Miss Illinois Blog

Happy Halloween Readers

October 28, 2009 | BLOG ENTRY #5 | by Miss Illinois 2009 Erin O'Connor

It's almost time for one of my favorite Holidays (But what actor doesn't love an excuse to dress in costume?)

It seems that each month gets busier and busier as we prepare for Miss America in January. This month began with the Provena FoxKnoll and Provena McAuley Manor Fundraiser "Dancing with the Stars". I had the opportunity to perform "La Esmeralda" and watch the dance competition. I'd like to thank State Street Dance for the beautiful costume I wore and Mr. and Mrs. Clemenz for all their hospitality. After a night of dancing (and a great dessert table) we drove all night to be in Springfield for the "Refine your Image" seminar. A big thank you to Limelight Studios, Staci Boyer, Michelle and Nicole Holmes from the Pageant Room, and Rick Brinkley for sharing all their insight. It was an honor to speak with our Miss America Outstanding Teen 2008 Taylor Fitch. We were so happy to have her. Speaking with next year’s contestants was my favorite part of the seminar. Not only did I see familiar faces from last year's competition, but I had the chance to meet some of our new titleholders. I wish them all luck during their year, and look forward to seeing all their successes!

This month also marked the beginning of my 8 week class for Triple Threat Mentoring. Every Tuesday I'll be working after school with 5th graders in East Aurora teaching an improv theatre class. We've had a few meetings so far, and it’s become something I look forward to all week. I am so impressed with how talented and smart my kids are. Not only do we learn about the principles of improvised performance, but we talk about teamwork, and the six pillars of character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. I'm pleased to report all my students are excellent examples of each pillar! Thanks to everyone at Triple Threat Mentoring for giving me the opportunity!

Character Counts has really kicked into High gear. In October alone I spoke at over 20 schools about the importance of Character. Four of those schools were in Rock Island. The people of Rock Island were so welcoming and it was my pleasure to spend a few days with them. Being so close to Davenport, I even got to have dinner with our neighbor Miss Iowa, (Anne Michael). A Harvard graduate and accomplished violinist, Anne is a wonderful girl and I had a lot of fun getting to know her better.

October 12 was in my top favorite days as Miss Illinois. It was my honor to be a featured speaker in the Character Counts Rally at Mother McAuley High School. As a '06 Graduate from McAuley, it was an emotional homecoming for me. I'd like to thank the administration for all the effort in preparing for my visit. Most of all I'd like to thank the student for their amazing reception. When I was announced at the all school assembly, the 2000 students cheered the way only McAuley girls can. I was so overwhelmed and moved by their response, I got a little teary eyed. After talking about the 6 pillars of character, and of course a little about Sun Safety and Skin Cancer prevention, I was treated to a fantastic day- McAuley Style, complete with cookies, hugs, and music. I had the opportunity to speak in smaller groups to the theatre and music students in D wing, (where I spent the majority of my McAuley career). I even got to sing a few songs with the A Cappella Choir after school. Once again I'd like to thank the Faculty Staff and Students for giving me an amazing day. You are all always in my prayers.

The rest of the week was spent in Rockford for Red Ribbon week! I Spoke at 8 schools in three days, meet countless sponsors and thanked them for their support of the Drug Prevention fair. A Special thank you to Mr. Paul Perrone, who was a perfect host during my stay in Rockford. He looks after Miss Illinois every year, and we thank him for his continued support. During the various appearances in the Rockford Area, Paul and I made a stop at one of the Local Fire Houses, Station 10. We stayed for a delicious lunch of tortellini and chicken- thanks guys!

It was again my pleasure to join our friends at the Marion Joy Rehabilitation Hospital for their "Lights of Broadway" fundraiser. During the evening I sang two songs: "Popular" and "Somewhere over the Rainbow."  They even decorated the whole stage in a Wizard of Oz theme! During the course of the night musical theatre songs were played, and characters in costume roamed the party. For a theatre nerd like me, it was a blast! It was a great night and I was glad to be a part of it.

The third week of October included more schools for Character Counts, and the "Tickled Pink" Breast Cancer Awareness event. While vendors sold various crafts, jewelry and clothes, Mom's could buy raffle tickets, sip a glass of wine, and even bring their daughters along. One of my responsibilities that night was to teach the little girls a dance. I had a blast teaching about 20 girls at a time a dance to Miley Cyrus' "Party in the U.S.A." As the Granddaughter of a Breast Cancer survivor, I was pleased I could support the event in any way.

Last Saturday was a day of extremes! In the morning I volunteered at the Triple Threat outdoor soccer tournament. The morning rain had left the soccer pitch very muddy, but the 5th grade players seemed to enjoy it! While we all tried to stay warm and dry, (a little unsuccessfully) we cheered on all the teams in the tournament. Each player received their very own soccer ball and a team picture. After the tournament I traded I my muddy shoes for heels as I got ready for the 25th Kids Fight Cancer Gala.  A Thank you to the entire Pesoli family for their generosity in planning this amazing event. Performing at the Gala was the South Side's very own Dennis DeYoung. (STYX) I even got to take a picture and exchange a few words in the VIP room.

This Friday October 30, I'd like to invite you all to my Children's Miracle Network Fundraiser. The benefit will be held at Bourbon Street (3359 W. 115th Street, Merrionette Park) from 6:00-10:00 p.m. and will feature a 50/50 raffle and several basket raffles. Tickets for the event are $20 for adults and $10 for kids which includes entertainment, food, drinks and parking. It promises to be a good time for people of all ages, so please come out and support this worthy cause.

Until next time, Thank you and God bless!