that Merriam Street was on the corner. So I waited by the corner as hundreds of runners went by. I tried calling back the number that Miss Minnesota called from, no answer. OK, so back to rule number 1, stay calm. What else did she say, a tent, ok so there was a tent by the finish line I will go back there and look for her? Now it was starting to get dark and I was getting a little worried, those thoughts start to come into your head as a parent that you have lost your child and panic was starting to set in, when I got the second phone call from her.

This time I could hear her, we had a plan to meet at the finish line, where the red and blue balloon arch was. Relief! As I stood next to the arch waiting, the race organizers start to deflate the balloon arch, but when I looked up I heard a familiar voice it was Brooke, Miss Minnesota.

She was excited about her race time and wondering where I had been all this time. I just smiled and said I was here waiting for you.

Rule number 3. Never let your Queen out of your sight without a chaperone.

Next Appearance: Miss Frazee Pageant. I think my Dad is going to accompany me on this one!

Always,
Brooke

Giant Ear of Corn

2009-07-24T16:25:00.017-05:00

July 15, 2009-- Gillette Children’s Hospital
Every Wednesday morning I volunteer at Gillette’s, this morning we made crowns. There were stickers and jewels for the kids to use. Things are always interesting when glue is involved in a craft project!

Festag Days
I was asked to appear at Festag Days in Minnesota Lake. I was so excited about this appearance because Vicki Kueppers, a former Miss Minnesota, was going to be my chaperone! We had a 3-hour drive ahead of us. Vicki and I can talk about anything, the first hour we talked about what we had been up to since the Miss Minnesota Pageant, then we moved to paperwork for Miss America, and then some fun ideas for my CD project.

Before we knew it we were 20 minutes away, and this giant ear of corn pulled in front of us. And when I say giant, I mean GIANT! It had to be heading to the festival where we were going. What I learned is that a truck carrying a giant ear of corn has to drive quite slowly. The 20 minutes turned into 40 minutes.

Thankfully we arrived on time, and I was able to visit with the committee before the Queen’s Tea. There were about 15 other festival queens at the tea along with the reigning Miss Festag Royalty and the candidates vying for the title. As I was chatting with them I told them about the Giant Ear of Corn I followed here and how fun it would be to ride on it in the parade.

After the Tea we headed over to the parade, my driver Ken has driven the past five Miss Minnesota’s in his red convertible. Right before we were about to start a truck drove by with a bunch of high school students. As they were passing one yelled out “Hey, I know you! You’re Miss Minnesota!” It came from a familiar face, and then it all clicked. When I was Miss Twin Cities I volunteered at the Mapleton’s Relay for Life which is just one town over form Minnesota Lake.

This familiar voice I heard was Niko, who was my “body guard” at the Relay for Life. He was excited and surprised that I won Miss Minnesota so we had to get a photo!

For a small town of 700, this parade brought in thousands. As we drove in the parade I was able to see the festival and all the rides. Half way through the parade we came to the announcers. As my car approached I could hear them telling the crowd that I was the newly crowned Miss Minnesota, and where I was from. The announcer then said: Brooke’s mission while at the Festag festival is to ride on the giant ear of corn! Now Vicki and I found this quite hysterical and I wondered why no one else was laughing. I later found out that while I was number 40 in the parade, the corn was number 100… which meant no one had seen the giant ear of corn yet! The crowd must have thought I was crazy!

After the parade the coronation of the Festag Royalty took place on a stage outside in the middle of the festival. I could not believe how many people were there, it looked like a mini state fair!

I sang for the crowd, and shared with them about the CD I am recording for Children’s Miracle Network. Since it was past 9 o’clock, the bugs were everywhere. My main goal during my song was to not have a bug fly in my mouth. While I achieved that, it did not prevent them from flying everywhere else. During the middle of the song I would have 4 or 5 bugs on my forehead. There is no gesture in the world that you can make “wiping bugs off your forehead” look natural while singing a song.

Congratulations to the new Miss Festag Royalty! Also thank you to the committee for welcoming me to their festival. I had a wonderful time.

I am so thankful to Vicki Kueppers who came along with me during the Miss Festag appearance. I am sure that riding in the car with me in the parade brought back many memories of her time as Miss Minnesota. She was so helpful and I could not have done it without her. Vicki took her job as chaperone very seriously even when she had to call and inform the committee that we might be late due to a large piece of corn! It is incredible that the Miss America Organization can introduce such amazing people into your life. Vicki Kueppers is one of those people.

July 16, 2009- Recording Studio
Another recording session for the Children’s Miracle Network CD with Darren, I spent about 3 hours singing. As a singer I had no idea that performing live, and recording were two completely different things. I am very grateful to have Darren, who has been very good at coaching me, and bringing out the best in my vocal abilities.

July 17, 2009- Miss Morris and Miss Midwest Pageant
Luggage travels 350 Miles.

My mom and I were up at 6:30 AM to head to Morris, Minnesota for the day. The Miss Morris/Miss Midwest committee had a packed day for me!

*Just a little side note here that the pink luggage has been cleaned from its trip to Boston and is taking this trip to Morris. My Mom cleaned the luggage with a stiff brush and this bar of soap that she uses for tough stains that my grandmother, who grew up in Ireland used on her clothes. I think we have had this bar of soap for 5 years now (a little goes a long way) and my Mom keeps it in a plastic my little pony cup in the laundry room. It did the job because the luggage looks like new.

At the brunch I gave a speech to the contestants, their families and the Little Princesses and Princes who were there to be crowned. I was able to tell them the amazing benefits of the Miss America Program and applauded them for entering this program. Whether you walk away with the crown or not you gain so much more from this pageant. The scholarship opportunities and the girls you meet will create lasting friendships. I enjoyed catching up with Angie and Quinn the current royalty. Angie was my roommate, and Quinn was my workout buddy during the week at Miss Minnesota.

Since I was in Morris for the day, the committee asked if I would sing the National Anthem at the horse show down at the fair grounds. I love any opportunity to sing, and I was hoping they might let me ride a horse during the event.

One of the things that I love about small towns is the way they give directions. In Eagan, we have to provide street names and house numbers. In Morris landmarks such as Pizza Hut or Dairy Queen are all the directions given. Thankfully my mom and I are quick learners because we found the horse show by following a horse trailer.

I was greeted by Jean who was in charge of the horse show, and also on the Miss Morris Committee. I took pictures with the volunteers, and then a few of the riders. One boy told me that he had 11 horses! Then he asked if I wanted one! I was quite tempted to take one horse and ride back to the pageant on it. Although I am not sure how my Dad would feel if I brought a horse home from this weekend. I already have a puppy and two cats that I need to take care of!

One of the riders was a young girl named Savannah. She had this awesome riding outfit with rhinestones and she was even wearing a crown! Her horse’s name was Sweetie, and I was able to talk with her for a bit before her competition. Later that evening I found out that she had a secret identity! Keep reading to find out ☺

Back to Sonia (the Miss Morris director) house for a home cooked meal. The committee hosted a dinner for the royalty and judges. Thank you to Sonia and everyone for the excellent food, my mom and I enjoyed not having to go to subway again.

I was so excited for the pageant; I sang the National Anthem and had a little back stage time before swim suit. Quinn had called me earlier in the week to tell me the details about what I would be asked to do at the pageant. She paused for a long time and said “Brooke, they want us to do swimsuit” Now I am thinking she means they want us to come out in our swimsuits and walk around! Thank goodness she just meant they wanted us to emcee swimsuit…

After the pageant while I was signing autographs, I was approached by royalty from a town nearby. They wanted to take a photo, and then I realized that their little princess was Savannah who I had met earlier at the horse show. This time she was wearing a beautiful gown, sash, and her crown. I could not believe that she was holding out on me when I saw her before!

Congratulations to the new Miss Morris Sarah Saugstad, and the new Miss Midwest Emily Wyman!

Did I mention that I have been Miss Minnesota for almost a month! Time is just flying by! It will soon be January and the Miss America pageant!

Always, Brooke

Miss Minnesota luggage travels over 3450 miles this weekend.

2009-07-13T22:32:00.011-05:00

July 10, 2009
Right before Miss Minnesota week my Mom purchased a bubble gum pink set of luggage for me. I managed to keep it clean the whole week at Miss Minnesota, but this weekend it really took a beating. First stop the Miss Northwest pageant!

It was fun to get some father-daughter time as I took the role of his secretary for the day as we drove to Detroit Lakes for the Miss Northwest Pageant. As he made conference calls during the car ride, I was catching up on my thank you cards, and reviewing my paperwork.

I was excited to see Lacey Erickson, the current Miss Northwest! We stood next to one another backstage before the opening number, and she always knew how to make me laugh. As soon as I arrived I met the 7 girls who were competing as they finished up their interviews. As you know I am collecting snow globes from each local pageant that I attend, and my dad went off on a scavenger hunt to find one. I had to laugh when he came back with a magnet instead, it’s the thought that counts! It was fun to see the girls from Miss Minnesota week again, and catch up with Lacey and Mackenzie in our dressing room.

Thank you to Cindy Moore and the entire Miss Northwest Committee for putting on such a successful pageant and congratulations to the new Miss Northwest, Lexy Okeson!
Luggage 450 miles and still clean!

July 11, 2009
Up at 5 AM to get to the airport to fly to Boston, as I was checking in my pink luggage the Northwest attendant asked me if it was brand new. I smiled and said yes, and she responded, “Well it won’t look as new when we are finished with it.” I was really hoping she just kidding!

After finishing up some last minute details with my school and apartment, my mom and I had some free time before the Miss Massachusetts pageant that evening. I was able to play tour guide for a while and take my mom to the best shopping spots!

The Miss Massachusetts pageant was held in Worcester, which is about an hour outside the city. We had rented a car (a cute silver PT Cruiser!), and I was in charge of the GPS. So I brought my own GPS, and map quest directions plus the car we rented had a GPS. I really wanted to make sure we didn’t get lost!

The theatre was absolutely beautiful, and as soon as we were arrived the reigning Miss Massachusetts Alicia Zitka greeted me. We had exchanged a few emails but this was the first time I had met her in person.

I confused a lot of people during the night because of my title. Most people assumed after seeing the M that I was Miss Maine! I loved the looks on their faces when they realized that I was actually Miss Minnesota. I did not mind explaining a couple times that I go to school in Boston and was in town for the weekend.

INTERESTING FACT: I was actually born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts which is only 1 hour away from Worcester. I don’t remember much about living there but my claim to fame is that I played with Meryl Streep’s kids when she was shopping in the same store as my mom. Granted I was only 2 at the time but that is still pretty cool!

There were four other Miss America titleholders at the Miss Massachusetts Pageant. I was able to meet Miss Connecticut, Miss New Hampshire, Miss Vermont and Miss Rhode Island. I am so excited that I now know a few girls before heading to Florida in August. We had a great time getting to know one another, and taking pictures.

The Miss Massachusetts Committee puts on a great show. They have official Miss Massachusetts’s dancers, and they hold auditions for them every year! They introduced each face of the competition with a fun dance routine and I enjoyed watching them.

During the pageant they had the visiting royalty introduce themselves onstage. They saved me for last since I had traveled the farthest. I explained to the crowd why I was there and even received a few cheers when I mentioned Pittsfield, MA.

Congratulations to Amanda Kelly the new Miss Massachusetts! There was a nice reception after the pageant where I was able to meet Amanda and grab a quick photo before heading on the road again. Although something caught my attention before I was able to leave. The Miss Massachusetts Pageant had this incredible cake that was on display. It was just too pretty to eat! Of course I had to take a picture with it.

Luggage travels 3000 miles and dirty on one side from flight!

July 12, 2009
Singing the National Anthem for the Minnesota Twins has been one of my favorite Miss Minnesota appearances so far. I had fun behind the scenes with David and Glo (thank you again for letting me sing!) I hope I can come back again during the season because I have a feeling I might be a good luck charm! The Twins dominated that game!! Here is video from the Twins Game, now keep my mind my dad filmed this while standing on a chair!

That evening I was invited to sing with the Dakota Valley Summer Pops Orchestra at Caponi Art Park. I was able to thank Mr. Caponi himself for having me, and I am looking forward to attending more concerts there.

My bubble gum pink suitcase was able to survive this whirlwind of a weekend. Although I have to admit it does not look brand new any more.

Always, Brooke

Just a quick update

2009-07-09T22:34:00.011-05:00

Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Today, I had my second visit with the Children at Dakota Woodland’s Women’s Shelter sharing my platform Music: The Building Blocks of Education. The craft for the day was Kazoo’s which we made out of toilet paper rolls. The kids were able to decorate their instrument with all different types of stickers including some in the shape of musical notes. Add a piece of wax paper, a rubber band and a few holes and they had their very own kazoo! Some of the kids I met last week returned, and brought the jingle bracelets they had made last time. After our craft we made our own band with the kazoos, drums, cymbals, shakers and a whistle. One of the other volunteers, Josh, who helping out started to sing for the kids, and then it was my turn. I asked the kids if they knew a song they could sing along, and we all decided on “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” Instead of singing we decided to rap it! I wish I had my video camera because the kids were just hysterical. Next week’s craft… I’m thinking guitars made out of milk cartons!

Miss Lakeville Pageant 2009
I met the current Miss Lakeville, Morgan Berg, at my Minnesota Queens for a Cure event in May. She joined my team and walked the 5K. I was so excited when I was invited to sing at Miss Lakeville not only to perform but also to see Morgan again! The theme for this year’s pageant was “I’ve Got the Music in Me” and the director asked if I would speak on behalf of my platform, Music: The Building Blocks of Education. Miss Lakeville had 12 contestants this year, and each girl has something different to offer. I was so happy that I was not a judge! During intermission I was able to catch up with Tricia Eisen (who competed in Miss Twin Cities) and her mom. Tricia and I both go to school in Boston, and she is doing amazing things with her music career. Keep an eye out for her album, because this girl is extremely talented. I also caught up with the newly crowned Miss Eagan Ambassadors, to ask how their first week of royalty was going! The second half of the pageant I had to watch from backstage. During this time I was able to catch up with Miss Lakeville Morgan Berg and her two princesses. Torrie, 2nd Lakeville Princess, and I played soccer together back in the day. It is crazy to see both of us wearing crowns on our heads when just a few years ago we were sporting soccer cleats and shin guards. This was my first time meeting Kaley, 1st Lakeville Princess, but we hit it off right away! As I waited backstage reviewing my lyrics the Lakeville Royalty were reviewing as well. They have to memorize their farewell speeches and deliver them center stage! Thank goodness Miss Minnesota tapes her farewell ☺

I was able to talk to the audience about my platform, and share my musical journey. I performed one of my favorite songs (I was actually considering doing this for my talent before I found “Somebody to Love”). The song is called “Gold” by Linda Eder.

*FUN FACT: Linda Eder was raised in Brainerd, Minnesota and won the title of Miss Brainerd in 1981 and was 4th runner up to Miss Minnesota.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Scipioni who was named 1st Lakeville Princess! I met Liz during the Miss Twin Cities Pageant and she will do a wonderful job representing the city of Lakeville.

After the pageant was over, they set up a table for me to sign autographs and sell my candy bars for Children’s Miracle Network. Thank you to the Miss Lakeville committee for letting me be apart of such an incredible night!

July 9, 2009
I met up with Darren at the recording studio to start finalizing the song choices for my Children’s Miracle Network CD. I am excited to say that I will have two original songs on the CD, as well as one cover song. Today was a lot of production work: figuring out what key was best for my voice, and what I wanted to do with each song. I cannot believe that we will start recording next week! My parents have been video taping the entire process and here is a little clip! Think of it as a behind the scenes of Brooke’s Children’s Miracle Network CD. Stay tuned for more information on the release date ☺

This Friday I will be attending the Miss Northwest Pageant. I am looking forward to seeing the other girls from Miss Minnesota week. Then Saturday morning my mom and I are on the first flight to Boston for the Miss Massachusetts Pageant. It will be a fast turn around since I am flying back to Minnesota early Sunday morning to make it back in time to sing at the Twins Game that afternoon. Then that evening I will be making an appearance at Dakota Valley’s Pops Concert. It is going to be a crazy busy weekend!

Always, Brooke

2 weeks in...

2009-07-08T13:11:00.011-05:00

It has been so busy and exciting since I was crowned Miss Minnesota 2009 and I love every minute of it!

Friday - June 26, 2009
My first official appearance as Miss Minnesota! I was invited to the Super America in Maple Grove, where a fund raiser for Children’s Miracle Network was being held. I was greeted by over 20 Super America employees and many had been there since 6 AM! They had a goal of raising $50,000 over the two days, and by 11 AM they had $10,000! As soon as I arrived they put me to work! I wanted to wash windows, but no one let me so I stuck to signing autographs. During the fundraiser, Tracy was making announcements over the loud speaker. He found out that I was on American Idol, and he asked me to sing for the customers. He gave me a nice introduction and right before handing me the microphone he announces I will be doing animal noises. I joked with him, saying, “Tracy! You know that is my Miss America talent and we have to keep it a secret!” Thank you to everyone who helped raise money for Gillette’s those two days in Maple Grove.

Miss America Calling
On the way home from my appearance my cell phone rang. When I looked it was a (609) area code which is New Jersey, so I am thinking it is my Grandma or a cousin. My mom and I were in the middle of the conversation so I almost didn’t pick up! Good thing I did because it was the current MISS AMERICA, KATIE STAM!! I was in shock and I could not believe that I was actually talking to her. Katie wished me congratulations and we chatted a bit about my plans for Miss Minnesota. She will be in Florida and that will be the first time I will be able to meet her. After that phone call I think it really hit me that I am actually going to Miss America! Katie even told me to save her number, and I will admit sometimes I find myself looking through my phone contacts to see “Miss America, Katie Stam” in the midst of them.

Saturday - June 27, 2009
The next day my family and I were up bright and early for our road trip to Brainerd, Minnesota. We decided to call it our mini vacation for the summer (our hotel had a nice water slide in it!) It takes three hours to drive to Brainerd and our car was packed. We had snacks, water, pageant gowns, suitcases, makeup, hair curlers, and a Miss Minnesota contestant sign. After I won, David gave me the contestant sign that was outside our meeting room during the week. It is my goal to get every girl to sign the poster and after this weekend I am halfway there. We arrived in Brainerd around noon, and met up with Emily Wyman, Miss Brainerd Lakes. I know it had only been a week since Miss Minnesota but I felt like I had not seen her in forever! She became one of my closest friends during the week, and I always have so much fun with her. The Brainerd Lakes committee treated me like royalty, literally. I had my own private dressing room that also had a bathroom. They made sure I felt right at home. I quickly got ready and then talked to the contestants before they headed into their interviews. I had to smile when I heard the girls talk about their interviews because two of the judges were my local directors Kathy and Judy. I even had the chance to catch up with them (I had not seen them since the brunch after Miss Minnesota) and talk about my first week as Miss Minnesota.

I had an hour break before I had to get ready for the final night so my family picked me up for dinner. They visited the Paul Bunyan amusement park that day and had some entertaining photos. I wish I had time to see the GIANT Paul who knows your name when you walk by. Maybe next time… Family, you up for another road trip? My mom bought me a snow globe from the museum which is the start of my new collection from the local pageants. Each local pageant I attend I am going to buy a snow globe from the city, I feel that a snow globe is appropriate for the state of Minnesota!

For the final pageant, over half of the girls I competed with at Miss Minnesota attended. It was so wonderful to see everyone again, and catch up since the final pageant. I love how we all got along so well during Miss Minnesota week and I know we will all keep in touch. Girls – do not forget about our pool party! Invitations coming soon :)

The Miss Brainerd Lakes Pageant had 10 girls this year, and if you have not been to their pageant, the stage is incredible. They have a runway that reminds me of the traditional Miss America pageant when it was held in Atlantic City. When it was my time to perform during the pageant Bill, one of the directors, told me to work that runway. So that I did! During the day a few of the staff members were wearing “Protect the Queen” shirts. I had commented on them every time I saw them because they were so cool! Well, while I was on stage they presented me with my very own shirt. I definitely wore it home that night. Congratulations to Lauren Johnson, the new Miss Brainerd Lakes. I look forward to getting to know you throughout the year. Thank you to Bill and Vicki, Miss Brainerd Lakes Directors, for letting me share in the fun of the Miss Brainerd Lakes Pageant.

Sunday - June 28, 2009
My Dad and I woke up early that morning to get our workout in before we had to leave for a 4 hour drive to Middle River, Minnesota. We went downstairs to ask for directions to the gym and the man at the front desk told us there was a brand new gym just down the block. This was a bit more tempting then the room at the hotel with one treadmill and one bike, and we were up for the brief walk. After about 15 minutes of walking we arrived at the gym and it was definitely brand new. So new that the gym was not even open yet! My dad and I had an extra workout that morning since we then had to walk back to the hotel. We headed out to the Miss Marshall County pageant. Having never been this far up north I now understand why people have cabins. The lakes are absolutely beautiful.

We arrived in Middle River around 1 PM, and had plenty of time to get ready for the 3 PM pageant. I had the opportunity to meet all of the girls vying for the title of Miss Marshall County as well as the committee. Before the pageant started I went onstage to do a sound check for the songs I planned to perform and we could not get my CD to work. The sound guy, Nick, tried every CD player he had and every cord he had but for some reason it would not work with his system. I was planning on just singing something acapella, when my little brother came to the rescue. The CD worked on his computer and while I was singing he held a microphone up to the computer to play my karaoke track. I had a blast during the pageant, and stayed busy. I helped ask the onstage questions, performed twice, and even sang with the town’s Men’s Chorus. Of course I did not know any of their songs, but it was fun to join them on a song that I believe was called “Bird Dog?”

During the crowning the local director handed me the crown but she did not have any hair pins to secure it. I removed a few pins from my own and hoped both crowns would stay in place. Congratulations to Joanna Endrizzi, the new Miss Marshall County!! The pageant ended around 5 and my family and I had a seven hour drive back to the Twin Cities. I am convinced that our GPS has a sense of humor. After about two hours in the car we were all hungry for some dinner. The GPS told us that a Subway was only 5 minutes away, except when we got there… no Subway, just a residential home. We tried again after about 10 minutes and the GPS found another Subway…. Except this time it was a Barn. Finally after an hour searching for some food, we found a Subway in Perham. It was a long drive but we were finally home around 11 PM that night. With so much time in the car I worked on lists of songs and ideas of things I could do as Miss Minnesota.

Monday - June 29, 2009
The next morning I was up early to get ready for my appearance on Twin Cities Live. After my workout that morning I noticed I had a few missed calls from Barb, my Miss Minnesota Business Manager. She called to ask if I could find my Flexible Hanger that I had invented in 4th grade, because they wanted it on the show that afternoon. Barb had sent them my paperwork from the pageant to come up with questions, and they wanted to interview me on my invention. I panicked because I had no idea where it would be, but my mom, cool as a cucumber, knew exactly where my flexible hanger was.

While eating lunch there was a commercial for Twin Cities Live that showed a preview of the show for today. That is when I found out that Nick Arrojo, the hair stylist from TLC’s What Not to Wear was going to be on the show! I am a huge fan of that show, and was keeping my fingers crossed that I would meet him. My mom and I arrived on set about an hour before taping. We were taken down to the dressing room and green room to wait for my sound check. The walls all around the studio are covered with signatures from guests who have been on their shows. I even found some former Miss Minnesota signatures!

While waiting back stage I was able to meet with the other guests. Marjorie Johnson, who has been on Jay Leno and Rosie O’Donnell for her baking was going to be making her famous ABC Bread on the show. She assured me that I could have a piece because it was made with Apples, Bananas and Carrots!

Then the moment I had been waiting for…. Nick Arrojo and his hair models walked in. After his interview he came into the green room and started chatting with my mom and me. I told him that I was competing for Miss America and needed some hair advice, and he said (I quote): “Darlin’ you already have Miss America hair.” Let’s hope he is in Las Vegas tells that to the judges!!!

Before going on for my interview the host Elizabeth Ries came back to the green room to chat and I learned that she went to school in Apple Valley which is the rival school to Eastview where I graduated. We hit it off right away and the interview just flew by! I had the opportunity to watch it online and I loved the bit about the flexible hanger. I am so glad that they had me bring it on the show. They invited me to come back throughout my reign and hopefully I can come back once my Children’s Miracle Network CD is released. Now you may be asking what CD? Well continue reading…

Tuesday - June 30, 2009
Before Miss Minnesota I came up with the idea of recording a CD for Children’s Miracle Network with the proceeds going towards CMN and Gillette Children’s Hospital. I had the idea of just recording it on Garage band on my apple computer, but former Miss Minnesota Vicki Kueppers had a better idea. She hooked me up with producer, Darren Rust, of Lakeville who has a private recording studio in his home. We met the week before and discussed options for the CD and also recorded a demo to listen to. Today we came together to discuss final details about the recording process. The album will be complete by this August and will have 3 songs. One of them will be an original that I will be able to perform throughout the state. Stay tuned for more information on ordering a CD and you will be able to watch some video clips on the recording process.

Minnesota Thunder Soccer
That evening I was asked to sing the National Anthem at the Minnesota Thunder’s Soccer Game. Something you may not know about me is that I played travel soccer for 7 years and was very familiar with the Blaine Soccer Club. Never in a million years did I think I would be standing on the field of the National Sports Center in heels and a crown and sash. I even saw a few friends that I played soccer with at the game.

I sang the National Anthem before the game (perfect warm up for the Twins Game!) and they gave me a T-shirt. I have realized I am going to have quite the T-Shirt collection after my reign of Miss Minnesota is over. I already have my MN Thunder shirt and my “Protect the Queen” T-Shirt.

Wednesday - July 1, 2009
This was quite the busy day. It was my first day back at Gillette’s since being crowned Miss Minnesota. When I walked into the volunteer office they had decorated the volunteer board with pictures from the Miss Minnesota pageant. During the week we visited Gillette’s to take a tour and make cookies with the patients. I was able to see both Paula and Laurie who I worked with while I was there. They were so excited about me becoming Miss Minnesota and wanted to know every detail. Since the 4th of July was that weekend the craft for the day was red, white and blue bracelets. They were a hit and we ran out so fast! Thank goodness we have unlimited coloring pages and coloring crayons.

Dakota Woodlands Women’s Shelter
July 1st was also the first day of my music program at the Dakota Woodlands Women’s Shelter. I met with them earlier in the spring about starting a music program there during the summer months. I was so excited to get started and work with the kids. Since it is a Women’s shelter each week the number of kids will be different. This week I had four kids ranging from 3 to 6 years old. I started the program with some coloring to music, and they were so excited about all the different markers I brought! I was glad to see them get so excited because markers were not ever the best part! I had musical instruments to show them as well as a craft where they could make their own instruments.

I loved seeing the kids play in their own band, and tell me how much they love to sing. I had pipe cleaners and bells for them to make their own jingle bracelets, and take with them. After 45 minutes with the kids the room was a mess, and the sound of jingle bells was ringing through the halls. I cannot wait for next week when we make kazoos!

Miss Eagan Pageant
The beginning of July not only means that summer is going by so fast!!! But also that it is Miss Eagan time! My mom and I started the Miss Eagan Ambassador Program five years ago and have awarded over $14,000 in scholarships. This year, since I became so busy with Miss Minnesota, our assistant director Cheri Smith took over for us. This program is so important to me that I would not miss it for the world. I rushed over right after my music program at the Women’s Shelter to help with rehearsals. That evening they had interviews, I prepped the girls before they went into their interviews; I knew exactly what they were going through. The older girls (the winner will compete at Aquatennial) had to do a panel interview and a closing statement. This is very similar to the Miss America system, and I did my best to prepare them. After the interviews I was also an optional talent judge.

Thursday - July 2, 2009
Miss Eagan Final night! I arrived at the Eagan Community Center at 2 PM for the final dress rehearsal. The girls were so cooperative that we were able to run through the entire pageant twice! Then it was time to get ready for the final pageant. I was emceeing with Marni Hughes, Fox 9 Anchor; unfortunately she had to leave 30 minutes in to report the news. Thankfully Nathan Shrake, who performed at the Miss Minnesota Pageant, was able to step in and emcee with me. The pageant was highlighted on the 10 o’clock news that night where they showed clips of Marni and me emceeing. Congratulations to all the new Miss Eagan Ambassadors, and a huge thank you to the outgoing royalty for representing Eagan well. After the pageant, a table was set up for me to sign autographs and sell candy bars for Children’s Miracle Network.

Saturday - July 4, 2009
Happy 4th of July! Before Miss Minnesota I was asked to be the Grand Marshal of the Eagan 4th of July Parade as Miss Twin Cities. They were elated to hear that I was crowned Miss Minnesota and could not wait for me to be in the parade. Usually every year I drive my beetle bug convertible in the parade while carrying the Miss Eagan Royalty. This year my dad was able to drive me in his Thunderbird. It was unfortunately raining, but we came prepared with an umbrella and towels. After the Eagan parade we were off to the Apple Valley parade. I went to high school in Apple Valley so it was fun to see high school friends at the parade. I forgot that during the parade everyone knows your name, since there are huge signs on either side of your car. I had some interesting comments made to me. One little boy yelled to me that I was not a real princess, while another girl told me that she had googled me all last night. The entire day was a blast, and it was great seeing old friends.

Fireworks
The last few 4th of July’s we started a tradition of watching fireworks at the Eagan Community Center with the Gwaltney family. Each year we try to add something new. First we had chairs and snacks, the next year we did chocolate fondue, and then this year we brought a folding table for the fondue and playing cards. We spend the time sharing funny stories, (my stories were all about tanning products that I tried for the Miss Minnesota pageant and how my hands and feet were orange), eating fondue, and watching the fireworks. Then we always stay after to let all the other cars leave the parking lot before we head home. Oh, another thing we added this year… a bug light.

Monday - July 6, 2009
Today was my official Miss America photo shoot. My mom and I arrived bright and early at 9 AM, and met up with makeup artist, Leanne Barr in the parking lot. For all the times that I had been at Paula Preston’s studio, I never knew there was an elevator. Usually my mom and I carry all my clothes up the two flights of stairs, so the elevator sounded very appealing. But this was the creepiest elevator I have ever seen. It was an old fashion elevator meaning you had to lift the door yourself. Leanne lifted the door too high for her or I to reach to close it back down. My Mom who is 2 inches taller than us also couldn’t reach so we pulled out the only thing we had a hanger. My Mom pulled the door down and we were on our way up to the second floor. We all made it safely up to Paula’s studio and back down without any problems. After 6 hours of shooting I am so excited to see the photos that Paula took.

Only 208 days until Miss America!

Until next time,
Brooke