The Peapod Project and Heartlight

It was 66 degrees and sunny and felt just like football weather today and I expected to see fall colors in the trees. It's August! Not Yet! Jennifer Naida, Johnny and I walked along the Diversey Harbor. It was part of the run/walk for the Peapod Project for Childrens Memorial. The project was started after a Chicago couple lost their baby shortly after she was born. The nurses saved their daughter's little hat and blanket. They gave them the mementos which they found so important. So now they are making sure families who lose their babies, children or teenagers have resources to help and keepsake boxes. Love this idea! Jennifer and I both have friends who have gone through similar ordeals. Photographs, lockets of hair, anything can be so precious to have.

Can we have the envelope please?

I was one of five judges who helped select the new Miss Teen Long Island and Miss Long Island USA. My dear friend Lori Thomas Donaudy is an outstanding director. She was on time, efficient and detailed. We as judges, were not to discuss the delegates or speak with them outside of interview. Their friends and families ect were also not to approach us until after the competition. Serious stuff! We were not even aware of who was returning or a former runner-up. So until the new queens were announced, I didn't know if I was on the same track with the other judges. These ladies competing were all top notch. I just had to judge based on my point of view only. Turns out we judges were all in sync for such a tight race. The New Miss Teen Long Island is Leanne Pinard. She is making great strides concerning food allergies and restaurants. Even latex gloves or balloons can be deadly for her and many others. The new Miss Long Island, Jamie Bellittieri,looks so much like Ali Landry (Miss USA 1996) on stage. She spent four years wrestling on the BOYS' team in honor of her late brother. Both ladies will do great things this year and they are so fortunate to have Lori quide them along the way. Good luck to you ladies and the others at Miss Teen NY and Miss New York USA! And on a side note, I was thrilled to meet the other judges including the stunning Stephanie Tsarsi. She was Mrs. NY America 05 and 1st Runner-up at Mrs. America. I remember watching her on TV so it was fun to get to know her a bit in person.
1)Jamie, Lori and Leanne
2)Judge Stacy Shands (Ms. Universal Outstanding Woman of Achievement 2009), Dir Lori, myself, and Stephanie Tsarsi (Mrs. NY Amer 05/1st RU Mrs. America)

Come join us November 7th!

And help make sure abused and neglected children have a voice that is heard. We'd love to see ya there!