Three Weeks of Appearances (8/8/08)

It’s time to play catch-up. In the interest of your time, and mine, this week’s blog is bulleted to help fit everything in. Weekly (or bi-weekly) blogs to follow!

I’m Character Counts! Certified! – Chicago, IL
- Three days of intensive training
- 30 amazing teachers, administrators, & organization leaders as classmates
- An awesome understanding and appreciation for Character Counts!

(As a large majority of my year centers around Character Counts!, be prepared to know your Six Pillars inside and out. For today’s blog just know that the training was an awesome way to fine tune my preparations.)

Pretty Princess Weekend at Indian Lakes Resort –Bloomingdale, IL
- A tea and gala for 50+ very pretty “Princesses”
- Amazing decorations, staff, & accommodations (I stayed in the Pent House!)
- Miss Rock River Valley, Tana Durbin, Miss West Cook County, Marisa Buchheit, Miss Illinois’ Princess, Jessica Durante, Miss Chicago 2007, Christine Boll & a handful of our Miss Illinois Princess Program participants were in attendance!
- Indian Lakes is a BEAUTIFUL resort – definitely a great place for Illinois residents to take a “stay-cation” Have a look: http://www.indianlakesresort.com/

Freedom Salute Ceremony – Delavan, IL
- Sgt John Morris was kind enough to host me the entire day
- Participated in a ceremony that typically occurs 90 days after troops come home
o Saluting the National Guard’s 1144th Transportation Motor Transport Battalion
o Dignitaries and highly ranked military personnel spoke to their phenomenal accomplishments and I had the opportunity to give my thanks
- Special thanks to the Illinois Broadcaster’s Association, Jason Pawlowski & Ashley Hatfield for beginning this wonderful partnership with Miss Illinois and our military.

Thank You to our Amazing Sponsors!
- Bella Bridal – St. Charles, IL
o Provided more dresses (evening and cocktail!) than I can count
o I’ll be looking my best in Orlando and the rest of the year after the help of the friendly staff and Owner, Sandy Ryan – Thank you Bella Bridal!

- Jewels by Park Lane
o Participated in their bi-annual team meeting
o Over 1500 exciting, screaming, & costumed women who love working for Park Lane (Check out the amazing opportunities yourself – they’re going to Greece this year!)
o Provided boxes and boxes of beautiful jewelry that I’m already receiving compliments on each appearance! Thank you Jewels by Park Lane!

- Rebecca at Chic Concepts – Roselle, IL
o Provided AMAZING hair and makeup tips
o I love my new haircut – who knew that parting my hair on the other side could make all the difference!
o Rebecca was great at listening to what I wanted while using her expertise to “Glam me up”! Thank you Rebecca for your time and talents!


Part Two on the way!


Katie Lorenz
Miss Illinois 2008