Miss Heart of Michigan

Miss Heart contestants at Miss Spirit of the State

2011-11-03T13:46:00.002-04:00

If you are interested in becoming a contestant at other open pageants, please contact the Executive Director of that pageant to see if there are openings left.

Miss Spirit of the State has booked all of the Miss Heart contestants who contacted Noddea last week, so please do not email Miss Spirit for an application.

Best of luck to former Miss Heart contestant, Jodi Beckman at Miss Ludington this weekend, and to several former Miss Heart contestants at Miss Capital City and the other pageants happening soon!

Changes at Miss Heart

2011-10-30T14:55:00.000-04:00

If you have not heard yet, Michael and Loretta will be stepping down from Miss Heart. Creekside Grains has grown so quickly that we need to spend our time keeping up with the business.

If you are interested in becoming a Miss America preliminary contestant, please go to the Miss Michigan web site and look for a local pageant in your area, or one of several open pageants throughout the state.

We will miss the time spent with our Miss Heart of Michigan contestants, but look forward to seeing you when we visit Miss Spirit of the State in January.

Katie and Katie

2011-09-29T20:32:00.006-04:00

Please pray for two of our favorite Katie's,
as they go on a long journey.

Katie LaRoche will be leaving Saturday
for a year long world travel adventure.
She will be representing One World One Future, which she founded.
One World One Future is an organization run by a group of ambitious women determined to help their brothers and sisters around the world that are unjustifiably facing a life of slavery.

Follow her adventures on www.oneworldonefuture.org

We pray for safety for Katie!

Our other special Katie was a Little Sweetheart Princess
at Miss Heart of Michigan this past February.

Katie will have open heart surgery the week of Thanksgiving.

You can follow Katie's journey on her blog.

www.katiesheartjourney.com

We pray for God's healing hand over Katie and His peace for her family.

Prayers, please

2011-07-06T19:51:00.003-04:00

I just received this email from Laura Bloomensaat.

I just wanted to let our pageant family know that Stephanie Frey, Miss Washtenaw 2008, and former Miss Kalamazoo, Shoreline and Lighthouse Coast was hospitalized this past weekend.
She has a brain tumor and will have surgery to remove it on Friday morning.

I will try to keep people posted as we know more.

Stephanie was First Runner Up for Miss Heart 2010.

If you would like to send Stephanie a card, her address is 11970 Jordan Rd, Saline MI 48176.

Please keep Stephanie and her family in our prayers.

Missy at Miss Michigan

2011-06-12T23:02:00.002-04:00

Missy spent her first full day in Muskegon in rehearsals for Miss Michigan.

More rehearsals tomorrow!

We know she will have a great week!

Off to Muskegon

2011-06-10T21:34:00.002-04:00

I will be in Muskegon on Saturday and Sunday
to get Missy checked in for Miss Michigan week.

Michael will arrive on Wednesday to watch the prelims.

Best of luck to Missy!

Off to Muskegon

2011-03-03T21:41:00.003-05:00

Missy and I are on our way to Muskegon for Miss Lighthouse Coast Pageant and Miss Michigan Orientation. I look forward to spending time with Missy and seeing all of the Miss Heart ladies who will be competing at Miss Lighthouse. They were Runners Up at other pageants, so will get a chance to compete one more time for Miss Michigan.

I am so excited to be able to cheer for a bunch of contestants! It will be a fun evening and a great time with Missy.

Missy comes to Traverse City

2011-02-26T23:43:00.006-05:00

What a busy two weeks it has been!
On Friday after Miss Heart, Missy drove to Traverse City for
a television interview on ABC 29 and 8,
then stopped downtown to visit all of the Miss Heart sponsors,
then came to the office for a few hours of official portraits,
then drove back home, all in one day!
This involves a four hour drive each way,
so we are so grateful that Missy was able to accomplish this for Miss Heart.

Missy did have some fun along the way!
The merchants were thrilled to see her,
the television interview went great
and we loved photographing her.
We cannot wait to get her back to Traverse City
for more portraits with her evening gown and more places to visit.

This is one of many favorite portraits of Missy.

Congratulations to Missy Brown!

2011-02-13T00:36:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Missy Brown, our new Miss Heart 2011!
Missy will be a wonderful addition to our new Heart family.

Every year, it gets better.
Every year, God sends us the most incredible young women.
They blew me away tonight!
Grace, charm, beauty, talent (amazing talent), it's all there!

We are so proud to be a part of this family and
so glad that we gained 19 more daughters.

Congratulations to all Miss Heart contestants!

Insight from Katie LaRoche

2011-01-22T17:36:00.003-05:00

Katie will always hold a special place in our Miss Heart hearts! Here is an insight that she shared with us...Katie will be our special guest for Miss Heart of Michigan on February 12. Join us!

My performance on 1/11/11 for the preliminary portion of the competition for the title of Miss America happened to fall on National Human Trafficking Awareness day, an awesome coincidence. You can watch it through this link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgrnA0SlOYo&NR=1

Lying on the floor inside the dance studio of my youth, I am mentally and physically exhausted. Memories from within the walls merge with challenges of the present as I struggle to catch my breath. My mind races as interview prep spins through my head. Should Julian Assange be tried for treason? Should we allow a mosque to be built on ground zero? What is the greatest challenge facing our nation’s youth? Then my focus shifts. Ryan’s corrections of my dance routine surface. “Point your toes. Change your focus. Softer there. Stronger there. That arm is ugly; we need to fix it.”

“Okay, enough thinking,” I tell myself. “Get up and do it one more time… you need to run through your dance one more time…” I’m almost too tired to peel my body off the floor, but I get up. I do it once more.

Looking back, I suppose preparing for the 10 days I spent in Las Vegas competing for the title of Miss America was a lot of work, but it hardly felt like it at the time. Truth be told, that was probably because I was enjoying it in the deepest part of my being. I had been given an excuse to dance, to study world issues, and to speak to organization after organization on a topic I am passionate about: the imminence of compassion and our ability as individuals to make this world a better place, whether they choose to focus on human trafficking or another issue close to their heart.

I could never have imagined that I would get the opportunity to use all of the years spent in my little studio in Bay City—Perry Woodard School of Dance—as a powerful tool in sharing an important message of reality coupled with hope. The piece I performed on the Miss America stage this January was an artistic expression of my journey coming to understand the injustice taking place in our world. Every single movement in the routine has a story, a name, and a face, and each time I am given the opportunity to perform it, I am hardly in the room. My mind takes me back to the villages, to the slums, to the people from different corners of the world that have changed my perspective on life. My body continues to move with a strange out-of-body strength, as I once again look deep into the beautiful eyes of those facing an unfair life filled with suffering and challenges that are unimaginable and unjustifiable. Starving children; people living in shacks with no beds, showers, or stoves; children's brothels operating in broad daylight. There is a great deal going on in our world that need not be, and it has been a blessing to be able to use music and dance to give others a glimpse of its reality and maybe, just maybe, inspire a few to take action.

The experience competing for the title of Miss America and spending time with these young women from across our nation was truly incredible. It is always a blessing to share a piece of yourself with a group of strangers, but to share it with a group of inspiring, kind, internally beautiful and driven women was beyond words.

May Every Sunrise Hold More Promise,

And Every Sunset Hold More Peace.

~Blessing~

Miss Heart Tickets

2011-01-18T14:49:00.003-05:00

Miss Heart tickets are now available.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

Please call 231-947-6655 or 800-417-2822
to place your order with Visa or Mastercard.

You may also email your order and mail a check.
j701@freeway.net.

We will send a reply that we received the order,
plus provide the address for you to send the check.

Tickets will be held in Will Call.

We look forward to a great evening!

Katie Did It!

2011-01-14T23:29:00.002-05:00

Katie LaRoche is the winner of the 2011 Quality of Life Award for her platform of Raising Awareness of Human Trafficking.

She wins a $6000 scholarship.

We knew she would! Katie truly lives her platform.

Lives will be changed because of Katie's compassion! We are praying for Katie and all of the women who will benefit from her platform.

Miss America, tomorrow night, 9:00 PM on ABC!

Love From Miss Michigan Sisters!

2011-01-12T21:49:00.006-05:00

This scarf was presented to Katie at Fall Forum.

It is made up of the Miss Michigan class of 2010 garment fragments.

Kaley requested that all contestants send her scraps and remains from the alterations of their Miss Michigan gowns, interview suits, cocktail dresses, etc.

Kaley had the pieces made into a scarf for Katie.

Kaley hopes this scarf brings Katie all the luck in the world at Miss America!

Thanks Kaley and Miss Michigan sisters!

Miss Michigan Katie LaRoche Performs at Miss America Pageant

2011-01-12T10:25:00.000-05:00

Announcing, our Little Sweetheart Princess Program!

2011-01-11T13:19:00.002-05:00

We are so excited to announce our newest addition to Miss Heart of Michigan!

Welcome to our First Annual Little Sweetheart Princess Program!

Please email j701@freeway.net for details and the application.

Hurry, the deadline for applications is January 31.

We are only accepting twenty applications, so don't wait!

Message from Kaley to Katie!

2011-01-09T22:29:00.001-05:00

Well Miss Katie has arrived in Vegas and has already made her mark. Congratulations to Katie for being selected a finalist for the Quality of Life Award. What an honor! I wish Katie my Miss Heart sister and good friend the VERY best in Vegas. I so wish that I could be in the seats with some of my Miss Michigan sisters cheering her on but I will be with her in spirit and "heart" no pun intended hehe. I know that her genuine nature, talent and kindness will shine through in the interview room and on the stage. GOOD LUCK KATIE!

Signing off from the Heart,

Kaley :)

Katie it Top Eight for Quality of Life Award!

2011-01-07T10:38:00.004-05:00

It was just announced that Katie LaRoche from Michigan is one of the eight finalists for the Quality of Life Award at Miss America!

This year’s Quality of Life finalists were announced yesterday at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas during the 2011 Miss America Pageant Arrival Ceremony.

The Quality of Life Awards were introduced in 1988 to recognize contestants who excel in their commitment to community service. In order to be considered for the Quality of Life Award, contestants must submit an application describing their involvement with Children's Miracle Network, the national platform of the Miss America Organization, and their own personal platform issue.

The winner of the Quality of Life Award will receive a $6,000 scholarship, the first runner-up will win a $4,000 scholarship, and the second runner-up will win a $2,000 scholarship. Winners will be announced at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on January 14 during the 3:00 p.m. (PST) press conference.

Katie is in Las Vegas!

2011-01-05T19:57:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone:

I have reached Las Vegas and will begin rehearsals, interviews and appearances tomorrow afternoon. I am sending out one last reminder about the Voting! Please remember to vote ALL FOUR WAYS.

Thank you everyone!

Katie

The Public has been given the opportunity to pick one of the finalists for the Miss America Competition that will be broadcast live on ABC on January 15th at 8pm. Please fell free to pass this information on by way of Email, FaceBook, twitter, word of mouth, etc.

1. Facebook

Step One: Go to the “Miss America Organization” Facebook page

Step Two: Click the "Like" for the Miss America Organization

Step Three: Click the “Like” for Katie’s video submission.

2. Cell Phone: text MAMI to 24470

3. The Miss America Webpage: www.MissAmerica.org/VideoContest

4. YouTube (you must have a Gmail account or YouTube account to vote. If you do not have one it only takes 2 minutes to create one)

Step one: Go to http://www.youtube.com/MissAmericaOrg#p/c/5E70361E9BA9B04B/23/-nr5qqdlZLM

Step Two: Click "Like" below and to the right of the video

Step Three: Click the Sign in (if you have a Gmail or YouTube account) or Sign up (if you need to quick create one)

Step Four: Go back to the video and click “like”

Katie Lynn LaRoche
Miss Michigan 2010

Contestant Information

2010-12-16T00:13:00.002-05:00

To all prospective contestants, please read...

I have received paperwork from contestants with the wrong contract. Please, please make sure you use the Miss Heart of Michigan contract that is emailed to you. Since we are a 501c3, our contract is different than Miss America's local contract. If you send the incorrect contract, you will need to resubmit the correct contract (and have it notarized again) to be considered an official contestant.

Please make sure all of your Childrens Miracle Network funds are raised. There have been over forty prospective contestants who have requested a contract and we only accept thirty entries. The first thirty will be the official contestants. All CMN money must be raised and all paperwork must be complete to be considered as a contestant.

The deadline is approaching, so get your paperwork to us as soon as you can! We have a deadline with the Casino to get the program printed, so we cannot make exceptions for late entries.

It is going to be another great year. I look forward to seeing our Miss Heart "daughters" again and gaining new "daughters!"

No Internet

2010-11-28T10:39:00.002-05:00

In case you tried to contact us via email in the past four days and did not receive a reply from us, our internet was shut down. We discovered it on Friday morning.

Since we are moving, we have to disconnect one internet service and open another (since the first one is not available at our new location). We have new service at the new facility, but had not moved the computers yet. We were not going to disconnect the first service until we had all equipment moved. However, someone in sales decided that Friday was a great day to end our internet. When I called to find out what happened, the sales department was closed for the holiday.

All this comes down to...we have no internet connections and may not have them for a few more days, until we can make the switch. You will hear from me as soon as I can respond.

I also had the Miss Heart contract ready to email all prospective contestants on Friday, but that will have to wait until we can be up and running. I have the list of all who have contacted me so far, but if you want to be included on the list, please email me after Monday and I will send a contract to you.

If you have not signed up for CMN yet, please make sure all of your funds are raised. There have been over forty prospective contestants who have requested a contract and we only accept thirty entries. The first thirty will be the official contestants. All CMN money must be raised and all paperwork must be complete to be considered as a contestant.

Sorry for the inconvenience! We hope to be full speed ahead very soon!

P.S. I am at a remote computer so I can write this, but have no access to our email accounts.

Morgan is shopping again!

2010-10-05T11:32:00.004-04:00

Morgan was a great shopper at Gull Meadow Farms in Richland, Michigan.

She always finds the Creekside Grains mixes!

Morgan should be the Creekside Grains spokesperson.

She seems to find the mixes wherever she goes!

We only have about ninety more gift stores to cover, so Morgan had better take a road trip.

She will have to go as far west as Montana and and far east as Pennsylvania.

Thank you Morgan! Happy shopping!

Almost a Mrs.

2010-09-29T17:46:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Miss Kaley, who is almost a Mrs. Kaley.

She will become Mrs. Peterson on Saturday!

I am looking forward to seeing our beautiful Miss Heart
be the beautiful bride!

He Did It!

2010-09-01T17:58:00.000-04:00

He Did It!

Michael holds the World Land Speed Record for Motorcycle Alternative Engines at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Combined average time (two way run) was 97.98 mph! There was a cross wind on the second run, so that slowed him down to under 100 mph.

I am so proud of him! He is so happy!

Miss Heart has a beautiful titleholder with Kaley and the World's Fastest Alternative Engine Motorcycle with the RE5. What a combination!

Rubber Ducky Fun

2010-08-29T19:07:00.003-04:00

I headed off to Bellaire last Saturday morning, August 21 and crossed my fingers that the weather would hold out. Upon arrival, the rain clouds had headed out and I found my silver BMW awaiting me :) The streets were lined with Rubber Ducky costumes and lots of queens! The Rubber Ducky Festival is notorious for hosting many queens that ride in the parade and then attend a delightful queens lunch in at the Grand Victorian Bed & Breakfast. We were delighted to meet the owners of the Bed & Breakfast and were told the history behind the building. The home was actually built by a man who lived in the area and was attempting to win over the love of his life. Unfortunately she lived in Germany and refused to move to the United states and accept the home. Although the story does not end up with the couple together, it is still very romantic and the house exudes romance. The house is full of details! Beautiful painting, wood work, fine materials, and the heir of old time luxury. Very beautiful.

I also had the opportunity to see many old friends. The cherry folks were there with this year's National Cherry Queen and the Bellaire ladies were delightful as well. A good time was had by all and I was reminded of what a fun group of women we have in this state.

Aside from parades and rubber duckies, I have been on the never ending journey to find a job. I finished my final clinical in June, headed off to Miss Michigan, and immediately following studied for my boards. I passed my boards with flying colors and immediately applied for my state license! I accepted a job offer from Spectrum Health Visiting Nurse Association. I will be seeing people of all ages (babies to elderly) in their homes providing therapy and services. I will LOVE the variety, autonomy, and care giving nature of this job. My official start day was to be August 16th, however, the state had not yet processed my license and so I am awaiting for the state to issue me a piece a paper! Somewhat frustrating. But I suppose patience is a virtue! Sure wish I had more :)

I am also busy busy busy planning my upcoming wedding. Although it is a bitter sweet journey to set aside the dream of Miss America, I am truly blessed to have found my soul mate. Fritz is a long time friend, who became a boyfriend, and who has become my fiance! I so look forward to the day we share our love in front of so many family and friends.

Signing off from the heart-

Kaley

Rebecca is a MOM!

2010-08-27T22:17:00.002-04:00

Just received news that Rebecca Ransom Scholten became a mom yesterday afternoon!

His name is Christopher and he weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces.

Christopher is 22" long and has dark hair.

I cannot wait to get images from Grandma Jackie Ransom
so everyone can see our new Miss Heart grandson!

Congratulations to Rebecca and Gerrit!

Miss Heart Racing is in the Van and Ready to Race

2010-08-23T22:12:00.001-04:00

Michael picked up the RE5 at Rotary Recycle,
the RE5 hospital in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

Jess Stockwell did a great job repairing the bike.
Jess is the #1 RE5 tuner in the world!

The bike is tucked safely in the van
and it is ready to race at Bonneville.

Michael has an official RE5 hat and t shirt.
He is also ready to race at Bonneville!

More tomorrow!

Miss Heart is Racing Ready

2010-08-22T17:25:00.001-04:00

If you checked the blog last year, you followed Michael's adventures as he attempted to make a motorcycle world land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats. He made the record, then they took it away from him because of a technicality, but they gave it back to him this past spring.

This year, he is trying to beat his own record. Miss Heart of Michigan racing is ready!

I will update daily.

Prayers for Michael's safety would be appreciated.

Isn't She Adorable?

2010-08-16T18:01:00.002-04:00

Our Miss Heart ladies are great travelers.

As Morgan Lind, a Miss Heart contestant and current Miss GVSU
strolled through Keewanau Gem and Gifts in Houghton, Michigan,
she spotted this Creekside Grains Yooper Cookie baking mix.

I am sure that when the tourists saw Morgan posing with the cookie mix,
they stampeded her and bought all of the rest of the mixes!!!

Our Miss Heart ladies are so beautiful that the tourists could not
prevent themselves from buying the mixes.

Well, since I am not sure about the accuracy of the above tale,
I will just have to thank Morgan for sending us the photograph.
I hope she had a great trip to the Upper Peninsula!

Thanks Morgan!

News from Stephanie Paulosky

2010-08-10T18:56:00.000-04:00

News from Stephanie Paulosky...

My internship at 7&4 News is going great!

This is shot, written, edited and fronted myself! So much work as a newbie---but such a great story, and am proud to cover it! Thanks, Gary!

~Steph

HERE IS THE LINK:

http://www.upnorthlive.com/news/story.aspx?list=~%5Cnews%5Clists%5Clocal&id=494794

We are proud of Stephanie! Miss Heart ladies are talented and beautiful!

More news from Katie (Miss Michigan 2010)

2010-07-07T15:16:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone ;0)

I just wanted to let you know that I posted a blog that talks about the goals for next year to do tangible work to address the issue of human trafficking. I have included the beginning of the blog below but for the full story go to www.katielynnlaroche.blogspot.com
or www.oneworldonefuture.org and click on "Information" at the top of the page.

I am not sure how long I will be sending out these updates so if you would like to follow the blog into the Central and South America travels I suggest just subscribing to the blog the left side of the welcome page.

Hugs and Smiles,

Katie

Last week on a trip to Boston I had the wonderful opportunity to have another lovely visit with Brigitte Cazalis-Collins and Joseph H. Collins. They are two incredibly inspiring individuals that have done amazing work for the past 12 years addressing the issue of Human Trafficking in the small landlocked country of Nepal. In partnership with One World. One Future, I will be working with them throughout the next year and beyond in an effort to best utilize the gifts and opportunities which I have been presented in this moment, in this year, in this life. There is a strange connection that I have come to feel in my heart and in my gut to these girls, my sisters in a sense, that are facing a life so different from the life of abundance that I have come to receive for a reason I refrain from even trying to understand.

More specifically I will be working to raise the funds to establish a minimum of one Transit Shelter, at a cost of $25,000, and potentially a solar energy system. The lack of a reliable energy source in Katmandu makes this source of solar power something that the girls are in great need of to properly run the rehabilitation center. For more information you can visit www.oneworldonefuture.org.... (for full blog go to www.katielynnlaroche.blogspot.com)

--
Katie Lynn LaRoche
Miss Michigan 2010

Miss Michigan's Blog - News from Katie

2010-06-28T11:12:00.001-04:00

Hello Family and Pals:

Life has been a bit of a whirlwind but all has been going wonderfully. I just wanted to let you know that the first blog has been posted and I will be doing my best to keep up on it. You can read the blog at www.katielynnlaroche.blogspot.com. I have also listed any and all info that you could possibly need below. PLEASE pass along that I am ready and willing to present to groups on the issue of human trafficking and that appearances can be booked through www.missmichigan.org. FYI: They ask for a fee BUT if it is a non-profit or school and there are no funds available we should be able to work something out.

That is all for now. For more snazzy details and fun you can check out the blog.

Lots of Love.

Katie

Miss Michigan Webpage: www.missmichigan.org

One World One Future Webpage: www.oneworldonefuture.org

Blog: www.katielynnlaroche.blogspot.com

Twitter: K_LaRoche

My new address:

3950 Lake Point Drive

Muskegon, MI 49441

Upcoming Dates:

August 8^th: I am told that I will be having a homecoming party in Bay City on that date. The location is TBA.

October 17^th: I will be running in the Chicago Marathon and invite anyone who is up for a challenge to join on in. Let me know if you are interested ;0)

October 24^th: Human Trafficking Awareness Gala in East Lansing – More info will be posted at www.oneworldonefuture.org We are looking to raise many thousands of dollars at this one event in effort to fund several shelters for women who have been victims of trafficking.

January 11-15th: Miss America in Las Vegas– Several people have been asking about ticket information. I will be sending out the info on the hotels that are sponsors as well as information on purchasing tickets as soon as I get the details (This will probably be in August)

--
Katie Lynn LaRoche
Miss Michigan 2010

Wow!

2010-06-21T13:08:00.007-04:00

What a night! Kaley was Top Ten, Katie LaRoche was Top Ten, Morgan Lind was Top Ten, Angela Venditti was Top Ten and Angelica Francisco was Top Ten. Each Top Ten contestant received a $1,000 scholarship.

Kaley also won the Excellence in Interview award, along with a $250 scholarship.

Angelica was Top Five! Katie LaRoche was Top Five!

Angelica was Fourth Runner Up! She received a $2,000 scholarship.

Katie was crowned Miss Michigan! She received a $10,000 scholarship.

I am so glad that I was able to be there! We had a wonderful time seeing Miss Heart family and watching a terrific program.

I am so proud of the Miss Heart ladies. Five former Miss Heart contestants were Top Ten. Two were Top Five! One won! It cannot get any better than that!

Best of luck to Katie as she tours Michigan this year and prepares for Miss America in January. I would love to see Katie wear a Miss America crown.

I look forward to seeing all of the the other Heart ladies back at Leelanau Sands in February (unless they are crowned at another local or open before then!). If they wear another crown, they can visit Miss Heart and cheer for their Miss Heart friends!

More Congrats for Katie!

2010-06-18T18:28:00.000-04:00

Katie LaRoche did it again! She won evening gown and swimsuit at last night's competition.

Michael said that Kaley's talent was wonderful and she was just as beautiful as always.

The other Miss Heart ladies lived up to the Miss Heart standard of excellence. I am so proud of them.

I am on my way to Muskegon tomorrow. Last year, I had to stay home and listen to Michael two way me with the results. This year, I am not missing the event!

I will post my comments on Monday when I return.

Miss Heart ladies rock!

Congrats to Katie!

2010-06-17T19:54:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Katie LaRoche (Miss Heart 2009) for winning the talent award in Miss Michigan prelims last night! Katie received a $500 scholarship!

Miss Heart ladies rock!

Kaley's Miss Michigan Adventures - Tuesday

2010-06-16T12:26:00.005-04:00

We have interview today. Being contestant #22, I do not have my interview until this afternoon. Interview is scheduled for 2:12 PM. The judges seem as though they are a very eclectic group this year and will bring something different to the panel. I will write more after interview...

Finished up with interview and I feel as though it went very well. I walked feeling comfortable and as though the judges are well informed on where I am in life and what I stand for as a woman. I must admit that normally I would prepare a closing. For those of you who do not know, the Miss America Organization interviews are 10 minutes long and you are allowed to end with a 30 second closing. This is the time that some women chose to pitch the job, tell a brief story, etc.

This year, I really struggled with what I was going to say. I decided to sleep on it the night before and whatever came to my heart was what I was going to say. So I ended with a life lesson that has served me well and is sure to serve off those who read it or hear it well. "We find ourselves when we lose ourselves in the service of others."

I can promise you this; I will continue striving to serve whether or not I do that with a crown on my head or wearing an old pair of scrubs.

Signing off from the heart-

Kaley

From Loretta - Kaley will always wear a crown, whether it is for Miss Heart, Miss Michigan or in service to her patients. I think crowns and old scrubs could make a fashion statement!

Michael is on his way to Muskegon to spend the rest of the week with Kaley and the ladies. I will join him on Saturday for the Miss Michigan pageant.

Tonight is the first night of preliminaries. Kaley will shine!!!

Kaley's Miss Michigan Adventures - Monday

2010-06-14T22:08:00.003-04:00

Monday:

So today was filled with rehearsal, rehearsal and rehearsal... and a lunch at the Exchange Club. I write this blog from my hotel room as we have an hour or so of down time before we head off to dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings.

The Exchange Club event was great and the keynote speaker/representative gave such a heart warming speech about the importance of service and philanthropy that it literally brought tears to my eyes.

I had the pleasure of sitting at a table with Dick and Donna, a couple who have been married for 56 years! I asked them what the secret was to a successful marriage and Dick said "well in my day we did not have trial runs!" Ha ha! Good advice. They also told me about how their granddaughter has competed in the program and at Miss Michigan and now is trying to make it on Broadway. After just a couple of days here, I am reminded of what great women come to the Miss Michigan stage and I am just proud to be among them.

I will do my best to keep updating!

Signing off from the Heart-

Kaley

Kaley's Miss Michigan Adventures - Saturday events

2010-06-14T10:53:00.001-04:00

And we’re off!

Just arrived in Muskegon today! The day began with wardrobe check-in at the theatre, individual photos/head shots, and an orientation regarding the week.

What a crazy time in life! I literally finished up my final internship yesterday at 5:00 PM and arrived at Miss Michigan this morning at 10:00 AM. Tomorrow we start off with a full day of rehearsal and talent productions. I will do my best to update the blog and keep you informed on all the happenings.

Signing off from the heart-

Kaley :)

From Cleats to Crowns - Kaley's Story

2010-06-03T17:29:00.002-04:00

The Miss America pageant is an organization that focuses on the four points of the crown that comprise the substance of the program: Style, Scholarship, Success and Service. However, not a day goes by that the representatives of this organization need to explain that it is not in fact a beauty pageant. Although Miss America does not focus on outer beauty, it still is rich in tradition and consists of glitter, glamour and crowns.

Had you met me when I was young, you would have seen a tomboy covered in mud and grass stains and playing in the barn. I grew up in the country with my horses, barn cats, dogs and neighbor’s cows. I spent my days fishing, hiking, playing sports and enjoying all that the outdoors had to offer. In fact, my favorite past time is America’s favorite pastime; baseball. I grew up watching my dad play ball since I was a baby. Summer meant days and nights at the ball field. I grew to love the sport and started playing at a young age.

Fast forward to my high school days and I was training to achieve college offers to play. It was my senior year that it was all coming true.

In 2005, we had an amazing group of women who were State Championship bound. I had earned the position of Captain and all my hard work was paying off. It was this year that my softball coach informed me that she had signed me up to run for our local Harvest Festival Queen. I could not believe she had entered me! She told me that she thought I would do well and they were trying to get as many girls as possible.

On a warm Saturday evening, I found myself at the local band shell in a gown and heels, running for Harvest Festival Queen. 18 local girls graced the stage, answered on stage questions and had a formal interview earlier that day. Wouldn’t you know it! I won! Throughout that year, I had the opportunity to serve my community, attend local events and grow as a young woman. I found that I loved the experience and didn’t mind rotating the softball cleats for the queen crown.

As my year progressed, the committee of the Harvest Festival Queen said I should run for National Cherry Queen. And so it began. I started to apply myself in a new capacity outside of the softball field. Friends of mine smile and smirk when they see me in a sequin gown because they remember me best in a softball uniform with grass and dirt stains. I feel strongly that I have had such great success through this organization because I have never let go of who I really am, and that’s a country girl playing in the haystacks. What I love most about this organization is the ability to bring together such a wide variety of women and all who find success learning to embrace who they really are.

Signing off from the heart

Kaley

She Did It!

2010-05-26T19:12:00.005-04:00

Well I survived and OH MY, I WAS TOTALLY RECHARGED!!! I fear that I have become thoroughly addicted to skydiving! The experience was unlike any other. By far the best part was swinging my feet out of the airplane door, folding my arms, and leaning forward and falling into the open sky. Truly a one of a kind experience that words can NOT describe. Falling at 120mph for 40 seconds and traveling a mile was amazing. I felt alive, I felt free, and completely fulfilled. I have always been a bit of an adventure and, ok, an adrenaline junkie, and I have not had my fix in some time. Skydiving was definitely the ticket!!! I will absolutely do it again in the future. Next time I would like to do it at sundown and jump into a pink, orange, and red sky. Jumping at Harbor Springs was also the right choice. I could see all the way to the Wisconsin coast! I saw Mackinac bridge, Green Bay, and all the islands in between.

The lesson behind this experience for me was to always remember to live each day to the fullest. To take chances and receive great rewards. To remember who I am and what I want out of life. Thank you Skydive Harbor Springs for the most incredible experience.

Signing off from the heart and the SKY!

Kaley

Free Falling

2010-05-11T19:52:00.000-04:00

Free Falling from Kaley

Well folks, as long as the weather holds on May 15^th I will be jumping out of a perfectly good airplane! It has been a long time dream to go skydiving and I am finally making it happen! I actually believe that it will be a very therapeutic experience. Life is very busy and unknown right now. It is the first time in my life that I have no idea what is to come in the near months…and it is a fairly surreal feeling. I have always been a planner who sets goals and meets them! It is a foreign feeling to not know what to anticipate. So I decided to let it all go, be at peace with whatever comes my way and jump out of a plane! I am very excited. Did you know that you free fall for up to 30 seconds!!! Count um’ one thousand one, one thousand two…that’s a long fall. Hopefully the weather cooperates and I can send pictures of the view 12,000 feet up and the journey down. Write again soon!

Signing off from the heart-

Kaley :)

Kaley's new adventures

2010-04-09T15:52:00.002-04:00

New adventures!

Hello all. I hope the spring weather is finding everything well and reinvigorating your spirits! I have taken on new adventures in the past couple of weeks. I have been working in a care unit rehabilitating individuals with neurological impairments and traumatic brain injuries. I was leery of this work at first, because I grew so very attached to the little ones I was previously working with. However, I find that the challenge of working in neurology is rewarding.

I have clients that range from teens through older adults. Each story and case is different. My heart goes out to the families and individuals who have experienced a traumatic accident that has completely changed the lives of those involved. Can you imagine losing your ability to communicate, walk, express, and be independent? My job is to get those skills back! I work every day to help these individuals work toward independence and achieving their prior level of function.

One of my clients found out that I was the reigning Miss Heart and showed up to my session with a paper crown!!! What a riot. I so admire the ability to never lose your sense of humor.

Wish everyone the best and signing off from the Heart.

Kaley

Miss Heart 2010

More Updates from Katie LaRoche (Miss Heart 2009)

2010-03-29T16:51:00.002-04:00

This is an email from my friend, Mike, who is the Nepal Representative for One World. One Future. He had a meeting with the CEO of Maiti Nepal which is the largest Anti Human Trafficking organization in Nepal. We will be putting on a fundraiser/silent auction/dinner in the fall in partnership with my college sorority (Alpha Chi Omega) in hopes of raising the $20-25,000 necessary to run a border transit next year (there are already 10 along the border). The border transit will work to save an estimated 200-250 girls annually from being trafficked into India for sexual exploitation and will help to get the girls back on their feet and out there working to help their sisters. We are super excited about the project!!! Mike is a great guy and I am so happy he has taken all of this on.

For more info - see his email below or check out the Maiti Nepal web page.

Anuradha said if you want to start the new transit home in Nawalparasi you could. The sooner you are able to send funds the sooner one could be started.

I am tentatively making plans to go see the transit home in Bharatpur that is already functioning.

I will take photos and interview.

They said that Friends of Nepal are coming in June and you should come if you can! :-)!

Maiti Nepal is such a well run meaningful organization. They have many wonderful programs to assist as well.

I wanted to send this ASAP, I am tired so I'll stop for now.
With Affection,
Mike

Katie Lynn LaRoche
Founder & President: Our Poverty. Our Reality.
Co-President:Michigan Partners of the Americas

www.OurPovertyOurReality.org
Twitter: K_LaRoche
989-450-8944

News from Katie LaRoche (Miss Heart 2009)

2010-03-29T12:03:00.001-04:00

Hello Family and Friends:

It’s that time of year again and the Outrun Poverty 5K Run/Walk is quickly approaching.

The date is May 22. You can find the registration form online at www.OneWorldOneFuture.org (formerly known as Our Poverty. Our Reality.)

I hope you can make it!

Cheers,

Katie

Katie Lynn LaRoche
Founder & President: One World. One Future.
Co-President: Michigan Partners of the Americas

www.OneWorldOneFuture.org
Twitter: K_LaRoche
989-450-8944

Final Moving Day!

2010-03-25T11:37:00.001-04:00

If you do not hear from us for a few more days, it is because the phone lines and computers and internet are moving to our new office.

If all goes well, we will be back in action on Friday afternoon. If the normal glitches occur, you will hear from us on Monday.

Back to final packing and moving!

Bye!

Close to Moving Day!

2010-03-17T10:47:00.002-04:00

Next Friday, we will be officially out of this office and into a temporary office.

Lots to do and little time to move it all!

We had wonderful friends who helped move most of the studio furniture
and files and shelves and lots of boxes on Saturday,
but my office is still very full.

I leave town for five days on Friday,
so poor Michael has to clean up after me.
He can do it! I know he can!

If the blog is empty for awhile,
I will fill it up when I return and unpack!

Miss Michigan Orientation

2010-03-10T10:05:00.002-05:00

Miss Michigan Orientation

Well folks, I am contestant number 22! This past weekend we had Miss Michigan orientation already…what a ride! It was so great to see all of the girls, and so exciting to find out the details of this year’s competition. I drew contestant number 22 through the Miss Michigan lotto and I am very pleased with that number.

The theme this year is “The Beat Goes On” which will highlight past Miss Michigan's and the history of our program. Thirty truly incredible women vie for the crown this year!

I also found out who my roomie will be. Miss Lawrence Tech. Janelle Sekol! We are sure to have a good time and are so blessed to be in Muskegon experiencing this journey.

Aside from life as Miss Heart, I am counting down the days until my first rotation for my internship is completed. Only 2 ½ weeks left at the school. Then I move on to Spectrum subacute care, working in the neurology unit. I will see patients who have just undergone strokes and traumatic brain injuries. I am sure it will be a challenge, but I continue to remind myself that I have the opportunity to make someone's day a little bit better and a little bit brighter.

That is all for now! I will write again soon.

Signing off from the Heart

Kaley

Miss Lighthouse Coast

2010-03-07T15:34:00.002-05:00

What a great weekend!

Stephanie Frey won Miss Lighthouse Coast.

Elyse Losen was First Runner Up.

Lindsey Kern was Second Runner Up.

Cameron Learman was Third Runner Up.

We are so proud of all four of you!

Since Elyse represented Miss Heart,
we had our "official" portrait taken to celebrate the occasion!

Way to go ladies!

Great idea from Kaley!

2010-03-03T19:57:00.004-05:00

YOU can invest in education!

With a tight budget and decreasing school funds there is no question that schools are in need of additional financial support. I hate to see continued cuts made year after year. We value an education in our society and we know that a good education is essential to success. I found an organization that I thought was great and allows YOU to invest in education.

Visit donorschoose.org and you can donate as little as $1.00 or as much as your budget allows. Educators put in requests for school supplies; anything from construction paper, writing utensils, books, or laptop computers. Once you have decided what you would like your donation to benefit, you will receive a statement of your donation AND when the item is received by the school, you receive a full report and photo of that item being utilized in the classroom!

The concept is simple. Times are hard right now and everyone has to cut back, BUT we can ALL work together and get through these tough times. Education is essential and the youth of today need to have a solid one. Please check this website out and donate whatever you can afford.

donorschoose.org

Miss Lighthouse

2010-03-03T13:05:00.001-05:00

Several of Miss Heart contestants will be competing
for Miss Lighthouse on Friday evening.

Miss Heart ladies are brilliant, talented, beautiful and fun to hang out with,
so it will be a great evening.

Michael has to stay in Traverse City for the weekend,
so I get to go!

You will hear me cheering officially for Elyse Losen
and unofficially for all of the other Miss Heart ladies who are competing!

We wish them the best of luck!

Stories from the Heart!

2010-03-01T12:41:00.002-05:00

This was sent to me by a client who wanted to share her Creekside Grains/Miss Heart story...Please keep the family in your prayers. Thank you.

Two years ago my friend was diagnosed with cancer, shortly after finding our she was expecting. She was unable to do the traditional treatments until after the baby was born.

Now with a healthy baby girl and an amazing husband, they started a new life of her being in remission. God had other plans for her. Just a few weeks ago, she went into emergency surgery and was unable to see her daughter for days.

When her little girl did get to visit her, Grandma had purchased a package of Princess Pancakes or Crown Cookies (not sure which mix, because I didn't get the entire story) for a "Get Better" gift. Her little girl walked into the hospital room with the mix and said, "You're still a princess to me Mom."

God's grace, mercy and love is unfailing and faithful and continues to bless my friends. Everything went great in surgery and we'll shall see what the weeks ahead hold for them.

Happy Birthday Kaley!

2010-03-01T09:40:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to Kaley,

Happy Birthday to Kaley,

Happy Birthday to Kaley,

Happy Birthday to you!

Congratulations to Morgan Lind!

2010-02-28T16:21:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Morgan Lind
for winning
Miss Grand Valley State University last night!

We are so proud of Morgan
and look forward to seeing her at Miss Michigan!

We were at a friend's wedding in Grand Rapids,
so missed the program,
but got to see Morgan
just after she was crowned!

Great job, Morgan!

Kaley's First Blog

2010-02-24T16:58:00.001-05:00

Well it is my first blog entry. I am excited to have the opportunity to utilize a blog as Miss Heart! So first things first, I want to thank the entire Miss Heart Organization, volunteers, families, contestants, and all of our sponsors. What an incredible event it was and none of it would be possible without the many efforts of so many. Thank you all!

I would like to share a little information about who I am. I was born and raised in Ludington, Michigan. I love the natural beauty that our state offers and appreciate its natural resources. I grew up in the country with my mom, dad, younger brother, horses, dogs, cats, and farm country. I currently reside in Lowell, but my heart is and always will be in “Up North Michigan”. That is one of the many reasons I am so excited to represent the greater Traverse area. Every autumn season I head north and hike the Sleeping bear dunes, kayak Lake Michigan waters, discover new coasts and trails, and take in my favorite colorful season.

I moved to Lowell for an internship. I recently graduated this December with my Masters in Occupational Therapy through Grand Valley State University. I work as a pediatric occupational therapist at an intermediate school district in the early intervention program. My job is to help babies and toddlers (birth-3) meet developmental milestones and overcome any delays they are experiencing. I LOVE my job and it is so incredibly rewarding. This job allows me to make a difference every day and see children overcome conditions and special needs. It is also rewarding to work within the home and closely with families. Every day is different and a new opportunity; I would not have it any other way.

I chose to become a part of the Miss America Organization because I believe in the core values of this organization; Scholarship, Style, Success, and Service. My personal platform is The Power of Philanthropy. I know that everyone has specific talents and characteristics that can be utilized for the greater good of society. I also know that giving back and providing service allows self-discovery and growth. This is a message I try to live and share every day. I will use this blog to share opportunities and organizations that parallel this philosophy. If we can all change our own corner of the world we change the world for the better.

On that note, I will leave you for now. Thank you again to the folks at Miss Heart for you dedication and commitment. Thank you sponsors for your generosity. Thank you families for your continued support. Thank you fellow contestants for being the amazing women that you all are!!!

Signing off from the heart,

Kaley

51 to go!

2010-02-20T13:31:00.002-05:00

Michael reminded me this morning
that we only have 51 weeks to go
before Miss Heart of Michigan 2011!

Guess we had better start preparing,
or it will be here before we know it!

More images of Kaley

2010-02-14T20:02:00.001-05:00

What a great expression!

Thank you to Steve Cook
for his generous donation to the
Miss Heart of Michigan scholarship fund!
We could not have done this without you!

Oh, What a Night!

2010-02-14T14:58:00.004-05:00

She has talent...

She has beauty...

She has a crown and $10,000 scholarship!

Kaley with Miss America 2008, Kirsten Haglund

Angela Sayler, National Cherry Queen
and Kaley Schroeder,
Miss Heart of Michigan 2010

Many more images to come, as soon as I can get a chance to breathe!

National Cherry Queen is now Miss Heart

2010-02-14T00:28:00.003-05:00

Former National Cherry Queen, Kaley Schroeder,
is our new Miss Heart of Michigan 2010.

Kaley and the other contestants were incredible tonight.
There was talent, there was beauty, there was grace,
there was fun...we had a wonderful time.

The Leelanau Sands Showroom was the best venue!
Professional lighting and sound, gorgeous stage...
it was all there, plus so much more.
The staff was there to help, even before we asked!
We really hope we can go back next year.

We welcome Kaley to our Miss Heart family
and look forward to our year together.
More information when I can keep my eyes open enough to type :)

Tonight's the Night!

2010-02-13T00:18:00.001-05:00

Rehearsal was wonderful! The Leelanau Sands Showroom was incredible and we are ready to crown the new Miss Heart of Michigan tonight.

There is still room for more, so join us!

This is It!

2010-02-12T00:22:00.004-05:00

Today is the day for rehearsal.

Some contestants arrived last night and most will arrive early today.

We are ready to have a wonderful time!

Join us tomorrow evening for fun and glamour
and lots of scholarship money awarded!

Look What is Coming!

2010-02-10T14:43:00.003-05:00

This is a copy of the check that will be presented to Miss Heart of Michigan 2010!

Join us for the fun!

Four Days and Counting

2010-02-09T12:48:00.002-05:00

The time is near!

We are putting the final touches on Miss Heart of Michigan!

We are so excited!!!

One Week to Go!

2010-02-05T15:45:00.002-05:00

After all of this planning, we have one week to go! Twenty six contestants are practicing their opening number dance and practicing their talent and preparing their outfits and are almost ready to go!

The details, details, details are almost detailed out, so I can take a breath and look forward to seeing everyone next Friday. However, this event is much like a wedding. Just when I think I have covered everything, I remember that I forgot something! Back to more details!

Join us for a spectacular evening of beauty and entertainment!

Leelanau Sands Showroom

2010-01-25T14:34:00.002-05:00

I spent the morning at the Leelanau Sands Showroom going over final details. It is a fantastic venue!

The Showroom has hosted many, many national acts and the staff and crew know how to make a great show.

The stage is huge. The contestants are going to love it.

The seating is great. Not a bad seat in the house! The parents are going to love it.

The casino is right next door. It will be a great place for entertainment prior to or after the pageant.

Come join us! It will be a great evening!

Miss Spirit of the State

2010-01-10T10:40:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Kathryn Morton for winning Miss Spirit of the State last night.

It was a great pageant! It was wonderful seeing everyone from Miss Heart. There were crowns everywhere, with visiting Miss America preliminary winners!

A fun night was had by all!

Off to Spirit

2010-01-09T11:28:00.001-05:00

Michael and I are on our way to Miss Spirit of the State to help Miss Noddea for the evening.

It will be a great time!

We are almost there!

2010-01-07T15:52:00.001-05:00

Our contestants for the 2010 Miss Heart of Michigan pageant are ready to compete for the title of Miss Heart of Michigan and win the $10,000 scholarship!

We are no longer accepting applications for the 2010 pageant. If you are interested in joining us as a guest, we would love to see you! Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Please call 800-417-2822 or 231-947-6655 to reserve your tickets.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T17:40:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Have a blessed celebration of our Lord's birth.

Katie Wears a New Crown!

2009-11-22T21:47:00.006-05:00

Katie and Miss Michigan 2008 Ashlee Baracy

Congratulations to Miss Katie for winning
Miss Capital City!

We are so proud of you!

Good Luck Katie!

2009-11-19T15:15:00.003-05:00

Katie will be competing at Miss Capital City this weekend,
so we wish her the best of luck!

Good luck to all contestants!

Smile pretty and have a great time!

Congrats to Rachelle Sweet

2009-10-18T19:12:00.003-04:00

We just received this message from Rachelle Sweet.

I just wanted to let you know that I will not be coming to Miss Heart as a contestant this year as I just won Miss Washtenaw County last night!!
I will try my hardest to attend as a guest!

Congratulations to Rachelle!

If any of our 2008 or 2009 contestants is a local or open winner, or runner up, please let me know and I will share it with the world!

The Miss Heart ladies ROCK!!!

paperwork, paperwork, paperwork

2009-10-15T13:08:00.002-04:00

If you are thinking of becoming a contestant for Miss Heart, please get your paperwork completed and sent soon! Even though the deadline is in December, we will close the pageant earlier if we make our capacity.

To be considered as an "official" contestant, you need to send all paperwork, talent on cd and professional portrait on cd with your paperwork. You also need to register with CMN. Leaving out any portion of this process will keep you on a wait list until all is completed.

I do not want to sound grouchy about this, but our Miss Heart volunteers do not have time to go over every piece of paperwork, find missing information, wait for the changed or completed information, then go over it all over again...thirty times for thirty contestants.

Please make sure it is all there the first time. We want this pageant to be your best pageant experience ever, but we need your help to make it happen.

I am a Gram (sort of)

2009-09-28T16:08:00.000-04:00

Mark and I have been friends for over 35 years (since high school). He escorted me down the aisle when I married Michael eight years ago.

Mark has a son, Matthew, who I have known since he was born.

Mark and Matthew and I had a lot of fun when Matt was a teenager. Matt was born on the same date as my niece, so we had great birthday parties. He was so much fun to feed! That boy could eat!

I got to play Mom/Friend for the two years that Matt played Varsity Football in Heartland. I did not miss a game! Matt always made a point to stop and say hi to his dad and me before he went into the locker room or headed for the bus. Since I never had children of my own, it was so nice to have a part time son.

Matt married Sarah a few years ago. I will always remember the wonderful expression that Matt had when he saw Sarah for the first time as she walked down the aisle.

Matt and Sarah had a baby boy on Thursday evening. Grandpa Mark is smiling from ear to ear. I decided that since I have known Matt since his birth, and I got to play Mom/Friend during his teenage years, then I can be a Grandma, too! So...I am a Gram (sort of)!

I cannot wait to meet my grandson!

News from Katie

2009-09-25T20:06:00.000-04:00

Hello Family and Pals:

As requested, I am passing along the info that the rumors are true. I landed a job. In the midst of my Economic studies, I unexpectedly found myself presented with the opportunity to accept a full-time position working as a legislative Aide for the Michigan House of Representatives. Specifically, I am working for Representative Dudley Spade, a legislator who is commonly referred to as a “champion for children,” due to the fact that he is always working to ensure that the youth of our state are properly taken care of. He already has and will, no doubt, continue to serve as a mentor and role model to me.

It is a very exciting time to be taking on such a position in government. I can’t express how lucky I feel, yet again. Just another reminder that life always has a way of leading us right where we need to be.

Lots of Love,

Katie Lynn

Katie has a new job!

2009-09-16T19:47:00.002-04:00

I am so excited for Katie, "Miss, I work at the Capital now!"

This is her latest update...

The job is wonderful! I am working at the Capital and getting right into the mix of everything that is going on in our state in relation to politics, the budget crisis, etc. etc.. It is exciting, challenging and will be an incredible learning experience.

You go, girl!

Katie will update when she gets a chance to breathe!

He made it home, finally!

2009-09-13T14:05:00.001-04:00

I am sorry that I did not update right away. The nightmare is over. The van was fixed on Wednesday afternoon and Michael made it home late Thursday night. The engine sounds funny, but at least we can get it fixed here, instead of the middle of Wyoming.

Michael is now very busy trying to get layers of oil off the trailer and the motorcycle, along with the salt from the Bonneville Salt Flats. The oil covered the trailer and motorcycle when the engine blew and salt is in every nook and cranny of the van and trailer.

It is nice to have him back!

Engine Pieces

2009-09-09T00:09:00.000-04:00

The sad news is that the van engine is in hundreds of pieces on the repair shop floor. More sad news is that Michael walked the twenty five minutes to meet the shop owner to check on progress. The doors were locked, the owner was gone and the engine was still in pieces, when the owner had told him earlier that the van would be fixed today. We are worried and trying to figure out our next plan.

This has been a very difficult five days. Prayers would be appreciated.

On a happy note, Katie did a great job in Illinois! I cannot wait to hear the details.

Still broken, only two hours closer to home

2009-09-06T22:08:00.002-04:00

The van was supposedly fixed and Michael was on his way home. Michael made it two hours closer to home, but the van died again. This time it was in Rawlings, Wyoming.

He is in a very small town, in a very old, but clean motel and no way to get around town. The motel is seven miles away from the nearest grocery store. At least the motel has a great dog who keeps him company!

He will be there until Tuesday, when the replacement parts arrive.

Prayers would be appreciated. Thank you.

Broken

2009-09-04T15:26:00.002-04:00

Michael is stranded in Evanston, Wyoming, with a broken oil something on the van. Not good on a long weekend...Replacement parts may make it tomorrow morning. If not, parts will make it next week. Prayers would be nice. Thanks.

Good luck to Katie this weekend! We are cheering for you!

A Post from Katie!

2009-09-03T00:43:00.002-04:00

Well, I made it to Hoopeston my friends. From headstands in tractor wheels, to acquiring a plethora of knowledge on corn, to spending time with incredible new pals from all over the country it's been nothing short of good times. More details later!

He made the record, but...

2009-08-31T19:08:00.002-04:00

Heart of Michigan passed tech inspection for an alternative source motorcycle. Michael made four runs and gained 4 mph on each run. He topped at 95 mph. Michael made the fastest run on the Bonneville Salt Flats with a rotary engine motorcycle. The bike handled beautifully. However...

Once he went back to tech, the officials changed their minds for the type of motorcycle he was running. Since they changed their minds, they will not allow the record to be official.

They may change their minds back and let the record stick, but until then, I told him that he has to go back next year to make it official.

I will update if the mind changing happens before he leaves.

96 degrees

2009-08-30T15:30:00.001-04:00

Michael wondered why his feet were hot. He thought that he needed new shoes. Then he looked at the thermometer. 96 degrees! Even if he has the best shoes, his feet will still be hot at 96 degrees!

They recommend wearing old shoes on the salt. Shoes get ruined, so an old pair gets thrown away at the end of the week.

Michael is waiting for the salt to dry and make it feel more like pavement. The drier the salt, the safer the run. It rained a bunch last Monday, so the salt needs time to dry. Many drivers are making the attempt, but it looks like Tuesday will be his first attempt.

He also did not want to hang out in line for the track in his fifty pound black leather suit (maybe not fifty pounds, but it sure is heavy). He said the other drivers put on their suits, pour a bottle of water in, and zip up. The water keeps them cooler. Hot, wet leather does not sound like a good combination to me!

Michael is also an official red neck! He pours the sun block on, but it melts off and his neck is burning! It is bright red!

I am so glad that Michael is there, but I miss his cooking. For those of you who know me, I do not cook. My three favorite words are "dinner is ready." I have been whining for weeks that I have to cook for two weeks while he is gone. I am a great salad maker, so I have been dining on Farm Market lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, corn on the cob, broccoli, blackberries and peaches. I have had some wonderful dinners, but it is still not the same as Michael's incredible cooking.

More later!

RE 5 Passed Tech Inspection

2009-08-29T20:56:00.002-04:00

After a few hour wait, the RE 5 passed tech inspection. Many motorcycles are from professional racing teams and they did not pass inspection. Michael's one little tool box and a few spare parts put him in the running with the big boys! Michael is so excited!

He hopes to make a run tomorrow. Heart of Michigan has a job to do and it had better be fast!!!

More later...

Sheep Bottoms

2009-08-28T22:35:00.001-04:00

When Michael told me about the sheep running, I did not hear the part about the sheep bottoms. Along with the running sheep, there were sheep already at the feeding station. It was covered, with small holes for them to feed, so all Michael could see were sheep bottoms sticking out of the holes. He was going too fast to take a picture, so you just have to imagine a feeding station of sheep bottoms.

More tomorrow!

RE 5 at the Salt

2009-08-28T19:36:00.000-04:00

Michael was gate guard all day. While Michael was gate guarding, he spent the day watching the dog of one of the race prep men. Buddy the dog spent most of the day in his master's trailer. Michael was not his master, so Buddy did not want to play with him. It also could be the heat. It was 93 degrees a few hours ago.

Michael just told me that the Suzuki RE 5 is at the salt and ready for tech inspection. The RE 5 motorcycle is so rare, that almost everyone who came to the flats stopped to look at it today. Michael said there was always at least 2 or 3 people admiring the bike at the same time. He is ready to race!

More tomorrow. Heat at the Flats and rain in Traverse City, again. There has been so much rain and it has been on Saturday for weeks! Rain rain go away!

I forgot a great story. As Michael was driving through Wyoming, he saw a flock of sheep running full speed ahead. He could not figure out what they were doing until he saw their owner on a tractor, dumping food. They were a long way away, but knew the sound of the tractor meant food and they were going to get it, fast! You had to be there...

He is there!

2009-08-27T18:44:00.002-04:00

Michael arrived at the Bonneville Salt Flats an hour ago. He is ready to go to the meetings, get tech inspection over and run the bike!

Official opening is Sunday, so he will have time to see old friends and help the Bubb Racing Team prepare for their record run. He works with them when he is not preparing his motorcycle. They go really, really, really fast - over 300 mph! Too fast for me!

Camping in Cheyenne

2009-08-26T22:57:00.001-04:00

Michael is snoozing in Cheyenne at another campground. You know you are out west when you have bbq for dinner at the campground and it is the best dinner in town. He said it was great! The corn on the cob was double the size of Michigan corn. Wonder why?

One more day to Bonneville!

The cows are loose!

2009-08-26T16:05:00.000-04:00

Michael is driving through Nebraska. When he looked to the side of the highway, he noticed that the cows were loose. They were eating their way through the corn fields! I wonder how the farmer will react when he notices that they are missing, then finds them with a belly full of corn.

The black and white cows in Iowa are now brown and white cows in Nebraska. What color will the Wyoming cows be?

One more day to Bonneville! More later...

Heart of Michigan

2009-08-25T17:08:00.000-04:00

If you cannot see it closely enough, I will explain.
One of Michael's loves is motorcycle racing.
Michael is on his way to the Bonneville Salt Flats
to attempt a world land speed record on this motorcycle.

If you have never seen the World's Fastest Indian, I suggest you rent it.
It is a great movie!
Michael saw this movie and decided to go to Bonneville two years ago,
just to see the events.
He was hooked!
Now he will be one of the racers,
instead of just one of the observers.

The race team is appropriately called Heart of Michigan.

He is in Illinois, eight hours into the trip to Bonneville.
He has two more days to get there.

I will update daily with his progress.

Rumors, rumors, rumors!

2009-08-20T20:23:00.000-04:00

Have you heard that the Miss Heart 2010 pageant is
all booked up?

Great story, but NOT TRUE!

Yes, we have already had several ladies
send in their paperwork.

Yes, we have several more who are interested in competing.

However, there is still room for more contestants.

We would love to have you join us.

Who would have thought that you would need
to send in paperwork for a February competition
in August?

I have the $10,000 answer to that question!

Just get your paperwork completed
and you will be on your way!

Miss Bay County

2009-08-19T21:17:00.000-04:00

I got to be a judge at Miss Bay County yesterday! It was so much fun! The contestants were amazing, intelligent, beautiful and talented! I was so honored to be a part of the pageant.

Congratulations to Casey Crabtree, crowned Miss Bay County 2010, Alyssa Bedford, First Runner Up and Sydney Learman, Second Runner Up.

I also got to say hello to Angela Venditti as I was leaving. She looked so beautiful in her crown!

There was only one Miss Bay County crowned, so I would love to see the other ladies join us at Miss Heart in February. They can go from an 80 degree pageant day to a below zero pageant day!

Tell you friends what a great experience the Miss pageants are for you. Let's get more ladies involved!

Congrats to Rebecca and Gerrit

2009-08-16T17:12:00.000-04:00

As they danced down the aisle,
Rebecca and Gerrit began their new life together as husband and wife.

After a wonderful dinner and great conversation with several guests,
Michael was able to steal them away for a sunset portrait.

Congratulations! We wish you the best!

Mrs. Gerrit Scholten

2009-08-14T21:11:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Miss Rebecca Ransom, Miss Heart 2008,
on her wedding day, August 15!

At 4:30 PM, Rebecca will begin her journey as Mrs. Gerrit Scholten.

Rebecca will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Congratulations to Rebecca and Gerrit!

Pet Tags

2009-07-22T10:05:00.000-04:00

This is a different post than our usual happy Miss Heart news, but it needs to be said...

This is just a reminder to all pet owners to make sure that their pets have identification tags on their collars.

On Monday evening, we found a young woman crying over a dog that she hit with her car on Three Mile. It was a beautiful dog with a collar, but no tags. We had no way to find the owners. The police officer had to put the dog by the side of the road and hope that the owners found it.

Yesterday, the dog was gone. We are glad that someone found the dog, but so sad that the owners do not know what happened.

It is so scary when a pet escapes, but even more sad when something tragic happens and we do not know how to contact the owner.

Please have a tag with the pet's name, the owner's name and number and the vet's name. It will save much heartache later.

Congrats to Angela Venditti!

2009-07-12T14:51:00.000-04:00

The great news keeps coming in about the accomplishments of the
Miss Heart ladies.

Angela Venditti just won Miss Oakland County!

Congratulations Angela! We are so proud of you!

Congrats to Rachelle Sweet!

2009-07-11T21:12:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone!

Rachelle Sweet just placed 1st runner up at Miss River Raisin Festival!

Rachelle says she is looking forward to seeing you all in February.

Miss Heart ladies are the best of the best! You go girls!!!

Congrats to Stephanie Paulosky!

2009-07-11T19:30:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Stephanie Lynn Paulosky for National Cherry Festival,
Cherry Queen First Runner Up!

Stephanie is a beautiful woman!
We are proud to know her and have her be a part of Miss Heart of Michigan.

Go Stephanie!

2009-07-06T12:35:00.001-04:00

We saw Stephanie Paulosky and the Cherry Queen court at Bay Pointe yesterday,
as they came to see Nick Vujicic speak.
They represented Traverse City beautifully!

Stephanie has lots to do this week at the Cherry Festival.
The pageant will be held on
Friday evening, July 10.

Best of luck to Stephanie!

Nick Vujicic - Life Without Limbs

2009-07-01T16:43:00.001-04:00

If your or anyone you know is coming to Traverse City this weekend, you are invited to join us at Bay Pointe Community Church for one of the most incredible services! Nick Vujicic gives an incredible story that will keep you in tears, while you laugh, too! Go to his web site for more details...lifewithoutlimbs.org

Services will be at 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM and 11:15 AM. Go to bponline.org for more details. Bay Pointe Community Church is located at 6880 Secor Road, Traverse City, MI 49684

Michael and I will be greeting at all services, so would love to shake a hand or give a hug!

We hope to see you there!

Katie's Experience

2009-06-29T23:08:00.000-04:00

What an incredible week…The Miss American organization (MAO)., a driving force in the development Our Poverty. Our Reality., made this opportunity possible. Not only has the MAO provided over $11,000 in scholarship funding for my education, but it has also given me the chance to speak to thousands throughout our state about the issues of domestic and international poverty, from public schools and community groups to television and radio interviews. The lives this organization has allowed me to touch and the funds it has allowed me to raise are things I could not have gained from any other place.

The caliber of young women that the MAO produces is indescribable. They are intelligent, talented, confident, and most importantly, they are kind. They are future leaders of this nation, women anyone would be mistaken not to want on their side.

Two years ago, when I decided to run for my local title for no other reason than to have the opportunity to tell kids in my hometown about the things I had seen in Africa, I had no idea of the role the MAO would come to play in my life. The friendships, generous scholarship money, and skills I have acquired as a direct result of the Miss America Organization are blessings that, as an ardent feminist, I never imagined would be attained through a pageant. This serves as just another simple reminder that things are never quite as they seem.

Katie Lynn ;0)

It’s funny, the winding path life takes us on to lead us right where we need to be.

My darling little cousin Nevaeh and me

Miss Katie images to come

2009-06-22T22:09:00.000-04:00

Michael will try to get images of the Miss Michigan pageant so we can post them on the blog and you will be updated! We are so excited for Katie!