CW PIX11 Morning Show

8:47 PM JilinTour.Com 0 Comments

Here's the morning show blog! I was interviewed just following the update on Tyler Clementi's Rutgers' Suicide case as a part of the CW's actions to lend their voices to the "It Gets Better" Project.

Miss New York Claire Buffie Talks About Her Platform "Straight for Equality: Let's Talk"

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so. many. psychiatrists.

8:29 PM JilinTour.Com 0 Comments

piqued your interest? Well I'll explain that in a minute. Before I get to the psychs, let me start at the beginning of the week. To be honest, I once again had to open my calendar in order to write this blog to say, "woahhh what in the world did I do this week?!" We left off on Monday. I had a great lunch meeting with Assemblyman Danny O'Donnell and Kenny Mack. We talked about the Dignity for All Students Act, which he led through the Assembly to passage this summer. An act that seems so simple and natural, and passed with all but 3 yes votes in the Senate, was denied through the Senate 9 times previously. One decade. That's how long it took to get 'sexual orientation and gender identity' under the discrimination bias of school harassment and bullying. It was so great talking about where Dignity has been, where it's going, and how it will evolve and build...and how I can be a part of it. Jazzed.

That night we also had a fantastic meeting with the new director of the Miss New York City pageant!! Yayyy!!! It's back - and in full force. Details are still TBD, but I can share with you that there will be a Miss NYC, Manhattan and Southeast NY held together on the same day as the state sweeper which will crown Miss Metropolitan, Liberty and Greater Gotham. The new director has great branding ideas and we look forward to building lasting strength in the NYC area together.

Tuesday, I took my first class at Actors Connection. I did a teleprompter intensive with Patricia Stark, TV host and actress (and former Miss NY USA!) It was a great, small class in which we learned the skills necessary to be successful on teleprompter and got lots of time to practice with intimate feedback. I look forward to her 4-week hosting class which begins next week as well as doing some one-on-one media training for some upcoming exciting television spots we're looking into.

Then it was time for the psychiatrists. You never know who you're going to sit next to at these dinners and galas. At the Indiana ACLU dinner, I ended up sitting with a pediatrician and psychiatrist who was coming to NYC this week for the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (mouthful.) along with 1500+ medical professionals from the U.S. and invited me to attend. They set up a private lunch for me on Wednesday with some of the top psychiatrists in the country to have some facetime for real questions about bullying, with regards to sexual orientation, but universally with stigmatized youth, and what a public health issue this all truly is. On Thursday and Friday, I attended workshops and clinical perspectives on Bullies, Targets, and “Frenemies”: Understanding and Preventing Bullying and Cyberbullying and Prevention of Bullying Related Morbidity:A Whole-Community Strategy. These were incredibly interesting and informative. If I shared all of the things I learned, you and I would both be here all day, so we'll save that for another time.

So I was already having a great week, then Friday came. My sister's flight from Detroit to Boston was cancelled on Thursday night, but they could get her to NYC, so she took the offer and surprised me for a little visit Thursday night. Only problem with that was I wanted to stay up all night talking when I actually needed to be up at 4:50 am on Friday for the CW PIX-11 Morning Show (more in the next blog). I managed that, and she got to see me in action and took some great pics! From the morning show and getting Hannah off to Boston, I went to Union Square to the Beth Israel Pediatric Unit for a little Halloween celebration. The kids were SO excited to see me (and once again, so was the staff!). We read a spooky Halloween book together, talked about their Halloween costumes - Elijah was already in his Michael Jackson get-up. Ebrahim was the jam. He's an 8 year old with a 6th grade reading level - so intelligent, very excited and thorough in meeting me, an avid Yankees fan with a serious evaluation of the Rangers v. Yankees game, and the kid who believes that the winner of Miss America should compete in Miss DIMENSION << insert intense sound effect >> because that's wwwaaayyy bigger than Miss Earth or Miss Universe! He. Was. Awesome. I think I have a new publicist. or boyfriend, I can't decide. These kids were so fun though and we had great photo ops. Can't wait to share the pics with you when I receive them. Then it was off to the AACAP Conference and the gym, then home to relax and play Wii Tetris with my roommates. Yes, I'm that cool.

whew! I'm tired! Mock interviews tomorrow and personal training, topped off with brunch with friends and some Halloween celebrations -- with my roommate, Carlie (Mayo) as Ketchup and Mayo. Again. so cool.

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October 18- October 27

8:48 AM JilinTour.Com 0 Comments

Hi Friends!

I wish I could express in writing how incredible this experience has been thus far. Every day I feel so blessed to wake up and know that I am going to meet someone who could potentially change my life, or better yet, I could change theirs. As Miss Delaware I have the fortune of serving people in all walks of life, and meeting people who inspire me as much as I hope to inspire them. To be honest with you, I can't help but wonder if I could have found a better job! And I know in my heart that I am the right woman for it.

As I bring my blog up-to-date, I wanted to take a moment and read through previous entries to reflect on my first four months as your Miss Delaware. I found myself with tears in my eyes, and hairs raised on my arms from the memories I have shared with you. My life has already been changed in these roughly 120 days, and I will be a stronger and better woman because of these experiences.

On Monday the 18th I travelled to New York City, my favorite city in the world to work on my Miss America preparations. I am so excited for the pageant and I know that I am ready for the road that lies ahead of me. Be sure to tune in to ABC on January 15th to see me compete for the job of Miss America 2011. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers from now until then as I continue to work hard to represent you at the national level.

A few highlights from my NYC trip were seeing Chicago on Broadway, which was a surprise gift from my wonderful Mother, dining at a tapas restaurant and Serendipity (we sat at the same table the movie was filmed at!!!), and, of course...... stopping at St. Alps Teahouse for BUBBLE TEA! Bubble Tea is my favorite thing in the whole world, and I miss it terribly when in Delaware, because I have yet to find a teahouse nearby that prepares it the way I like. While in the city I also met with Ronnie and Deborah from The Bridal Suite to meet with Sherri Hill once more! The trip was very quick, and quite exhausting but I loved every second there. And I must say, it was quite productive!

As I returned to Delaware late Wednesday afternoon, I hurried from Wilmington to Milford to ride in the Milford Fall Parade. The drizzles of rain didn't stop my town from having lots of fun, and the parade carried on! I treasure every appearance in my hometown, especially those that are followed by time with my parents.

I was back up north on Thursday at one of my favorite sponsors, Hockessin Day Spa, having a facial done by the magnificent Carrie. That day was a relaxing day for me with a few personal appointments here and there. That evening I met with my Executive Director, Debi, at her home to plan for the months ahead of us, and to catch up on the past few weeks. Even though we chat weekly, sometimes daily, we definitely appreciate the meetings together to catch up. Thanks for the yummy dinner, Deb!

Friday was the beginning of my productive week as I worked on essays, blogs, emails, and even found time for my very first air brush tan from Sun Dazed Tanning in Milford! Thank you, Velvet for taking such good care of me! I was afraid I would look like a pumpkin and was prepared to change my Halloween costume at a moments notice, but she picked the perfect color for me!

Saturday was my second favorite appearance opportunity thus far! I had the best time at the Special Olympics Fall Festival Games at the University of Delaware, and I won't soon forget my time there. I had marriage proposals, learned all there is to know about Bocce Ball, took lots of fun photos, and was even given a pumpkin from the cutest young boy, Henry! My fondest memory of the day was walking into the Field House and passing one of the athletes, a young man, who was SO excited to see me! He had been waiting all day for Miss Delaware to arrive, and when he saw my crown he kept repeating, "Oh my, goodness! Oh my, goodness! It's Miss Delaware!" It honestly made his day to meet me, and the fact that I took the time to chat with him and get to know him, meant so much to his family. I am feeling emotional just writing this because it warms my heart to know that I can have such an impact on someone that I barely know. And I have learned that just as soon as you think you cannot relate to a certain person, or group of people, you realize that you have much more in common than you thought!

That is what excites me the most about the job of Miss America. You are chosen to represent and relate to all people, and be able to carry a conversation with anyone who will give you their time. And while no person can say she has something in common with every American, it is Miss America's job to find a way to relate to them. How incredible is that?

To finish my entry- Sunday was my Applebee's Pancake Breakfast for the Children's Miracle Network. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, or came out to support, and thank you to Milford Applebee's for generously donating the time, space and profits of the morning for a cause that is near and dear to my heart. I travelled directly from the fundraiser, to the Ross Mansion in Seaford for their 150th anniversary festival and agricultural celebration! I had such a lovely time with the Dairy Princess, Peach Queen, Sheep & Wool Princess and Watermelon Queen.

Monday and Tuesday were extremely productive for me. I worked on the Quality of Life Application and Essays, was fitted for many dress alterations, had a dentist appointment, worked out at the gym, tanned, danced ballet and even spent time with my dad on his birthday! My to-do list is finally dwindling!

Today, I let myself sleep in a bit, and have been finishing more work. Tonight I will be riding in the Selbyville Halloween Parade! I hope to see you there!

Have a great day, and thank you for being a part of my journey to Miss America.

God bless,

Kayla

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October 3- October 17

11:49 AM JilinTour.Com 0 Comments

Hi Friends!

The fall has been filled with some strange weather here on the East Coast! We have had days that are as cold as Winter, days as hot as Summer and rainy days to no end! Sunday, October 3rd was no exception to the unpredictable weather. I was scheduled to walk and talk at the Walk for the Alzheimer's Association at Rehoboth Beach, but alas, mother nature had other plans. It rained and I arrived to find an empty, but drenched park! I had a fabulous photoshoot that afternoon with Paul Pruitt and was able to have some time with my family that evening.

This week was a business-filled week. Monday and Tuesday were catchup days for me. I was catching up on missed workouts, sleep, paperwork, donation requests, thank-you cards, emails, photos, and so on. Wednesday morning I visited the Miss Delaware haircare sponsor, Michael Christopher's Salon in Wilmington to have my nails manicured with their new polish product! I ran errands while upstate, and visited with an old friend before heading down to Dover to volunteer with the Military 4-H program! Thursday and Friday I worked out at the gym, and called several local businesses soliciting donations for my live auction fundraiser. My to-do list was finally dwindling!

Saturday was the heavily awaited, annual Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville! For those of you who have never heard of scrapple, it is essentially pork mush and scraps. Yum! The weather was rather warm that day as I participated in the Scrapple Sling contest with many local politicians where we each had to throw a frozen block of Scrapple and see how far we could toss it. My first toss was relatively acceptable, but the second slipped through my fingers as the Scrapple block began to sweat from the heat. Luckily, Miss Delaware has some pull, and the host 'inadvertently' kicked my Scrapple into the 8 spot! Although I did not win, I had a great time! That evening I was invited to attend a reception at the home of Joe Conaway where I enjoyed lots of homemade, delicious food made by his terrific wife!

Sunday I woke up early to speak at the Walk for Diabetes at the Dover Downs Monster Mile! I had a wonderful time there, and met so many terrific survivors. I had forgotten my camera that day, so unfortunately I won't be able to post photos. From the walk, I drove to Milford to rehearse for The Nutcracker with the Diamond Dance Company! It is great to be back in the studio and performing in one of my favorite shows! I decided to try to get to bed early that night because I knew I had a long week ahead of me!

Early Monday morning I was on the road with my second parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gillis, who were so generous as to drive me to Johnstown, PA. After six hours of traveling, we reached the Bridal Suite of Johnstown where I had my first fitting for my Miss America gowns! We also picked up the 25 Bridal Gowns that Ronnie and Deborah so generously donated to help me raise money to afford my dream talent costume!!! All of the gowns are so beautiful- I cannot thank Ronnie and Deborah enough for supporting me and for donig everything they can to make sure I look and feel like a Miss America when I am in my wardrobe.

Monday was a long day, but Tuesday was welcomed with a luncheon at Dover Downs with the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension Staff where I spoke about my experiences in 4-H and had the opportunity to thank my mentors and colleagues for all of their support over the past 16 years. That night I packed up my suitcase and read over all of my materials for the two days ahead of me!

Early Wednesday morning I left Philadelphia and was on a plane to Columbus, OH for the National 4-H Council's Board of Trustees meeting! Once I arrived, I was shuttled over to the Ohio State University where I checked in, changed and readied myself for the reception that evening at the home of the University's President. My favorite part was not only the delicious food, but the terrific company. I had the pleasure of meeting the other 30 members of the Board of Trustees, Ohio State University 4-H'ers and even local 4-H youth from all different demographics.

Thursday was filled with board meetings where I quickly realized what an honor it is to have been invited as a new trustee. All of the members are successful in their respective careers, and genuinely care for today's youth. Landel Hobbs, the COO of Time Warner Cable was welcomed as the other new trustee, and it was a great opportunity to network with someone who works in the field of which I hope to pursue a career. Representatives from JC Penney, WalMart, New York Life, prestigious universities and much more are among the other trustees. Thank you to Don Floyd, the CEO of National 4-H Council for inviting me onto the Board and for making my first experience so comfortable. I look forward to playing an important role on the council and helping to make decisions that with shape the program which I attribute so much of my success.

After the last meeting that afternoon I was on a plane, returning to Philadelphia International Airport. I ate and slept as soon as I made it home. What a busy week already!

Friday morning I worked out and then drove to Milford for an early lunch and interview with Milford's newest online news source, Milford Live. Bryan Shupe, the creator of Milford Live asked all sorts of questions about my preparations for Miss America and what events I will be a part of in our hometown of Milford. After I talked his ears off, I was on the road again headed to the University and Whist Club in Wilmington for the Chocolate and Roses Tea. I was asked to model for Ladies Image, a shop in nothern DE and loved one of the dresses so much, I had to purchase it! One of the families in attendance was just so sweet, that I stayed after to chat with their daughter and her best friend. They were both so friendly and so beautiful- I asked them to consider getting involved with the Miss Delaware's Outstanding Teen Program, and I surely hope they do!

Saturday was the busiest day of all! My family and I were preparing all morning for my two fundraisers that day- the Bridal Blowout Sale, with the gowns donated by the Bridal Suite of Johnstown, followed by a Pulled Pork Dinner and Live Auction! The proceeds of these events were to benefit my Miss America talent preparations and dance costume. My mother worked tirelessly for days and weeks to pull off these events to ensure that I make it to Miss America knowing I had the best preparation possible. I could go on for days but I want to thank my mother for all of her hard work, and for caring more than anyone else that I am fully prepared for Miss America. I never doubt that she is behind me 100%, and I know she always will be. I love you so much, Mom!

Thanks to my mother and father, Herbie and Debbie Kenton, Georgeann White, Mr. and Mrs. Gillis, The Bridal Suite of Johnstown, Brittany and Vicky Dempsey and so many local businesses and community members, I was able to reach my fundraising goal for my talent! I love you all!

Sunday I felt a huge sigh of relief knowing the fundraiser was complete! That afternoon I spoke at the Kent County 4-H Banquet where I spoke about the relation between the 4 Points of the Miss America Crown to the 4 H's. I had such a lovely dinner and enjoyed my time with my 4-H family!

I rushed from the banquet over to the Rickshaw Rumble at Harrington Raceway where I participated as a driver! I was pulled by my "horse", driver, Victor Kirby! He was such a great sport, and took wonderful care of me. This was a fundraiser to protect retired horses, and hopefully find them homes. A special Thank You to Chuck Ivins for sponsoring me in this event! I had a blast and enjoyed the company of my best friend, and former Miss Delaware, Brittany Dempsey!

Whew! What a busy two weeks! Thank you for checking in to see how my year is going. I hope to make all of you proud in January!

Yours in service,

Kayla

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Yay! I wanted her and Tom all along!

6:15 AM JilinTour.Com 0 Comments

MAO Announces

Dancing With the Stars' Brooke Burke

as the Co-Host of the

2011 Miss America Pageant

Photo Credit: Dana Fineman/Vistalux

Television personality and co-host of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars, Brooke Burke won the hearts and votes of America when she became the show's Season Seven Champion with her dance partner, Derek Hough. Now she will take the stage and join Chris Harrison, ABC’s The Bachelor as the hosts to the 90thAnniversary of the Miss America Pageant presented by DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse live on ABC from Planet Hollywood Casino Resort, Las Vegas on Saturday, January 15, 2011.

Brooke Burke is a successful host, actress and entrepreneur. She is the co-CEO of the popular website ModernMom.com and she will add author to her résumé when Penguin Books releases her first book in February.

President of the Miss America Organization, Art McMaster, stated, “We are thrilled to be working with Brooke for the 2011 Miss America Pageant and look forward to her joining us for the 90th anniversary celebration of this great American tradition. We welcome Brooke into our Miss America family, and we know she will be a wonderful co-host for this exciting milestone in our organization’s illustrious history.”