Miss NY Class of 2009

Albany, here we come! Last week we had the kickoff weekend of Miss New York Orientation & Workshop in our new home of Albany, NY. I was finally able to meet all of the girls, and they are fantastic! It's going to be such a fun week at Miss NY this summer. After meetings at our hotel sponsor, the Crowne Plaza Albany where we will be staying in June, we headed just down the street to The Egg theatre. We worked with Kent Parham, our show choreographer, in walking classes as well as show rehearsals. Get ready -- Miss NY 2009: The Vision. It's going to be a good show! On Saturday evening, we joined Mayor Jennings of Albany at a reception as he welcomed us to his city. The NY Board of Directors, led by President Jill Williams, shared their excitement about this new relationship.

Sunday brought talent rehearsals in front of our reality panel including Kent, Kenny Mack (Show Producer), Kate Shindle (Broadway Actress/Miss America 1998) and the director of The Lion King, followed by more show choreography. (Reminds me...I might want to brush up on that!) We were fitted for our custom made swimsuits by Jodi Pelletier; they are smokin'. Kate Shindle spoke to us about interview and the importance of authenticity, something I respect more than anything. Leigh-Taylor took a minute to stress the fact that this is a job that we are all applying for. Miss NY is more than a crown and pretty dresses, it is honest, hard work. The preparation for Miss America has clearly changed her life. You have to be open and ready to receive and foster that change; I believe that I am.

HERE are a few more photos of the weekend.