Before I was a Mrs...

This weekend was a busy one for me with the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization. Before I was a Mrs. contestant, I was a Miss contestant and was very involved with the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization. I have great memories competing as a Miss, and established wonderful friendships, which I still have today. I am grateful to this organization for helping me to increase my confidence and grow as an individual, and it feels great to give back as a volunteer for the Miss Brandywine Scholarship Organization, which is a preliminary to the state pageant.

Saturday was the Miss Delaware Outstanding Teen pageant and Marisa (the director for the Miss Brandywine Scholarship Organization) and I were excited to cheer for our titleholder!  We have been working with our Miss Brandywine’s Outstanding Teen, Sammi Ponsell, who is a wonderful young lady. She is only 13 years old and is not only beautiful, but well spoken, poised and talented. Watching Sammi compete was wonderful and she has grown so much since she was crowned at our state pageant. She was the recipient of the People’s Choice award and had a huge fan club at the pageant, including her supportive parents. I am so proud of Sammi and looking forward to seeing her compete again in the future. All of the girls did fantastic and looked amazing on stage! Congratulations to the winner, Morgan Burris. She did a phenomenal job and is going to be one to watch at nationals!

Sammi in evening gown

Congratulations Morgan!

Sunday was the Miss Delaware Fashion Gala Fundraiser at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington, Delaware. I participated as one of the models, along with Maria Cahill, Miss Delaware 2011, former Miss Delawares, and some other fabulous models. The Gala featured a cocktail reception, musical entertainment, a silent auction, and of course, a fashion show with outfits from some of Delaware’s most upscale boutiques. All of the proceeds benefited the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization. I modeled outfits from Chico’s and Fantasia Boutique. I had a great time and had an opportunity to catch up with some ladies I competed with as a Miss, who I hadn’t seen in some time!

First outfit from Chicos

Dress and accessories from Chicos

Gown from Fantasia Boutique

With Maria Cahill, Miss Delaware 2011

With Kama Boland Levendis, Miss Delaware 1999, it was so nice to catch up with her!

A great weekend, even though my feet are tired! Flats today for sure! J

Until next time,

Melissa Kirk

Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012

Tour de Cure Fundraiser at Firestones

Last night I had the pleasure of volunteering at the Tour de Cure fundraiser at Firestones in Wilmington, Delaware. Joining me was Melissa Schulte, Mrs. Delmarva 2012, who is also our team captain for our “Virtual” Team, the Diabeauties. We had a great time helping to sell bracelets during Firestone’s happy hour, which gave customers great discounts on food. All of the money we collected will go towards the Tour de Cure, which benefits the American Diabetes Association. We also had fun with some great “photo ops” with the patrons. Thank you to Carl Colantuono from the American Diabetes Association for allowing me to be part of this great event. I look forward to working with you again in the future to help raise money to stop diabetes!

With Carl Colantuono from the American Diabetes Association

Melissa, Kim, and I

Good Friends! 

Happy Patrons!

Collecting money for the American Diabetes Association

To donate to my team, the Diabeauties, please click here. Any amount is greatly appreciated!!

Another big weekend ahead and I am looking forward to it!

Until next time,

Melissa Kirk

Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012 

Mentoring: Pageantry Style

The Atlantic Coast Pageant Board with Miss Atlantic Coast's Outstanding Teen Tanee Decosta
For the last year, I've had the pleasure of being on the board of the Atlantic Coast Pageant's System. This system is a preliminary to the Miss Delaware’s Outstanding Teen Pageant, a part of the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization. The Atlantic
Coast Pageant’s system has been working with our teen queen Tanee DeCosta for the last several months to prepare her for the state competition.

Along this journey, I’ve helped Tanee to promote her platform of bullying and bullying prevention “The Hate Free Zone” and have gone on several appearance with her where she has spoken out about bullying at its impact on today’s youth. It’s truly amazing to see how our young people’s lives are being impacted and in some cases taken away because of careless words and actions. Because Tanee herself has such a powerful story, it makes her platform that much stronger as she continues to share it with schools and community groups.

The most exciting thing about mentoring in a pageant system is that you get to go beyond the beauty and contribute to the development and character of one tomorrow’s leaders. While this isn’t my first experience with mentoring, this holds a special place in my heart because I’ve been able to see Tanee grow from a novice competitor to a strong pageant representative who is having a great impact on others around her.
I’ve also seen the dedication and determination that many of today’s young people lack shine through in this young woman, and know that while the hours and personal commitment has been long that it has been well worth it.

Ideally, having the opportunity and time to dedicate to young people in our families and in our communities would be a small step in creating the framework for a society in which individuals hold a sense of responsibility for themselves and others. Realistically, we may not have the time but the challenge for all of us should be to do our part to help today’s youth…no matter how small or how large.

Best of luck to Miss Atlantic Coast’s Outstanding Teen, Tanee DeCosta and may you shine like never before!

Mrs. Punkin Chunkin meets with the MOT Rotary Club

Last Wednesday, March 14th, I was honored to attend the weekly lunch meeting of the Middletown Odessa Townsend Rotary Club. It was a pleasure to meet such a wonderful group of professionals who strive to put others before themselves. My husband, David Lewis, will be becoming a Rotarian, a great title for any person to hold, and will be getting pinned on Wednesday, March 21st - I am so proud of him. I am planning to become a member myself, and can't wait to help them in all their community service efforts. The club partakes in many ways, such as: club service, vocational service, community service, and even international service. I cannot wait to help them with projects such as Meals On Wheels, Adopt A Highway, and many other community projects!

For more information on the Middletown Odessa Townsend Rotary Club, and to find out what Rotary is all about, go to the link listed below; http://www.motrotary.org

Kindest Regards,
Shannon Lewis
Your Mrs. Punkin Chunkin United States 2012

MEET AND GREET FOR THE MRS DELAWARE UNITED STATES PAGEANT - YOU ARE INVITED!!

Are you "on the fence"? Not sure if a pageant is for you? Come and learn more about the Mrs. Delaware United States Pageant. We are currently seeking delegates until April 30th and you could be one of the lucky ladies who will compete for this prestigious state title!!...

Don't be shy - come with all your questions and meet the State Director, reging Mrs. Delaware United States 2011, other former Mrs. Delaware's some of our reigning 2012 delegates who will be there to help answer any questions you may have.

Also, we will have some pageant wardrobe items for sale, 31 bags, munchies and door prizes, etc. Hope to see you there!!

JOIN THE EXCITEMENT - DO SOMETHING FOR YOU IN 2012 and Enter the Mrs Delaware United States today!!

OUR FB EVENT PAGE IS LOCATED AT:

Are you "on the fence"? Not sure if a pageant is for you? Come and learn more about the Mrs. Delaware United States Pageant. We are currently seeking delegates until April 30th and you could be one of the lucky ladies who will compete for this prestigious state title!!...

Don't be shy - come with all your questions and meet the State Director, reging Mrs. Delaware United States 2011, other former Mrs. Delaware's some of our reigning 2012 delegates who will be there to help answer any questions you may have.

Also, we will have some pageant wardrobe items for sale, 31 bags, munchies and door prizes, etc. Hope to see you there!!

JOIN THE EXCITEMENT - DO SOMETHING FOR YOU IN 2012 and Enter the Mrs Delaware United States today!!

FB EVENT PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/mrsdeunitedstatespageant#!/events/313039385426643/

ONLY 45 DAYS LEFT TO DO SOMETHING EXCITING FOR YOU!!

Ladies - now that Spring is almost here.  The weather is changing and becoming nicer out.  I know that many have asked what they could do to make 2012 an even better and positive year for them.  Why not try something new and enter the Mrs. Delaware United States Pageant.  Not only will you meet other amazing married ladies from across the state, but you will step out of your comfort zone, do something for you and on top of all those great things, be given many opportunities to help out your community in various ways. 

From charity events to parades to meeting local and state representatives.  Our titleholders are more than just a pretty face.  They are married ladies looking to better themselves and their communities.

I challenge and invite you to do something new for you in 2012!!  Enter today - deadline is April 30th.  Also, if someone refers and lady and they enter, after all fees are paid, there will receive a referral fee awarded to them in the amount of $50.00 (one per contestant and is non-transferrable).

If you are interested, please contact me at director@mrsdelawareunitedstates.com or call me at 302.357.8814

Siouxzan Moore

Your State Director

Mrs. Delaware United States Pageant

THIS CROWNING MOMENT COULD BE YOURS!!

2012 MRS UNITED STATES NATIONAL PAGEANT DATE AND LOCATION ANNOUNCED!!

VIVA LAS VEGAS

The 26th Annual Mrs. United States Pageant will be held in Las Vegas July 8-13, 2012 at the Las Vegas Hotel (formerly known as the Hilton Hotel - same hotel where last year's pageant was held)

Mrs. Punkin Chunkin Honored to attend Daddy/Daughter Date Night

On March 5, 2012, I was invited and graciously accepted to be apart of the Dover Chick Fil-a Daddy Daughter Date Night. I was asked to attend by my great friend, The Limo Guy Scott Soucy, who was donating his time to give rides to all of the daddies and daughters. I was honored to take pictures with the little girls and be apart of their experience. I also helped give out the fabulous door prizes. The event had a great turn out. To see all of the fathers spending great quality time with their beautiful daughters brought warmth to my heart. A special thanks goes out to the Dover Chick Fil-a, for providing such a great environment for the dates, to The Limo Guy for offering me such a great opportunity, for his efforts to make this event a great success, and to everyone who participated in creating a memorable night for all who attended. I wish that every night could prove to be as special as this night.

Chick-Fil-A Cow and me :)

Helping to make people smile as I got to help tell them they won the hourly raffle prize!!

Priceless photo op.  This little girl was so excited to wear a crown.  What a reaction!!

Kindest Regards,

Shannon Lewis
Your Mrs. Punkin Chunkin United States 2012

Mrs. New Castle County: Community Spokesmodel for Anytime Fitness

As a Community Spokesmodel for Anytime Fitness in Wilmington, Delaware, I share my personal story of health and wellness to inspire others. I just wanted to share their latest ad, featuring before and after pictures...wow! Seeing this encourages me even more towards challenging myself and reaching new fitness goals. Exercise and good nutrition are the keys to a healthy lifestyle. If you are not sure how to start, see a professional that can help you on your path to wellness!

Anytime Fitness Ad

Close-up of my testimonial

Until next time,

Melissa Kirk
Your Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012

Video from The Wilmington Heart Ball

Hi Everyone!!  Check out this great video "Highlights at the 2012 Wilmington Heart Ball".  So glad I could help out a great cause. And, check it out.....I made it into one of the short clips - how great is that! :)

Thanks for taking the time to stop by our blog and see what great things all the ladies are up too!!

Kindest Regards,

Shannon Lewis
Your Mrs. Punkin Chunkin United States 2012

American Girl Fashion Show

Another busy weekend for me! I had a great opportunity to volunteer for the American Girl Fashion Show for the Ronald McDonald House in Wilmington, Delaware. The fashion show was held at the Chase Center and it is a HUGE fundraising event; there were five shows this weekend and each show accommodated 400+ people.

I volunteered my time on Saturday and Sunday morning and worked with the girls participating in the fashion show. We helped each little girl get into their outfits, which matched their doll’s outfits. Each girl had to look exactly like their doll, so we had to pay very close attention to details. I also helped the younger girls with placing small tiaras and American Girl sashes on them; they were cute little princesses! The girls had a blast getting ready backstage with us and rocked the runway!

I didn’t really realize the popularity of American Girl dolls until the day of the show. The audience was packed with girls and their dolls and some even had their birthday party at the show! The vendors included a doll store and doll salon, where you could get a new look for your doll. They also had a raffle that included dolls and doll accessories. All of the proceeds benefited the Ronald McDonald House, which is a great charity that provides a “home away from home” for families who are being treated at nearby hospitals. I always have a blast volunteering for the Ronald McDonald House and look forward to their next big event to raise money for the house.  

Full house at the American Girl Fashion Show!

Information Table on the Ronald McDonald House

Just one of the many American Girl Dolls

Have a great week! Until next time,

Melissa Kirk

Your Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012

Checking in with your Mrs. Peach Blossom United States 2012

Left (Top to Bottom) Mrs. Crimson and Cream Pageant at Delaware State University and Me with Miss Senior 2012, Paula Abolo (pageant MC) Right (Top to Bottom) Photos of Dr. Tonjia Coverdale and I at last years pageant

In my committment to be a steward of the community, I recently completed a risk management training course through the alumnae chapter of my sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (a private, nonprofit established to promote academic excellence and to provide assistance to persons in need). The purpose of this training is to prepare volunteers to be able to provide mentorship and one-on-one guidance to young women who are participating in the various outreach programs. Many of the young girls are considered 'high risk' and it is important for those of us working with them to have the proper training and support necessary to help these young women succeed.

As a result of this training, I will be able to be a part of the 2012 Cotillion committee and am currently working on Personal Development committee which provides college and career guidance for participants.

I’m also actively involved with the college chapter of Delta Sigma Theta on the campus of Delaware State University and most recently attended a workshop they hosted in collaboration with Men of Vision. The purpose of this event was to bring young, college-minded men and women together to discuss some of the pressing campus issues that divide the student population and cause a great deal of student-to-student tension. I’d have to say that this was definitely not a time for too many photos because the topics for discussion were very serious and at times the dialogue between the males and females was intense but the purpose was achieved and the students have committed themselves to striving for a greater level of respect on campus.

The opportunity for a great photo op did arise when I was asked to judge the 2012 Mr. Crimson and Cream Pageant. This was the first male pageant that I had ever judged so I was excited and it was good to be able to do something that wasn't so intense (at least for me as a judge). This was a scholarship pageant and the winner, Keith Gauff walk away with a $500.00 prize. The male participants were judged in four categories, opening number, interview, swim wear and talent. It was mazing to see the oratory and dance skills of the contestants and I was also impressed with how well this student-run production was.

The male participants were judged in four categories, opening number, interview, swim wear and talent. It was amazing to see the oratory and dance skills of the contestants and I was also impressed with how well this student-run production was.

Lastly, I’m excited to share the great news that fellow pageant sister, Dr. Tonjia Coverdale and I will be presenting our research at an upcoming conference in Atlantic City in April. We met last year at the Mrs. Delaware United States Pageant and became fast friends because of our love for pageantry and because of our similar careers. I know that if it wasn’t for pageantry that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet her (along with the other wonderful women) and I totally have the Mrs. Delaware United States Pageant System to thank for this career milestone.

March is Women’s History Month so you know I’ll have a lot to do and say as we spend the month celebrating women!

Common Sense Ways to Stay Safe this Spring Break | RAINN | Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network

It's a beautiful day today and spring is just around the corner! Today's nice weather reminded me of the upcoming spring breaks and vacation people take around this time of year. I just wanted to share this article with some useful tips on how you can stay safe this spring break, provided by RAINN. As you know my platform, "Stay Aware, Stay Safe" focuses on how women can keep themselves and their families safe and this article highlights many key points! Please take time to read and share. The link to the article on RAINN is listed below.

Until Next Time,

Melissa Kirk
Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012




Common Sense Ways to Stay Safe this Spring Break


http://www.rainn.org/news-room/spring-break-2012-tips


Washington, D.C., February 29th — Did you know that college aged students are at the highest risk for being sexually assaulted? With spring break just around the corner, RAINN, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, released helpful safety tips for spring break.

Whether you are headed to the beach or overseas or devoting your spring break to community service, it’s important to keep your safety top of mind. In addition to common sense travel safety tips like wearing sunscreen and keeping your passport safe, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk and prevent you or a friend from being the victim of sexual assault.

1. Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe in any situation, go with your gut. If you feel uncomfortable or something doesn’t feel right, leave and get to a safe place immediately. If someone is pressuring you, it’s better to lie and make up a reason to leave than to stay and be uncomfortable, scared, or worse.

2. Protect your location on Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare etc. Think twice before sharing every detail of your spring break on Facebook and Twitter. Despite security settings, posting information about your whereabouts or activities can still reveal details that are accessible to the public. Use your best judgment when “checking-in” on Facebook or Foursquare and be cautious of revealing personal information through status updates or tweets with Twitter trends like #SpringBreak and #SB2012.

3. Get Local. Know your accommodation address and the safest routes to and from your local destinations. Have the number for local cab companies on hand and always keep enough cash on you to take a taxi home. Know who to contact in the event of an emergency, such as 911 or local authorities. If traveling internationally, have the contact information for the U.S. Embassy with you.

4. Be a good friend and stick together. Arrive together, check in with one another throughout the night, and leave together. Think twice about going off alone; if you have to separate from your friends, let them know where you are going and who you are with. If something seems questionable or someone is acting aggressively, don’t be afraid to intervene. By speaking up, you may help prevent your friend from being the victim (or perpetrator) of a crime.

5. Don’t let your guard down. A spring break destination can create a false sense of security among vacationers. Don't assume that fellow spring breakers will look out for your best interests; remember they are essentially strangers.

6. Use your cell phone as a tool. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, shoot a quick text for a "friend-assist." Make a back-up plan before you go out just in case your phone dies. If you are traveling internationally, buy a pay-as-you-go phone or contact your cell phone provider to activate international coverage during your trip.

7. Drink responsibly and know your limits. Always watch your drink being prepared, and, when possible, buy drinks in bottles. If you lose sight of your drink or believe it might have been tampered with, throw it out and get a new one. If you or a friend seem too intoxicated for the amount of alcohol consumed or you suspect that someone has been drugged, get to a hospital.

In the event of a sexual assault during spring break, seek immediate medical attention. In the U.S., call 911 for emergency help or the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE) for advice and support. If you are traveling internationally contact the State Department or the American Embassy in country, to be connected with special services for American victims of crime abroad. You can also register your international trip with the U.S. State Department, to be notified of safety status changes.

Regardless of when the sexual assault occurred, it’s never too late to get help. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. Help is just a call or click away via RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotlines: 1-800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org

About RAINN
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotlines (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,100 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. The hotlines have helped more than 1.6 million people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.

Mrs. New Castle County having fun and for great causes

I had a great weekend filled with volunteering and friends. Friday night I helped with the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s Designer Bridal Gown Sale. I helped women pick out their gowns and assisted with keeping things moving along efficiently by organizing the dresses after they had been tried on. All of the proceeds of this event benefited the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition and I was happy to help. I was excited to make one woman’s day when returning a dress back to the rack; her eyes lit up and when she found out it was her size she was ecstatic! Congratulations to all the brides who found their dream gowns and thank you for donating to a great cause!

DBCC's Designer Bridal Gown Sale

One of the many rows of dresses

I had a great time helping ladies find their dream gown!

On Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending the Heart Ball for the American Heart Association. I had the pleasure of spending my evening with two fantastic ladies, Krista Brazell and Melissa Schulte, who coordinated the event. They did a great job! The theme this year was old Hollywood and each table had a different movie theme. The ballroom had a variety of Hollywood décor…including 2 large Oscar statues at the entrance! We had a great time bidding on silent auction items and dancing the night away and all to benefit the American Heart Association!

With Oscar!

Melissa & I at Breakfast at Tiffany's

With Miss DE USA Krista Clausen and Miss DE USA 2009 Kate Banaszak

My weekend concluded by participating as a model in the Middletown Bridal Expo. I wore a beautiful ball gown provided by Louis Marie Bridal and had my hair styled by Elaine James Salon and my make-up done by Arbonne Cosmetics…they did such a great job with everything! The fashion show was inspired by “Black Swan” and at the conclusion of the show a ballet dancer dressed in black danced. It was beautiful!

I loved my gown!

I also wanted to update you on Tour de Cure, where I will be participating as a Virtual Rider on Team Diabeauties. My fundraising page is up and I would LOVE your support! Even the smallest amount is appreciated to help stop diabetes! Please visit my page: http://main.diabetes.org/goto/MKIRK

Thanks for reading!

Photo Courtesy of John Schulte

Until next time,

Melissa Kirk

Mrs. New Castle County United States 2011

Whirlwind of a weekend with Mrs. Punkin Chunkin US 2012

What a great weekend volunteering in the community!!

The weekend started out Friday with being about to volunteer helping the new brides try on gowns at a great fundraiser for the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition.  Then Saturday, I had the honor of being a volunteer at the Wilmington Heart Ball for the American Heart Association down on the Riverfront in Wilmington.  And, today, I was able to look and feel beautiful by modeling in the Middletown Bridal Expo in a beautiful dress for one of our sponsors Louis Marie Bridal of Middletown. 

I also have a busy week ahead as I have already booked two great events; Monday I will be helping a great friend and goint to the Daddy/Daughter Date Night at the new Chick Fil-A in Dover so all you Dads come on out and have a great night out with your daughter the "LIMO GUY" and I (Mrs. Punkin Chunkin United States 2012) will be there to visit, chat and meet all the great dads with their beautiful daughters.

Then on Thursday, come on out to the B2B Expo in Middletown which is open to the public I will be appearing there lending my support to the small businesses and talking to public about supporting their local small businesses and the importance of it. Sure to be exciting!!

Here are some pictures from over the weekend and more to come with the great events coming up so be sure to check back.


In Photo Above: Miss Valencia Volunteer and Me (Friday March 2, 2012 - DBCC Bridal Event)

Miss Delaware Galaxy- Carrie Bledsoe and Me (March 3, 2012 - Wilington Heart Ball)

In Photo Above: Miss Delaware and me at the Heart Ball

At the Heart Ball Saturday Night

Kindest Regards,
Shannon Lewis
Your Mrs. Punkin Chunkin United States 2012

Tour de Cure Kick-off Party for the American Diabetes Association

I had the pleasure of participating as a “Celebrity Volunteer” at the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure Kick-off Party. The event was held at the Barclay’s Rock Center in Wilmington, Delaware (which by the way, is a great facility!) and was designed to encourage people to sign up for the ride. Joining me were some of my pageant sisters, Melissa Schulte-Mrs. Delmarva 2012, Carrie Bledsoe-Miss Delaware Galaxy 2012, Kate Godwin-World’s National Delaware Mrs., Heather McKinney-Miss Cape Henlopen 2012, and Kayla Godwin-Angel Miss Delmarva 2012.

Pageant Sisters

Team Jerseys

With the "Champion Jersey" for the participant who raises the most money for the Tour de Cure

 The Tour de Cure is a bike ride that offers 10, 32, and 64 mile routes and all the riders raise proceeds to benefit the American Diabetes Association. They also have Team Red as part of this event, which allow riders with diabetes to participate in the ride and show the courage they have to live everyday with this challenging disease.  

Slideshow

With Melissa Schulte-Mrs. Delmarva 2012

With Carrie Bledsoe-Miss Delaware Galaxy 2012

Heather McKinney-Miss Cape Henlopen 2012, Carrie & I

Red, White, & Blue!

All of us with last years Top fundraiser

The kick-off party had a great Chinese auction with tons of great prizes, including restaurant gift certificates, Blue Rocks tickets, and the grand prize…a brand new bike! We had a great time encouraging people to buy raffle tickets and meeting all the riders and potential riders. We also helped out with drawing the raffle tickets at the end of the night. I also met a brave little girl, Morgan, who has lived with Type 1 diabetes her whole life. Her story was shared in a beautiful slideshow presentation and she sang a couple of songs during the party. She is a true hero in my eyes!

Carrie, Melissa and I with Morgan

And the most exciting part is that I am going to be participating in the Tour de Cure as a Virtual Rider!! The date of the ride is the same as the Mrs. Delaware United States pageant, May 12^th, so unfortunately I cannot be there. However, I still wanted to contribute, so all of us pageant sisters formed a team: “Team Diabeauties”. I am excited to raise money to be donated to the American Diabetes Association and virtually ride that day! I will be posting soon on how you can donate and help our team make a great contribution towards fighting diabetes.

Signing up as a Virtual Rider

Team Captain of Diabeauties

I would like to give a huge thank you to Carl Colantuono, the director of the Tour de Cure, for allowing us to be part of this great event. We look forward to working with you in the future!

Us with Carl Colantuono

I have a super busy and fun weekend planned with great volunteer activities, so stay tuned!

Photo courtesy of John Schulte

Until next time,

Melissa Kirk

Mrs. New Castle County United States 2012