Thanks for the Loot!

Of the many misconceptions concerning pageants, behind-the-scenes glamour and royal treatment are at the top of the list. Titleholders may have crowns, but we are not waited upon like queens; any woman who believes that to be the case would not last in this system. Remember, one of the points of the crown is “Service,” meaning the titleholder serves the community.

Having said that, we are always very excited for and appreciative of the gifts we receive during Miss Ohio. It is an extremely long week and the thoughtful gifts, some of which are featured in the photo above, serve as a great “pick me up.” I have found that people assume we get more than we do, however, when you put it all together, it’s pretty wonderful and impressive! (Click the photo to enlarge.)

Every contestant received the following (click on underline words for business or product websites):

*Mary Kay Satin Hands gift set from Miss Ohio Field Director and Assistant Stage Manager, Kim Saunders
*Mantra hair care items and services from Tara Burkepile and Rebecca Harris of Cuttin' It Close

*Photo frame and customized note cards and note pad from local ED, Gloria Buwala

*Beaded Bracelet from local ED, Martha Campbell

*Personalized, embroidered pillow from Miss Maple City Erin Jeffery and her mom

*Necklace (worn during the "Jail House Rock" production number) from Marlene Speelman, Cookie Lee Jewelry consultant

*Sample products and services from Amy Christus of Merle Norman Cosmetics

*Coffee mug, pen and candy from the City of Ontario

*Necklace and Earring set from Bobbi's Bobbles
*Lapel Pin from the Mansfield Elks

One of the best treats of Miss Ohio week came from former Miss Ohio and current board member, Ellen Pasturzak Spinner; she was on hand with her massage chair giving shoulder and back rubs! It was wonderful!

I also recieved the following:

*Purse/Jewelry box from my fabulous hostess and chaperone, Brenda and Ginny
*Mary Kay Belara fragrance set from Nancy Wheeler
*Flowers and balloon from the Roessner family
*Cosmetic bags and a framed photo from my roommate Jenna Wilson and Miss SEO EDs
*“Miss Attitude” the stuffed cat, Celine Dion perfume and Bath and Body products from my wonderful Maumee Valley EDs, as well as home-made cards from their sweet grand daughters
*Bath products, the heart shaped box, heart shaped pillow (for Roxie Hart) and countless notes of support from my Mom, Dad and Loren

Finally, Marisa Minor and I received former contestant Pam Roessner-Ranly's famous cookies just before the show Saturday night… afterwards I joked with Marisa that merely smelling Pam’s cookies ruined our swimsuit figures and subsequently neither of us made the Top 5… LOL!

My apologies if I left anything or anyone out. THANK YOU SO MUCH TO ALL THE DONORS AND SUPPORTERS!