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As long as we are wrapped up in thinking about self, the job will never get done. It is only when we take our eyes off self that we will be able to succeed.
"Know this, that in the last days, perilous times will come: For men
will be lovers of themselves..." (2 Timothy 3:1-2).
?
Nigeria
I missed Thanksgiving with my family this year, so no brown bag turkey,
no mac & cheese and no mom’s “mean greens” for me. But being away from
the comforts of my own home allowed me to understand and appreciate all
that I have to be truly thankful for. In deciding to do with less, I was
provided with so much more.
But let me first start by giving thanks: To the Almighty for His grace
and mercy; to my family who love & support me endlessly; to those that
help me present my best self, and to my friends, who have always “got my
back.”
When I first arrived in Nigeria I was excited…nervous…anxious. You name
it. Government officials arrived and whisked me away by police escort to
to the Government compound of Baylesi State. I spent the next 2 hours in
a police lead convoy travelling at break neck speed on roads that seemed
designed to break axles. The reason for such speed is that it is hard to
interfere with a moving target and when it is explained that way, I’m
certainly not going to argue – or ask them to slow down.
A very pleasant man by the name of Arome accompanied me on this car
trip.
He must have seen through the big smile pasted on my face because he
talked to me the entire way in the most comforting genuine way. He told
me about his country and how he was looking forward to better times
ahead for Nigeria. He spoke of the wealth of the land and of the country
but when Arome spoke of the pride of the Nigerian People the delight
with which he related his narrative was energizing and I felt my
exhaustion lift with every word.
We finally arrived at the compound of the Governor…her Excellency Alisa
Sylva. The best part at that moment was to see familiar faces…friends
Syndee, Pam & Anthony who had arrived 3 weeks earlier; there were hugs
and kisses all around. Mr. Taylor Nazzle joined us and it was as if he
had known me forever. I knew his face right away as I had been sent his
photo and information for my original Nigerian Travel Visa request. He
wasted no time and immediately ushered me in to introduce me to the
contestants of his Miss University Nigeria Pageant. It was a Kodak
moment. They were so excited to see me. It was as if I was still a
reigning National titleholder! It’s not that I forget that I was the
first Black woman to ever capture the Mrs. United States title because I
do know the significance and responsibility that comes with that honor.
But I do not always realize the impact that that Crown has on women
around the world. To say that that this was a huge deal to these young
Nigerian women would be an understatement – I was in that moment,
honored by their awareness of my Title, and by their knowledge of my
life. They knew every single thing about me including my children’s
names and in fact a couple of them later asked how Donnie was doing. I
was touched then, and continue to be so.
The first day was spent recovering from my 22 hr. travels. The next was
spent preparing to be interviewed by the local press and then later
partaking in the first phase of completion to select Miss University
Nigeria: The all important interview.
Miss Nigeria 1977 was a co-judge for this segment of competition. To a
contestant, I was so impressed with their interview skills and their
diction was impeccable; Very formal yet very genuine. When a question
was asked, the interviewees would first thank you for the question and
then proceed to answer. The commitment to their individual platforms was
pure of heart and there was no question about service. The attire was
beautiful. Most wore party dresses; much different than in the US.
The next day was spent with interviews from the local magazines and
newspapers and yes still recovering; it was a very long flight to get to
Africa!
When American Thanksgiving was being celebrated in Michigan I was
missing my family and Mom’s cooking very much. It was a tough day
emotionally but it was about to get a lot tougher as the day’s agenda
included our first visit to the National Hospital. I was not sure
exactly what to expect but I knew that I needed to prepare…at the same
time I wasn’t exactly sure what to prepare for so on a wing and a prayer
I went with the Lord on one side of me and my father on the other (he
always told me that I could get through anything no matter how difficult
it might seem). I had a feeling that I would need all the spiritual help
I could muster …and I was right. The conditions of course are not what
we are used to in America, but instead of feeling sorry for what they
didn’t “have” I found myself overwhelmed by the hope that they did have;
hope that they would get better, that their children would find a cure,
that life would get better.
I was right to prepare myself…but I am afraid it went out the window
upon my arrival at the Hospital. The temperature soaring…to me, even in
the shade of buildings it was scorching hot. We first visited the area
for premature babies and of course for the sake of hygiene and patient
safety we were not allowed complete access. As we progressed beyond
those tiniest of patients we entered the general pediatrics area. Most
children admitted here had suffered severe burns. I was told this was
common because of propane accidents. Propane as cooking fuel is the most
common way of preparing a meal for those women in remote villages and
rural areas. My God there was a baby 7 months old that had been burned
over 90 percent of his body and even as my heart wept for his suffering
and for his family I could not help but wonder how he could continue to
survive in such conditions. Even with the loving care given by the
health professionals in attendance, they were limited by the facilities
and equipment available to them. We visited patient after patient with
the doctors, staff and a full camera crew trying to document where we
could just how much help was needed. This was one of the hardest things
I have ever had to do but even harder was to do it with composure. How
could I feel sorry for the people that I was meeting when they did not
feel sorry for themselves?
The part of that day that saved me was the opportunity to greet and
celebrate a new life. The birthing centre was the last stop for me but
the first stop for a wonderful bundle of joy – the first baby born on
Thanksgiving Day. A precious and beautiful baby girl and an uplifting
end to a long but ultimately inspiring day.
Her Excellency Alayingi Sylva was wonderful to meet. She is a woman who
holds great concern for her people. Her platform, the Centre for Gender
Values and Cultures had earlier in the day organized free cancer
screening for women. She encouraged the women to be mindful of their
health and to remain vigilant.
Afterwards we prepared for the Miss University Nigeria pageant event
where fifty young women vied for this coveted title. They performed a
spectacular opening number and presented costumes native to Nigeria…I
loved this!
There were many Dignitaries present including the wives of the Speakers
of the House of Assembly and Secretary to the State Government.
Judges included:
Chief Judge, Chief Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine, Mr.
Keelechi Mbagwa, MD, CMB Building Investments, Chief Oma
Eyewuoma,Excecutive Vice President, Conoil Nigeria, Mejan Bozimo, Miss
Nigeria 1977:Julie Donli, Excecutive Assistant to the Bayelsa State
Government Professor Steve Azaki and myself. WOW…they were quite an
impressive group.
Miss Niger Delta University, Powede Lawrence prevailed as the winner!
The crowd was so enthusiastic…they rushed the stage like a stampede. I
was so taken aback by it all I had to take photos of the crowd in all
their exuberance over the winner. It was almost scary! There was a crowd
of approximately 1500 people total in attendance and at least 150 of
them were now front and center with another 150 on lookers that couldn’t
quite make their way through. I have never seen anything like this!
Saying that my journey to Nigeria was life changing is an
understatement. You would really truly have to see it through the eyes
of those who have been there. Yes…there is poverty…yes there is
underdevelopment. Many problems exist, but to say that there is
despair…no. They are a people with unbelievable faith.
It would be difficult after seeing what I have seen to turn my back.
What I experienced gave me of course a greater appreciation of what I
have here at home and so much more.
“We have a world to conquer…one person at a time…starting with
ourselves.” -Nikki Giovanni
January ali1, 2009
A Time for Renewal
“The Tradition of Chitlins”
Yes... it's that time again and I always find myself wondering how we
find ourselves at this juncture of time so quickly when a year ago it
seemed so far away. But this is a time that I have always taken in the
most serious of ways. As I look forward to a brand new year I take time
to look back at things accomplished, hoped for, and with the
determination of making a new plan as we move forward into the future.
The Hunt 10, short but personal online interviews, has been one of the
most enjoyed and most visited pages on my site and I’d like to thank
those that took the time to participate. It was a blessing to interview
Kaye Lani Rae Rafko-Wilson, Miss America 1988, Pageant Coach Valerie
Hayes, and Professional Photographer Sam T’ang. It’s not always easy to
share oneself in such an intimate way – but share they did. A close
friend asked me to pose one of the questions to myself. “Do you have a
ritual?” And my answer is “Yes.” Over and above my daily routines there
is a holiday ritual that soothes my soul.
Without fail every year I hover over my kitchen sink and begin one of
the most daunting of tasks: Cleaning chitlins. It is a tradition that
spans generations among African American Families and the finished dish
is a delicacy for most. I have not convinced my eldest son Jordan of
this but I am forever hopeful...lol.
"It brings the elite,
rich and famous together, with the poor and hungry. It has one common
bond. Food that was once trashed and buried was dug up, cleaned and
cooked for nourishment to the African American slaves. It was survival
food."
(see excerpted article below)
For me it is more tradition than taste. It is truly a time when I
reflect; a time when I lay the ground work of renewal! It takes hours,
yes hours to prepare these things -- especially if you are doing it
alone. My aunt Alice (Alice the Great!...yes I tacked on "The Great"
after the little Bill Stories I read to my son Jordan, she was great
though) is the one that I learned this art form from and she and my Mom
are the only women I've ever shared the sink with in this regard. I
remember us laughing & talking and just bonding. I stand for a while; I
sit for a while, and then stand again. I look out my window and I
think...I hope...I pray and I thank God for all the blessings he has
bestowed upon me. What's odd is that I have very little distractions
from anyone, either because of the smell or they know this is Momma's
REAL alone time. Come New Years Day, along side my good luck black eyed
peas, the finished Chitlins grace my table, in all their delicious
traditional glory.
"If there are flaws they are in ourselves, and our task therefore must
be one not of redesign but of renewal and reaffirmation, especially of
the standards in which all of us believe."
--Elliot Richardson
All my Love and Many Blessings for a Wonderful New Year
Stephanie
From a Washington Post Article
Centuries ago in America, chitterlings (also called chitlins) were
consumed by African slaves for their very sustenance and survival. Since
then, chitterlings have been embraced from generation to generation by
African-Americans as a choice. They are an enjoyed and honored delicacy.
Today, this southern delicacy has been lifted from its humble beginnings
to become recognized as an important emblem of African-American heritage
and culture.
Some considered swine innards trash. Others took the intestines of the
pig and boiled them into a staple, and, eventually, into a notorious
delicacy.
"It brings the elite, rich and famous together, with the poor and
hungry. It has one common bond. Food that was once trashed and buried
was dug up, cleaned and cooked for nourishment to the African American
slaves. It was survival food."
Chitlins, formally chitterlings, are the intestines of a pig that are
boiled until they are slightly softer than a rubber band; at their best,
chitlins are as chewy as calamari. Preparing them is hard work because
the slippery strands have to be soaked, cleaned by hand and rinsed
several times.
Chitlins have been authenticated as a treasure by the Smithsonian
Institution and the Anacostia Museum and Center for African American
History and Culture.
© The Washington Post Company Apr 23, 2003
Time Hurries On....
Fall is here
again and I can feel the Hawk lurking around the corner. I just wonder
what type of winter we will have here in Michigan???
I was very pleased and honored to be asked to judge the Mrs. All
American Pageant that was held in South Carolina in early October. The
weather of course was gorgeous and the ocean breathtaking. I managed to
squeeze in a beach side photo shoot -- how could I not take advantage of
an experience as amazing as that? Wow!
I’ve been very busy at home with family matters and preparing to take on
my additional role as an elected official on the Board of Trustees with
my township so it was extra special to attend Myrtle Beach and have the
opportunity to see old friends and make new ones. Even though I had the
pleasure of crowning Gariane as Mrs. United States 2008, it was so nice
to get to know her a little more. She spoke about her platform and I am
very proud of her and everything she is doing to break the stigma of
mental illness. It really was wonderful to see her again.
November is going to be busier still with many projects on the go and
appearances already scheduled including Miss Washtenaw County America,
The Miss Michigan Fall Forum, and Miss Teen Detroit. Habitat for
Humanity Detroit is holding their Gala this month as well and I’m
looking forward to my hosting duties as it sounds like it’s going to be
a fabulous evening.
Take care for now and don’t forget to get out there and VOTE! November
4th!!
Stephanie
Time hurries on...remember to feel the warmth and joy of all your right now moments.
October 28, 2008
What an exciting month
-- Baseball -- Portraits & Good Friends
I was very honored
to sit in on June 1 at the Hurley Medical Center’s Children’s Miracle
Network Telethon. What good work they do and it was really full circle
as my mom Mary was able to help out – after having worked as a nurse
there.
June 9th arrived and I was as anxious that day as I had been waiting for
it to arrive. I was
slated to throw out the first pitch for the Detroit Tigers home game. I
had practiced with my husband, thank goodness and he had even instructed
me on how to do a wind up – I am very grateful that I didn’t have to
really do that. The most rewarding part of all was that I had my
favorite guys out on the field with me, Don, Jordan, Donnie, and yes,
Dad
from above, he was a huge Tigers fan!
As they watched from the side
lines I could tell how proud they were. And when it went straight down
the middle!!! Too cool. I am my husband's new heroine. He said it was
the best first pitch he'd ever seen :) Do you think he's partial?:)))
Because we, as Queens, travel so much and spend a great deal of time
away from our family made it extra special that they could share this
experience with me.
A new Miss Michigan America was crowned June 21st and what an exciting
event it was. Our very own Miss America Kirsten Haglund was there to
help welcome new Michigan Royalty. Congratulations Ashley Baracey! You
were awesome! Best of luck at Miss America and I'll be there to cheer
you on!
My portraits are complete and I had been waiting anxiously to see them. Mrs. United States on canvas. These works of art are painted by world renowned artist Steve Kaufman. I was on my way to California on another matter but was able to combine that trip with seeing them for the first time and meeting the artist and they were more beautiful than I had imagined. This is truly something that is priceless to me and something that my children and my children’s children will be able to pass on for generations. I remember the night I won! My first thoughts were on winning this portrait! For big celebrities that he paints for, (Justin Timberlake, Celine Dion etc.) he gives an additional portrait to them to us to raise money for their personal charity. In my case I have been asked to donate one of the two to an African American Museum as I was honored to be the first African American Mrs. United States! I can't describe what that means!
Seeing Lydia Cornell again was wonderful! And what a great time we had reminiscing with her and her husband Paul Hayeland about her Too Close for Comfort days. Just great people! I'd like to thank them for inviting me into their home.
Donnie was fascinated with the portrait -- this is something he's never done before!! He was too cute as he compared the autograph card with the portrait itself. He might be Steve Kaufman's littlest art critic!! Donnie blesses us everyday and our love for him is as big as he is small.
While in California, I also had the opportunity to attend the Mrs. California America Pageant. It was wonderful to see Mrs. United States 1999 Janice McQueen Ward and Andrea Pruess, Mrs. United States 2003 and Mrs. America 2006. They are as beautiful as ever!! I so enjoyed talking with Patty and Savannah Bell – I love you guys and I will consider it. Your vote of confidence in me is incredible! But the icing on this California cake was seeing Tracie Stafford, Mrs. California United States 2007 walk away with 1st Runner-up honors & the Spirit of Pageantry Award, which was well deserved! Tracie is always helping people out.
I’ll never forget her literally "GLUING" me into my swimsuit at the Mrs.
United States finals: I credit her for how smashing I looked in that
swimsuit! Thanks for being such an amazing friend. I Love you girl!
May -- 2008...Another busy month!!
May
started off with a trip to Colorado Springs on the 7th and 8th. What a
beautiful place. I was so excited to be on my way to visit our Nation’s
heroes. Visiting Fort Carson and the Air Force was a thrill and I do
mean thrill. I had the opportunity to see first hand how our soldiers
are trained. I watched various combat exercises and was able to test out
some of the simulators...the humvee was the best! It was so realistic.
Afterwards I was able to watch some of the new soldiers in a training
exercise. Boy was it tough. The decisions they had to make. It is
amazing to imagine these scenarios in Iraq and overseas and what our
Armed forces are faced with there. May God bless them.
I would like to
thank Mr. Lonnie Gibson, the Mrs. Colorado United States Director for
making this trip possible and of course the men and women of Fort Carson
for allowing me a glimpse of what they are faced with in combat. The
ladies at the BX & PX ;) took great care of me!
On my return home I visited with Habitat for Humanity Detroit and took part in their Women Build event on May 10. Wow – that was some very hard work.
Habitat for Humanity is the platform of Mrs. Florida United States 2007, Janet McCulloh and I know now where she got her muscles from!!
I
remember her sharing her story on stage about how her mom gave her up
for adoption because she couldn't provide a roof over her head. I will
never forget that and it made me proud to be a part of this build. I
carried Janet in my heart that day along with the many that share this
type of situation.
Our NORD 25 Year Anniversary Video was debuted in Washington on May
20th. Montel Williams hosted the gala evening. The video itself is
incredible and features myself, my son Donnie and two other moms and
their children as we speak about Rare Disease and how it has impacted
our children’s lives. I was so honored to be a part of this project and
hope it brings even more awareness to our plight. Click on the banner to
see the video.
May 23 brought an opportunity to attend a career day locally at Clague
Middle School. The kids were great and very excited that I was there. I
not only shared my adventures as Mrs. United States, but also talked
about my career as a Flight Attendant. We had a great time!
I finally got a chance to talk with someone I have long revered as one
of the top coaches in the pageantry industry when I was a guest of
Valerie Hayes on her new Pageant Talk Radio show on May 27. I was
thrilled she asked me to be a guest and discuss promoting one’s
platform. She actually referred to me as an “expert” – I don't know
about that but I do know what's in my heart and I know what needs to be
done. (To listen to the show click the banner.)
When I have a vision nothing can stop me. Shortly after winning the title of Mrs. United States I was asked what I was going to do next. I answered, “Hit the ground running.” I haven’t stopped yet and I’ve made more strides than I ever thought possible. It’s truly a gift from above to be able to keep on going and trying till you get where you need to be and for that I am thankful.
Stephanie
h
April -- 2008..Spring time!
It's finally here -- summer is coming and pageant season is in full
swing.
I was very happy to
emcee the Miss Black & Gold Pageant on April 3rd at Eastern Michigan
University. This is a scholarship event produced by the Epsilon Eta
Chapter of my brother fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha. It was such a lot of
fun to reminisce about my college days and meet the young ladies
competing.
It
was also a great deal of fun to be a guest at the North Carolina United
States Pageant on April 5 and see Nicole Hinson crowned as the 2008
State Representative. I was able to catch up with my friends Shannon
Devine, Mrs. United States 2006, (she crowned me of course:), Valerie,
the Executive Director with whom I have become good friends, and of
course April Storm-Britts, (my Mrs. United States runner-up). She is
still as sweet as ever.
Seeing her and Bella together made me want a
little girl. And what fun it was to crown Bella as Little Miss N.C.
United States Forever! My darling husband had the opportunity to
accompany me this time so it was an extra special few days for me. He
works so hard to keep things together in my many absences and I was very
happy that he could take the break to join me this time.
April 12 found me winging my way to Kansas for the Mrs. Kansas United
States event. I had an opportunity to assist with the interviews this
time round and it is still my favorite part of pageant competition; you
get to see the real person. I also acted as one of the hostesses for the
event alongside a local news personality: I got a chance to see how the
real pros do it.
Miss Kansas United States Teen -- Kylie Stone
Mrs. Kansas United States 2008 -- Rachel Murphy
Miss Kansas Junior Teen -- Cassie Lohmeyer
Mrs. United States -- Stephanie Hunt
On the 19th Mom and I headed to The Mrs. Oklahoma United States Pageant
and we were so excited to get there. It was nice for us to get some mom
and daughter time. Sharon Cullison, the Executive Director, informed us
that designer Kayne would be picking us up at the airport! Oh My
Goodness!! We were already on our way! The one time I decided NOT to put
a face on. Mom just cracked up and said she didn’t know why I was in
such a panic because I don’t normally wear make-up unless it’s a special
occasion or I’m going to have the crown on my head. I had to admit it
was true; I don’t even wear make-up to work – just moisturizer and lip
balm. I do love make-up – just not every day. And of course it ended up
being fine. We were able to spend some time at Johnathan Kayne’s studio
where we took some pictures, rehearsed and had a whole lot of fun. I was
thrilled to watch the master designer work his magic in the studio. He
is just amazing and Mom absolutely fell in love with him. She kept
saying what a talent he is – and she’s right. Our congratulations go out
to the very beautiful Casey Johnson, Mrs. Oklahoma United States 2008.
I closed the month of April with a return trip to North Carolina on the
26th for what turned out to be a very special few days. I was a guest of
Ernest Hooker. Mr. Hooker is a North Carolina A&T University graduate
History student that I met over breakfast at the Black Heritage Festival
in Thomasville, Georgia earlier this year. He performs a wonderfully
interactive play which is rich in history about the legendary Buffalo
Soldiers. He uses it to educate youth about real life heroes such as
Cathy Williams & Henry O. Flipper, both original Buffalo Soldiers; Cathy
being the first female, and Henry the first African American to graduate
from West Point. But the icing on the cake was the performance play by
actor, artist, and historian Bob Snead. He performed his one man play
based on the life of Henry O. Flipper and he was phenomenal I was so
honored that Ernest had brought me back to N.C. for such a historical
event.
Earlier that day I was involved with a panel discussion on African
Americans who have made footprints... and the impact those footprints
have made on our society. We discussed continuing and putting positive
role models before our youth. I often downplay the role I have taken,
but in situations where I'm asked to speak, I realize the power in what
I have accomplished and that I too have made footprints that will remain
etched in the sands of time.
Mr. Ernest Hooker, Mr. Bob Snead, Stephanie, & Mr. Hooker's Fiancée Darren
I was presented with a framed copy of “The Legacy, Lest we Forget”; a
painting originally commissioned by General Colin Powell. I was moved to
tears by this and when Mr. Snead asked why I was crying, I was able to
explain how much it meant that he had presented this wonderful
work to me in person, and that I was humbled by his thoughtfulness and
generosity. He told me that it was important to pass on the story of
Henry O. Flipper, and all the Buffalo Soldiers, so that their courage
would never be forgotten.
Amongst the lights, accolades, and attention that being Mrs. United
States affords me, so often it is the quiet personal conversations and
contacts that make the most lasting impressions and build the sweetest
memories.
Stephanie
h
March 2008 -- It Flew by but was filled with wonderful people and places!!!
I started this, at times, very snowy month off with a trip to the Mrs. Virginia United States Pageant. I was very happy to not be judging this wonderful group of women. How could anyone decide? They were all so beautiful and talented. I was able to spend time with my very special friend Jennifer Philips. She’s got some very big shoes to fill. The work she has done to promote Fibromyalgia awareness and speaking before Congress on her platform is inspiring and I’m very proud of her. Congratulations to Lisa Lutz, the newly crowned Mrs. Virginia United States 2008!!
On March 12 I was interviewed for Grapevine Radio’s Healthy Wealthy Wow
show by Andrea Pruess and Kirsten Lamb. Both of these women are very
accomplished and former Queens. Andrea is Mrs. United States 2003 and Mrs.
America 2006 and one of my all-time favorites. Kirsten is Mrs. Utah
United States 2003 and I would like to thank them again for the
opportunity to promote Rare Disease Awareness and to promote our
fabulous Every Child a Cure fundraiser T-shirt.
Any chance I have to speak about our cause is an opportunity I truly
appreciate.
My Donnie got a chance to show his mom off to the children in his
classroom at school on March 14th. March was Reading Month and The
Haisley School's theme this time was “Reading Around the World.” We
chose to read On the Day You Were Born by Debra Frazier and it was a big
hit! Many of the children brought in photos of themselves on the day
that they were born and what a fun time it was trying to guess who
belonged to each little newborn pictured. Afterwards they all wanted to
get their chance to touch my crown and try it on! They were so thrilled
and it was so much fun for me to watch their
little faces light up when we finally got that crown balanced on their little heads. Even one of the little guys joined in and the teachers got their turn as well. I love letting people get a taste of "Royalty". There is something about the crown that makes the wearer stand taller – as if there’s suddenly magic in the air that they breathe – and what a smile it evokes – there’s nothing like it
March 15 and I was off to visit the Michigan Galaxy Pageant. As a former
Queen of this system it was fun to see all the new Queens crowned. Good
luck to every one of them and I know they’ll all do well at Nationals.
My 2nd Make -A-Wish event for the year was the “One Penny at a Time Gala” held on March 20th. I just love this organization. The ballroom where the event was held had been transformed into an enchanted forest and it was breath-taking for everyone coming through the front doors. I assisted the guests with their pledges and tossing their coins into the mouth of the Loch Ness monster which that night represented the thousands of dollars already raised.
Some very special children received wish boxes of their own and I was able to witness a young man get his “wish” that night. He dreamed of being a police officer and he was overjoyed as he was sworn in as a new cadet by the over forty officers who had attended to honor him. It was wonderful.
On March 22nd, my husband, "Mr. United States", as he likes to be
called, joined me for the Black Marriage Day Dinner, hosted by the
Marriage Resource Center in Detroit. I had the opportunity to proclaim
this an Official Day by reading the Proclamation handed down by Governor
Jennifer Grandholm. The surprise of the night came when Don and I were
able to repeat our marriage vows in a special ceremony for all the
couples who were in attendance! We had wanted to do this in celebration
of our recent 10th Anniversary and this could not have been more
perfect. It was an evening we will treasure. Mr. & Mrs. United States
reaffirming their commitment to one another…What a blessing!
And finally as the month drew to a close it was off to the Mrs. Michigan
America Pageant. I am always so proud of any married woman in any system
that is willing to showcase herself and just step outside the box for a
moment. Cheers to all of them for what they do for their families and
their communities! Best of luck Sara!
The neat thing about visiting other Mrs. Pageants is that when the stage
has cleared and the winners have been chosen, you will always see the
contestants embracing one another with well wishes, congratulations, and
compliments on a job well done and let’s not forget whipping those
cameras out for our prized photo op:) It's our moment and what a moment
it is... to shine like stars. I Love It!
Stephanie
h
February – A cold winter month warmed by the love of long-time
supporters and the sunshine of new-found friends.
An early highlight to the month was attending the Black Heritage Festival in Thomasville, Georgia. The event itself took place February 8, 9, and 10th at the Jack Hadley Black History Museum. I was greeted at the airport by Mr. Hadley and his lovely wife Christine. As we drove the route from the airport to Thomasville, Mr. Hadley gave me a brief tour of the many historical plantations in the area.
Our first stop was the WHGH 840 radio station
where I spent some time with Radio DJ B-LUV as he interviewed me about
the upcoming festival for his morning show. It was a great opportunity
to share my platform on Rare Disease.
The Museum itself just blew me away! It was filled with photos, news
articles, and Black History memorabilia. I vowed then and there to make
another trip because there is just so much to take in – one visit is not
enough! Two favorite areas were the displays regarding Henry O. Flipper,
the first African American to graduate from West Pointe Academy and the
section about the legendary Buffalo Soldiers. Of course I also
gravitated to the Queen’s section where I found our first African
American Miss USA, Carol Gist, also of Michigan, and many other greats.
It brought me to tears when I realized that I would also take my place
on that wall and that I had made history as the first African American
Mrs. United States. It will be an honor to join those wonderful women
already there.
The next day was action packed with radio and TV interviews, dress
fittings, and my favorite – visiting the children at some local schools.
(insert kids pics) Just seeing their little eyes light up brings me the
most amazing joy! It is a humbling reminder of why so many women compete
for this title, and that this reign is a fabulous journey – the
experience is priceless.
The celebration began with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and along
side me were Miss Thomasville, Miss Thomasville’s Outstanding Teen and
Miss Africa USA. What lovely young women they are and it
was wonderful to chat with them about their upcoming events. Miss Africa
USA was very gracious and I learned so much about her and her home
country of Nigeria. I hope someday to visit there myself.
Later that night, Miss Africa USA and myself hosted the Talent and
Fashion show. Wow! What talent! The Grand Finale – The Lady in Red: I
was very happy to model a very beautiful evening gown created just for
my by Niler Fashions. It was GORGEOUS! And guess what...I got to keep
it!!!
Thank You Thomasville for your hospitality -- I felt like real royalty.
Thank you Michael for escorting me and just taking great care! Mr.
Hadley, I thank you especially for preserving our History. It’s not just
Black History; it’s American History.
And here she is – Miss America.
Kirsten Haglund comes home! February 29th -- What an evening! It was a showcase of the
most talented young women in Pageantry! The line-up consisted of Top Ten
Finalists as well as 1st Runner-Up Miss Indiana, Nicole Rash, 2nd
Runner-Up Miss Washington, Elyse Umemoto, and 3rd Runner-Up, Miss
Virginia, Hannah Kiefer. Many of our own Miss Michigans and Runner-Ups
performed in the second half. Kirsten sang with her Dad & her brother
Lars...what a talented family!
Then moment we had all been waiting for arrived – a new crowning. Gino
Valo our new Miss Michigan Crowned by Miss America, how exciting! She
was lovely!
It was so nice to see all of the queens. But oh my, to finally see my
hero again after so many years -- Kaylani Ray Rafko, Miss Michigan 1987 &
Miss America 1988. (insert pic) I just cried when I embraced her. I had
competed with her back in the 80's. She changed the face of pageantry;
she is the Queen responsible for what we pride ourselves most on most in
Pageantry; our platform issue. She is highly recognized for this and I
am proud that this is the one thing that continues to validate our
purpose. Thank You, Kaylani...I Love you!
Stephanie
January... A brand New Year!
It was wonderful to celebrate with my Family! It's a pretty big deal at
my house to watch the ball drop in Times Square! We have hats and noise
makers…the whole nine yards! Then, shortly after the first toast of the
year, I slip off to fill everyone’s pockets with black-eyed peas. It’s a
ritual of mine to give them blessings and good luck for the year.
It was so exciting to judge the Miss Mattawan Scholarship pageant. What an amazing group of young women. The theme this year was "Turning the Keys to Success", and there is no doubt in my mind that they will do just that. They all seemed so very clear in their goals and very ambitious. I was proud to be in their company. Again Congratulations to Sarah Brittan for capturing the title and I wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.
January 26 in Las Vegas and a dream finally realized when I attended Miss America LIVE! It was awesome! Our first stop was the Miss America VIP Breakfast held at Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino.
It was the chance
of a lifetime to be in the company of Miss America greats, like Lee Meriwether & Phyllis George and be able to take
photographs with and get autographs from women I have watched being crowned
Miss America over the years. It was, to say the least, quite a thrill.
Bonnie, the escort for the past 18 Miss America's retired; what a story
she must have to tell. I can't wait to read her book. She was honored
with a special Miss America crown that was encrusted with 18 different
precious jewels for each Miss America she has served.
After the
breakfast we visited the trade show were I met some of pageantry's
greatest designers! My favorite had to be Johnathan Kayne from Project
Runway 2! He was such a joy to meet and so enthusiastic
as he described his beautiful creations and what he has in mind for the
future. I loved him on the reality show, but when I met him in person it
just sealed the deal. He's fabulous. Oh, and his shoes – lovin’ them. I
guess you can tell...I'm a shoe girl.
Next...PAGEANT NIGHT! I love the whole idea of searching for the next IT
GIRL! I thought the new direction for Miss America was great! But even
as I watched I couldn't believe I was really there. Of course we were
there rooting on our Kirsten! Being from the Great Lake State of
Michigan, I have met her on several occasions already. I remember
telling her shortly after she won Miss Michigan that she was going to be
the next Miss America. Look at her now! I told you so.
She is such a lovely young woman and so deserving of the Miss America title. Her very relevant platform speaks to the millions of young women who suffer with eating disorders. She is the perfect role model for her generation. I had the opportunity to meet her family when we rode the Queen’s float in the America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and it was very clear where her gracious personality came from.
How
elated her grandmother Iora must be! To watch her granddaughter crowned
Miss America 2008 after being Miss Michigan 1944 herself. (pic of
grandmother)
The Great Lake State of Michigan – home of the reigning Miss America and
Mrs. United States! What a blessing!
SAYING HELLO TO 2008 -- AND FAREWELL TO 2007
(DRUM ROLL!!)...and your new Mrs. United States is ...Mrs.
Michigan...Stephanie Hunt!
I still get goose bumps when I think of it. So many emotions raced
through me as those incredible words sunk in; I had accomplished a major
goal and it had taken a lot of what I like to call “radical
perseverance” to get there. But there I was, center stage with the
ultimate crown being placed on my head. I was awash in feelings of
gratitude, acceptance, accomplishment, love, and so much more.
At this time last year I was knee deep in preparation for the upcoming
Pageant season; brushing up on make-up techniques, interviewing skills,
selecting wardrobe....oh, and the ever important evening gown. My Dad
was the guru when it came to this. I often expressed to him that he
should have been a designer. At the State competition I wore a gown that
he considered to be very risqué because of the cut outs! (I had to show
off that 100 lb. weight loss :). But at Mrs. United States I wore a gown
I knew he would have loved, in fact it was very similar to the one he
had chosen and it was a far cry from cut outs!
I really wish he could have been there to see me that night.
>My father's
sun set on January 5, 2007 and I miss him every day. He was amazing! He
taught me the value of life's lessons and instilled in me the spirit of
determination. He encouraged me to take chances and to refuse to be
limited by circumstance and for that I am eternally grateful. I wish
that I could have shared more of this wonderful experience of being Mrs.
United States with him, but I know that he looks down in pride and at
times, I feel that he’s right by my side.
Looking back on the past 5 months, there has been a lot of joy! I have
traveled across the country bringing awareness to RTS and NORD as well
as helping other charitable organizations and I am thankful for the
opportunity to do so. I am constantly inspired by the spirit and
innocence of the children that I have been fortunate enough to meet. It
is the openness of their love and belief that everything will be alright
that makes so much of this worthwhile.
I continue to be blessed with the support of my loving family.
I am looking forward to the rest of this wonderful journey. I know that
there are so many more things to come.
I’d like to share a verse with you. May you carry it on your heart:
Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow.
For what is your life?
It is even a vapor that appeareth for a little time,
and then vanisheth away.
--James 4:14
Have a Wonderous New Year!
Stephanie Hunt
Mrs. United States 2007